Residents voice complaints about new beach bathrooms in Collier County

NORTH NAPLES, Fla. – Collier County recently built new bathrooms at Vanderbilt Beach.

It cost taxpayers about $931,000, but residents say despite spending all that money, there’s still something missing.

“The amenities are very close and the parking is very good,” said Roger Huntington.

Huntington visits Vanderbilt Beach every month. He likes the new facilities, including the new bathroom. It has more stalls and is much larger than the old restrooms. The county built the facilities after people complained about long lines.

But, beachgoers tell WINK News its just too hot inside. They want to know why the county spent so much money, and didn’t install ceiling fans.

“Fans aren’t that much,” said Huntington. “They’re $75 a piece. They could have done it.”

“I think fans are a definite necessity around here because it’s so hot and humid,” said resident Angela Pruneau.

One taxpayer even notified the county about the issue. Now, facilities management is looking into the complaint.

County leaders tell WINK News, fans were never planned for the bathrooms. They say most beach facilities in the county are open air and some visitors agree.

“This is a bathroom at the beach,” said beachgoer Pascual Dellatorre. “Only has to have the basic services.”

County leaders have not said if they plan on installing any fans.