Fort Myers Beach advisory panel to map eco-tourist activities and gather input on water taxi plan

The Marine and Environmental Resource Task Force heard mayoral direction at its Jan. 14 meeting to identify and promote “eco-friendly” tourist activities on Fort Myers Beach and to engage stakeholders on the feasibility of a water-taxi system.

The mayor asked the committee to define what qualifies as an eco-tourist activity and to compile a list of island operators and sites that fit that definition. Committee members discussed outreach plans that would include the historical Fort Myers Beach Center, Mound House, marinas and eco-tour guides; the town’s public-information officer was asked to help frame the narrative.

On the water-taxi question, members said research is needed on docking locations, whether vehicles would operate as point-to-point taxis or primarily as tour vessels, costs, stop locations and operator responsibilities. The committee agreed to place water taxis on a future agenda, solicit input from marinas and residents, and invite potential operators to present.

Staff updates included a Jan. 16 Florida Day event at Bay Oaks with a gumbo limbo planting and a limited native-sapling giveaway for property owners, and planned permit-funded beach truck-haul projects to address low-lying sand scours on the north and central segments of the island.

The committee asked members and stakeholders to forward suggestions to staff for inclusion in the next meeting packet; the items are scheduled for more detailed discussion at future meetings.