The Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina is moving forward with plans to build a new six-story, 40-unit boutique hotel and condo building across from the rest of its resort on Estero Boulevard.
In a 3-1 decision, the Fort Myers Beach Town Council voted to proceed to the second hearing, scheduling Feb. 3 as the date for the final vote. Mayor Dan Allers recused himself from the vote due to a conflict of interest.
Some residents near the resort are unhappy with the idea of a six-story building obstructing their view of the bay. However, supporters argue that more accommodations for visitors are needed, especially after Hurricane Ian caused the loss of many hotels.
"I do think we need more hotels on the island," said Lynn Shultz, a Fort Myers Beach resident. "There are a lot of condos, rentals, and timeshares, but I think a hotel would be good. I'm not opposed to it being six stories. I guess I just have concerns about the infrastructure, like traffic and things like that."
Others opposing Pink Shell's expansion plans have concerns about increased traffic, as well as the project's density and height. During the meeting, it was noted that Pink Shell's tallest buildings currently stand at 11 stories — almost twice the height of the proposed hotel addition.
"My big problem is that they’re building on property that was originally intended to remain vacant," said Ray Murphy, a former mayor of Fort Myers Beach. "Post-Ian, property owners are submitting plans for developments that are massively larger than what currently exists. For example, if a property has 20 units, they want to increase it to 40, 50, or even 60."
Pink Shell's general manager, Bill Waichullis, said an expanded resort would bring more jobs to the island and help attract more visitors.
"We need some development on the island. You go down, there's not much happening, and we need new development happening on this island," Waichullis said.
The proposed hotel would be built on an empty lot currently used as a parking area for employees. Before the final vote next month, the town council plans to carefully review new documents submitted by Pink Shell during Wednesday's meeting, in hopes of making the best decision for the future of Fort Myers Beach.
Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated that the vote was postponed. The vote was moved to the second hearing.