The bill amends chapter 69-1326 of the Laws of Florida, which pertains to the City of Naples Airport Authority. Key changes include the removal of provisions that outline the duties and responsibilities of authority members, as well as the prohibition of city officers and employees from serving as authority members. The bill also eliminates the restriction on authority members receiving compensation. Instead of being appointed, authority members will now be elected, with specific requirements for elections, terms, and qualifications. Beginning with the 2026 general election, the authority will consist of five members, with three from the City of Naples and two from Collier County, all elected by the qualified electors of Collier County.
Additionally, the bill establishes that members must have at least five years of experience in financial management, small business operations, or aerospace. It outlines the process for filling vacancies and stipulates that all meetings of the authority will be public. The authority will select its own chair and vice chair from among its members and may employ staff as needed. The bill also provides for the removal of members under certain conditions, although the specific process for removal has been deleted from the current law. The act will take effect upon becoming law.