Will There Be A 'Ray Sandelli Pier' in Fort Myers Beach?
New Sun Bay Paper Issue Is Out; Questions Lee County Pier Rebuild and Community Input
By Richard Luthmann
NOTE: This is an editorial from Sun Bay Paper, where I am the editor-in-chief.
This story is available online in our Digital Version.
Actual newspapers are distributed throughout the Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach area, from US 41 and west, including the McGregor and Summerlin corridors.
For more information, visit the website at www.sunbaypaper.com or call 239-267-4000.
Lee County Pols Shortchange Fort Myers Beach's Pier Revamp
Fort Myers Beach's iconic pier, a cornerstone of local tourism and community pride, stands at risk. The Lee County Commissioners, tasked with deciding the pier's future after Ian's destruction a year and a half ago, have signaled a desire for a modest update rather than the transformative rebuild many had hoped for. This decision, spearheaded by Commissioner Ray Sandelli, who represents District 3, falls short of the community's aspirations for a world-class attraction that could drive future economic growth and tourism.
Commissioner Sandelli, appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2019 and elected in 2020, brings a rich service background and professional achievement to his role. A proud veteran, Sandelli's career spans from naval aviator and Blue Angel to a distinguished tenure in commercial real estate, culminating in senior positions at CBRE and local involvement with CRE Consultants. His leadership in educational, charitable, and civic organizations, including the University of Florida and Habitat for Humanity, illustrates a commitment to community development and service.
Sandelli knows how real estate investment and economic activity work. Despite his impressive resume, Sandelli's decision on the pier project is perplexing. The current plan maintains the 1991 pier's dimensions, with only minimal updates for code compliance, ignoring the potential to expand and enhance its capacity and appeal. This approach overlooks the pier's significance as Lee County's most significant tourist draw outside its beaches. It fails to capitalize on an opportunity to create a lasting legacy that bolsters FMB and Lee County's economic and social fabric.
The Lee County Commissioners' reluctance to pursue a more ambitious pier rebuild is particularly surprising given the community's apparent support for such a project. Advocacy groups, stakeholders, and elected officials, including the Let's Go FMB Pier Committee and Town Council Member Karen Woodson, have presented compelling visions for a forward-looking pier that could accommodate more visitors, particularly for sunset viewings, and serve as a beacon of resilience and attraction. Yet, these calls for a grander vision have gone unheeded.
The decision not to invest in a more significant rebuild is a missed opportunity for leadership that misaligns with Sandelli's history of service, achievement, and excellence. A world-class pier would enhance FMB's appeal and serve as a testament to the county's ability to rise above adversity and envision a brighter future. This project could have been a capstone to Commissioner Sandelli's career, as he announced he would not stand for reelection. Shepherding a robust pier rebuild would combine his military discipline, business acumen, and commitment to public service into a tangible legacy.
One thing is crystal clear: a "below-average, obsolete, and barely serviceable" update to the FMB Pier would be a disservice to residents, visitors, economic activity, and Lee County tourism revenues. Why isn't Commissioner Sandelli fighting harder for FMB and Lee County's future?
However, there is a glimmer of hope. Lee County Commissioners like Kevin Ruane and Cecil Pendergrass still have the opportunity to rethink this decision and opt for a plan that mirrors the community's ambitions.
The FMB Town Council should consider an immediate resolution renaming the pier "The Ray Sandelli—Lee County Pier." This action will underscore the lasting impact such a project could have on FMB's recovery, economic activity, and future fortunes. Whether as a symbol of visionary leadership or a cautionary tale of missed opportunity, the decision will shape the community's future.
The current trajectory for the Fort Myers Beach Pier project highlights a broader issue of vision and commitment in local governance. As the community rallies for a pier that could redefine its shoreline and economic prospects, the question remains: will its leaders rise to the occasion? FMB should still name the pier "The Ray Sandelli - Lee County Pier" if things go south. Locals and tourists alike should be left with a decades-long reminder of what could have been, offering a critical lesson in the importance of ambitious, forward-thinking leadership in public service.
What do you think?