Update on the feasibility study about the incorporation of Lakewood Ranch
In October 2008, the Lakewood Ranch Civic Action Forum (LWRCAF) approved a proposal from Fishkind & Associates to undertake a study that will determine whether or not it may be feasible and desirable for Lakewood Ranch to become a city. Fishkind & Associates began the study in November, and expect to complete it sometime in spring 2009.
In spring 2007 when the LWRCAF first considered pursuing a feasibility study, we invited Lynn Tipton, Florida League of Cities, to meet with us and give us a presentation on the process, pitfalls, pros and cons of becoming a city.
We asked Tipton for her recommendations on consultants, and she indicated that Fishkind was one of the best. Fishkind & Associates has been in existence since 1987 and has more than 90 clients, including Lakewood Ranch. The firm has extensive experience in economic and fiscal impact analysis, forecasting and finance throughout Florida. This includes considerable direct experience in working with Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Dr. Fishkind also has served as a consultant to the Governor of Florida and the Florida Legislature. The firm developed feasibility studies for Wellington (1995) and Weston (1996) and is currently working on an incorporation study for Casey Key. They also have developed proprietary statistical models that facilitate the financial analysis involved in feasibility studies.
The Feasibility Study
The end result of the study will be a comprehensive document that includes all of the requirements for incorporation defined by Florida Chapter 165.041(1)(a). The study will address boundaries, current land use, proposed development plans, a list of all public agencies within the boundaries, a list of current services being provided, a list of proposed services to be provided, evidence of fiscal capacity, and an organizational plan. It also will present a blue print for a fully functioning municipality, including a detailed pro forma operating budget and balance sheet projected over a 10-year horizon. We have requested Fishkind & Associates to provide data based on two boundary options: (1) Lakewood Ranch as it now exists, and (2) Lakewood Ranch as planned when fully developed.
Overall, the document will include all of the economic and financial data and analysis necessary to determine whether incorporation would be feasible and would improve our quality of life.
Communications
Effective communication and wide spread participation throughout the community will be critical to the success of this initiative. Accordingly, three different advisory groups have been established to facilitate the process. The Homeowners Association Advisory Group (Presidents of the Greenbrook, Summerfield/Riverwalk, and Country/Club Edgewater HOAs) will distribute information to their boards, neighborhood committee chairs, members and residents and will also provide feedback to the Incorporation Study Committee. Separate CDD and Business Advisory Groups will do the same with their constituents.
The LWRCAF also has created a website where information is being posted for residents. Access the site on Digital Village at www.lwrdv.com <http://www.lwrdv.com> . (No login required.) At the site search on the left, key in IncorpStudy. Residents can also comment by emailing IncorpStudy@lwrdv.com <mailto:IncorpStudy@lwrdv.com> . A member of the Incorporation Study Committee will reply.
This is the second incorporation article. The first article contained the Statement of Intent. The next will discuss development of a city charter.
written by
Jo Anne Dain, Vice President, Lakewood Ranch Civic Action Forum