Cape Coral property taxes, big projects and council spending votes. Official sources and numbers only.

Updated November 5, 2026. Updated monthly; next update early December 2026.

Section 1 · Taxes

What a Cape Coral home is taxed

Property tax rates that apply to a home inside the City of Cape Coral (Lee County Property Appraiser taxing district 057) for the 2026 tax year, which pays for the city's fiscal year 2027 (October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027).

5.1471City of Cape Coral operating rate, in millsLee Property Appraiser, p. 34 · as of October 9, 2026
15.3250All rates on a city home added together (was 15.3806 in 2025)Lee Property Appraiser, p. 34 · as of October 9, 2026 2025 column, p. 34 · as of August 11, 2026
$1.439 billionFiscal year 2027 adopted budget, all funds ($1.439 billion)City of Cape Coral · as of October 6, 2026

A mill is $1 of tax for every $1,000 of taxable value. Taxable value is the value left after exemptions; it is printed on your TRIM notice and tax bill. School taxes are figured on a different taxable value than the other taxes, because part of the homestead exemption does not apply to school taxes.

Figure your own property tax

Type the taxable values from your TRIM notice or tax bill. The page multiplies them by the 2026 rates below. Nothing you type leaves this page.

For a homestead, the school taxable value is usually higher, because part of the homestead exemption does not apply to school taxes.

For every $100,000 of taxable value, the 2026 rates add up to $1,532.50: $1,005.40 non-school and $527.10 school.

Plus the flat assessments listed below, which do not depend on value. Rates: Lee Property Appraiser, p. 34 · as of October 9, 2026

Every rate on the bill, 2026 tax year

"2026 rate" is the Property Appraiser's ACTUAL column (book dated October 9, 2026). "Rolled-back" is the rate that would raise about the same tax dollars as last year from existing property. "2025 rate" is the PREVIOUS column of the preliminary book dated August 11, 2026. The Property Appraiser lists the rolled-back rate for the city's operating levy as 5.2174; the city's own July 2026 documents call 5.1988 the rolled-back rate. Both are shown as published.

Millage rates for Lee County Property Appraiser district 057, City of Cape Coral
Taxing authority2026 rateRolled-back2025 rateChange
Lee County General RevenueCounty3.76233.72923.7623No change
Public Schools, by local school boardSchool, school2.24802.27252.2480No change
Public Schools, by state lawSchool, school3.02303.10443.0710-0.0480
City of Cape Coral (operating)City5.14715.21745.1471No change
City of Cape Coral parks voted debt serviceCity0.15540.15540.1608-0.0054
Lee County All Hazards Protection DistrictCounty0.06930.06850.0693No change
Lee County Library DistrictCounty0.42180.41890.4218No change
South Florida Water Management District, district-wideWater management0.09480.09060.0948No change
South Florida Water Management District, Everglades Construction ProjectWater management0.03270.03120.0327No change
South Florida Water Management District, Okeechobee BasinWater management0.10260.09770.1026No change
Lee County Hyacinth Control DistrictSpecial district0.01900.01900.0192-0.0002
Lee County Mosquito Control DistrictSpecial district0.20960.20960.2116-0.0020
West Coast Inland Navigation DistrictSpecial district0.03940.03890.0394No change
Total15.325015.3806-0.0556

Sources: 2026 and rolled-back rates, Lee Property Appraiser, p. 34 · as of October 9, 2026 2025 rates, Lee Property Appraiser preliminary book, p. 34 · as of August 11, 2026

Flat assessments on the same bill

These are flat assessments on the same tax bill. They are not based on millage, so exemptions do not reduce them.

Fire Service Assessment, average single-family home

$515.43

Fiscal year 2026: $540.17. Flat part $341.63 (was $349.32) plus $3.16 per Equivalent Benefit Unit of structure value (was $3.47). Recovers 81% of eligible fire protection costs. Resolution 223-26.

City of Cape Coral, Resolution highlights · as of August 27, 2026

Solid waste, per residential household

$384.25

Fiscal year 2026: $384.25. Unchanged for individual residential households. Commercial and larger multifamily rates rose 2.75%. Resolutions 220-26 and 222-26.

City of Cape Coral, Resolution highlights · as of August 27, 2026

Stormwater, per equivalent residential unit

$163.00

Fiscal year 2026: $156.00. A $7 increase. Resolution 221-26.

City of Cape Coral, Resolution highlights · as of August 27, 2026

City operating rate by fiscal year

City operating rate only. Fiscal year 2027 runs October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027 and is billed on the 2026 tax bill.

02466.49206.38216.25225.39235.37245.22255.15265.1527

Bars are labeled by fiscal year (20 = 2020).

City operating millage by fiscal year
Fiscal yearMillsSource
20206.4903Mayor letter · as of June 1, 2026
20216.3750Mayor letter · as of June 1, 2026
20226.2500Mayor letter · as of June 1, 2026
20235.3940Mayor letter · as of June 1, 2026
20245.3694Mayor letter · as of June 1, 2026
20255.2188Mayor letter · as of June 1, 2026
20265.1471Mayor letter · as of June 1, 2026
20275.1471City budget release · as of October 6, 2026

How the city says property tax is used

How the city says its property tax is used, at the 5.1471 rate (fiscal year 2026). Mayor letter, June 1, 2026 · as of June 1, 2026

Police$90,436,443
Fire$17,614,546
Parks and Recreation$14,966,934
Transportation$12,747,827
Administration$12,470,163
Code Enforcement$5,439,436
Community Redevelopment Agency (tax increment)$4,307,831

Total property tax in the city's table: $157,983,180.

How this year's rate was set

  1. July 22, 2026City Council set the proposed (maximum) operating rate at 5.1988 mills and a proposed parks voted debt service rate of 0.1554 mills. The final rate could not be set higher than 5.1988. City of Cape Coral · as of July 23, 2026
  2. September 24, 2026At its final budget hearing, City Council adopted a $1.439 billion budget and kept the operating rate at 5.1471 mills, the same as the year before. The Fire Service Assessment stays at 81% cost recovery. City of Cape Coral · as of October 6, 2026

Votes needed to go above the rolled-back rate

Florida law sets a city's maximum rate at its rolled-back rate. A rate of not more than 110% of the rolled-back rate may be adopted by a two-thirds vote of the full council. A rate above 110% needs a unanimous vote of the full council or approval by voters in a referendum. Section 200.065 was amended in 2026 (chapter 2026-239). Florida Statutes 200.065 · as of November 5, 2026

The city's tax base

  • Taxable value of the city: about $32.472 billion. Homestead properties: $12.611 billion, which the city describes as 38.9% of total ad valorem revenues. Mayor letter · as of June 1, 2026
  • Property taxes provide 59.7% of the city's General Fund revenues. Mayor letter · as of June 1, 2026
  • The city estimated that an additional $200,000 homestead exemption would lower homestead taxable value by $9.060 billion and cost about $46.6 million a year at the 5.1471 rate. This is the city's own estimate, made before the November 2026 vote. Mayor letter · as of June 1, 2026

Amendment 3: Increased Homestead Exemption; Lower Cap On Increases In Non-Homestead Property Assessments

Passed (unofficial election night results): 61.98% yes, 38.02% no; 60% was needed. Florida Election Watch · as of November 3, 2026

  • The homestead exemption from non-school property taxes rises from $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027, then to $250,000 in 2028.
  • School taxes and flat (non-ad valorem) assessments are not affected.
  • The yearly cap on assessment growth for non-homestead property drops from 10% to 5%.
  • Takes effect January 1, 2027.

Hillsborough County Tax Collector, Amendment 3 summary · as of November 5, 2026

Section 2 · Projects

The city's biggest projects, budget against actual

The 10 largest city capital projects, ranked by the largest current official dollar figure for each one: the city's own cost estimate where it published one, otherwise the money approved so far. Figures come from the city's adopted budget books, its audited financial report and its October 2026 quarterly project reports.

Data as of November 5, 2026. A project shows over or under only when both numbers come from official city records for the same scope.

  1. North Water Reclamation Facility

    Utilities · In design. Design and construction-manager contracts are being negotiated.

    Not comparable yet

    A new wastewater treatment plant in north Cape Coral (phase 1, 8 million gallons a day). Commissioning is targeted for December 2030.

    City cost estimate
    $400,000,000

    Utilities quarterly report, October 15, 2026

    Utilities quarterly report, p. slide 2 · as of October 15, 2026
    FY2027 proposed budget amount
    $400,000,000
    FY2027 proposed budget, p. 266 · as of July 23, 2026
    Money approved so far (design)
    $7,310,782

    Through September 30, 2025, from the city's table of ongoing capital projects

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 360 · as of September 25, 2025
    Spent
    $322,733

    As of September 30, 2025

    2025 audited financial report, p. 99 (printed page 80) · as of September 30, 2025

    Budget against actual: Too early to compare: no construction contract has been signed.

  2. North 3 Utilities Extension Program

    Utilities · On hold. Design is 100% complete; on October 14, 2026 a Committee of the Whole put the project on hold to rebid it.

    Not comparable yet

    Water, sewer and irrigation lines, plus stormwater, road and fiber work, for the North 3 neighborhood area.

    Money approved so far
    $379,661,922

    $59,889,885 approved through September 30, 2025, plus $319,772,037 in the FY2026 adopted budget

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 360, 425 · as of September 25, 2025
    FY2027 proposed addition
    $37,078,189

    Water, sewer and irrigation

    FY2027 proposed budget, p. 266 · as of July 23, 2026
    Spent
    $8,836,123

    From the same table; the table does not print an as-of date

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 360 · as of September 25, 2025
    Design contract
    $17,320,301
    Public Works quarterly report, p. slide 32 · as of September 30, 2026

    Budget against actual: No final budget to compare yet: the project is being rebid.

  3. North 1 West Utilities Extension Program

    Utilities · Complete. Contract closeout is in process.

    City reports on budget

    Six construction contracts that brought water, sewer and irrigation lines to the North 1 West area, plus Master Pump Station 720.

    Money approved so far
    $271,371,090

    Through September 30, 2025, from the city's table of ongoing capital projects

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 360 · as of September 25, 2025
    Spent
    $216,752,892

    As of September 30, 2025, with $20,804,859 still committed under contracts

    2025 audited financial report, p. 99 (printed page 80) · as of September 30, 2025
    Six construction contracts, combined
    $201,671,500

    The city marks each of the six contracts 'On Budget'

    Public Works quarterly report, p. slides 20-27 · as of September 30, 2026
    Amount approved a year earlier
    $93,019,203

    FY2025 table of ongoing capital projects

    FY2025 adopted budget, p. 345 · as of October 2, 2024

    Budget against actual: The city reports each of the six construction contracts as on budget. No official final total cost has been published yet.

  4. North 1 East Utilities Extension Program

    Utilities · Under construction. Contracts awarded November 19, 2025; completion expected at the end of 2027.

    Not comparable yet

    Water, sewer and irrigation lines for the North 1 East area, including a booster pump station, storage tanks and the NE 24th Avenue contract.

    Money approved so far
    $226,169,231

    Through September 30, 2025, from the city's table of ongoing capital projects

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 360 · as of September 25, 2025
    Contracts awarded to date
    $112,917,214.50
    Public Works quarterly report, p. slides 28-31 · as of September 30, 2026
    Spent
    $7,209,653

    As of September 30, 2025

    2025 audited financial report, p. 99 (printed page 80) · as of September 30, 2025
    Amount approved a year earlier
    $165,500,535

    FY2025 table of ongoing capital projects

    FY2025 adopted budget, p. 345 · as of October 2, 2024

    Budget against actual: Under construction. The city's own estimate is a rounded $250 million, so no exact comparison is possible yet.

  5. Parks and Recreation bond program

    Parks and Recreation · Under construction. Festival Park and Yellow Fever Creek are 99% complete; Lake Meade is in design.

    Over by $540,231

    The voter-approved 2018 parks bond program: Festival Park, Yellow Fever Creek, Crystal Lake, Tropicana and other parks.

    Money approved so far
    $89,786,164

    Through September 30, 2025, from the city's table of ongoing capital projects

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 358 · as of September 25, 2025
    Spent
    $71,949,908

    From the same table; the table does not print an as-of date

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 358 · as of September 25, 2025
    Festival Park budget
    $17,829,987
    Public Works quarterly report, p. slide 51 · as of September 30, 2026
    Festival Park contract, as amended November 19, 2025
    $18,370,218
    Public Works quarterly report, p. slide 51 · as of September 30, 2026

    Budget against actual: Festival Park: the amended contract is $540,231 more than that park's budget. The program as a whole has spent less than the money approved so far.

  6. Southwest Water Reclamation Facility improvements

    Utilities · Design complete; bid documents are being prepared. Construction completion is scheduled for September 2029.

    Not comparable yet

    Headworks expansion and filter work at the Southwest wastewater plant, plus a raw water main extension.

    Money approved so far
    $59,924,473

    $6,924,473 through September 30, 2025, plus $53,000,000 in the FY2026 adopted budget

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 427 · as of September 25, 2025
    City cost estimate
    $51,600,000

    October 15, 2026; may not cover the same scope as the approved amount

    Utilities quarterly report, p. slide 11 · as of October 15, 2026
    Spent
    $2,368,655

    As of September 30, 2025

    2025 audited financial report, p. 99 (printed page 80) · as of September 30, 2025

    Budget against actual: Not yet bid, so there is no contract to compare against.

  7. North reverse-osmosis water plant expansion and storage tank

    Utilities · In design; design completion March 2027. The city reports the project 'on budget'.

    City reports on budget

    Phase II expansion of the north drinking water plant (6 million gallons a day) and a new 12-million-gallon storage tank.

    City cost estimate
    $55,400,000
    Utilities quarterly report, p. slide 3 · as of October 15, 2026
    Money approved through FY2026
    $46,947,207

    $5,525,527 through September 30, 2025, plus $41,421,680 in the FY2026 adopted budget

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 428 · as of September 25, 2025
    FY2027 proposed addition
    $8,500,000
    FY2027 proposed budget, p. 266 · as of July 23, 2026
    Spent
    $382,219

    As of September 30, 2025

    2025 audited financial report, p. 99 (printed page 80) · as of September 30, 2025

    Budget against actual: The city reports the project on budget (Utilities quarterly report, October 15, 2026).

  8. US 41 utility pipeline (ADM-56)

    Utilities · Under construction (84% complete in the FY2026 budget table).

    Not comparable yet

    A utility pipeline project along the US 41 corridor, paid for by water and sewer fees and federal grants.

    Money approved so far
    $51,221,990

    Through September 30, 2025, from the city's table of ongoing capital projects

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 360 · as of September 25, 2025
    Spent
    $42,892,888

    As of September 30, 2025, with $1,605,913 still committed under contracts

    2025 audited financial report, p. 99 (printed page 80) · as of September 30, 2025
    Amount approved a year earlier
    $11,221,990

    FY2025 table of ongoing capital projects

    FY2025 adopted budget, p. 345 · as of October 2, 2024

    Budget against actual: Still under construction, so there is no final cost yet.

  9. Bimini Basin East

    Government Services · Demolition completed June 2025. Development agreements went to a final public hearing on October 21, 2026.

    Over by $3,133,131

    City purchase, demolition and redevelopment of about 22 acres next to Bimini Basin in south Cape Coral.

    Money approved so far
    $42,059,143

    Through September 30, 2025, from the city's table of ongoing capital projects

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 358 · as of September 25, 2025
    Spent
    $45,192,274

    From the same table; the table does not print an as-of date

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 358 · as of September 25, 2025

    Budget against actual: Spending in the city's table is $3,133,131 more than the money approved in the same table. The city has not published a breakdown of the spending or a total redevelopment budget.

  10. Community Resilience Hub

    Public Works · In design. Design began January 5, 2026.

    Not comparable yet

    A planned community center at Festival Park that will double as a disaster shelter, paid for mostly by a Hurricane Ian recovery grant.

    Money approved so far
    $35,441,890

    Through September 30, 2025, from the city's table of ongoing capital projects

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 359 · as of September 25, 2025
    Federal recovery grant (CDBG-DR)
    $29,904,200.18
    City grant page · as of November 5, 2026
    Spent
    $20,195

    From the same table; the table does not print an as-of date

    FY2026 adopted budget, p. 359 · as of September 25, 2025

    Budget against actual: Still in design, so there is no construction contract to compare against.

Section 3 · Votes

How each council member voted on spending

Each recorded City Council vote on a budget, tax rate, fee or spending item, and how each member voted. Items are labeled by what they do to spending, not by whether that is good or bad.

Data as of November 5, 2026. Labels: More More spending or a higher rate. Less Less spending or a lower rate. Other Procedural or no net change.

Mayor (at large)

John Gunter

Seat was on the November 3, 2026 ballot.

On items that add spending or raise a rate: 31 yes, 0 no.
On items that cut spending or lower a rate: 3 yes, 0 no.
Yes or no votes cast on this page: 38.

District 1

Bill Steinke

Seat was on the November 3, 2026 ballot.

On items that add spending or raise a rate: 34 yes, 0 no.
On items that cut spending or lower a rate: 2 yes, 1 no.
Yes or no votes cast on this page: 41.

District 2

Laurie Lehmann

On items that add spending or raise a rate: 34 yes, 1 no.
On items that cut spending or lower a rate: 3 yes, 0 no.
Yes or no votes cast on this page: 42.

District 3

Derrick Donnell

On items that add spending or raise a rate: 32 yes, 4 no.
On items that cut spending or lower a rate: 1 yes, 2 no.
Yes or no votes cast on this page: 43.

District 4

Jennifer Nelson-Lastra

Seat was on the November 3, 2026 ballot.

On items that add spending or raise a rate: 28 yes, 7 no.
On items that cut spending or lower a rate: 3 yes, 0 no.
Yes or no votes cast on this page: 42.

District 5

Joe Kilraine

On items that add spending or raise a rate: 35 yes, 1 no.
On items that cut spending or lower a rate: 3 yes, 0 no.
Yes or no votes cast on this page: 43.

District 6

Keith Long

Seat was on the November 3, 2026 ballot.

On items that add spending or raise a rate: 26 yes, 9 no.
On items that cut spending or lower a rate: 2 yes, 1 no.
Yes or no votes cast on this page: 42.

District 7

Rachel Kaduk

On items that add spending or raise a rate: 24 yes, 12 no.
On items that cut spending or lower a rate: 2 yes, 1 no.
Yes or no votes cast on this page: 43.

MoreSeptember 28, 2026 · City Council Special MeetingPassed 5-3

Initial assessment resolution: North 3 potable water improvement area (Utilities Extension Program); estimate costs and set assessment hearing Resolution 243-26

costs not totaled in minutes (staff explained a $5,765 figure for 243-26)

It starts new special assessments to fund utility construction in the North 3 area.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraNo
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongNo
  • Rachel KadukNo

Gunter joined the meeting remotely at 5:15 p.m.; Steinke chaired as Mayor Pro Tem. Before this vote, motions to pause the project until after the Nov 3 election failed.

Adopted minutes · as of September 28, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 28, 2026

MoreSeptember 28, 2026 · City Council Special MeetingPassed 5-3

Initial assessment resolution: North 3 wastewater improvement area (Utilities Extension Program); estimate costs and set assessment hearing Resolution 244-26

costs not totaled in minutes (staff explained a $5,765 figure for 243-26)

It starts new special assessments to fund utility construction in the North 3 area.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraNo
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongNo
  • Rachel KadukNo

Gunter joined the meeting remotely at 5:15 p.m.; Steinke chaired as Mayor Pro Tem. Before this vote, motions to pause the project until after the Nov 3 election failed.

Adopted minutes · as of September 28, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 28, 2026

MoreSeptember 28, 2026 · City Council Special MeetingPassed 5-3

Initial assessment resolution: North 3 irrigation water improvement area (Utilities Extension Program); estimate costs and set assessment hearing Resolution 245-26

costs not totaled in minutes (staff explained a $5,765 figure for 243-26)

It starts new special assessments to fund utility construction in the North 3 area.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraNo
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongNo
  • Rachel KadukNo

Gunter joined the meeting remotely at 5:15 p.m.; Steinke chaired as Mayor Pro Tem. Before this vote, motions to pause the project until after the Nov 3 election failed.

Adopted minutes · as of September 28, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 28, 2026

LessSeptember 24, 2026 · City Council Special Meeting (final FY2027 budget public hearing)Passed 7-1

Adopt FY2027 operating millage of 5.1471 mills and parks GO bond debt millage of 0.1554 mills Ordinance 47-26

5.1471 mills operating rate; 0.1554 mills parks voted debt

The minutes state the adopted 5.1471 mills is 1.35% below the rolled-back rate of 5.2174 mills; it equals the FY2026 rate.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellNo
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Donnell was not present at roll call; the minutes record he arrived at 5:11 p.m., before this vote.

Adopted minutes · as of September 24, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 24, 2026

MoreSeptember 24, 2026 · City Council Special Meeting (final FY2027 budget public hearing)Passed 7-1

Adopt FY2027 operating and capital budget (amended on the floor to $1,438,860,205) Ordinance 48-26

$1,438,860,205 adopted total operating and capital budget

The vote adopts the FY2027 spending plan; the motion was amended before the vote from $1,438,930,534 to $1,438,860,205 to apply personnel savings instead of the reserve draw.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellNo
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Minutes record Long saying he would not support the motion, but the roll call lists him voting aye; the roll call is recorded here.

Adopted minutes · as of September 24, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 24, 2026

MoreSeptember 23, 2026 · City Council Special Meeting (charter officer evaluations)Passed 8-0

City Auditor: 3.25% pay increase effective first full pay period of FY2027 Motion (no resolution number)

3.25% increase

It raises the City Auditor's pay by 3.25%.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

An earlier motion for a 4.49% increase failed 3-5. Its roll call is internally inconsistent in the minutes, so it is listed as a gap.

Adopted minutes · as of September 23, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 23, 2026

MoreSeptember 23, 2026 · City Council Special Meeting (charter officer evaluations)Passed 6-2

City Attorney: 3.25% deferred compensation ($10,783.79) Motion (no resolution number)

$10,783.79 deferred compensation

It adds $10,783.79 in deferred compensation for the City Attorney.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellNo
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineNo
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of September 23, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 23, 2026

MoreSeptember 23, 2026 · City Council Special Meeting (charter officer evaluations)Passed 8-0

City Manager: one-time payment of $11,380.88 (3.25% of $350,180.80) Motion (no resolution number)

$11,380.88 one-time payment

It approves an $11,380.88 one-time payment to the City Manager.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of September 23, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 23, 2026

MoreSeptember 23, 2026 · City Council Special Meeting (charter officer evaluations)Passed 8-0

4.49% salary increase for three named staff (Connie Griglin, Lisa Williams, James Kowaleski) Motion (no resolution number)

4.49% increase

It raises three salaries by 4.49%.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of September 23, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 23, 2026

MoreSeptember 16, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 7-0

Authorize up to $10.1 million Stormwater Utility Revenue Bond Ordinance 50-26

$10,100,000 maximum principal

It authorizes new borrowing of up to $10,100,000.

  • John GunterAbsent
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Gunter was excused. Lastra took part remotely.

Adopted minutes · as of September 16, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 16, 2026

MoreSeptember 16, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 6-0

Supplemental resolution (to Resolution 297-23) for up to $10.1 million Stormwater Utility Revenue Bonds, Series 2026 Resolution 210-26

$10,100,000 maximum principal

It authorizes issuing up to $10,100,000 in bonds.

  • John GunterAbsent
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannAbsent
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Gunter was excused. Lehmann left the dais at 6:25 p.m. and returned at 6:28 p.m., after this vote.

Adopted minutes · as of September 16, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 16, 2026

MoreSeptember 16, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 7-0

Raise the commercial paper program cap from $150 million to $500 million Ordinance 52-26

$500,000,000 maximum outstanding (up from $150,000,000)

It raises the short-term borrowing limit by $350,000,000.

  • John GunterAbsent
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of September 16, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 16, 2026

MoreSeptember 16, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 6-0

Amend Resolution 231-24 to raise the commercial paper cap from $150 million to $500 million Resolution 230-26

$500,000,000 maximum outstanding (up from $150,000,000)

It raises the short-term borrowing limit by $350,000,000.

  • John GunterAbsent
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraAbsent
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Lastra left the meeting at 6:55 p.m., before this vote, and returned at 6:57 p.m.

Adopted minutes · as of September 16, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 16, 2026

LessSeptember 10, 2026 · City Council Special Meeting (first FY2027 budget public hearing)Passed 6-2

Set FY2027 tentative operating millage at 5.1471 mills and tentative parks GO bond millage at 0.1554 mills (Ordinance 47-26, first public hearing) Ordinance 47-26 (motion at first hearing)

5.1471 mills operating rate; 0.1554 mills parks voted debt

The minutes state 5.1471 mills is 1.35% below the rolled-back rate of 5.2174 mills and below the 5.1988 cap; it equals the FY2026 rate.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeNo
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellNo
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of September 10, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 10, 2026

MoreSeptember 10, 2026 · City Council Special Meeting (first FY2027 budget public hearing)Passed 7-1

Use the Budget Stabilization Reserve to cover $1,642,783 and remove the staff-identified cuts (Slide 9) for the tentative budget Motion (no resolution number)

$1,642,783 from the Budget Stabilization Reserve

The motion keeps $1,642,783 of spending that staff had listed as cuts by drawing on the Budget Stabilization Reserve instead.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellNo
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of September 10, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 10, 2026

MoreSeptember 10, 2026 · City Council Special Meeting (first FY2027 budget public hearing)Passed 5-3

Set FY2027 tentative operating and capital budget (Ordinance 48-26, first public hearing) Ordinance 48-26 (motion at first hearing)

$1,442,386,480 tentative total operating and capital budget

The vote approves a tentative spending total of $1,442,386,480; Kaduk spoke for a lower $1,440,743,697.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellNo
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraNo
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukNo

Adopted minutes · as of September 10, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 10, 2026

MoreSeptember 2, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

Award contract to Coastal Concrete Products for the North RO facility perimeter wall Resolution 227-26

$2,310,445.50 incl. 10% contingency

It approves new capital spending of $2,310,445.50.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of September 2, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of September 2, 2026

MoreAugust 26, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 6-2

Final FY2027 solid waste collection rates for commercial and large multi-family properties Resolution 220-26

rates not stated in minutes

Minutes say the fees have an annual CPI adjustment built into the rate.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongNo
  • Rachel KadukNo

Pulled from the consent agenda for discussion, then voted separately. The city's meeting highlights say the rate for individual residential households stayed at $384.25, and commercial and larger multifamily rates rose 2.75%.

Adopted minutes · as of August 26, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of August 26, 2026 City meeting highlights · as of August 27, 2026

MoreAugust 26, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 6-2

Final FY2027 stormwater user fee and fee roll Resolution 221-26

fee amount not stated in these minutes (July 22 minutes: $163 vs $156)

This sets the fee that the July 22 initial resolution (174-26) approved above the FY2026 maximum.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongNo
  • Rachel KadukNo

Adopted minutes · as of August 26, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of August 26, 2026

MoreAugust 26, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 6-2

Final FY2027 solid waste service assessment rates and roll Resolution 222-26

minutes cite a 2.57% increase in the fee list

Minutes record discussion of an "increase of 2.57%" in the list of fees.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongNo
  • Rachel KadukNo

The city's meeting highlights say the rate for individual residential households stayed at $384.25, and commercial and larger multifamily rates rose 2.75%.

Adopted minutes · as of August 26, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of August 26, 2026 City meeting highlights · as of August 27, 2026

LessAugust 26, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 6-2

Final FY2027 fire protection assessment rates and roll Resolution 223-26

rates not stated in minutes

The city reports the assessment for the average single-family home went down from $540.17 to $515.43.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongNo
  • Rachel KadukNo

Adopted minutes · as of August 26, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of August 26, 2026 City meeting highlights · as of August 27, 2026

OtherAugust 26, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 7-1

Approve FY2027 assessment rolls for various non-ad valorem assessments and certify them to the Tax Collector Resolution 226-26

This certifies and collects assessment rolls; the minutes set no new rate in this item.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongNo
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of August 26, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of August 26, 2026

MoreAugust 19, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 6-1

FY2026 budget amendment #3: raise total revenues and expenditures Ordinance 46-26

$93,396,398 added to FY2026 revenues and expenditures

The title raises FY2026 revenues and spending by $93,396,398.

  • John GunterAbsent
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukNo

Mayor Gunter was excused; Steinke chaired as Mayor Pro Tem.

Adopted minutes · as of August 19, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of August 19, 2026

OtherJuly 22, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 7-1

Set FY2027 maximum (proposed) operating millage at 5.1988 mills and parks GO bond debt millage at 0.1554 mills for TRIM notice Resolution 194-26

5.1988 mills operating rate; 0.1554 mills parks voted debt

Sets the maximum rate for the September hearings, not the final rate. The 5.1988 cap was above the FY2026 rate of 5.1471 mills; the minutes list it as the rolled-back rate at that time.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellNo
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

The minutes record Donnell saying he would not support less than 5.4471 mills, so his no vote was for a higher cap.

Adopted minutes · as of July 22, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of July 22, 2026

MoreJuly 22, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

Initial resolution: FY2027 stormwater fee exceeding the FY2026 maximum; set public hearing Resolution 174-26

Stormwater fee of $163 a year discussed (FY2026: $156)

The title approves a stormwater fee above the FY2026 maximum; the minutes mention $156 for FY2026 and a $163 rate.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of July 22, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of July 22, 2026

OtherJuly 22, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

Initial resolution: FY2027 solid waste assessment cost and rates; set public hearing Resolution 175-26

rates not stated in minutes

Initial resolution that sets the public hearing. The final rates were set on August 26 (Resolution 220-26 and 222-26).

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of July 22, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of July 22, 2026

OtherJuly 22, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

Initial resolution: FY2027 fire protection assessment cost and rates; set public hearing Resolution 176-26

rates not stated in minutes (81% cost recovery slide)

Initial resolution that sets the public hearing. The final rates were set on August 26 (Resolution 223-26).

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of July 22, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of July 22, 2026

MoreJuly 15, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

Award insurance services contract to Florida Municipal Insurance Trust (FMIT) Resolution 167-26

$2,165,359 estimated annual amount, initial year

It approves a new contract of about $2,165,359 a year.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Approved as part of a consent-agenda motion; the roll-call vote shown is for that motion.

Adopted minutes · as of July 15, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of July 15, 2026

MoreJune 3, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 5-3

Allocate unassigned General Fund balance for the North Cape Government Complex fleet facility (General Fund share) and Yacht Club Phase 2 Resolution 150-26

$40,499,428 from unassigned General Fund balance

It authorizes spending $40,499,428 of fund balance on two capital projects.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraNo
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongNo
  • Rachel KadukNo

Pulled from the consent agenda and voted separately.

Adopted minutes · as of June 3, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of June 3, 2026

MoreJune 3, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 5-3

Authorize up to $65 million bonds (non-ad valorem covenant) for various capital improvements Ordinance 27-26

$65,000,000 maximum principal

It authorizes new borrowing of up to $65,000,000.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraNo
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongNo
  • Rachel KadukNo

The minutes show two 5-3 polls in a row. The first, on calling the question, had Donnell voting no and Long yes. The second, labelled "for Ordinance 27-26", is recorded here. Continued from May 20.

Adopted minutes · as of June 3, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of June 3, 2026

MoreJune 3, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 5-3

Bond resolution for up to $65 million Special Obligation Revenue Bonds, Series 2026 Resolution 106-26

$65,000,000 maximum principal

It authorizes issuing up to $65,000,000 in bonds.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraNo
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongNo
  • Rachel KadukNo

Adopted minutes · as of June 3, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of June 3, 2026

MoreMay 6, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

Authorize up to $110 million Utility Improvement Assessment Bonds (North 1 East area) Ordinance 24-26

$110,000,000 maximum principal

It authorizes new borrowing of up to $110,000,000.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of May 6, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of May 6, 2026

MoreMay 6, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

Bond resolution for up to $110 million utility improvement assessment bonds Resolution 96-26

$110,000,000 maximum principal

It authorizes issuing up to $110,000,000 in bonds.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of May 6, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of May 6, 2026

MoreMay 6, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

Authorize up to $100 million Water and Sewer Revenue Bonds, Series 2026 Ordinance 25-26

$100,000,000 maximum principal

It authorizes new borrowing of up to $100,000,000.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of May 6, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of May 6, 2026

MoreMay 6, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

Supplemental bond resolution (to Resolution 98-86) for up to $100 million water and sewer revenue bonds Resolution 105-26

$100,000,000 maximum principal

It authorizes issuing up to $100,000,000 in bonds.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of May 6, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of May 6, 2026

MoreApril 15, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

FY2026 budget amendment #2: raise total revenues and expenditures Ordinance 18-26

$11,323,646 added to FY2026 revenues and expenditures

The title raises FY2026 revenues and spending by $11,323,646.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of April 15, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of April 15, 2026

MoreApril 1, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 7-1

Award contract to Ajax Paving Industries of Florida for the Cape Coral Parkway East six-lane improvement project Resolution 79-26

$2,372,261.29 incl. $112,964.82 contingency

It approves new capital spending of $2,372,261.29.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannNo
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of April 1, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of April 1, 2026

MoreMarch 4, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

Award contract to Pavement Maintenance, LLC for the FY2026 local road resurfacing project Resolution 53-26

$6,167,227.61 incl. $293,677.51 contingency

It approves new spending of $6,167,227.61.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Adopted minutes · as of March 4, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of March 4, 2026

MoreFebruary 18, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 6-1

Work authorization to Metric Consulting, LLC for grant management of the Community Recreation Center and Disaster Shelter (CDBG-DR) Resolution 35-26

$1,181,610 not to exceed

It approves new spending of up to $1,181,610.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeAbsent
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukNo

Steinke was excused. Pulled from consent and voted separately.

Adopted minutes · as of February 18, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of February 18, 2026

MoreFebruary 18, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 7-0

Award contract to Geosyntec Consultants for the North Cape Coral Drainage Basin Alternative Restoration Plan Resolution 38-26

$2,330,566 not to exceed

It approves new spending of up to $2,330,566.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeAbsent
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Steinke was excused.

Adopted minutes · as of February 18, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of February 18, 2026

MoreJanuary 21, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 7-0

FY2026 budget amendment #1: raise total revenues and expenditures Ordinance 3-26

$48,023,980 added to FY2026 revenues and expenditures

The title raises FY2026 revenues and spending by $48,023,980.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongAbsent
  • Rachel KadukYes

Long left the dais at 5:00 p.m., before this vote.

Adopted minutes · as of January 21, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of January 21, 2026

MoreJanuary 7, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

Award contract to Douglas N. Higgins, Inc. for six Upper Floridan Aquifer supply wells (North RO plant expansion, Phase 1) Resolution 2-26

$6,674,064 incl. $130,864 contingency

It approves new capital spending of $6,674,064.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Approved as part of a consent-agenda motion; the roll-call vote shown is for that motion.

Adopted minutes · as of January 7, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of January 7, 2026

MoreJanuary 7, 2026 · City Council Regular MeetingPassed 8-0

Award contract to Accurate Drilling Systems, Inc. for a raw water main pipeline (North RO plant expansion, Phase 1) Resolution 3-26

$5,101,020 incl. $100,020 contingency

It approves new capital spending of $5,101,020.

  • John GunterYes
  • Bill SteinkeYes
  • Laurie LehmannYes
  • Derrick DonnellYes
  • Jennifer Nelson-LastraYes
  • Joe KilraineYes
  • Keith LongYes
  • Rachel KadukYes

Approved as part of a consent-agenda motion; the roll-call vote shown is for that motion.

Adopted minutes · as of January 7, 2026 Meeting agenda · as of January 7, 2026

Sources

Every source used on this page

  1. Hillsborough County Tax Collector, What Amendment 3 Means for Your Property Taxes · as of November 5, 2026 · Taxes
  2. Florida Statutes, section 200.065(5)(a), maximum millage and required votes · as of November 5, 2026 · Taxes
  3. City of Cape Coral, CDBG-DR program · as of November 5, 2026 · Projects
  4. Florida Department of State, Florida Election Watch, constitutional amendments (unofficial election night results) · as of November 3, 2026 · Taxes
  5. City of Cape Coral, Utilities FY2026 CIP 4th Quarter Update · as of October 15, 2026 · Projects
  6. Lee County Property Appraiser, 2026 Millage Rates for Lee County Florida, District 057 City of Cape Coral (page 34) · as of October 9, 2026 · Taxes
  7. City of Cape Coral, City Council Approves 2027 Budget, Maintains Millage Rate · as of October 6, 2026 · Taxes
  8. City of Cape Coral, Public Works FY26 Quarterly Update (July to September 2026) · as of September 30, 2026 · Projects
  9. Adopted minutes, City Council Special Meeting, 2026-09-28 (PDF, eScribe) · as of September 28, 2026 · Votes
  10. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-09-28 (eScribe) · as of September 28, 2026 · Votes
  11. Adopted minutes, City Council Special Meeting (final FY2027 budget public hearing), 2026-09-24 (PDF, eScribe) · as of September 24, 2026 · Votes
  12. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-09-24 (eScribe) · as of September 24, 2026 · Votes
  13. Adopted minutes, City Council Special Meeting (charter officer evaluations), 2026-09-23 (PDF, eScribe) · as of September 23, 2026 · Votes
  14. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-09-23 (eScribe) · as of September 23, 2026 · Votes
  15. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-09-16 (PDF, eScribe) · as of September 16, 2026 · Votes
  16. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-09-16 (eScribe) · as of September 16, 2026 · Votes
  17. Adopted minutes, City Council Special Meeting (first FY2027 budget public hearing), 2026-09-10 (PDF, eScribe) · as of September 10, 2026 · Votes
  18. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-09-10 (eScribe) · as of September 10, 2026 · Votes
  19. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-09-02 (PDF, eScribe) · as of September 2, 2026 · Votes
  20. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-09-02 (eScribe) · as of September 2, 2026 · Votes
  21. City of Cape Coral, Cape Clips: August 26, 2026 City Council meeting highlights · as of August 27, 2026 · Taxes, Votes
  22. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-08-26 (PDF, eScribe) · as of August 26, 2026 · Votes
  23. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-08-26 (eScribe) · as of August 26, 2026 · Votes
  24. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-08-19 (PDF, eScribe) · as of August 19, 2026 · Votes
  25. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-08-19 (eScribe) · as of August 19, 2026 · Votes
  26. Lee County Property Appraiser, 2026 Taxing District Millage Book (preliminary), District 057, "Previous" column (page 34) · as of August 11, 2026 · Taxes
  27. City of Cape Coral, City Manager Releases FY27 Proposed Budget · as of July 28, 2026 · Taxes
  28. City of Cape Coral, Cape Clips: July 22, 2026 City Council meeting highlights · as of July 23, 2026 · Taxes
  29. City of Cape Coral, FY 2027-2029 Proposed Budget · as of July 23, 2026 · Projects
  30. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-07-22 (PDF, eScribe) · as of July 22, 2026 · Votes
  31. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-07-22 (eScribe) · as of July 22, 2026 · Votes
  32. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-07-15 (PDF, eScribe) · as of July 15, 2026 · Votes
  33. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-07-15 (eScribe) · as of July 15, 2026 · Votes
  34. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-06-03 (PDF, eScribe) · as of June 3, 2026 · Votes
  35. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-06-03 (eScribe) · as of June 3, 2026 · Votes
  36. City of Cape Coral, Office of the Mayor, letter to the Lee County Legislative Delegation on the homestead exemption · as of June 1, 2026 · Taxes
  37. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-05-06 (PDF, eScribe) · as of May 6, 2026 · Votes
  38. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-05-06 (eScribe) · as of May 6, 2026 · Votes
  39. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-04-15 (PDF, eScribe) · as of April 15, 2026 · Votes
  40. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-04-15 (eScribe) · as of April 15, 2026 · Votes
  41. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-04-01 (PDF, eScribe) · as of April 1, 2026 · Votes
  42. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-04-01 (eScribe) · as of April 1, 2026 · Votes
  43. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-03-04 (PDF, eScribe) · as of March 4, 2026 · Votes
  44. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-03-04 (eScribe) · as of March 4, 2026 · Votes
  45. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-02-18 (PDF, eScribe) · as of February 18, 2026 · Votes
  46. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-02-18 (eScribe) · as of February 18, 2026 · Votes
  47. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-01-21 (PDF, eScribe) · as of January 21, 2026 · Votes
  48. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-01-21 (eScribe) · as of January 21, 2026 · Votes
  49. Adopted minutes, City Council Regular Meeting, 2026-01-07 (PDF, eScribe) · as of January 7, 2026 · Votes
  50. Meeting page and agenda, 2026-01-07 (eScribe) · as of January 7, 2026 · Votes
  51. City of Cape Coral, City Council Approves 2026 Budget, Lowers Millage Rate · as of September 30, 2025 · Taxes
  52. City of Cape Coral, Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, year ended September 30, 2025, Note 10 Construction Commitments · as of September 30, 2025 · Projects
  53. City of Cape Coral, FY 2026-2028 Adopted Budget · as of September 25, 2025 · Projects
  54. City of Cape Coral, FY 2025-2027 Adopted Budget · as of October 2, 2024 · Projects

Gaps

What we could not verify

These items are left off the page until an official source confirms them. Nothing here is estimated.

Taxes

  • Amendment 3 results are unofficial election night figures until the state certifies them.
  • How much the city expects to lose under Amendment 3 now that it has passed: the only city figure found ($46.6 million a year) was made in June 2026 for an additional $200,000 exemption. News estimates of $28 million to $31 million in 2027 and $47 million to $57 million a year from 2028 are left out because no official city document confirming them was found.
  • A typical household's total bill: left out because it depends on each home's exemptions and taxable value. Use the calculator with the values on your own TRIM notice or tax bill.
  • Your own fire assessment: the city publishes the average for a single-family home ($515.43); the amount for a given home depends on its structure value.
  • The rolled-back rate for the city's operating levy is 5.2174 in the Property Appraiser's book and 5.1988 in the city's July 2026 documents. The reason for the difference has not been confirmed from an official source.

Projects

  • No official original, council-approved total cost was found for any of these 10 projects, so none can be called over or under its original budget. 'Money approved so far' is what the council has appropriated to date, not the full cost.
  • The 'Spent' column in the city's FY2026 table of ongoing projects has no as-of date. Where the audited financial report gives spending at September 30, 2025, that figure is shown instead.
  • The FY2027 adopted budget book was not posted on the city's budget page as of November 5, 2026, so there is no newer official project table.
  • Council agenda packets were not yet searched for original contract values and change orders.
  • North 1 West and North 1 East: the city's '$250 million' labels are rounded and are not used as budgets here.
  • North 3 is on hold for a rebid; its budget is expected to change.
  • Yacht Club reconstruction: no official total cost found ($15,402,112 approved and $5,985,530 spent in the FY2026 table; the city says council has not chosen a funding source). Not ranked.
  • Emergency Operations Center (about $35 million estimate) and Everest Headworks Replacement ($31.5 million estimate) fall just outside the top 10. Recurring programs such as road resurfacing are not counted as single projects.

Votes

  • February 4, 2026 meeting: the posted minutes are a scanned image without searchable text and have not been reviewed yet.
  • March 25, 2026 meeting: no minutes posted as of November 5, 2026.
  • November 2, 2026 meeting: minutes not posted yet. It included the hearing on FY2026 budget amendment #4 (an added $14,588,629) and the interim City Manager appointment.
  • October 7 and October 21, 2026: votes on the solid waste franchise contract, some of them split, are not yet listed.
  • September 23, 2026: a motion for a 4.49% City Auditor raise failed 3-5, but the minutes list the members' votes inconsistently. It is left out until the record is corrected.
  • May 20, 2026: a 7-1 vote near the $65 million bond ordinance is not listed, because the minutes do not make clear which motion it was; the ordinance itself was voted on June 3.
  • Fire and solid waste assessment dollar rates are not stated in the minutes; they are in the agenda packets, which have not been reviewed yet.
  • Consent-agenda contracts under about $2 million and grant acceptances are not listed one by one; they passed on consent votes, mostly unanimous.
  • Budget workshops (January 29 and 30, June 4, July 15 and August 4) were not reviewed; workshops normally give direction rather than take binding votes.

About this site

Cape Tax Watch is an informational community project. It is not affiliated with the City of Cape Coral, any campaign, party or business. It does not endorse candidates or positions. Every figure links to the official public record it came from, with the date of that record. When a figure cannot be confirmed from an official source, it is left out and listed under What we could not verify. The site is updated monthly.

Spotted an error? Every number links to its source, so please check the source first. Corrections are made in the next monthly update.