La Ola Surfside, a popular Fort Myers Beach restaurant, is under pressure to comply with town floodplain regulations. The restaurant, currently run out of shipping containers and a food truck since Hurricane Ian, was issued a code violation for not meeting FEMA flood rules. The town has given owner Thomas Houghton until March 1st to fix the issue or face fines.
Houghton, however, is determined to keep fighting. He has proven that the shipping containers are mobile and can be evacuated in case of a storm. "We can evacuate at a moment's notice," Houghton said.
Despite a special magistrate ruling that the restaurant still violates town regulations, La Ola has received strong support from the local community. "It feels like we’re all in it together," Houghton explained. Toni Semro, manager of Southern Sunglass Company, a neighboring business, praised Houghton's efforts and the restaurant's role in driving local business. "People come just for La Ola," she said.
Houghton plans to appeal the decision and is committed to keeping La Ola open. A special magistrate meeting on March 5th will determine if fines are imposed. Stay tuned for updates.