“Everyone in Lee County could feel that property values have been increasing rapidly, but this confirms the fact that 2021 saw unprecedented increases,” Caldwell said. “Thankfully, homeowners are protected at essentially a maximum of only a three-percent increase through their homestead exemption.”

The new owners of Third Street Bistro, Kevin and Barbara McLaughlin, are busy making plans for the building and restaurant along with their long-time architect and collaborator, Douglas Larson, of Larson Architecture Works. 

Improvements included in the $501,000 project are construction of a dog park with large- and small-dog fenced enclosures, dog watering and washing stations, improved parking and road improvements.