John McLean for Town Council
Building Back Smarter. Building Back Together.
As we as a town move from recovery to redevelopment, my vision is simple: A rebuilt, resilient and thriving Fort Myers Beach.
As your Council representative I will:
Preserve the island’s coastal identity and character by ensuring redevelopment aligns with the community’s scale, charm, and environmental sensitivity.
Support responsible economic growth that strengthens local businesses, tourism, and long‑term financial stability without compromising quality of life.
Invest in resilient infrastructure so the island can safely support residents, visitors, and future redevelopment needs.
Promote transparent, community‑driven decision‑making that balances resident priorities with the economic realities of a recovering barrier island.
Smart growth, honest governance, and an open dialog between residents, Town Council and local business leaders. That's what this campaign is about.
John McLean
Fort Myers Beach is in the middle of a transformation that will define this island for generations. I have been at the planning table and I’m running to make sure we rebuild stronger, smarter, and with our community leading the way.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, I saw the best of Fort Myers Beach: neighbors showing up for neighbors, businesses rebuilding from nothing, a town that refuses to give up. I felt a strong need to get involved and contribute to the community and our recovery.
I served on the Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency (LPA) which gave me an insider's understanding of how decisions get made, what the rules actually say, and how residents can, and should, engage in the process.
I was selected to join the current Town Council in February, and I hope to continue to serve the community by bringing a thoughtful, balanced and informed perspective to the next Town Council.
● Council Member, Town of Fort Myers Beach: February 2026 – present
● Member, Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency (LPA): March 2024 – February 2026
● Residential Committee lead - Let’s Go FMB: 2023-2024
● FMB Homeowner: 12 years, Full-time resident: 8 years
I'm running because Fort Myers Beach is at a crossroads. The choices we make in the next few years will define this community for a generation. It will determine whether Fort Myers Beach thrives as a community or stifles investment and smart growth. I understand the land use process, the zoning codes, and the way decisions get made. I want to continue to bring that knowledge to the Town Council and use it in the service of the people who live here.
Preserve the island’s coastal identity and character
Fort Myers Beach is defined by its natural beauty, walkable scale, and relaxed coastal feel. A core part of this vision is ensuring that redevelopment respects those qualities by encouraging designs and projects that fit the island’s existing rhythm. This means supporting thoughtful planning, protecting sensitive shoreline areas, and guiding growth in a way that keeps the island welcoming, livable, and true to the community residents have built over generations
Support sensible, responsible economic growth
A strong local economy is essential for long‑term stability, especially as the island continues to recover and rebuild. The goal is to foster growth that strengthens small businesses, supports tourism, and broadens the tax base without overwhelming infrastructure or diminishing quality of life. By encouraging investment that aligns with community priorities, the town can create a sustainable path forward that benefits both residents and visitors.
Invest in resilient infrastructure
As a barrier island, Fort Myers Beach must be prepared for future storms, rising costs of maintenance, and the demands of modern redevelopment. Prioritizing resilient infrastructure — from utilities and stormwater systems to transportation and public safety — ensures the community can thrive today while being ready for tomorrow. Smart, forward‑looking investments help protect property, support economic activity, and maintain the island’s ability to function safely and efficiently
Promote transparent, community‑driven decision‑making
Residents deserve a clear voice in shaping the island’s future. This vision emphasizes open communication, accessible information, and meaningful public engagement in town decisions. By listening to residents, collaborating with local businesses, and maintaining transparency in policy discussions, the Town Council can build trust and ensure that choices reflect the community’s shared goals. A balanced approach emerges when everyone has a seat at the table
Your support is greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your generous support — your contribution helps strengthen our community and move Fort Myers Beach toward a resilient, balanced future.”
Paid for and authorized by John McLean, Candidate for Fort Myers Beach Town Council. Contributions to John McLean for Fort Myers Beach Town Council are not tax-deductible for federal income tax purposes.
Let’s Connect
I want to hear from you.
Please share your ideas, thoughts and feedback. Or send me a date and time when you are available to chat. I’m happy to meet for coffee or a beverage of your choice or stop by your home to discuss your feedback in person.
I would appreciate your support.
Will you be willing to have a sign on your property or canvas for me? If so, please let me know. Every minute of your time is a valuable contribution to my campaign