WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 4003

City of Marco Island, Collier County

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Yvette Benarroch

HB 4003 mandates special elections within 90 days for city council vacancies in Marco Island, ensuring timely governance and requiring voter approval in 2026.

Approved by Governor
#localbills
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4003

Summary of HB 4003: City of Marco Island, Collier County

Bill Number: HB 4003
Introduced: October 16, 2025
Status: Added to Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee agenda on November 10, 2025
Sponsor: Benarroch
Classification: Local Bill
Subject: Local Bills

Purpose and Intent

HB 4003 aims to amend the charter of the City of Marco Island, Florida, to establish new procedures for filling vacancies on the city council. The bill seeks to ensure that vacancies are addressed in a timely manner, thereby maintaining effective governance within the city.

Key Provisions

  • Special Elections for Vacancies:

    • The bill mandates that a special election be held within 90 days of a city council vacancy, unless the vacancy occurs within one year of a general election.

  • Appointment of Qualified Citizens:

    • If a vacancy occurs within one year of a general election, the city council is required to appoint a qualified citizen within 60 days to serve until the next general election.

  • Governor's Role:

    • If the city council fails to appoint a qualified citizen within the specified timeframe, the Governor will be responsible for filling the vacancy.

  • Referendum Requirement:

    • The charter amendment will only take effect if approved by a majority of the city's qualified electors in a referendum scheduled for November 3, 2026, coinciding with the general election.

Impact

  • Fiscal Considerations:

    • The bill may impose an indeterminate negative financial impact on the City of Marco Island, particularly if special elections are required. The estimated cost for conducting a special election is between $60,000 and $70,000.

  • Affected Parties:

    • The primary stakeholders include the residents of Marco Island, who will have the opportunity to vote on the proposed changes, as well as the city council members who will be involved in the appointment process.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill has been referred to multiple committees, including the Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee, Government Operations Subcommittee, and State Affairs Committee.
  • The referendum will be conducted in accordance with the Florida Election Code, ensuring that the process is transparent and follows established legal guidelines.

Conclusion

HB 4003 represents a significant change in how the City of Marco Island addresses council vacancies, promoting a more democratic process through special elections and appointments. The outcome of the upcoming referendum will determine whether these changes will be implemented.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.