Mayor’s Message
Dear Residents of Cape Coral,
As we begin Fiscal Year 2026, I want to thank everyone who participated in the many public discussions and provided input as the City shaped its budget and policy decisions for the year ahead. Your engagement has been invaluable in helping us balance the needs of a growing community. One of the most important decisions in this year’s budget is the adoption of the rollback rate for property taxes. The City Council voted to lower the property tax rate from 5.2188 to 5.1471. The rollback rate is the rate that generates the same amount of property tax revenue as the prior year, excluding new construction. By adopting the rollback rate, the City will collect the same overall revenue from existing properties as last year.
This decision underscores our commitment to responsible budgeting and fiscal stewardship. In addition to the millage rate adjustment, the City also acted on mobility fees after significant public discussion and input. In compliance with Florida Statute, the newly adopted ordinance limits any increase to no more than 12.5 percent annually over the next four years. As an example, for a new residential structure, the current road impact fee of $3,347 per dwelling unit will rise incrementally by $418 each year. Unlike the previous system, the mobility fee for new development is designed to fund a broader range of transportation improvements, ensuring that Cape Coral can meet the demands of continued growth.
Changes are also coming to the City’s rental registration program. Currently, rentals are charged a one-time $35 registration fee. Starting January 1, the program will convert to an annual fee structure.
Long-term rentals leased for six months or more will pay $35 each year, while short-term rentals will now be assessed $350 annually. This change ensures consistency and fairness in how rental properties support the programs and oversight that help maintain neighborhood quality.
Looking ahead, Fiscal Year 2026 will also bring important progress for the Yacht Club Community Park. The city will be developing a funding plan for redevelopment, while construction should begin on the seawalls—likely the first visible step in revitalizing this community asset.
This month, we will also be discussing the City’s legislative priorities to guide upcoming advocacy at the state and federal levels. I am certain one of these priorities will be continued state and federal funding for the Utility Expansion Project (UEP). Together, these priorities and initiatives reflect our community’s commitment to responsible planning, sound financial management, and long-term investment in quality of life.
With your continued input and support, FY 2026 will be a year of careful stewardship and steady progress for Cape Coral.
Sincerely,
John Gunter
Cape Coral Mayor
