Commissioners direct staff to expedite procurement for 3 Oaks park shade structures after public complaints

After multiple public comments expressing frustration that shade structures at 3 Oaks Park have not been replaced since Hurricane Ian and requests for transparency about previously budgeted funds, Lee County commissioners on Aug. 19 directed staff to accelerate procurement for shade structures at the park.

County manager Dave Harner and Parks & Recreation staff explained that $1.3 million had been dedicated countywide for shade structures; after the hurricane the board prioritized lighting repairs and other projects and chose not to seek FEMA reimbursement for those lighting repairs. As a result some shade work was deferred. Staff told commissioners the project remained in the budget but was planned for the next fiscal year.

Board action: commissioners voted to authorize staff to shorten the advertising period to 14 days for a design‑build solicitation and to use current park budget dollars so construction can begin this year rather than waiting. Staff estimated an expedited schedule would allow selection of a design‑build contractor in about three months and construction to follow, with a worst-case timeline of roughly eight months from authorization.

Why it matters: parents and park users told the board the lack of shade creates safety and comfort issues for youth sports and spectators; several speakers asked for clarity on where previously allocated money had gone. Commissioners said they would move to accelerate the project and improve transparency.

What’s next: staff will proceed with the shortened advertising period, select a design‑build contractor under the expedited schedule and return with contracting details and a timeline. Any major budget changes or reallocation will be reported to the board.