Cape Coral City Council clarifies Lake Kennedy budget amid public concerns

The Cape Coral City Council convened on May 7, 2025, to address several pressing issues, including updates on the Lake Kennedy project, utility easements, and community engagement.

The meeting began with a discussion regarding the responsibility for a drainage issue related to a utility easement. City Manager clarified that the responsibility lies with the Celebration property, which is currently in compliance with the South Florida Water Management District's permit.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the Lake Kennedy Community Park improvements. City Auditor Andrea Russell addressed concerns about the project being reported as over budget. She explained that the budget had increased by 48% due to a shift from simple improvements to a comprehensive tournament center design, which included the addition of 32 pickleball courts and 12 tennis courts. Russell confirmed that the project remains under budget, with expenditures totaling approximately $11.9 million against a budget of $12.3 million.

Council members expressed their views on the communication surrounding the project. Some argued that clearer public discussions about the budget changes could have mitigated misunderstandings. Council Member Lee emphasized the need for transparency regarding budget adjustments, suggesting that a change order should have been issued to inform the public of the expanded scope.

The council also touched on the topic of multifamily housing in Cape Coral. Council Member Steinke defended the current housing market, stating that the city has maintained a balanced ratio of single-family to multifamily homes. He noted that the perception of an oversaturation of multifamily units is not supported by data, which shows a consistent mix over the years.

In closing, the council members reiterated the importance of community engagement and accurate information dissemination. They acknowledged the challenges faced by the city as it continues to grow and evolve, emphasizing the need for collaboration between residents and city officials to foster a positive environment for all.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep the public informed about ongoing projects and to encourage participation in future discussions.