Naples Airport Authority Control Shifts to Countywide Voter Elections

All 5 board seats will be on the ballot starting in 2026 under new law signed by Gov. DeSantis.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:07pm

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A serene, photorealistic painting of an empty airport terminal with high ceilings, large windows, and long shadows, conveying a sense of solitude and contemplation about the changing governance of this important regional facility.The transfer of Naples Airport Authority control to countywide voter elections signals a shift in how this regional transportation hub will be governed.Naples Today

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed legislation that will transfer control of the Naples Airport Authority from the Naples City Council to countywide voter elections, with all five board seats up for grabs starting in the 2026 General Election. The new law also establishes geographic representation requirements and qualifications for prospective board members.

Why it matters

This change in governance structure for the Naples Municipal Airport, which serves a regional population, aims to give more Collier County residents a direct say in the airport's operations and future. However, critics warn it could dilute local control over decisions impacting the city of Naples itself.

The details

Under the new law, all five members of the Naples Airport Authority will be elected by voters across Collier County, replacing the current system where the Naples City Council appoints board members. Three seats will be reserved for Naples residents, while two must be held by those living in unincorporated Collier County. Candidates will also need to meet new qualifications, including at least 5 years of experience in financial management, small business, or the aerospace industry.

  • The new law was signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis on April 7, 2026.
  • All five Naples Airport Authority seats will appear on the ballot starting with the 2026 General Election.

The players

Gov. Ron DeSantis

The Governor of Florida who signed the legislation transferring control of the Naples Airport Authority to countywide voter elections.

Rep. Adam Botana

The Naples Republican who sponsored the bill that led to the governance change for the Naples Airport Authority.

Naples City Council

The city government body that previously appointed members to the Naples Airport Authority board, but will now lose that control under the new law.

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What they’re saying

“The airport serves a regional population and governance should reflect its impact on other Collier County residents.”

— Rep. Adam Botana, Bill Sponsor

“We're concerned this could dilute local control over decisions related to airport operations and expansion within city limits.”

— Naples City Official

What’s next

The first countywide elections for the Naples Airport Authority board will take place during the 2026 General Election.

The takeaway

This legislation represents a significant shift in how the Naples Municipal Airport, a key regional transportation hub, will be governed going forward. The move to countywide voter control aims to give more Collier County residents a voice, but also raises concerns about potential impacts on the city of Naples itself.