Leasing a City-Owned Property

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines and standards governing non-profit organizations leasing city-owned properties. Organizations will be required to meet the following criteria in order to be eligible to lease a city-owned property.

Criterion 1: Accountability & Sustainability

The organization must have the following:

  • Quantifiable goals and objectives
  • A policy of non-discrimination in providing programs or services
  • Cooperation with existing related programs and community services
  • Be a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization

Criterion 2: Program Need & City Benefit

The organization must have the following:

  • A clear demonstration of public benefit and provision of direct services to the residents of the City of Fort Myers
  • Demonstrate a need for their programs or activities

Criterion 3: Fiscal Stability

The organization must have the following:

A sound financial plan which demonstrates managerial and fiscal competence

A history of performing in a financially competent manner

Organization Requirements

Organizations will be required to:

Carry a minimum of $1 million liability insurance

Pay 10-15% of market rate rent plus Common Area Maintenance (CAM) and, if applicable, a share of the utilities based on square footage being used

Provide annual report to City Council outlining their contribution to the City of Fort Myers and how their programs and or services are making a positive impact on the lives of the citizens