June 16, 2025
Naples City Council
Naples City Hall
735 8th Street South
Naples, FL 34102

Dear Mayor and Members of the Naples City Council,

We are writing on behalf of Responsible Government Naples to express our deep concern regarding the ongoing actions and comments made by the City Council concerning Naples Airport operations and the Naples Airport Authority (NAA).

Despite clear and consistent public support for the continued safe and efficient operation of Naples Airport, the City Council has repeatedly pursued strategies during public meetings aimed at restricting both the frequency and profile of airport operations. Such efforts seem to overlook the airport’s vital role in the regional economy, public safety, and our community’s connectivity.

Most alarming is the Council's recent attempt to take unauthorized action against the Executive Director of the Naples Airport Authority. This overreach, narrowly averted by timely legal counsel, could have set a dangerous precedent, creating legal and governance issues with far-reaching consequences for both the City of Naples and the Naples Airport Authority. This attempted action reflects an escalating and inappropriate effort by certain Council members to exert control over an independent and well-functioning authority.

The Naples Airport Authority is an independent entity created by the Florida Legislature. Its operations are governed by its own Enabling Act and applicable state law. Federal aviation law, enforced by the FAA, preempts local government attempts to regulate aircraft operations, including noise and flight paths. The City of Naples may not interfere with or impose overreaching restrictions on the lawful operations of the Authority or with aviation activity governed by federal or state law.

The persistent scrutiny and pressure placed on the Airport Authority’s leadership and staff are not only unwarranted but also risk undermining the airport's daily operations. These actions can, have, and will continue to negatively impact employee morale, disrupt management, and, ultimately, compromise the safety of the public and aviation personnel.

Furthermore, we are troubled by the Council’s unwillingness to acknowledge or respect the overwhelming public support for the airport. In fact, during a recent airport sentiment survey, it was demonstrated that over 80% of the Naples community supports the airport and the asset it represents for the community. Instead, the Council continues to focus disproportionate attention on a small group of vocal activists whose objectives and affiliations remain unclear. This disconnect raises serious questions about representation and governance. The citizens of Naples deserve to understand why the Council persists in targeting a public institution that enjoys broad community backing and delivers proven value to our city’s residents and its economy.

We respectfully urge the City Council to reconsider its approach, engage transparently with the wider public, and prioritize constructive collaboration with the Naples Airport Authority. Responsible leadership entails acknowledging public sentiment and operating within the bounds of legal authority for the betterment of our community.

We look forward to meeting with you at your earliest convenience to discuss these concerns, as well as potential remedies that we believe will accomplish your desire for oversight and our community’s need for a safe, successful airport.

Sincerely,
Responsible Government Naples