Collier County considers designated parking spots for wounded vets

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NAPLES, Fla. – There may soon be reserved parking spots for veterans at certain government buildings in Collier County.

The spots have already been installed in several places throughout Lee County as a way to thank veterans for their sacrifice.

“I’m concerned about locations that are heavily trafficked,” said Commissioner Georgia Hiller, who hopes wounded combat veterans can benefit from the special parking.

She’d like to see the new spots placed first at the Collier County Government Center and several libraries.

“I want to make sure that there is no question that there is a parking spot for those individuals who have served and have sacrificed on our behalf. And hopefully that will make their visit to get their business done a little easier on them.”

“Most veterans hide their disabilities,” said Harold Leavitt, a World War II veteran and former prisoner of war. He served as a tech sergeant in the Army Air Corps from 1941-1946.

Even though the 93-year-old uses handicap parking, he tells WINK News the reserved parking spots are deserving.

“Free parking. Did they earn it? Do they demand it? No. Are they entitled to it? I ask you that question.”

“In my opinon it should be everywhere,” said Hiller. “But to the extent that we can be one of the few that does do it, I think we’re trendsetting and hopefully there will be other jurisdictions that will follow suit. And hopefully at some point, it will be all around the country and be a standard, because it ought to be.”

The commissioners will vote on the parking spots on Tuesday. If the measure passes, it will cost about $130 to convert each spot.

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