Why AWT Costs Should Be Shared by Everyone on Marco Island

Some people recently suggested that only canal-front homeowners should pay for Advanced Wastewater Treatment (AWT). That’s simply not how our wastewater system works. Here are the facts: 

• Marco Island has approximately 5,000 (26%)canal homes, but also 1,000 (5%)inland homes, 11,000(58%)condos, and 2,000(11%) hotel rooms—all producing wastewater in about the same proportions they exist. 

• All of that sewage goes to one treatment plant. Everyone contributes, so everyone should share the upgrade cost. 

• Clean water benefits the entire island, not just canal residents—property values, tourism, recreation, wildlife, and our reputation all depend on it. 

• We already share costs for services we may not use directly, like schools, parks,beaches, and emergency police and fire services. That’s how communities work. 

• Canal homeowners aren’t the cause of pollution—they’re just closest to where the damage shows up first and directly affected the most. The problem is system-wide, not neighborhood-specific. 

• Meanwhile, the deeply discounted reuse water (60–75% cheaper than potable water) is enjoyed by only a small group: 

– The Island Country Club 

– Hideaway Beach Club 

– The Marriott golf courses 

 -Hammock Bay Golf & Country Club 

– Condos along Collier Blvd 

These users enjoy major savings, but the nutrient impact from high-phosphorus and nitrogen reuse water affects the entire island, not just canal homes. 

AWT is an investment in Marco Island’s future—and ALL of us benefit from clean, healthy waterways. Sharing the cost is the only fair and sustainable approach.