CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (Dec. 12, 2025) — The Charlotte County and Lee County commissions will meet January 5 to begin a formal conflict resolution process over a controversial Lee County parking ordinance affecting Boca Grande.
The conflict assessment meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. at the Punta Gorda Charlotte Library, 401 Shreve St., in Punta Gorda. The public may attend, but no public input will be taken.
The meeting follows months of disagreement after Lee County adopted new parking regulations for Boca Grande earlier this year. The ordinance significantly reduced public parking along residential streets on the island and established a permit system for residents, employees, house guests and lodging visitors. Other parking areas were limited to short-term use during daytime hours.
Lee County officials have said the changes were intended to address congestion, blocked driveways and safety concerns in residential neighborhoods. Charlotte County leaders, however, argue the ordinance restricts beach access and could harm businesses and visitors who regularly travel to Boca Grande from neighboring communities.
In response, the Charlotte County Commission voted unanimously to invoke Florida’s intergovernmental conflict resolution process, a step required before either county can pursue litigation. The January 5 meeting is intended to identify the core issues in dispute and determine whether mediation could lead to a resolution.
Charlotte County officials have said they are seeking revisions to the ordinance that would preserve reasonable public access while addressing neighborhood concerns. Commissioners have also indicated that legal action remains an option if the conflict resolution process does not result in changes.
The Boca Grande parking issue has drawn widespread attention, prompting debate among residents, business owners and local officials about access to public beaches and the balance between tourism and neighborhood impacts.
Additional meetings may be scheduled following the initial assessment, depending on the outcome of the January 5 session.
