Proposed Outrigger redevelopment applicant looks to bypass Fort Myers Beach Town Council

The applicant for the proposed Outrigger redevelopment on Fort Myers Beach has shifted gears and will now be pursuing development under Florida's Live Local Act, potentially avoiding the Fort Myers Beach Town Council. The proposal from London Bay Development Group would bring a multi-tower hotel and condo development to the beachfront property across from Town Hall, including 150 hotel rooms and 46 residential units. According to the Town of Fort Myers Beach, London Bay Development Group is looking to bypass the Fort Myers Beach Town Council. Florida's Live Local Act is a state law that provides an alternate approval process for housing developments, specifically workforce housing, the town said. Projects that adhere to the requirements of the law are not subject to review by the Local Planning Agency or approval by the town council. In order to qualify under the Live Local Act, at least 40% of the residential units must be reserved as income-restricted workforce housing for at least 30 years. The remaining units are allowed to be priced at market rate. According to the town, because the proposal would no longer proceed through Fort Myers Beach's Comprehensive Plan amendment process, the public benefits that were included in part of the application would no longer be required. Some of the proposed benefits that could be nullified include public beach access and other negotiated amenities. The controversial redevelopment proposal has been in limbo in recent months, including a major roadblock in May after the town’s Local Planning Agency voted 5-2 to recommend denying a key comprehensive plan amendment tied to London Bay’s project. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.