Cape Coral Community Fridge faces code warning; owner wants answers.
For years now, Dionne Lopez has run a community fridge outside Lee County Plumbing and Supply on Southeast 47th Terrace. It’s simple: neighbors drop off food, clothes, or whatever people might need, and anyone can come by and take what helps them. No questions asked. Dionne says it started five or six years ago when she noticed more residents in the area struggling to get by, especially for food.
Local businesses and neighbors pitch in, donating groceries, meals, and even leftovers. The fridge has become a small lifeline for the community. But this week, things got complicated. Dionne found code enforcement notices taped to her door. The city’s now giving her five days to fix several violations or risk a $150 fine.
The list? Garbage and litter near the dumpster, outdoor storage that isn’t properly screened, appliances kept outside, and a stretch of barbed wire fencing behind the building. Dionne’s frustrated. No one’s clearly explained what she’s supposed to change…