Lee County, Florida is a coastal paradise with miles of white sand beaches, making it a popular destination for businesses and tourists alike. Every year, the Lee County Fair is held in Southwest Florida, offering thousands of attendees an educational and entertaining experience. Unfortunately, 22.4 miles of the 47 total miles of Gulf beaches in Lee County suffer from critical erosion. To help support the local tourism industry, a 2 percent tax on short-term accommodations was approved to fund the Lee County Tourism Development Council (TDC).The TDC is an eleven-member council appointed as an advisory committee to the Lee County Board of Commissioners (BOCC).
This council oversees the entire tax fund for tourism development, guiding programs and budget, and reviewing quarterly Convention Bureau (VCB) expenditures for visitors to Lee County. The TDC also approves funds for the maintenance of Lee County beaches, beach renovation projects, and capital projects related to beaches and coasts. In 2003, a partnership was formed between the Lee County Sports Complex (LCSD) and the TDC with the objective of working together to attract and maintain sporting events and meetings that would have a positive economic impact on the hospitality industry. During the summer months, the LCSD is home to the Fort Myers Miracle, a Florida State League team affiliated with the Minnesota Twins. The Lee County Office of Economic Development provides business assistance to retain existing businesses, encourage entrepreneurship, and attract new businesses. This growth reflects the 63% population growth that Lee County experienced in the past decade alone. A feasibility study conducted for the city of Sanibel, the Captiva Erosion Prevention District (CEPD), and Lee County in September 2003 recommended that the project provide a stable tidal connection between Pine Island Sound and the Gulf of Mexico for environmental reasons.
The first organized beach nutrition activity in Lee County took place on Captiva Island, under the direction of the CEPD. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) classifies the entire area of the Lee County project from Boca Grande Pass to 17th Street as severely eroded shoreline. When visiting Lee County for beach events, it's important to check out the daily program at the information booth near the main entrance. This will help you plan your day and make sure you don't miss out on any activities. From beach cleanups to sports tournaments, there's something for everyone in Lee County!.
