I am the descendant of a man who passionately advocated for public safety and environmental preservation. My grandfather was the one who helped in the transfer of the property that is now the Ochopee fire station in 1977. The idea back then was clear: the property owned by Collier County should be used for the noble cause of fire suppression.

Now, plans are being made to erect a massive 350-foot communications tower to provide cellular service in this very zone - a move that directly contradicts the deed of the property, which clearly stipulates that it is meant for fire suppression, not commercial use. 

Not only does this plan fail to respect the founding principles and the current usage of the property, but it also endangers the local wildlife. The area is home to a population of black bears and an indigenous village, who live closer to the proposed tower location than the recommended quarter mile radius.

Additionally, our family lives next to the proposed tower site and we worry about the health impacts and visual disruptions this structure might bring. Our home is in Big Cypress National Preserve, a designated Dark Sky Park, and mere miles away from the Marjory Stoneman Douglas wilderness area of Everglades National Park - a treasure that should remain unspoiled.

This decision has personal implications for many of us, indeed, but it also carries broader environmental and legal implications. These lands were declared protected for a reason, and their careful stewardship is of utmost importance.

Therefore, we urge the concerned authorities to reconsider this cell tower construction plan and abide by the conditions of the warranty deed, for the sake of the environment and the people who call this place home. Please value our heritage,local indigenous culture, our health and our world Heritage site the Everglades national Park by stopping the proposed tower. We request for the public to sign this petition to protect our home and its valuable ecosystem.