(This letter-to-the-editor, from Laurie Karnatz, was published in the 6/27/03 Key West Citizen.  We miss you, Laurie!)

Buy Scotty's for community

While I no longer live or work in the Florida Keys, I believe my eight years as a homeowner on Big Pine Key and as a journalist covering county government, planning and environmental issues in the Keys gives me the appropriate background to comment on the possible purchase by the county of the former Scotty's building on Big Pine Key.

For many years, Big Pine Key residents -- even those who disagree on virtually every other issue -- have felt outcast from county government. Commissioner Neugent's efforts to bring them into the fold by opening an office on the island were helpful, but not adequate.

Big Pine Key has liquor stores, a pharmacy and grocery store. What it's lacking is a community center and government offices. The library on the island was a welcome addition -- more than a decade ago. The branch office of the county tax collector's office was also a huge benefit and not just appreciated by residents of Big Pine, but also those on Sunshine Key, the Torch keys and Summerland Key.

Several years ago, when island residents thought they would get a community center and government offices at the old Mariner's Resort or the flea market and Big Pine School property, normally distant factions came together only to be disappointed.

The Scotty's property is a perfect solution. While it may be in a Key deer corridor, it's also been a commercial establishment for many years. And while the warehouse-style building isn't ideal for offices or a community center, it's spacious enough to accommodate both and could in the future be improved.

I may be gone, but my love for the Keys, Big Pine specifically, and its residents has not abated. Please make a serious effort to purchase the former Scotty's store for the residents of Big Pine, the Torch Keys and Summerland.

Laurie Karnatz