Town of Fort Myers Beach Issues Formal Response to School District, Emphasizes Good-Faith Negotiation and Shared Goal of Reopening Island School

December 20, 2025 • Services

The Town of Fort Myers Beach has formally responded to correspondence from the Lee County School District regarding the future of Fort Myers Beach Elementary School, characterizing the District’s engagement as a meaningful step in the right direction and reaffirming the Town’s commitment to collaboration, fiscal responsibility, and the shared priority of restoring an elementary school on the island.

Town officials acknowledged the District’s willingness to outline preliminary concepts and engage in dialogue, noting that while proposals remain pre-decisional and subject to School Board review, the exchange itself reflects forward momentum after a prolonged period of uncertainty.

“This response represents progress,” said Town Manager Will McKannay. “Our priority has always been clear: getting a school open on Fort Myers Beach for our families and children. We are approaching this process as a cooperative partner, focused on solutions rather than positions.”

Deputy Town Manager Dr. Traci Kohler emphasized the emotional and community significance of the effort.

“This is about more than numbers or negotiations, it is about children, families, and a community that has been asking for its school back,” said Deputy Town Manager Dr. Traci Kohler. “Every step forward matters, and this one gives hope to parents, educators, and residents who believe deeply in the importance of having a neighborhood school at the heart of Fort Myers Beach.”

In its response, the Town outlined a counterproposal designed to balance community needs with fiscal prudence and long-term viability. Central to that proposal is the Town’s recommendation that any property conveyance be a full acquisition rather than a lease arrangement, ensuring clarity of ownership, eliminating liability concerns, and preserving the functionality of the site for future educational use.

Notably, the Town proposed revising its previous financial request from $12 million to $9 million, a reduction framed as a deliberate good-faith effort.

“The decision to reduce our request reflects our commitment to being a respectful and constructive negotiating partner,” McKannay added. “Our focus is on reopening the school and moving forward together. We hope this gesture is met with the same level of consideration and partnership.”

Town officials reiterated that restoring educational continuity on Fort Myers Beach is a cornerstone of the island’s long-term recovery and resilience and expressed optimism that continued collaboration will lead to a mutually beneficial solution.