Debate over marina policy shows split on whether to allow limited residential at Fort Myers Beach marinas

A prolonged policy exchange at the Nov. 25 joint meeting focused on how Fort Myers Beach should treat marinas in the future land use element.

Staff said earlier drafts included a small residential allowance for marinas — for example, a half dwelling unit per acre — to give marinas operational flexibility. Several council members objected to any open‑ended allowance, arguing that adding residential density would amount to a substantive change in development rights. Others said some limited residential or transient accommodations (for captains, crew or short‑stay guests) are often necessary for a marina’s viability and public value.

Council members discussed several options that staff agreed to return in numeric form: retain zero residential density and require site‑specific comp‑plan amendments (the status quo), permit a modest cap (examples discussed included 0.5 du/acre or aligning with the town’s 6 du/acre cap with a percentage cap limiting residential share of the marina), or allow FAR‑based metrics tied to a residential percentage cap. Staff and several members emphasized that any measure should include a cap and clear limits so the marina category cannot be converted into primarily residential uses.

No vote was taken; the council asked staff to draft specific numeric options and limits for the Dec. 1 meeting so the council can weigh a concrete proposal. Staff said measurable metrics make state review clearer and help avoid the legal uncertainty of vague categories.

Eddie, the planning consultant, told the panel that adding metrics helps administer the category and reduces ambiguity in future permit reviews. Several residents who spoke later urged strong environmental protections and careful use of density to avoid unintended neighborhood impacts.