Mayor's Message

April 2024

Dear Residents of Cape Coral,

As we enter April, I'm thrilled to share some exciting updates and projects that will shape our community's future. Our staff is diligently working on the details of a partnership for a much-needed recreational facility at Lake Meade Park in NE Cape Coral. This project will offer valuable recreational opportunities and enhance our city's quality of life.

It's crucial to remember that our irrigation water supply is finite. We must use it wisely to ensure availability throughout the dry season. Despite the City's efforts to increase irrigation supply through projects like Caloosahatchee Connect, conservation remains paramount.

I'm pleased to announce that funding for two important Cape Coral projects is included in Florida's 2024 General Appropriations Act. There is $4 million for the Cape Coral Northeast Water Transmission Main and Regional Water Supply Project and $9 million to expand the City's Emergency Operations Center. These investments will enhance our infrastructure, irrigation water supply, and emergency response capabilities.

In April, the Council will conduct two public hearings on moratoriums for new permit applications for car washes and self-storage facilities. These public discussions aim to prevent these facilities from consuming essential commercial property too quickly and clustering too closely together. Given the limited vacant non-residential land for future commercial demands, careful planning is crucial to avoid adverse impacts on residents and preserve our commercial spaces.

As we say goodbye to many of our snowbirds this month, we eagerly anticipate upcoming public input meetings at the Cape Coral Yacht Club to shape the future of this cherished city park. Moreover, I'm proud to announce that Cape Coral has been recognized as a Statewide Leader in Urban Tree Canopy Growth, underscoring our commitment to preserving our natural environment and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

Your voice is essential. Whether by attending public meetings or using our e-comment tool on the City’s website, you play a pivotal role in shaping our community's future. Let's continue to work together, listen to each other, and strive for progress and prosperity.

As we embrace April's changes and opportunities, let's do so with a shared commitment to building a brighter future for Cape Coral.

Warm regards,

John Gunter
Cape Coral Mayor