Push for Single-Member Districts Heads to Governor’s Desk
Special to the East Lee County News
A significant reform effort to reshape how Lee County voters choose their local leaders is now one step away from becoming law. House Bill 4001 (HB 4001)—a measure designed to bring single-member district elections to the Lee County Commission—has successfully passed both chambers of the Florida Legislature. It now awaits the signature of Governor Ron DeSantis.
What Are Single-Member Districts?
Currently, Lee County voters elect all five county commissioners in countywide races. That means voters in Cape Coral help decide who represents Lehigh Acres—and vice versa.
HB 4001 seeks to change that by switching to a single-member district system, where each voter would only cast a ballot for the commissioner representing their own district.
“This is about accountability and local control,” said Matt Caldwell, Lee County Property Appraiser. “Under the current system, communities can be overruled by voters who don’t live there. Single-member districts ensure residents are heard and represented fairly.”
This is not a new or radical idea. In fact, single-member districts are already the standard for electing representatives in both the Florida Legislature and the U.S. Congress. Every Floridian votes only for the House and Senate members representing their local district. HB 4001 simply applies that same principle to the Lee County Commission.
If the Governor Signs…
If signed by Governor DeSantis, HB 4001 will place the question of adopting single-member districts on the 2026 general election ballot. Voters will then decide whether to modernize the way Lee County elects its commissioners, bringing it in line with most large counties across Florida.
The Driving Force Behind the Bill
Representative Mike Giallombardo has said that his motivation for advancing single-member districts stems from a desire to ensure all residents—especially those in unincorporated parts of Lee County—have a more decisive say in who represents them. Many constituents have expressed feeling overlooked or voiceless under the current countywide voting system.
“This is your government, your vote, your voice,” Giallombardo said.
“Together, we’re making Lee County more accountable—one district at a time.”
A Grassroots Coalition
The Southwest Florida Business Alliance (SWFLBA) played a leading role in rallying public support behind the bill.
“This was a community-led movement,” said SWFLBA founder Katrina Salokar.
“Business leaders, local officials, and everyday residents all stood up for better government. It’s been a powerful thing to witness.”
On March 26, Salokar and Alva Inc. board member James Whitney Jr. traveled to Tallahassee to deliver testimony before the House Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee, where HB 4001 passed unanimously.
The bill advanced through the full House with a vote of 94 YEAS to 11 NAYS on April 24, and passed the Senate unanimously (36-0) on April 30.
A Broad Coalition of Support
In addition to local officials and business leaders, the movement has drawn support from nonpartisan civic organizations such as the League of Women Voters.
Marsha Ellis, a representative of the League’s Lee County chapter, praised the legislation as a vital step toward fair representation.
“This is about giving people a true voice in who represents them,” said Ellis.
“The League of Women Voters has long advocated for single-member districts because they empower communities and improve transparency.”
What’s Next?
As the bill heads to the Governor’s desk, organizers are urging residents to stay involved. The Southwest Florida Business Alliance is building a contact list of supporters to be notified of the next steps and future calls to action.
📬 Visit www.swflba.com to sign up and stay informed.
Then click on the Single-Member Districts link to proceed.
