Marco Island crowned safest city in Florida again

Marco Island has been recognized as the safest city in Florida, according to a recent report by Safewise. This accolade marks a significant achievement for the island, which has consistently ranked among the top five safest cities in the state for the past eight years. Local officials expressed pride in this recognition, attributing it to the effective work of the police department and the community's collective efforts.

During a recent government meeting, the approval of a new union contract for the police department was also highlighted, reflecting the commitment to maintaining safety and security on the island.

In addition to safety, the meeting featured a presentation on tourism in Collier County by new tourism director Jay Tusa and Sandra Rios. They reported that visitors to the area contribute significantly to the local economy, with $2.5 billion in direct spending and support for 28,000 jobs. The demographic of visitors primarily includes couples and families, often spanning multiple generations, which counters misconceptions about the types of tourists visiting the area.

The discussion also emphasized the importance of tourist taxes, which are exclusively paid by visitors and generate approximately $50 million annually. These funds are crucial for local projects, including beach renourishment and the development of community facilities. Notably, 67% of properties on Marco Island are classified as non-homesteaded, meaning they are owned by individuals who do not reside there full-time. This demographic plays a vital role in supporting the local tax base, as they contribute significantly more in property taxes compared to full-time residents.

Overall, the meeting underscored the interconnectedness of tourism, safety, and local economic health, highlighting how these factors contribute to the quality of life on Marco Island.