Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Fort Myers public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in development
Repurposing of the Lee Memorial property
As Lee Health moves to its new campus (opening late 2028), the old Lee Memorial site could become a whole new neighborhood — housing, a big linear park along Cleveland Avenue, maybe a hotel, grocery or performing arts center. The big catch: the site wouldn't come online until around 2031, so this is a long game.
Former News-Press Site Redevelopment Rebate
The former News Press site is slated to become a mid-rise mixed-use district with housing, a hotel, office, retail and restaurants — the biggest thing happening in Midtown. Construction is targeted for late 2027/2028, and the CRA approved a TIFF incentive to help fund it. It could reshape how people experience downtown Fort Myers for decades.
MLK Residential Property Improvement Grant
The CRA's 50/50 matching grant helps homeowners in redevelopment areas pay for exterior upgrades. Sharetha Davis's $11,756 grant for walkway, landscaping, fencing and lighting improvements was recommended for approval.
McCollum Hall Restoration and Adaptive Reuse
The CRA has received proposals to run a restaurant and a music-focused performing arts space at the restored McCollum Hall; qualified proposers go before the commissioners December 2. The CRA keeps ownership of the property.
Florida Green Building Certification Exploration
The city is weighing participation in the Florida Green Building Coalition's certification program, potentially using incentives or code changes to push new development toward greener building. The upcoming land development code update is the natural vehicle.
Affordable Housing Construction Extension on Larmie Street
The 125-unit ESH apartment project downtown got a one-year extension to finish, now due June 30, 2027.
McCollum Hall Redevelopment and Property Acquisition
The CRA hired consultants to chase New Market Tax Credit financing for the McCollum Hall project in the MLK redevelopment area — a key piece of revitalizing that corridor.