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MPO consolidation study put on hold as Collier board seeks staff talks with Lee County
Summary
FDOT proposed a $250,000 feasibility study on merging Lee and Collier MPOs; several commissioners questioned the benefits and the board voted to continue the item and direct staff to meet with Lee County and FDOT to assess options before contracting the study.
FDOT presented a draft scope for a Lee–Collier MPO consolidation feasibility study budgeted at $250,000. The scope would evaluate logistics, financial implications and an apportionment plan for a merged MPO.
Several board members questioned the value of a consultant study and suggested staff‑to‑staff discussions with Lee County and FDOT could first identify whether a formal study is warranted. Commissioner Saunders and others argued much of the MPO work is local and questioned how voting apportionment and representation would be handled in a merged entity.
FDOT staff said the study would be phased and that a neutral third party can help surface unanswered questions about costs and voting. After discussion the board passed a motion to continue the item, direct MPO staff to meet with Lee County and FDOT to review potential benefits and drawbacks, and report back before the district funds would be spent to hire a consultant.
FDOT representatives said the $250,000 is currently budgeted and that the district will work with both MPOs on scope and phasing; board members asked staff to come back with a recommendation in the next couple of months.
