Fort Myers releases comprehensive plan update timeline; staff warns of possible state-law constraints

City staff told the City Council on Oct. 20 that a consultant-led update of Fort Myers' comprehensive plan is moving forward with additional outreach planned, particularly to recruit respondents under age 40, and that a draft of revised plan elements is expected in the next two weeks.

Tony Palermo, assistant director of community development, said the planning department and its consultant have held multiple public meetings and a stakeholders workshop and that the city will increase outreach to youth, families and underrepresented groups. "We're going to be focusing on getting respondents 40 and under, to get more youth and more families," Palermo said, noting staff partnerships with local universities, the Collaboratory and the housing authority.

Why it matters: The comprehensive plan guides land-use regulation and infrastructure investment in Fort Myers. Staff said an updated plan will include draft elements, maps and an implementation outline for review by the Planning Board and ultimately the City Council.

Potential legal constraint: Staff also told councilmembers that separate lawsuits filed by other Florida cities in Leon County may affect how the city can implement certain provisions tied to recently enacted state statutes. Staff warned the council the litigation could create uncertainty for specific amendments, and the city will monitor the court cases while proceeding with the long-term update.

Next steps: Staff said drafts from the consultant will be circulated to stakeholders and the Planning Board, followed by Planning Board public hearings and later City Council review. City staff asked the council to expect ongoing monthly updates as outreach continues.

Provenance: The update and outreach timeline were presented by Tony Palermo and Steve Belden; staff also referenced litigation affecting state preemption and the city's timetable.