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CRA moves to end long-running scrap yard operation with simultaneous buyout structure
Summary
The board approved a contract structured as a simultaneous transaction that ties CRA funding to Megan Construction's purchase of the junkyard site; CRA funds will be contributed only when Megan closes. The contract aims to permanently stop the junkyard from operating in Fort Myers.
City/CRA counsel Cliff Shepherd explained a contract intended to remove a longstanding junkyard from operation within Fort Myers. Under the agreement the CRA will contribute funds simultaneously with Megan Construction's property purchase; Shepherd emphasized CRA money will not be disbursed until Megan closes, and that the CRA's contribution is intended to ensure the junkyard ceases operation on that site and cannot simply re-open elsewhere in the city.
Shepherd described multiple iterations of the deal and clarified the CRA is buying the cessation of junkyard operations rather than obligating Megan to build a specific housing product. Shepherd also said the CRA's allocated contribution was described in the record as "a million and $0.5" (as stated in the meeting transcript). Commissioners raised enforcement questions about post-closing cleanup: the seller would have 90 days to remove vehicles and debris, and breach remedies would include a lawsuit. The board approved the agreement by roll call; multiple commissioners described the action as long overdue.
Shepherd said staff will circulate a shorter memo to developers explaining how the statewide emergency declaration affects deadlines on agreements. The CRA directed staff to proceed with the simultaneous transaction described on the record.
