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Redevelopment advisory board backs most grant requests, flags downtown funding shortfall
Summary
The Fort Myers Redevelopment Advisory Board recommended approval for most of 15 commercial property improvement grant applications and discussed program rule changes; staff said downtown funds are nearly exhausted.
The Fort Myers Redevelopment Advisory Board on Monday reviewed 15 applications in the programs second cycle and recommended approval for most requests, advancing projects across Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Cleveland Avenue and downtown redevelopment areas. Staff said the program prioritized high-scoring applications and that several items will move to the full board for final approval.
Staff reported that, after the recommendations, downtown grant funds are effectively exhausted. "There is 50¢ left in the downtown budget after those approvals," staff said. Board members discussed prioritizing projects in the MLK corridor and accommodating limited downtown funds by reducing recommended amounts on some applications. Several items were moved forward by voice vote; one item was withdrawn for amendment and another was postponed after a recusal.
Next steps: items the advisory board recommended will be presented to the full Fort Myers governing body for final action. Staff said applicants will be asked to complete work within a fiscal-year timeline where feasible.
