Harborside Hometown University (Citizens Academy)
Registration opened October 1, 2025, for the Harborside Hometown University (Citizens
Academy).
Take the challenge and commit to this interactive 8-week program to discover what it takes to
run the City of Punta Gorda. Apply today to reserve your spot. Registration closes when 20 applications have been accepted.
For more information about the program and to apply, click HERE or contact Laurel Adelmund, Senior Executive Assistant of Public Works, at 941-575-5002 or by email: ladelmund@CityofPuntaGordaFL.com.
Posted 10/06/2025
Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 10/03/2025
Bagged Garbage
All loose trash must be placed inside a bag BEFORE putting the items inside the trash container. This will prevent any wind-blown litter during the collection process or any leaking from wet garbage. It also helps keep animals out of your garbage. As a reminder, please bag any pet waste and pet hair securely inside a bag to prevent debris from blowing onto the sanitation workers.
Sec. 10- 8. Disposition, lids on containers.
- All garbage should be deposited daily in the cans or containers herein above required.
- Garbage cans and containers shall be kept tightly covered at all times except when it is necessary to lift the cover to deposit garbage or trash in the garbage can or container.
- Before being placed into a can or container, garbage and trash shall first be enclosed in a plastic or paper bag, cardboard box, or other container sufficient to inhibit any liquids from leaking.
- No garbage or trash shall be stored outside a residence or non-residential use except in an appropriate can or container.
- No garbage, trash, yard waste, or recyclables shall be buried in the City.
- No garbage or trash shall be placed in containers so as to extend above the top edge of the container sides.
- Yard waste no more than three (3) inches in diameter or four (4) feet in length shall either be disposed of pursuant to subsections (b) through (e) of section 10-1.3 or be placed in yard waste cans or containers.
Punta Gorda Ordinance Chapter 10 YARD WASTE AND SOLID WASTE may be found HERE.
Posted 10/10/2025
Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 10/10/2025
OVERGROWN VEGETATION AND THE RAINY SEASON
Generally, the Rainy Season "officially” begins May 15th in Southwest Florida and ends October 15th. Although it may “officially” begin on May 15th, that doesn’t mean everyone is going to immediately see rain in the coming days. Just like with hurricane season, tropical systems don’t always begin on June 1st. The transition is slowly beginning and the daily rain will be here soon!
As such, Punta Gorda residents need to be aware of the hazards and violations associated with overgrown vegetation as we approach the rainy season. Property owners are required to maintain all landscape areas, trees, and shrubs in a neat and healthy condition free of diseased, dead, or bare areas and free of debris and weeds (Chapter 26, Section 8.11(e); scroll down for the specific regulation). Areas that are overgrown and creating a visual blight or dangerous condition by the potential blockage of public right-of-way, sidewalks, etc., are subject to the code violation process (Chapter 9, Section 9-2(g); scroll down for the specific regulation). Any questions or concerns may be sent to the Code Compliance team at code@cityofpuntagordafl.com.
Posted 05/15/2025
DRAINING POOLS DIRECTLY INTO CANALS OR STORM DRAINS IS PROHIBITED
From the City of Punta Gorda ...
Code Compliance staff would like to remind our residents and pool contractors that draining pools directly into canals or storm drains is prohibited. Please make sure that if you need to drain your pool, the water filters through the grass before entering the canal or stormwater system.
Posted 11/15/2024
Source: Lynne Matthews 11/02/2024 weekly email
PUNTA GORDA RESIDENTS – Upcoming Election Information
09/18/2025 From Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections …
Our office is currently finalizing preparations for the City of Punta Gorda Municipal Election, scheduled for Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
Please be advised that only residents of the City of Punta Gorda are eligible to vote in this municipal election. To participate, individuals must be registered by Monday, October 6, 2025, which is 29 days prior to Election Day. Those who wish to vote-by-mail must submit their request by 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 23, 2025. Requests can be made online, by phone, or in person at the Supervisor of Elections Office.
ALL City of Punta Gorda residents are eligible to vote regardless of the district you reside in. Confirm you live within Punta Gorda city limits to vote. Residential street signs are BLUE as an indicator.
Please note. City residents received a new Voter Information Card with their new precinct detail and polling location.
Posted 10/01/2025
Source: Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections, 09/18/2025 email (Issue 23 / September 2025)
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06/20/2025 From Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections …
Our Elections Office is preparing for the future — starting with the 2025 City of Punta Gorda General Election, scheduled for November 4, 2025. This election is only for voters who reside within the City of Punta Gorda. ALL City of Punta Gorda residents are eligible to vote regardless of the district you reside in. Mark your calendars for November 4, 2025, 7:00AM to 7:00 PM. There are no Early Voting locations, just election day! Confirm you live within Punta Gorda city limits to vote. Residential street signs are BLUE as an indicator.
In anticipation of continued growth, we’ve updated voting precincts to better serve our residents and have made strategic investments in new equipment to enhance the administration of our elections. Each resident of the City of Punta Gorda will receive a new Voter Information Card in the coming weeks which will provide precinct and potential polling location changes.
As always, we want to ensure that every voter is ready to participate. Please take a moment to verify that your signature, residential address, and, if applicable, vote-by-mail request are current.
UPDATING VOTER REGISTRATION
Is the address on file with our office your current Florida residence?
- Manage your address HERE.
- Moved out of state? Call 941-833-5400 or email soe@soecharlottecountyfl.gov and request a removal form.
Verify your signature has not changed.
- Your signature matters! It’s used to verify Vote-by-Mail ballots and initiative petitions. If you think your handwriting has changed, update your signature using a Voter Registration Application at any of our offices today!
- Punta Gorda, 226 Taylor Street
- Port Charlotte, 18500 Murdock Circle
- Englewood, 6868 San Casa
VOTING BY MAIL
Vote-by-mail requests made before November 5, 2024, have expired. To stay voter-ready for upcoming elections, renew your request today and consider the following:
- Is your address for your vote-by-mail (VBM) current with the SOE office? Mailed ballots are non-forwardable so please ensure we have the correct address on file for where your ballot needs to be mailed.
- If the address you require your VBM to be mailed is not in our system, you must complete the statewide form and return it no later than 5:00 PM on October 23, 2025! Click HERE for the form.
Three ways to return it:
- Email: VBM@SOECharlotteCountyFL.gov
- Mail: Supervisor of Elections, Attn: VBM, 226 Taylor St, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
- Fax: 941-833-5434
Call 941-833-5400 for more assistance. The renewal process is easy and will be valid through 12/31/2026!
TRACK YOUR BALLOT WITH BALLOTTRAX
Do you vote-by-mail? If so, you can sign up for our new ballot tracking service and follow your ballot from "printed and mailed" to "received and counted!"
BallotTrax is a secure communication system that helps voters track their Vote-By-Mail ballots. The system does not change or update a voter's registration. It uses USPS information to track outgoing and received mail, as well as voter registration that is made available via public record.
BallotTrax can send text, email, and voicemail notifications reporting the status of a voter's ballot during an election. The tracking service will provide the following notifications when the ballot:
- Has been printed and is being mailed soon.
- Has been mailed.
- Has been received and counted.
- Has been received and not counted.
- Has been returned as undeliverable.
Learn more about tracking your Vote-By-Mail Ballots HERE.
Posted 06/21/2025
Source: Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections, 06/20/2025 email (Issue 22 / June 2025)
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06/13/2025 From the City of Punta Gorda …
As of noon today (06/13/2025), the qualifying period for the 2025 City of Punta Gorda District 3 and District 5 races has closed. As the only candidate who qualified for District 3, Deborah Lux is reelected. As both Melissa Lockhart and Bill Page have qualified for District 5, a general election will be held on November 4, 2025.
Be sure to renew your vote-by-mail ballot request as those expired at the end of 2024. Visit the Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections' website or stop in at their office located at 226 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda, FL 33950.
Posted 06/13/2025
Source: City of Punta Gorda - Government Facebook page
Warning to BSI Residents
Recently our community had some visitors that were checking unlocked vehicles in driveways and in a few cases, vehicles were not locked and there were some thefts.
Please lock your vehicles that are in your driveway and make sure your garage doors are locked – don’t forget your side garage door too!
The Punta Gorda police are doing an investigation into this and they are using our video cameras that we maintain at the entrances for clues.
Be well and safe.
David Elkins
Neighborhood Security
Posted 09/23/2025
Source: BSIA Tuesday Bulletin dated 09/16/2025
Lightning Safety TIPS
“When thunder roars, go indoors.” – Matt Devitt, WINK Chief Meteorologist
This article from AccuWeather has some safety tips - “7 lightning safety tips if you’re caught outside during a thunderstorm.”
Posted 06/26/2025
Keep Roofs Clean and Code Compliant
Maintaining a clean roof isn’t just about curb appeal—it’s also part of being a good neighbor and staying code compliant.
Over time, roofs can collect mold, mildew, algae, and debris, especially in Florida’s humid climate. If left untreated, this buildup can cause damage to roofing materials and detract from the overall appearance of the neighborhood.
City code requires that roofs be kept in good, clean condition to help preserve property values and community standards. Regular cleaning and maintenance can go a long way in preventing more costly repairs down the line. If your roof is showing signs of discoloration or buildup, it may be time to schedule a professional cleaning. Let’s work together to keep Punta Gorda looking its best!
Posted 10/01/2025
Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 09/26/2025
DISTRIBUTING BUSINESS FLYERS AND HANDBILLS
From the City of Punta Gorda ...
The City of Punta Gorda would like to remind all residents and businesses of the regulations regarding distributing business flyers and handbills. According to Punta Gorda City Code Chapter 15, Section 15-45, the door-to-door distribution of such materials is prohibited within residential areas.
This regulation is in place to ensure the community's safety, maintain public order, and prevent the accumulation of unsolicited materials that could contribute to littering. The City of Punta Gorda is committed to keeping our neighborhoods clean and free from the clutter and potential hazards resulting from unregulated flyer distribution.
Key Points to Remember:
- No Door-to-Door Distribution: Business flyers, door hangers, or handbills may not be distributed directly to residential properties. This includes throwing weighted bags containing flyers into residential driveways.
- Possible Littering Charges: In addition to violating the city code, unauthorized distribution may also result in littering charges.
- Compliance: Businesses and individuals are encouraged to seek alternative, approved methods of promoting their services or events.
We appreciate the cooperation of all residents and businesses in adhering to these regulations. By working together, we can ensure a clean and orderly environment for everyone.
Source: Posted on Facebook by the Punta Gorda Police Department 09/10/2024
Punta Gorda Water Meter Reporting Issue
*** UPDATE *** About The New Water Meter Reading System
City Council recently made the decision to move forward with AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) instead of AMR (Automated Meter Reading). While both systems improve upon traditional meters, AMI offers significant advantages that will benefit both residents and the city.
Key Benefits of AMI
- Real-Time Reads & Leak Detection: AMI allows water meters to send data continuously, not just when a technician drives by to collect it (as with AMR). This means residents and the city can see real-time water use, making it much easier to spot leaks quickly before they become costly problems.
- Conservation Tools: Because AMI provides detailed usage data, customers can track how much water they are using and adjust habits. This helps conserve water, which is especially important given our growing demand and Shell Creek’s supply limitations.
- Improved Maintenance: AMI can alert staff immediately if there’s a problem with a meter, pressure issues, or unusual usage patterns. This reduces downtime, lowers maintenance costs, and helps crews respond faster to real problems.
- Built for Punta Gorda’s Environment: The latest AMI technology is designed to handle challenging conditions, including our wet and storm-prone environment. It’s more durable, resilient, and accurate than older AMR systems.
Why It Matters
Investing in AMI gives us a smarter, more efficient water system. It helps protect our drinking water supply, saves money in the long run, and gives residents the tools to manage their own usage more effectively.
Moving Forward with AMI
With this approval, our Utilities Department will swiftly move into action to get the new AMI meters installed across the city. This upgrade means residents won’t just see better accuracy in billing, but also real benefits in daily life — like early leak detection, real-time water use monitoring, and faster response when issues arise.
This investment is about more than just technology — it’s about providing the quality of life our residents deserve. By conserving water, protecting our resources, and giving everyone better tools to manage their usage, Punta Gorda is taking a proactive step toward a smarter, more resilient future.
Posted 10/06/2025
Source: Debi Lux, Punta Gorda District 3 Newsletter, September 14, 2025
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*** UPDATE *** Water Meter Progress
Per the City Manager, we’re in the middle of moving away from our old AMI (automatic meter) system. For now, all meters are being read manually by our contractor, Olameter. Meanwhile, our in-house tech team is testing a new maintenance app to track meter repairs and keep things running smoothly.
Posted 10/01/2025
Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 09/26/2025
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*** UPDATE *** Access to Water Meters
Crews are out reading water meters. Please make sure your meter box is not blocked by plants, rocks, décor, vehicles, or anything else. Clear access is essential for safe and accurate readings. Notices will be issued where meters are obstructed. Thank you for your cooperation!
Posted 05/17/2025
Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 05/16/2025
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*** UPDATE *** Water Meter Progress
Good news! The City of Punta Gorda is now current with manual meter readings and has fewer than 100 unidentified meters remaining. We eagerly await the water meter system study to evaluate improved solutions for residents.
Posted 05/15/2025
Source: Deborah Lux, Punta Gorda District 3 Newsletter, May 12, 2025
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According to Punta Gorda's City Manager in the 09/13/2024 Weekly Highlights Report ...
The Zenner Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system has 14,172 meters in the AMI system, with 9,143 non-reporting. Repairs of this system are made as parts become available.
We are exploring all options for water meters.
- One option involves replacing the meter's register, encoder, and communications unit with an all-in-one unit. Staff is working towards piloting a trial of an AMI solution utilizing Amazon Sidewalk Network. This pilot seeks to address issues with meter functionality, simplify installation and maintenance processes, eliminate points of failure, and achieve cost savings. It allows us to restore AMI capabilities to residents without interrupting their water service, as the current brass meters are reliable and serviceable. If this type of system is workable, then the bid process would be used to allow qualified vendors to supply the equipment needed.
- A study is also being undertaken to review the existing AMI system, investigate alternatives, assist with the pilot evaluation, and make recommendations. The engineering study will run concurrently with the pilot, allowing real-time review by engineers and stakeholders.
Finally, in addition to the meter readers from Olameter, city staff members are being trained and offered an opportunity to read meters in the evening and on Saturdays to ensure customers receive an actual read rather than estimated billing.
The acting utilities director, Tom Spencer, will update the City Council at the September 18, 2024 meeting of the City Council beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the Military Heritage Museum.
City Manager Greg Murray may be reached at citymgr@cityofpuntagordafl.com or by calling the main office line at 941-575-3302.
2025 FL Sales Tax Holidays
The Back to School Sales Tax Holiday began Friday, August 1 , 2025 and ended Sunday, August 31, 2025. Read more HERE.
Hunting, Fishing, and Camping Sales Tax Holiday
Consumers can purchase qualifying hunting, fishing, and camping supplies exempt from tax during the 2025 Hunting, Fishing, and Camping Sales Tax Holiday. Passed by the Florida Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the sales tax holiday begins Monday, September 8, 2025 and extends through Wednesday, December 31, 2025.
Read more HERE.
Updated 09/01/2025
Source: FL Department of Revenue Sales Tax Holidays webpage
City of Punta Gorda: Land Development Regulations Repealed at 07/02/2025 City Council Meeting
07/06/2025 from Mayor Debi Lux ...
LDRs Repealed – A Fresh Start for Smarter Planning
In a 3–2 vote, Councilmembers Janis Denton, Jeannine Polk, and I voted to repeal the City’s Land Development Regulations (LDRs). After careful consideration and review by a highly qualified land use attorney, Mr. Gabriel, it was clear this was the right step for Punta Gorda.
As outlined in a letter from the Florida Attorney General’s Office to the City:
“We also observe that the Subject Legislation's provision making ‘null and void ab initio’ any prohibited regulation or procedure (with enumerated exceptions) enacted beginning September 28, 2022, would appear to apply to the regulations and comprehensive plan amendment about which the City expresses concern.”
Additionally, in a legal opinion addressed to City Attorney Leskovich, land use attorney Mr. Gabriel confirmed:
“With the adoption of Senate Bill 250 in 2023, and the newly enacted Senate Bill 180, it is recommended that City Council move forward to repeal the City’s Land Development Regulations that were enacted by the City subsequent to September 28, 2022. Pursuant to this legislation, these Land Development Regulations have been declared as null and void ab initio, as if the regulations were never adopted. Thereafter, City Council can workshop how best to proceed forward with future land development regulations.”
Why It Matters
- The Entire Ordinance Was Repealed: Chapter 26, which contained the Land Development Regulations (LDRs), was repealed in full. Some have mistakenly believed that individual articles within Chapter 26 function as separate ordinances — they do not. The ordinance must be viewed as a single, unified legislative action. Based on guidance from the Attorney General’s office, the ordinance was non-compliant with state law.
- Legal Counsel Supported Repeal: Our expert land use attorney reviewed the matter and confirmed that repealing the ordinance was both legally appropriate and necessary. He recommended that the city hold public workshops to revisit each article within the repealed ordinance, allowing us to reshape our development standards in a way that better reflects community values and complies with state law.
Fact Check
- Development is Still Allowed: The repeal of the new LDRs does not halt or prevent development. Property owners are fully able to build under the reinstated, previously existing Land Development Regulations.
- Vacant Lots Are a Choice, Not a Result of Policy: Properties like the old City Marketplace and the former U-save lot remain vacant due to owner decisions—not because of any city-imposed restrictions.
- Stronger Waterfront Protection: One of the key flaws in the repealed LDRs was their failure to uphold the city’s Comprehensive Plan regarding waterfront and estuary preservation. This concern was a central part of my 2023 campaign. Repealing the ordinance helps restore proper safeguards for our sensitive coastal environment.
- New State Law Limits Regulation Until 2028: Under Senate Bill 180, municipalities are prohibited from adopting new development regulations that could be considered more burdensome than those in effect as of September 2022—until June 2028. This makes it even more important that any revisions to the LDRs are done transparently, collaboratively, and with full community and legal input.
What Happens Next: Input & Improvement
- We’re moving toward a smarter, more inclusive approach to city planning.
- Council will most likely consider staff to host public workshops to gather input on how to craft better Land Development Regulations (LDRs). The goal is to blend the strengths of our current (reinstated) code with the best, non-burdensome elements from the repealed ordinance—all while remaining fully compliant with Senate Bill 180.
- This should include revisiting valuable recommendations from the Dover, Kohl planning study—many of which were previously overlooked—to ensure our growth is well-guided and community-centered.
- This will be your opportunity to help shape the future of Punta Gorda. Together, we can preserve our small-town charm while planning for appropriate infrastructure, parking, height, and density—all with careful attention to our region’s unique vulnerability to flooding and hurricanes.
- More good news: The City will soon approve a firm to begin tackling downtown flooding—getting the ball rolling on long-overdue drainage solutions.
No, the City Won’t Face “More” Lawsuits
- There’s a rumor circulating that repealing the 2023 Land Development Regulations (LDRs) will expose the City to more lawsuits. That is not accurate.
- The current LDRs—those that were in place before 2023—were active when Senate Bill 250 became law. Because of that, they cannot be considered more burdensome under state law.
- Additionally, the City has now implemented a vested rights process, something I’ve long pushed for. This allows property owners to formally claim development rights if they believe they were entitled to build under past rules.
- All members of Council and our interim city attorney unanimously agreed this process was essential for transparency and fairness—and now, it's finally in place.
- While no system can guarantee complete immunity from lawsuits, the idea that repeal increases legal risk is false. In fact, repealing the non-conforming LDRs was the legally sound move, backed by our hired land use expert. It puts Punta Gorda on stronger legal ground moving forward.
Posted 07/06/2025
Source: Mayor Debi Lux Punta Gorda District 3 Newsletter dated 07/06/2025
Don’t Block the Box
From the City of Punta Gorda Police Department ...
Blocking intersections during heavy traffic can significantly disrupt the flow of vehicles and lead to unnecessary congestion, particularly along its busy downtown streets. With its combination of residents, tourists, and commercial traffic, it's essential that drivers avoid entering intersections unless they can fully clear them.
When vehicles block intersections, they not only create delays for those waiting to move forward but can also impede emergency responders, which is a serious safety concern. By remaining patient and mindful of traffic signals, drivers in Punta Gorda can help ensure smoother travel, minimize frustration, and keep the community moving efficiently, especially during peak traffic times or construction events.
Posted 02/27/2025
Source: City of Punta Gorda Police Department Weekly Highlights Report dated 02/21/2025
BSI Deed restriction booklets
INDIVIDUAL TRAFFIC AND WILDLIFE SIGNS IN BSI
Recently there has been a significant increase in slow down and animal crossing signs throughout BSI. With that increase there has also been an increase in the number of complaints about the signs.
There are 2 issues with the signs. First, the City of Punta Gorda has code restrictions on signs in the easement. The easement area is approximately 10 feet from the edge of the road. The ONLY signs allowed in that area are for yard treatment signs warning residents that chemicals have been applied.
Additionally, BSI has a deed restriction (#18) that states that no signs shall be erected or displayed on this property or any structure, except that the Grantor may allow a sign to be erected at its discretion. Theses signs have not been approved and the BOD decided that they would not be granting approval.
The BSIA BOD decided that we wanted to notify residents that these signs should be removed before residents start contacting code enforcement seeking compliance. If you have a neighbor who is not a member, please politely let them know that the signs will need to be removed as they are a violation of both city code and our deed restrictions.
Thank you for your assistance!
Source: BSIA 08/06/2024 Tuesday Bulletin
Dart Tournament October 23, 2025
BSIA MEMBERS AND THEIR GUESTS ONLY!
Deadline to sign up is October 20, 2025.
Limited to the first 36 registrants.
See the Tuesday Bulletin for details and how to sign up.