The first major item on the agenda involved Ordinance 2428 concerning the Estero Island Beach Club. The proposal sought a rezoning to allow for commercial planned development zoning and included a height deviation request. The applicant aimed to rebuild 75 multifamily and time-share units that existed prior to Hurricane Ian with a maximum height of 98 feet. The project, which had been amended since its last presentation, proposed three stories over parking in specific areas and increased unit sizes to approximately 875 square feet.

The applicant’s representative emphasized that the revised design aimed to reduce the perceived mass along Estero Boulevard and had been adjusted in collaboration with town staff. Despite these adjustments, board members raised concerns regarding the height request, noting the community’s historical preference for lower buildings. One member acknowledged the necessity of balancing intelligent design with community desires.

Resident Nancy Walker urged the council to consider the long-term implications of approving taller buildings, emphasizing the importance of preserving the island’s character. Walker compared Fort Myers Beach’s situation to that of Sanibel, arguing that the low-rise aesthetics contribute to the island’s unique charm and should be maintained.

Another resident, Gordon Stow, strongly opposed the plans, stating that they would obstruct views and negatively impact the community. Stow highlighted the emotional toll on residents post-hurricane and insisted on the importance of rebuilding within legal height limits.

The agency’s discussion extended to the project’s site layout and landscaping plans. The proposed building setbacks were adjusted to 23 feet from Estero Boulevard, with additional landscaping incorporating native and salt-tolerant vegetation. The project also planned to exceed required parking spaces.

Further deliberations included the historical context of the property and the necessity of obtaining support from timeshare owners for the proposed $34 million investment. The staff recommended approval of the project under specific conditions.

The board eventually voted on the motion to approve Ordinance 24-28 with staff recommendations and additional conditions. The vote concluded with five members in favor and two against the motion, reflecting ongoing concerns about the public’s readiness to accept higher buildings.

Another topic discussed was a request for a special exception to rebuild structures on a property on Estero Boulevard, located in an environmentally critical zone. Jason Smyth from the planning and zoning department plans to rehabilitate the site, emphasizing compliance with FEMA regulations and the need for structures to be “frangible” to minimize risks during extreme conditions. The board’s sentiment favored supporting the request, provided it met regulatory requirements and addressed community concerns.

The meeting also covered a variance request for a property on Estero Boulevard. The applicant sought variances for side and street setbacks to accommodate mechanical equipment and a second-floor balcony. The board approved the variance request unanimously, acknowledging the necessity of the changes for the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the property.

In addition to these major development discussions, the agency addressed a proposal for a new fire station and mixed-use development on Estero Boulevard. The project required rezoning to accommodate essential services and involved six deviations from existing regulations. The staff recommended approval, highlighting the project’s alignment with the comprehensive plan and the necessity of maintaining emergency vehicle visibility.

The meeting concluded with administrative matters, including the approval of a request to vacate a utility easement for the Fort Myers Beach Art Association and discussions about future meeting schedules. Concerns were raised about the feasibility of handling multiple significant agenda items in a single meeting, prompting suggestions for additional meetings to manage the workload effectively.