Marco Island council authorizes $23 million bond referendum for bridges, roads and bike lanes

The Marco Island City Council voted May 4 to place a $23,000,000 general-obligation bond question on the August 18, 2026 ballot to fund transportation and infrastructure projects.

City staff presented two options: a $34 million package that would replace two bridges and fund additional paving and bike/ped facilities, and a more limited $23 million package. Vice Chair Champagne argued for the larger package to avoid repeated borrowing and rising costs, but several councilors expressed concern about voter fatigue and the probability of passage.

Vice Chair Champagne framed the choice as a long-term planning question: "If you do $23,000,000… the real need over the next 20 years is about $100,000,000…" He urged the council to put a larger package before the voters to avoid higher future costs from repeated smaller bonds.

Council members weighing political feasibility argued a smaller, targeted referendum has a greater chance of passage. After discussion, the council voted to authorize Resolution 26-21 to place the $23,000,000 bond referendum on the ballot; the resolution identifies bridges, catch-up paving (36 lane miles), shared-use paths, and an annual paving program as intended uses.

What happens next: The city will finalize referendum language and logistics for the August 18 ballot. If approved by voters, the city will proceed with project design and procurement consistent with bond limits and statutory requirements.

Representative quote: "We are missing the boat completely on what our priorities are," Vice Chair Champagne said in urging a comprehensive approach, while other councilors urged a more politically attainable option.