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Dear Neighbors,
It’s been another busy month in the City of Fort Myers! I was honored to join the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers as they celebrated their 65th Anniversary—a remarkable milestone that reflects decades of dedication to providing people access to safe, attainable housing options. Congrats to Marcia Davis, her team, and the Board of Commissioners!
Additionally last month, I joined fellow Southwest Florida mayors for a panel discussion on the state of our cities, hosted by The Chamber of Southwest Florida. Together, we explored the challenges and opportunities of growth, resilience, public safety, and regional collaboration. It was a wonderful opportunity to share ideas, celebrate successes, and showcase how local governments across our region are working together to keep Southwest Florida strong and thriving. On that note, I also joined the Dunbar community in celebrating Dunbar High School’s 98th Anniversary—nearly a century of academic excellence and community pride. See the pics here!
October also brought a special spotlight to the City of Palms through Florida League of Cities Florida City Week (Oct. 20-26), a weeklong event when Florida cities celebrate, showcase, and engage citizens in the work of municipal government. As part of our ongoing “Service in the City” column with media partner, Florida Weekly, check out my latest op-ed highlighting the incredible work our employees do every day to keep our City vibrant, safe, and livable. I also invite you to watch this video, which accompanied my Florida City Week Proclamation at the Oct. 20 City Council Meeting. Our City staff’s commitment truly makes a difference and embodies what Florida City Week is all about!
Next week, let’s all take time to reflect on and honor our heroes on Veterans Day. From one veteran to another, thank you to those who have proudly served our country. An American flag drop box is available at City Hall (MLK side) to properly dispose of worn or damaged flags.
On the topic of reflection, I had the privilege of attending the Celebration of Life for Lee County Commissioner Mike Greenwell, a respected colleague and friend whose service and leadership left a lasting mark on our region.
As we approach Thanksgiving, I want to express my gratitude for the people who make Fort Myers such a special place to live. I’m thankful for our community’s resilience, for neighbors who lend a helping hand, and for the opportunity to serve each and every one of you. Stay safe, enjoy time with family and friends, and have a happy and restful start to the holiday season. And if you’re wondering about my favorite Thanksgiving meal—it’s hard to beat traditional roast turkey with stuffing in the bird, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, squash casserole, cranberry sauce, and a slice of pecan or sweet potato pie to boot!
As always, please contact my office at 239-321-7020 or mayoranderson@fortmyers.gov with any questions or feedback.
Yours in public service,
Kevin B. Anderson
Mayor, City of Fort Myers
| | CFM at Lee Delegation Meeting | | City leaders joined others from across the region at the October 28 Lee County Legislative Delegation Meeting to share appropriation requests ahead of the 2026 state session. The City asked for funding support on five major projects important to our economic growth. | | | ITS Renews Microsoft Cloud Security Partnership | | |
The City of Fort Myers has renewed a three-year agreement with Quisitive to provide Spyglass managed security services that monitor and secure the City’s network systems, support modernization, and help prevent service disruptions. The contract totals $167,496 annually and was approved by City Council on Oct. 20, 2025.
What does this mean for staff and residents? 24/7 monitoring, faster issue detection and response, and a stronger security posture with Quisitive working alongside our ITS (Information Technology Services) team to keep essential City services reliable and aligned with industry trends.
We’re optimized with gratitude for the behind-the-scenes teamwork that keeps our digital services running smoothly for the City of Fort Myers community.
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Each year, the City of Fort Myers prepares a budget that does more than outline dollars and cents, it shows how our City’s strategic priorities become reality. The budget serves four key roles: Policy Document, Financial Plan, Operations Guide, and Communications Tool.
As a Policy Document, it defines the City’s priorities and connects departmental goals to the broader strategic plan, ensuring every initiative supports our community’s vision. As a Financial Plan, it details how resources are raised and spent to deliver essential services. The budget highlights revenues, expenditures, and capital projects while maintaining transparency and fiscal responsibility. As an Operations Guide, it shows how departments function, outlining key services, staffing levels, and major initiatives that keep the City of Fort Myers running smoothly. Finally, as a Communications Tool, the budget promotes openness and understanding. With easy-to-read charts, summaries, and a message from the City Manager, it provides residents a clear view of how their tax dollars are put to work.
The annual budget isn’t just a financial report; it’s a roadmap for building a stronger City of Fort Myers. Stay tuned for our FY2025-2026 Adopted Annual Budget Book!
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The City of Fort Myers Utilities Department is pleased to share that the latest Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule 5 (UCMR5) testing found no contaminants of concern in the City’s drinking water.
UCMR5 is part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s nationwide program to look for emerging substances that aren’t yet regulated, but could affect water quality. By testing proactively, Public Utilities can detect issues early and protect public health before problems arise. The City's clean results reaffirm that our water system continues to deliver safe, high-quality drinking water to every resident.
At a glance
- Result: No contaminants of concern detected
- Program: EPA UCMR5 (early detection of emerging substances)
- Our commitment: Ongoing monitoring, rigorous testing, and open communication with the community
| | Making the "Fort" Greener | | |
The Parks & Recreation team recently joined forces with Future Forestry Corporation and the Southern Trails Foundation to complete the second phase of tree plantings along the North Colonial Linear Park. Together, we planted 25 native Florida trees, enhancing the trail’s natural beauty and improving shade, habitat, and stormwater absorption.
This project not only beautifies a community trail, but also supports our City’s commitment to resilient green infrastructure and a thriving outdoors for residents and visitors alike.
Thank you to our partners and all involved for making our City greener, one tree at a time.
| | | Let's "G.O.", Parks & Recreation! | | |
Through last November's voter-approved G.O. Bond initiative, improvements are already taking shape across the City from new playgrounds and athletic fields to restored waterfront access and expanded green spaces.
A General Obligation Bond (G.O. Bond) is a form of debt obligation that provides local government with funds to finance large capital improvements, such as those proposed for our enhanced parks and recreational facilities.
See our latest “Service in the City” column in Florida Weekly where Director of Parks & Recreation Elgin Hicks shares how the City is bringing the Parks & Recreation Master Plan to life...thanks to your input!
These projects reflect the City’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents by transforming our parks and recreational spaces.
| | Legacy Island Development | | |
Exciting progress for the City of Fort Myers and Legacy Island Park!
With over $330,000 in state funding secured, we’re moving forward with crucial waterfront enhancements including a five‑slip boat dock and expanded walking trails.
| | Shape the Future of McCollum Hall | | |
McCollum Hall has stood for nearly a century as a beacon of community, creativity, and connection. The Fort Myers CRA is stepping forward to lead its restoration: directly, transparently, and with public trust at the center.
But what's next for McCollum Hall? Help decide!
Take part in the future of McCollum Hall by completing this survey which will help decide its future use.
Click the image to enlarge flyer!
| | FMPD "Roll Call" Podcast Go Live | | |
This November, the Fort Myers Police Department is thankful for the opportunity to connect with the community in a new way. The FMPD Roll Call Podcast gives residents and visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how the department is growing through new initiatives, technology, and collaborative partnerships.
Episode 1 is live!
Catch Chief Jason Fields share how FMPD is evolving with the City and embracing innovation, strengthening relationships, and planning their new headquarters.
You can listen on Spotify, iHeartRadio and Apple Podcasts. Click here to listen! But wait, there's more - you can also watch the full episodes on the FMPD's YouTube page!
This Thanksgiving holiday, we're incredibly thankful for our officers and all the FMPD staff who serve our community every day and work tirelessly to keep our City safe.
| | Jason Fields, Chief of Police and Megan Fuentes, Public Information & Promotions Specialist | | Answer the Call: Join Fort Myers Fire | | |
Fort Myers is a City on the rise and the Fort Myers Fire Department (FMFD) is growing with it. If you’re looking for a rewarding career that invests in your development and gives you room to advance, this is your moment!
Why FMFD
- Real career growth: Clear pathways into specialty roles and leadership
- State-of-the-art training: Training facility and drill field to sharpen skills / two aerial units (including a Tiller), plus HazMat and Marine teams
- Balanced work hours: Three-week Kelly rotation schedule
- Strong retirement: Defined-benefit pension
- Competitive pay: $61,401 starting salary / $7,488 annual paramedic incentive
If you’re ready to grow, train, and make a difference, we’re ready for you! Apply by: Nov. 10, 2025
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Join Our Team:
Build a Career That Makes a Difference
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Looking for a rewarding career that makes a difference? The City of Fort Myers is hiring!
We’re always looking for passionate, dedicated individuals to join our team and help shape the future of our community. From public service to professional and technical roles, there are opportunities for every skill set.
The City offers competitive benefits, career growth, and the chance to work with people who care about making Fort Myers the best it can be!
| | City Hall Insider: Our City Clerks | | |
While much of the City’s work happens in the public eye, some of the most important duties are carried out quietly behind the scenes by our dedicated City Clerk’s Office. Their work helps keep operations running smoothly, transparently, and in full compliance with state laws.
The City Clerks are responsible for keeping and maintaining all public records, ensuring every document - from contracts to meeting minutes - is properly preserved according to state retention requirements. They also handle public and internal record requests, helping residents and staff access information quickly and efficiently.
When it comes to City Council business, the Clerks play a key role. They compile meeting agendas, record and transcribe minutes for Council sessions, and support the Environmental Advisory and Economic Development Advisory Boards. Their meticulous attention to detail ensures that every decision and discussion is properly documented for public record.
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Beyond City Hall, the Clerk’s Office also manages one of Fort Myers’ most meaningful spaces, the City Cemetery. They conduct the sale of cemetery plots, work closely with families and funeral homes, and enforce cemetery rules and regulations, ensuring this historic site is treated with dignity and care.
Additionally, the Clerks are the keepers of the City Seal, responsible for attesting to the Mayor’s signature and administering oaths of office for employees, police officers, and advisory board members. They also manage the City’s digital documentation system, ensuring that all files and contracts are securely stored and easily accessible.
Our City Clerks embody professionalism, integrity, and dedication. They are the guardians of our City’s records and the subtle force ensuring accountability and efficiency cross-functionally. We're truly thankful for their service and the vital role they play in keeping the City of Fort Myers organized, informed, and connected.
| | City Paralegal Paints the World with Purpose | | |
Wendy White, a paralegal for the City of Fort Myers, brings a world of creativity and compassion to her work, both inside and outside the office.
Born in Rockaway Beach, New York, Wendy grew up surrounded by art and the sea. She received a full academic scholarship to Barnard College in NYC, originally pursuing medicine in hopes of curing her father’s blindness. But her passion for painting was reignited by mentor and American artist, Milton Resnick, leading to her now-renowned abstract impressionist style.
Wendy has exhibited her art in New York, Paris, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and beyond, selling over 120 canvases in 200+ exhibitions. She’s also the creator of the award-winning film, Roses Are Blind, and the one-woman play The Jewish Nun, performed Off-Broadway and internationally.
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Additionally, Wendy co-founded the nonprofit, New Light Foundation, which supports students through arts-driven scholarships, and she serves as U.S. Ambassador to both the Bridge of Peace Film Festival in Paris and India’s Saath Jio Foundation.
Wendy continues to inspire through her art, writing, and service, all while supporting the City’s legal team with the same dedication.
We're so fortunate to have such a talented, hardworking, and kind-hearted individual on our team. Wendy’s energy, creativity, and warmth make her not just an incredible asset, but a true light to the City of Fort Myers...and the world.
| | City Awards $170,000 in Special Event Grants | | |
The City of Fort Myers is proud to support local organizations that enhance our community through cultural, educational, and recreational events. As part of the 2025–2026 Special Event Grant Program, 27 events from 18 organizations have been awarded a combined $170,000 in grant funding.
These grants recognize the impact these events have on community engagement and quality of life in the City. Funds may be used toward City-provided services such as police support, safety inspections, permits, trash pickup, and facility rentals. All funded events must be held within City limits and open to the public between Oct. 1, 2025, and Sept. 30, 2026.
2025–2026 Grant Recipients:
- Artfest Fort Myers, Inc. – Artfest
- Dunbar Festival Committee – Dunbar Easter Parade and MLK Multicultural Celebration Day
- Edison & Ford Winter Estates – Holiday Nights
- Edison Festival of Lights – Parade and 5K
- FitMix Fest
- Florida Arts, Inc. (Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center) – Festival of Trees and Wicked Walk
- Fort Myers Mural Society – Next Level Street Art
- Fort Myers Track Club – Turkey Trot 5K
- FMPD Fallen Officer Memorial Fund – Cops & Joggers 5K
- Hispanic Cultural Resource Foundation – SWFL Taste of Latino Festival
- National Kidney Foundation – Ft. Myers Kidney Walk
- Lee County Black History Society – Black History Month Celebration, Emancipation Day Celebration, Juneteenth Celebration, and Holiday in the Park
- Lee BIA Builders Care – BBQ, Bands & Brew
- Little Acorns, Inc. – Southwest Florida Reading Festival
- NAMI Southwest Florida – NAMI 5K Walk
- Pretty Girls Poppin – Glam Bash
- River District Alliance (RDA) – Art Walk, Music Walk, New Year's Eve Downtown Countdown, Freedom Fest, and St. Patrick’s Day Block Party
- Sozo Wellness Pharmacy – Heart Hustle Health and Wellness Fest and 5K
This investment in special events not only recognizes Fort Myers' diversity and creativity but also brings people together in making the City more vibrant, liveable, and safe for all to enjoy.
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City accepts applications for
Hurricane Ian HHRP funds
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The City of Fort Myers invites residents to apply for the remaining $1,726,794 from the initial allocation of $3,096,340 in funding from the State of Florida’s Hurricane Housing Recovery Program (HHRP) to repair homes impacted by Hurricane Ian. Since 2022, the city has awarded $1,369,546 to assist 12 families with rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts.
To be eligible for the HHRP, applicants must be homeowners residing in the City of Fort Myers, the property must be owner-occupied and qualify for homestead exemption and the area median income (AMI) for the household must be no greater than 120%. This percentage is determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to assess income eligibility for housing programs.
“Through the HHRP, we’re thrilled to be able to award up to $225,000 in home rehabilitation activities per applicant,” said Cindy Cruz, housing grant coordinator for the City of Fort Myers Community Development Department. “We encourage residents to apply as early as possible, as funds are available on a first-come, first served basis through June 2026.
Spanish-speaking staff are available to assist with questions and the application process. If an applicant does not qualify, other city programs may be offered to income-qualifying residents.
For more information and to apply, visit fortmyers.gov/HHRP or call
239-321-7970.
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The Fort Myers City Council approved designating a 0.2-mile portion of Edison Avenue from Euclid Avenue to Lane Avenue as “Charlotte Rafferty Way.”
The honorary street naming recognizes Charlotte Rafferty, a former principal and influential figure in Lee County’s arts education community. Rafferty was known for her dedication to local students and her lasting impact on arts programs throughout Southwest Florida.
A ceremonial dedication of Charlotte Rafferty Way will take place on November 18 at 10 a.m. at Edison Park Elementary.
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Want up-to-the-minute news, highlights, and progress on projects?
Engage with our social media pages for the inside scoop on City life - click each icon below to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
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City Council Meeting - November 3, 4:30 P.M. (past)
City Hall, 2200 Second St, Fort Myers 33901
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Ward 6 Community Meeting - November 12, 6:00 P.M.
9700 Treeline Ave, Fort Myers 33913
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City Council Meeting - November 17, 4:30 P.M.
City Hall, 2200 Second St, Fort Myers 33901
*Visit the City Meeting Center on fortmyers.gov for a full list.*
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