City Council approves historic renovation project for downtown Franklin Shops

The Fort Myers Historic Preservation Commission convened on December 19, 2024, to discuss several key agenda items, including a public hearing regarding a certificate of review for a historic building project. The meeting began with confirmation of a quorum and the recusal of Commissioner Mary Jo Walker, who was required to fill out a form due to her conflict of interest.

The first significant discussion revolved around the visual impact of renovations on a historic structure. A commissioner inquired whether the changes would result in a noticeable difference in appearance. Staff responded by comparing the renovation process to remodeling a home, indicating that while some elements would be updated, the overall aesthetic would remain consistent with the building's historical character.

Renee Miville, the applicant, addressed the commission, sharing her positive experiences with the Franklin Shops project initiated in 2009. She highlighted the success of the shops, which attract approximately 300,000 visitors annually. Miville expressed gratitude towards various individuals involved in the downtown development, particularly acknowledging the contributions of Niels and Raymond to the area's revitalization.

Miville assured the commission that the new glass bricks would match the existing ones, maintaining the building's historical integrity. She emphasized that the renovations would allow the structure to retain its original appearance, akin to stepping back in time to 1937.

Following Miville's presentation, the commission opened the floor for public comments but received no additional input. The public hearing was subsequently closed, and the board returned to deliberations. Commissioner McKenzie expressed appreciation for the positive feedback received during the meeting, reinforcing the commission's commitment to historic preservation.

A motion was made to approve the certificate of review, incorporating staff recommendations numbered one through six. The motion received a second, and after a brief discussion, it was unanimously approved, with Walker abstaining from the vote.

The meeting concluded with a sense of accomplishment regarding the preservation efforts and the positive trajectory of Fort Myers' historic districts. The commission's next steps will involve continued oversight of ongoing projects to ensure they align with the city's preservation goals.