Collier County accepts update on negotiations for Performance Way property, directs re‑advertising if nonprofit cannot close

The Board of County Commissioners accepted an update Tuesday on staff negotiations with Gargiulo Education Center Inc. for two county‑owned parcels on Performance Way and directed staff to re‑advertise the property if Gargiulo cannot complete financing.

Trinity Scott, department head for transportation management services, told commissioners the county had identified two parcels formerly slated for an EMS station that were no longer needed. Staff previously recommended selling the property to a cash bidder (Up and Smoke) for about $1.3 million, but the board asked staff to negotiate with Gargiulo to protect public interests, keep a reverter clause and better align any purchase price with county expenditures.

Scott said Gargiulo is pursuing federal grant funding for acquisition and construction; if the nonprofit applies for federal funds the county cannot finalize a contract until grant awards are made — a process that could take until the fall. Staff cautioned that federal grants might be restricted to childcare uses and could limit the North Collier Fire District’s ability to use the site as previously discussed.

Staff reported the county’s out‑of‑pocket expenditure on the property — including acquisition and design — is about $1.3 million. The board accepted the update; following the public comments and a brief exchange, the board voted unanimously to accept the status report and then unanimously approved a motion to re‑advertise the parcel and seek best offers if Gargiulo cannot finalize financing.

Neighbors and association representatives raised safety and traffic concerns. Alan Ritchie, speaking for the neighborhood PUD board, said children served by the education center would likely be bused across Collier Boulevard (County Road 41), which he described as “dangerous” for pedestrians and vehicles. John Gray and other residents said the nonprofit is relying on grants and may not have the cash capacity to close.

Commissioner McDaniel said staff had performed due diligence and that accepting the update was appropriate; he then moved to re‑advertise the property to ensure the county protects taxpayers’ interests while giving Gargiulo time to secure funding.

The board’s actions leave the door open for Gargiulo to complete financing and return with a contract; if that does not occur staff will move forward with a competitive sale process.