Public hearing scheduled for controversial rehab facility

LEE COUNTY, Fla. – A public hearing Wednesday could have a huge impact on the future of a controversial south Fort Myers drug rehab facility.

“I never wanted to buy a home next to a huge commercial enterprise,” Tom Burt told WINK News Tuesday.

Burt lives next door to the million dollar home that could become a rehab center on Winkler Road near College Parkway.

He’s been spearheading the movement to keep it from happening since November.

“We have four law firms that are working with us and also two planning firms and an engineering firm that are all fighting to make sure this doesn’t come in and ruin this community,” said Burt.

The property, located in a residential neighborhood, is within walking distance of the Canterbury School. Signs reading “Protect Our Community” and “No Drug Rehab in Our Neighborhood” are planted along Winkler.

The facility director tells WINK News the center will have a peaceful environment and help save lives.

County zoning staff already recommended approving the request to have the property re-zoned, but Wednesday – the Lee County hearing examiner will listen to everyone’s concerns.

“This is the time for community to voice their concerns in opposition to this, to let their voice be heard,” said Burt.

The hearing is open to the public and will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1500 Monroe Street in downtown Fort Myers.

The hearing examiner will make a recommendation to Lee County Commissioners, who will have the final say on the zoning request.