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Dean Park residents urge council to halt proposed Parks & Rec vehicle lot
Summary
Dozens of Dean Park neighbors and preservation advocates told the Fort Myers City Council the city's plan for a 106‑space Parks & Rec fleet parking lot next to the historic Dean Park district violates the comprehensive plan, risks flooding and would replace an area previously described as park/stormwater retention.
Dozens of residents from the Dean Park Historic District urged the Fort Myers City Council to stop plans to build a 106‑space Parks & Recreation vehicle and fleet parking lot adjacent to their neighborhood. Speakers said the parcel was deeded for stormwater retention and had been described to residents as destined to become park space, and they said converting it to fleet parking would harm the historic district, increase flooding risk and lower property values.
Sheila Pastor, a longtime neighborhood organizer, read petition text submitted by residents and told the council the neighborhood collected 148 emailed responses opposing the parking lot. "Dear Dean Park neighbors, we are writing to enlist your help in a matter that threatens the character and safety of Dean Park Historic District," Pastor read aloud from the petition.
Multiple speakers offered technical and planning objections. Brian Murphy pressed the city for details on flood mitigation, surface materials and drainage, saying the parcel drains into Billy's Creek and the Caloosahatchee River and could worsen stormwater impacts. Ann Martindale flagged zoning and deed restrictions, arguing the parcel's PUD and deed conditions restrict commercial parking and require buffer yards that the proposed design does not meet. Neil Wilkinson cited the East Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Plan, which emphasizes public involvement and neighborhood‑centered development.
Speakers asked the council to halt the project, provide the neighborhood earlier and clearer notice on planning changes, and explore alternative locations for an employee and fleet yard. The council did not vote on the parcel during public comment; residents said they will follow up with staff and ask for additional review and legal clarification.
