Local Planning Agency denies request to eliminate parking requirement for 1161–1165 Estero Boulevard

The Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency voted April 21 to deny a request that would have eliminated the on-paper parking requirement for 1161–1165 Estero Boulevard.

Jason Smallley, senior planner, said the property — an existing multi-use building — would require eight spaces under current code. The site currently provides seven spaces (four on site, including one ADA space, plus three leased spaces under an agreement off-site). The applicant sought to multiply the parking requirement by 0 percent, effectively removing all required parking for the parcel.

Staff recommended denial, arguing that approving a zero-parking variance would further a long-standing nonconformity and that the status quo already leaves the property under the current code. Board members pressed for concrete plans for replacement parking and raised safety concerns about back-out maneuvers into a busy corridor at Crescent and Estero Boulevard.

Matt (applicant representative) and other speakers said the owner operates other lots nearby and envisions pedestrian-oriented improvements or outdoor seating on the immediate lot. But LPA members repeatedly said they lacked a clear, enforceable plan showing replacement parking — particularly for ADA users — and worried about increasing pedestrian/vehicle conflicts.

The board voted to deny the variance for lack of adequate information to meet variance criteria. Chair recorded that denial was based on criteria listed in the staff report. The motion passed unanimously. The applicant may seek review by the town council.