Christmas in Key West

Key West residents want a say in how land is annexed in the future, which may save Wisteria Island -- also known as Christmas Tree Island -- from being developed. About 75 percent of Key West voters cast ballots on a referendum that allows citizens not officials, to decide whether the city should annex land.

According to an article in today's Keynoter newspaper: "The effort to get the vote on the ballot began in the summer when Ocean Properties attempted to have Wisteria annexed into the city and develop it into a resort community akin to the island's neighbor, Sunset Key. Some city officials were in favor because they said it would boost property tax revenue."

The owner of Wisteria/Christmas Tree Island is Roger Bernstein, a Coral Gables attorney.

For New Times' take on the issue, go here.
-Tamara Lush