Following guidelines set by state and federal officials, the Town Council at its regular meeting yesterday maintained the previously set date of May 15, 2020, for re-opening of lodging establishments in the Town. However, this date is subject to Town Council’s reconsideration at any time.
Hotels, short term rentals, and time shares may start accepting reservations on May 15, 2020, effective for occupancy dates as soon as May 15. This is pursuant to the Declaration of Emergency Regulations No. 6 (amending Declaration of Emergency Regulations No. 4 adopted by Council on April 27, 2020). One condition of opening to reservations and occupancy on May 15 is that deposits on reservations must be fully refundable and no change fees may be charged for reservation cancellations or modifications.
Local circumstances surrounding COVID-19 and information that continues to emerge from federal and state officials, other official health organizations, and neighboring communities, could cause Town Council to reconsider this decision at any time.
With beaches and parking fully opening over this past weekend, as well as partial re-opening of parks and cultural facilities, Town Council continues to urge strict social distancing and personal sanitizing measures. The public is strongly encouraged to follow all CDC guidelines. Face coverings are recommended when social distancing standards cannot otherwise be met.
Town Council’s declarations and decisions in the continually emerging circumstances surrounding COVID-19 can be found on the Town’s website at https://www.fortmyersbeachfl.gov/, “Corona Virus Updates – Town” under the “Quick Links” column.
