Port Charlotte explores becoming a city

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. – Some people in Southwest Florida want their community to have a voice in local government.

Port Charlotte wants to become a city, however, not everyone is convinced the city status is worth the extra cost it may tack along.

Port Charlotte has a population of 55,000 — it would be one of the largest incorporations.

The proposed borders are from State Road 776 to Charlotte Harbor and from Collingswood Boulevard to Kings Highway.

“Basically I’m just trying to learn what are the pros and cons about becoming a city,” said resident Terry Dunn.

If Port Charlotte were to become a city, they would have more say on spending, revenue, government and revitalization.

“Empty lots for example, we would be mowing them, making sure things look pristine and as nice as we can,” said resident Susan Dunn.

Incorporate Port Charlotte is the local group behind this movement. They want to help put Port Charlotte on the map.

“All the economic reports are saying that Southwest Florida is looking to have a huge growth and if we’re a city, we’d have direct participation in that,” said Denise Garbacz, with the Incorporate Port Charlotte group.

Some fear becoming a city would add an extra layer of government and taxes.

Financial expert Kevin Smalls says residents are already taxed for the biggest expense of a city, police and fire. If the new city kept those the same, they would only be left to fund things like parks, roads, drainage, government and code enforcement.

Smalls also says if Port Charlotte were to become a city, they would receive millions in state aid. The next step for Port Charlotte to become a city is to conduct a feasibility study.