The Fort Myers Beach Town Council has set a maximum property tax increase of 26%. However, this rate is not set in stone and could be lowered.
During a meeting, Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt emphasized that despite their efforts over the past three years to avoid raising taxes, they have run out of options.
On Friday, the town council announced a push for a new tax rate of 1.255. This rate would cost homeowners approximately $125 more per $100,000 of property value.
Town Manager Will McKanny explained that the primary reason for this proposal is to address the budget shortfall caused by Hurricane Ian.
Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers acknowledged that no one wants to raise taxes, but the town still needs to operate.
Resident Al Sckoropad expressed his understanding of the town's proposal but wished it could be handled differently.
"I want to see a normal increase," said Sckoropad. "Maybe they should go a little bit every year to achieve that and go with that. But I know they do their best, but I think they can do it better."
This is just the first step in the process. Two public hearings are scheduled for next month at the new town hall building, where homeowners can voice their concerns before a final decision is made.