Controlled Burns Scheduled - To decrease the risk of wildfire and increase the health of our natural ecosystems, Charlotte County will be conducting prescribed burns at our environmental parks in November and December. These parks include: Tippecanoe Environmental Park in Port Charlotte, Charlotte Flatwoods Environmental Park, south of Punta Gorda, and Amberjack Environmental Park in the Englewood and Cape Haze area. Specific dates will be selected dependant upon weather conditions for optimal safety and smoke dispersion.  For more information contact the Charlotte County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resource Department, Land Management Section at 941.625.7529.  Also visit the Florida Division of Forestry at http://www.fl-dof.com/wildfire/index.html for information on how to keep your home safe from wildfire and how prescribed fire is used to help.

Activities for Fall - As the weather cools down and summer makes way for fall, it's a perfect time to get active.  Whether it's a guided nature walk in one of our environmental parks, rolling at the Skate Park, or trying one of dozens of scheduled activities at our parks, there is definitely something for every age and skill level.  Check out the offerings in our brand new Activities & Program Guide. If you'd like a hard copy of the Guide, email prcr@charlottefl.com and one will be mailed to you.

Tall Grass Gets Attention - The County receives numerous calls each month regarding homes with overgrown lawns and high grass.  This situation can really have a negative impact on a neighborhood.  This month the County Commission took action by revising the lot maintenance ordinance to provide for a faster review process.  The change will reduce the time complaints are heard from 45 days to 10 days by routing tall grass complaints to a hearing officer instead of the Code Enforcement Board.  If the owner cannot, or will not, take care of the complaint, the County will hire a contractor to cut the grass and place a lien on the property to cover the expense.

Traffic Lights Get Battery Backup - The Public Works Department is in the process of installing battery backup units at various traffic signal locations on State roads throughout the County.  This is a joint project between the County and the Florida Department of Transportation.  Once installation is complete, traffic signals can remain operational for up to 3 to 4 hours during periods of local power outages.