FL S1796

Establishes the Lee County Tourist Development Council with nine members appointed by the Board of County Commissioners, notwithstanding general law provisions in s. 125.0104(4)(e), Florida Statutes.

Requires the chair of the Board of County Commissioners or another designated member to serve on the council.

Mandates two elected municipal officials as council members, with one from the two municipalities generating the highest tourist tax revenues in the previous two fiscal years and the other from remaining municipalities; both seats rotate every two years.

Requires six members involved in the tourist industry with demonstrated interest in tourist development, including 3-4 owners or operators of motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks, or other tourist accommodations subject to the tax.

Makes the membership changes effective July 1, 2013, while allowing current members to continue their terms except for the two municipal members appointed on that date.