By Mike Welch
At this writing we are all feeling the devastation of COVID19 as it ravages our nation and the globe. I have lived in Lehigh for 22 years and I have always been proud to live in a good, working class community made up of talented people who help our county and region literally operate. Teachers, first responders, healthcare workers, law enforcement, trades people, small business owners, food service workers and so many others including our retirees contribute to the “hometown” feel as the original founders of this community envisioned so many years ago. Now we are in a crisis of a lifetime.
FLORIDA UNEMPLOYMENT SYSTEM
Your state representative, Representative Spencer Roach, has sent out 20 thousand postcards to his constituents listing his personal cell phone number to try and help. He has been in almost daily contact with the Governor’s office and DEO to express the frustration of his constituents. Last week he publicly called on the Governor to extend the waiver of the work search requirements. The Governor agreed to extend the waiver, but only until May 9th. When contacted, Roach said that “The current system is simply unacceptable. I am receiving about 200 calls per week from constituents. I will continue to advocate on their behalf to make sure their voice is heard at every level of state government.”
In addition, State Representative Ray Rodrigues who is no stranger to Lehigh has prepared an article to outline some of the issues being addressed during this time. Our At-Large Board Member Cathleen Morgan – District 7 of the Lee County School District offers the activities of the District during this crisis. Finally, Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno offers his thoughts on the constant problem of ATV operators. This has been addressed constantly over the past few years as some operators feel that they are immune to respecting private property, public lands as well as residential streets.
Finally, stay close to information from Lee County Government at www.leegov.com for information on assistance Lehigh Community Services at www.lehighcommunityservices.com as well as calling 239-369-5818. Salvation Army Lehigh Center 239-491-6071. Local Business Support and Relief: East Lee County Chamber of Commerce (formally Greater Lehigh Acres Chamber of Commerce www.elccoc.org) as well as calling 239-369-3322 or the Chamber’s Chairman Mike Welch at 239-565-8450.
