Fort Myers Beach Takes School District to Court Over Hurricane-Damaged Elementary

The Fort Myers Beach Town Council pushed for talks with Lee County School District about the closed elementary school. At a packed meeting, officials picked Nov. 5 at Town Hall to start what might turn into a legal battle. A binding contract requires the district to keep the school open until 2027.

"The administration, for whatever reason, sort of fails to appreciate what this school means to Fort Myers Beach," Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt said, according to Fort Myers Beach Talk.

Hurricanes Helene and Milton hit in fall 2024, forcing students to relocate. They now sit in classrooms at San Carlos Park Elementary while their old school is closed.

The repair costs sparked heated debates. First came a $1.3 million estimate from administrators. Then a consultant's report increased to $7 million.

The district must respond within 10 days. Town attorney Becky Vose made it clear: "They will have to participate. They are under an obligation to take this seriously and go through the process."

If the November talks fail, a certified mediator steps in next.