Fort Myers Braces for Potential State Property Tax Overhaul

City projects, including a new police station, could be impacted if Tallahassee moves forward with property tax reform proposals.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 7:06pm

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a classic municipal building in Fort Myers, Florida, with warm sunlight streaming through the windows and deep shadows across the facade, conveying a sense of civic nostalgia and the looming challenges facing the city's budget and infrastructure.As Fort Myers braces for potential state-level property tax reforms, the city's historic municipal buildings face an uncertain future.Fort Myers Today

The city of Fort Myers is preparing for potential property tax reforms being considered by the Florida Legislature, which could significantly impact the city's budget and ongoing projects. City officials warn that the elimination of property taxes or a 10% budget cut requirement could force the city to take on millions in debt or make service reductions, raising concerns about the impact on public safety and other essential services.

Why it matters

Fort Myers relies heavily on property tax revenue to fund its general budget, with nearly half of the city's $183.2 million general fund coming from property taxes. Any changes to the property tax system could force the city to make difficult decisions about how to maintain critical services and complete planned infrastructure projects.

The details

The Florida Legislature is considering various proposals to reform or eliminate property taxes, including a bill that would require every city and county to show what a 10% budget cut would look like. Fort Myers officials warn that a 10% cut to the city's $183 million general fund would remove over $18 million, even as the city is facing the need to take on $182 million in debt to fund a new police station, fire station, and other projects. City leaders are concerned about the potential impact on public safety budgets and services.

  • The Florida Legislature has not yet voted to eliminate property taxes, but the proposals are being actively discussed.
  • Fort Myers officials discussed the potential impacts at an April 13 city council workshop.
  • A bill requiring cities and counties to show 10% budget cut plans is currently on the governor's desk.

The players

Christine Tenney

Fort Myers city finance director, who warned council members about the potential impacts of property tax reforms on the city's budget and projects.

Marty Lawing

Fort Myers city manager, who said there is uncertainty about what actions the state legislature may take and that 'uncertainty is not good.'

Rep. Ryan Chamberlin

A state representative who has proposed the elimination of all property taxes, arguing it is 'not the right way to pay for services.'

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What they’re saying

“'I'm seeing a lot of decreases. Some are down almost double digits.'”

— Christine Tenney, Fort Myers city finance director

“'I don't think we can put our head in the sand.'”

— Marty Lawing, Fort Myers city manager

“'It's really a political power play. The state would probably put on an excise tax. It's really about the state getting the money. Do we want the state to take care of us?'”

— Liston Bochette, Fort Myers city councilman

What’s next

Fort Myers officials say they are preparing contingency plans in case the Florida Legislature moves forward with property tax reforms, including exploring options to maintain critical services and complete planned projects if the city's budget is significantly reduced.

The takeaway

The potential changes to Florida's property tax system have created significant uncertainty for the city of Fort Myers, which relies heavily on property tax revenue to fund its operations. City leaders are concerned about the impact on public safety budgets and the ability to complete important infrastructure projects, raising questions about the role of state versus local control over municipal finances.