Whereas, Lee County is home to 47 miles of Gulf beaches that are vital to the character, economy, environment, and quality of life of our community; and

Whereas, in 2025 Lee County welcomed approximately 3.3 million visitors whose spending of $3.3 billion supported local businesses, employment, and the overall strength of our regional economy; and

Whereas, 24.6 miles of Lee County’s shoreline are designated by the State of Florida as critically eroded, underscoring the importance of ongoing coastal restoration and preservation efforts; and

Whereas, Lee County’s Natural Resources Division has overseen multiple beach nourishment projects including post Hurricane Ian projects to support shoreline recovery; and
Whereas, since 1990 Lee County has invested more than $56.2 million in Tourist Development Tax revenue toward beach nourishment and shoreline protection projects; and

Whereas, the American Shore & Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA), founded in 1926, has for 100 years advanced the science, policy, and collaborative leadership necessary to protect and preserve the nation’s shores and beaches; and

Whereas, ASBPA’s advocacy and technical expertise have supported coastal communities across the United States, including those in the State of Florida.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby congratulate the American Shore & Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA) on the occasion of its Centennial Anniversary in 2026 and recognizes its century of leadership in promoting responsible stewardship of America’s shores and beaches.
Duly executed this 3rd day of March 2026.

Whereas, the Southwest Florida Reading Festival was established in the year 2000 as the largest signature event presented by the Lee County Library System, featuring internationally acclaimed, bestselling authors and illustrators for all ages; and

Whereas, the Southwest Florida Reading Festival is a free community event that welcomes more than 7,500 residents and visitors to the downtown Fort Myers River district area, contributing to commerce and driving economic vitality for Lee County businesses; and

Whereas, the Southwest Florida Reading Festival connects readers and fans with more than 50 authors during the festival, sparking joy and curiosity through meaningful human connection and lasting memories; and

Whereas, the Southwest Florida Reading Festival, through the generosity of donors and sponsors, provides every child and teen with a free book of their choice to promote a life-long love of reading and improve literacy rates and success outcomes for youth in the community; and

Whereas, the Southwest Florida Reading Festival partners with the School District of Lee County to present the K-12 Aspiring Author Youth Writing Awards at the event, inspiring a new generation of young writers; and

Whereas, the Fort Myers Regional Library where the Southwest Florida Reading Festival is held annually, is a vibrant community hub of engagement, education, and empowerment, offering access to enriching programs, services, and resources including more than 1.5 million circulating items; and

Whereas, the Southwest Florida Reading Festival has been celebrating the power of reading and improving access to information, literacy, and opportunity for 27 years.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim March 7, 2026 as Southwest Florida Reading Festival Day

Whereas, fairs and expos are a cherished American tradition that bring neighbors together and strengthen the social fabric of communities; and

Whereas, Lee County has a long-standing history of excellence in agriculture, education, and industry; and

Whereas, the Southwest Florida Ag Expo features a wide variety of engaging events, including Creative Living arts and crafts exhibits, as well as livestock shows and sales that highlight the talents of local youth and agricultural leaders; and

Whereas, the Ag Expo also offers an expanded carnival experience with spectacular Reithoffer Shows’ midway rides and attractions, free concerts, and special promotional days designed to engage families and the community; and

Whereas, the continued growth and success of the event, expected to draw thousands of attendees daily, is a testament to the high quality of programming and the commitment of the staff, volunteers, community, and the youth participants representing 4-H, FFA and PeeWees of Southwest Florida; and

Whereas, the 2026 Southwest Florida Ag Expo, themed “Roots ‘n’ Rides: A Celebration of Tradition,” will be held over 11 consecutive days celebrating community, youth competitions, entertainment, and fun for all ages.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby declare February 26 through March 8, 2026 as
Ag Expo Days
in Lee County, and encourages residents and visitors alike to honor the County’s agricultural heritage by attending the Southwest Florida Ag Expo and enjoying the rides, food, entertainment, exhibits, and community celebration.
Duly executed this 17th day of February 2026.

Whereas, March is Florida Biking Month and has showcased the many benefits of bicycling; and

Whereas, Florida is ideally suited for residents and visitors to cycle, with an average of 237 sunny days per year along with many scenic locations available to riders; and

Whereas, Lee County has invested substantial funds in developing bicycle facilities and currently maintains approximately 792 miles of on- and off-road paths, lanes, and trails; and

Whereas, Bicyclists from around the world visit Lee County to enjoy the extensive cycling facilities thus having a positive impact on Lee County's economy and tourism industry; and
Whereas, National health organizations and physical fitness activists promote increased bicycling as a way to improve health, quality of life, and boost community spirit; and

Whereas, An increase in the use of bicycles in place of motor vehicles has a positive environmental impact by decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing pollution in Lee County; and

Whereas, Lee County encourages bicycle safety education for bicyclists and motorists including the rules of the road and benefits of wearing helmets to ensure the safety and well-being of all; and

Whereas, The Board of County Commissioners adopted a Complete Streets Resolution on November 10, 2009, to integrate bicycling, walking, and public transit with the county's transportation program.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby declare March 2026 to be
Bike Month
in Lee County and encourages residents and visitors to ride their bicycles throughout the month.
Duly executed this 17th day of February 2026.

Whereas, Lee County welcomes the Minnesota Twins and their fans back for their 36th Spring Training season in Lee County at the Lee Health Sports Complex; and Lee County welcomes the Boston Red Sox and their fans back for their 34th Spring Training season in Lee County, and the 15th at JetBlue Park; and

Whereas, Lee County is incredibly proud of the three-decade-long partnership with both teams; and with winter raging on in both Minneapolis and Boston, we welcome fans to enjoy America's favorite pastime in the sunshine and explore our ever-growing neighborhoods and communities; and

Whereas, The Red Sox and Twins are exemplary community partners, aligning themselves with many local non-profits and youth organizations, as well as showing immense support for hurricane relief efforts including the use of spring training facilities for various volunteer staging, relief efforts and fundraising activities; and

Whereas, the 2026 Spring Training season will once again highlight Lee County as a special part of Twins Territory and Red Sox Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida - along with Lee County's Parks & Recreation Department, Visitor & Convention Bureau, Sports Development Office and Facilities Construction & Management Department - do hereby proclaim its full support for both the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins organizations, and we send our most sincere best wishes for success in the upcoming 2026 baseball season.
Duly executed this 17th day of February 2026.