Fort Myers Beach charter reviewers back drafting ethics and disclosure language

The Fort Myers Beach Charter Review Commission on Tuesday agreed in principle to draft an ethics provision for the town charter that would clarify rules on ex parte communications, disclosure of gifts and conflicts of interest.

Commission member Hank proposed adding a three‑point statement to the charter, arguing the town currently lacks clear language on disclosure. “We don't have a clear statement in the charter at this point about ethics, and I think there should be,” he said, urging explicit rules on ex parte contacts, expenses paid by others and disclosure of business benefits from council actions.

Town counsel Nancy reviewed the legal baseline, telling the group the town already has an ordinance that defines ex parte communications and related terms. “It is section, 34‑52, and this does talk about communications with public officials,” she said, describing the ordinance's definitions and its origin in case law that led the Florida Legislature to authorize local ordinances addressing ex parte influence.

Former mayor Anita added a practical argument for change, saying modern media and social platforms have changed the public's expectations and heightened mistrust when council members meet privately with developers. She recommended updating disclosure practices so the public can see what was discussed, when and how often.

The commission did not vote to add language on the spot. Instead, members instructed staff and legal counsel to draft options and return them for the group to formalize a recommendation to the town council. Chair directed that the draft language and legal options be added to the commission's minutes and that the item be revisited before the commission completes its report.

Next steps: staff and counsel will prepare proposed charter language and ordinance alternatives and bring those options back to the commission for formal consideration.