May Edition MAYORAL MINUTE Dear Fort Myers Residents & Visitors, I’m excited to share some wonderful news with you! First, the City of Fort Myers has unveiled a new American flag drop box at City Hall. UPS gifted the receptacle to the City of Fort Myers while FASTSIGNS of Fort Myers donated the custom wrap. Thanks to their generosity, residents now have a convenient and respectful way to dispose of worn or damaged flags. I’ve also partnered with the local American Legion Post 38 to help properly dispose of the collected flags. We invite everyone to visit City Hall and make use of this important community resource! Last month, we had the honor of hosting the 2025 Edison Awards, celebrating global innovation right here in our hometown. Fort Myers has a long history of collaboration and creativity, dating back to Thomas Edison. We’re proud to continue that legacy to- day. I encourage you to watch the “Collaboration Through Innovation” video below to see why Fort Myers is a City where bold ideas take root and thrive. Finally, I’m thrilled to recognize the incredible generosity of our City staff who rallied and raised over $23,000 this year for the United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades! There will be a special proclamation for employees and United Way representatives at the May 5th City Council Meeting. The compassion and commitment to supporting our neighbors truly embodies the spirit of service that makes our community so special. Looking ahead, I’ll be taking a vacation this month, but I look forward to seeing you at the June City Council Meeting. In the interim, if you need anything at all, contact my office at 239-321-7020 or [email protected]. Until next month! Yours in public service, Kevin B. Anderson Mayor, City of Fort Myers FMFD Awarded International Accreditation The City of Fort Myers is proud to announce that the Fort Myers Fire Department has officially achieved Accredited Agency status through the Commission on Fire Accred- itation International (CFAI) and the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE). This prestigious designation recognizes the department’s commitment to continuous im- provement, excellence in service, and dedication to the community. The Fort Myers Fire Department is now one of just over 300 agencies worldwide to receive this accreditation—and only the third in Lee County to do so. Out of 19 fire districts and departments in Lee County and more than 27,000 fire departments in the National Fire Department Registry, this recognition places Fort Myers among an elite group of fire service organizations. The CFAI accreditation process is a rigorous, voluntary self-assessment that allows fire departments to evaluate their service delivery and performance. It involves a comprehensive internal review, followed by validation from a team of fire service professionals from other agencies. The process helps departments plan strategic- ally and proactively identify opportunities to enhance operations and services. “It is with great honor that the Commission on Fire Accreditation International has awarded your agency with accredited status,” the CFAI stated. “As an internationally Accredited Agency, you help lead fire and emergency services to higher and greater standards for communities. As an advocate for self-assessment and quality improve- ment, you desire opportunities to improve and to be proactive as an emergency ser- vice organization.” Fire Chief Tracy McMillion added, “The agency’s achievement of Accredited Agency status demonstrates the commitment of the department to be properly equipped, staffed, and trained.” McMillion also said, “We have been able to use the Commission on Fire Accreditation International’s process as a proactive mechanism to plan for the future and identify ways to continuously enhance services.” The Fort Myers Fire Department began the accreditation process in 2024 and worked diligently to meet the CFAI’s comprehensive criteria. Congrats, FMFD! FMPD Year in Review The Fort Myers Police Department has released its 2024 Annual Report, highlighting major accomplishments, community initiatives, and department reorganization under Chief Jason Fields’ leadership. Now completing his first year as Chief, Fields has led efforts to reduce violent crime through strategic policing and advanced technology. The department also shifted to a new six-bureau structure, each led by a Captain, to improve operations and service delivery. Chief Fields, a graduate of the FBI National Academy, was also appointed to the CALEA Commission in 2024, reinforcing FMPD’s commitment to national standards and accred- itation. Kudos on a stellar year, Chief and team! Read Full Report Innovation Through Collaboration The Edison Awards returned to Fort Myers last month, bringing global innovators, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders together to celebrate the best in innovation. With hundreds of attendees from numerous countries and millions in economic impact, the event showcased Fort Myers as a hub where history and ground- breaking ideas can meet. “We’re proud to welcome the Edison Awards back to Fort Myers,” said Mayor Kevin Anderson. “The legacy of Thomas Edison is woven into our City, and this event showcases how innovation continues to change our world.” The Edison Awards honored top achievements across categories like Sustainability, Medical Innovation, AI, Robotics, and Energy Solutions, connecting the City’s rich history with the technology shaping the future. Get Inspired Grant Opportunities Now Open As a reminder, grant applications are now open for two exciting opportunities that support community engagement, public events, and local creativity. Special Event Grants Program Applications are now being accepted for events taking place between October 1, 2025, and September 30, 2026. This program supports eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations by providing limited City services—such as police support, trash collection, permitting, and more—for events held within City limits. These grants help bring meaningful, inclusive experiences to life for Fort Myers residents. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 30, 2025, by 4:30 P.M. Arts & Culture Grants In addition to the events program, a separate grant op- portunity is open through May 16, 2025, for local artists, arts organizations, and cultural groups. This funding is designed to support creative projects that inspire, engage, and enrich the City of Fort Myers community. Whether it’s visual art, a performance, music, storytelling, or public installations, this grant is designed to bring vibrancy to our City. Don’t miss your chance to make a lasting impact on the City of Fort Myers! To learn more and apply, visit fortmyers.gov. City Strengthens Hurricane Readiness The City of Fort Myers has successfully completed a comprehensive after-action review of last year’s hurricane season. This City-wide assessment involved col- laboration across multiple departments and focused on identifying strengths, chal- lenges, and opportunities for improvements to our emergency response operations. As a result of this review, the City is actively revamping plans, refining procedures, and enhancing training efforts to ensure we are as prepared as possible heading into the 2025 hurricane season. This proactive approach reflects our continued com- mitment to protecting residents, businesses, and community assets in the face of a weather event. The review emphasized areas such as interdepartmental coordination, resource allo- cation, public information, sheltering operations, and post-storm recovery processes. Actionable recommendations from the report are already being implemented, with several updates expected to be completed by hurricane season. By learning from past experiences and adapting to evolving infrastructure and citizen needs, the City of Fort Myers is focused on building a more resilient, responsive, and prepared community. Hurricane Preparedness Expo – June 7 The City of Fort Myers Division of Emergency Management invites residents, business owners, and community partners to the Hurricane Preparedness Expo on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 11 A.M. to 3 P.M. at Collaboratory (2031 Jackson Street). This free event will feature interactive exhibits, preparedness tips, and direct access to emergency response teams and supporting organizations — all aimed at helping YOU stay ready before, during, and after a storm. More Details New Community Development Activity Map The City of Fort Myers is pleased to announce the launch of the updated Community Development Activity Map, now available through the CFM GIS Open Data Hub. This comprehensive digital resource offers residents, developers, and stakeholders an interactive and accessible way to stay informed about new development activity throughout the City. Optimized for desktop, tablet, and mobile devices, the map provides real-time insights into a wide range of current and future projects within City limits. Users can view detailed information on commercial, residential, industrial, and mixed- use developments, including: – Recently Completed Projects – such as Bay Street Yard in the heart of downtown – Projects Under Construction – including Lee Health’s new hospital complex on Jones- Walker Boulevard (formerly Challenger Boulevard) – Projects in Permitting Review – such as a proposed warehouse and distribution center along State Road 82, just east of Forum Boulevard – Planning and Zoning Activity – for example, an amendment to the Legacy Harbour Planned Unit Development (PUD) near Centennial Park In addition to mapping locations, the tool displays project details such as square footage, building height, and status across permitting, planning, and construction phases. Users can also view site plans, architectural elevations, and connect directly to the City’s online permitting system for further information. This new mapping resource reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to transparency, smart growth, and civic engagement. The Community Development Activity Map can be accessed directly here. Help Shape the Future – Take Our Planning Survey The City of Fort Myers wants to hear from you! The Planning Division is currently gather- ing community input to help guide future development and growth across the City. This is your chance to share your thoughts on housing, transportation, land use, and more. Your feedback will help shape a more connected, livable, and sustainable Fort Myers. The survey only takes a few minutes, but your voice can make a lasting impact. The survey will remain open until June 2, 2025. Take Survey Introducing…FixMyFort! The City of Fort Myers is getting ready to roll out FixMyFort—a new, easy-to-use platform that lets you report non-emergency issues like potholes, broken streetlights, and sidewalk damage right from your mobile device or computer. With FixMyFort, you’ll be able to drop a location pin on the fix, upload photos if you wish, and track your request from start to finish. It’s part of the City’s effort to make it easier for you to stay connected, informed, and help us keep “the Fort” looking its best. Stay tuned for the official launch date and details on how to use FixMyFort! Fort Myers Cemetery Beautification Project Starting today, City staff is removing items that do not meet long-standing cemetery guide- lines. This is to maintain a clean and respectful environment for all visitors. For details on permitted items, please visit the City’s website. All Children’s Playground Now Open tennial Park is now open following the completion of repairs and enhancements. This inclusive play space has been thoughtfully designed for children of all abilities to enjoy. With colorful equipment, accessible features, and a scenic riverfront location, the playground offers a safe and welcoming setting for families across the community. Originally closed for necessary repairs, the playground reopened to the public on April 19 and has already welcomed children and families eager to return. We greatly appreciate the com- munity’s patience during the closure and are proud to provide a space that encourages play, imagination, and connection for everyone! We invite residents and visitors alike to come out and enjoy this revitalized gem in the heart of downtown Fort Myers. “Common Ground” Pocket Park Opens Downtown Downtown Fort Myers just got a little greener with the official opening of “Common Ground,” the first Pocket Park in the downtown Community Redevelopment Area (CRA). This inviting new space marks a milestone in the City’s ongoing beautification efforts and reflects a shared vision for accessible, lively public places that connect residents, visitors, and businesses alike. The project is a shining example of what can be accomplished through collaboration between the City of Fort Myers, CRA, and the community. “Common Ground” was designed to trans- form an underutilized area into a welcoming and artful gathering space that celebrates local creativity and enhances the neighborhood’s charm. The ribbon-cutting ceremony held in April drew enthusiastic support from community mem- bers and local leaders. Adding a unique artistic touch to the event, local artist Marie C. Dyer of Azalea’s on the Corner created a live painting of the park as it came to life, capturing the spirit of the moment and the beauty of the space. The opening of this Pocket Park is more than a beautification effort—it’s a symbol of progress, partnership, and the importance of shared community spaces in shaping a vibrant downtown. Scan with Caution The City of Fort Myers is joining local law enforcement in warning the public about a rise in QR code scams. These fake codes, often placed on signs, flyers, or shared online, can lead to fraudulent websites designed to steal your personal or financial information. WINK News recently covered this growing issue in their story: “Law enforcement and City of Fort Myers warning residents about QR code scams.” You can watch the full story here: winknews.com. Remember: Only scan QR codes from trusted sources.Check for tampering before scanning.The City will never request payments through a QR code. City Socials 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. Upcoming Meetings – City Council Meeting – May 5, 4:30 P.M. City Hall, 2200 Second St, Fort Myers, FL 33901 – Ward 6 Community Meeting – May 7, 6:00 P.M. Fire Station 15, 9700 Treeline Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33913 – City Council Meeting – May 19, 4:30 P.M. City Hall, 2200 Second St, Fort Myers, FL 33901 – Ward 1 Community Meeting – May 27, 6:00 P.M. Riverside Community Center, Fort Myers, FL 33916 – CRA Board of Commissioners Meeting – May 28, 9:00 A.M. City Hall, 2200 Second St, Fort Myers, FL 33901 *Visit the City Meeting Center on fortmyers.gov for a full list.* |
