Lee County Community Development and Public Works 1500 Monroe Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901

"A disastrous, horrific process - was cited for several unpermitted works previous owners performed. Instead of being understanding and helpful, the county has taken a callous/vicious approach. Despite our many attempts, the officer who cited us does not reply to emails for clarification nor accept any of our legal rights. When we went to office (3 times including hearing now), the manager and employee spoke in Spanish reviewing our photos (not sure if an attempt to hide something or talk bad, but luckily I speak Spanish and let them know I was listening). No one (including hearing examiner) has yet to provide statutory basis on the code enforcement action taken against us. We’ve only heard “we do it all the time.” Additionally , was it told by officer manager that a past permit cleared only to find out in the hearing it didn’t. When I sent the manager a text (encouraged us to do) he did not clarify. At this point, it seems highly targeted & discriminatory. An appeal on the findings in front of a real judge should hopefully reveal the numerous legal inconsistencies with this case."

"If the department is that backed up why not hire more people. This is why people do things without a permit. Permitting doesn't understand those applying for permits also have deadlines and could lose deposits as it takes Lee County FOREVER to process permits. Lee County is the worst. I've had contractors tell me NO when they heard I live in Lee County due to the VERY SLOW turnaround and the excessive "rules". Especially when you own your property and they get to dictate what you can and can't do on that property you pay taxes on. I have two permits waiting, one filed in March and one in early April. Currently taking them over 3 months. The one filed in April the contracter scheduled the work for next week but have had to postpone for another month. I've had to rearrange life stuff while waiting for permitting"

"The staff from permitting A+ however the lady in the parking lot F+ no manners. Went in today had no idea office would be close in a Wednesday it’s not a holiday probably part of their remodeling and was told closed and closed her door right away. I said may I know why is closed ? I think as a taxpayer I have the right to know. She was extremely rude and said “ excuse me what do you mean why it’s closed ? It’s closed and slammed her window at me. I think this is unacceptable to the people who pay for your salary. I would like something to be done about this. I think is a disrespect. She could of been like I don’t know maybe remodeling ? Something but not reply in a rude way and slam the door. Thanks !"

"I have had a positive experience previously, but this time the responses were straight up, rude. I waited in line for an hour and 10 minutes to be told that my documentation had to be filed online. I go home, file it online, pay the fee, call back to see what an ETA is for a response. The girl who answered the phone, told me she couldn’t give me an ETA at all whatsoever. She wasn’t nice about it either, in fact, she was condescending. Not being able to give people a range, Whether it is 30 to 60 days or 60 to 90 days, Literally stating she won’t tell you any timeframe is absolutely unacceptable. There is no other place that can provide you with zero answers, and still be in busines. This office needs to be able to provide an ETA or time range for simple permit request like sheds. Not to mention, it is not funny when someone asked you a time range and being snide, rude and condescending only makes your customer service look worse."

"I not only want to write this review I feel I need to express my sincere appreciation of Kristy in zoning who helped me with my paperwork and able to accomplish everything in the one visit downtown. Prior to this visit there were many phone calls and many forms printed and filled out to be handed in along with fees. Kristy was able to help me decipher, and sort out what actually needed to be submitted to get the job set up .She was polite and patient as well as maintaining a very professional demeanor. Kristy is a true asset to this department. Brianna also helped with certain aspects and all were very nice and friendly. I did not get the receptionist’s name but she put me on the correct track to begin with. What started out as an overwhelming task for me ended quickly and successful. Thank you ladies, and may you receive tenfold of what you gave me in assistance."