Advisory board debates expanding pervious-surface options in Fort Myers land-development code

Board members reviewed proposed revisions to Chapter 1-34 Article 3 to broaden allowable surface materials beyond asphalt and concrete and to create standards and incentives for pervious systems.

A draft approach circulated by a board member suggested defining acceptable materials (pervious concrete, permeable interlocking pavers, plastic grid systems with appropriate infill, stabilized aggregate), requiring performance testing and maintenance plans for installations over a threshold area, and granting partial impervious-credit in the city's stormwater manual. The member offered to circulate a redlined draft for the board to consider.

Members discussed incentives used elsewhere — expedited permit review, fee waivers or stormwater connection credits — and cautioned that performance depends on sub-base construction and long-term maintenance. The board asked staff to highlight proposed changes when circulating the draft and agreed to revisit the topic next month with suggested text to share with the clerk.