Fort Myers Beach launches independent review into contracts and grants

FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. (WINK)—Fort Myers Beach has placed two directors on administrative leave as part of an independent review into how the town handles contracts and grants.

A council member confirmed that Community Development Director Frankie Kropacek and Community Services Director Jeff Hauge are on leave. The town said the move is meant to "protect the integrity" of the review.

Fort Myers Beach said it "takes stewardship of public funds seriously." The town plans to hold a public town hall with the town manager where people can ask questions and hear about next steps.

"I don't want to prejudge anybody...I mean, they have the right to go through the process," said Bill Veach, a former councilman.

Veach said development on the island changed after Hurricane Ian, as the destruction paved the way for much bigger projects.

"The stakes have gotten a lot higher; I'm sure there's a lot of temptation out there," Veach said.

The town said it is committed to transparency and protecting public funds. WINK News reached out to both men who were placed on leave but has not heard back.