Naples Airport Authority board shifts to elected positions under new law

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK)—A new law signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis shifts control of the Naples Airport Authority Board from city-appointed members to elected positions.

The legislation, signed April 6, restructures the board to five elected positions. Three will be city residents, and two will be from outside Naples in Collier County.

All board members are required to have professional experience. The shift of power is now law.

"It gives the power back to the people, back to the voters, to elect those that they think are the best fitting options," said Jose Cabrera, director of operations at Naples Jet Center.

Board members must have aerospace experience or financial and business backgrounds. Cabrera said officials want people who understand the airport's role as an economic engine for the city and county.

City officials declined to comment due to pending litigation. In March, WINK News obtained a letter to the governor from the city asking him to veto the bill.

The letter cited concerns over local control from funding to operations. Cabrera said a broader board could bring more balance.

"We're going to execute for the best and safest way to operate the airport," Cabrera said. "I think having the two folds of the county and city people representatives on the same board brings a whole new, refreshed perspective and inclusive one of that."

Cabrera said the board's role won't change, just who serves. The board counsels the airport on business decisions and macro-level items that come up.

"They're there just to serve as an advisory to their airport director and his staff," Cabrera said.

The current board remains in place. In November, voters will have the final say on who helps guide the future of the Naples Airport.