Collier County homeowner forced to sell portion of property asks for land back

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. – A man forced to sell a portion of his property to the county seven years ago, now wants it back.

In 2008, Del Ackerman was forced to sell part of his front yard to Collier County for future storm water and road improvements. His home sits on the corner of County Barn Road and Cynthia Lane.

“He did not want to sell any of his property, he had no choice,” said Cindy Kelly, a long time friend of Ackerman.

Since January, construction crews have been working on the more than $7 million project along the two mile stretch of County Barn Road.

“He’s lost so much property his front yard went from a half acre to 22 feet,”  said Kelly. “They actually took more property than they need for the project.”

Kelly said the road was suppose to be widened into four lanes, but now the county is only making two lanes, widening it by 2 feet and adding bike lanes.

“Now that they’re not going to use all his property it just makes common sense why not give the property back.”

Back in 2008, Collier County paid the Ackerman’s $215,000 for 50 feet of their right of way and a portion of their driveway.

Now, Ackerman said he’s willing to do anything to get the land back including paying the county for it.

“He would like to see the county get together and make an offer to give him the land back that they’re not gonna use.”

Connie Deane, Community Liaison for Collier County Growth Management Department, tells WINK News they’re willing to meet with Ackerman to consider some interim alternatives.