Former Mayor Eric Feichthaler wants to be the Community Redevelopment Agency’s new attorney.
Feichthaler’s intentions were announced by CRA board member Frank Dethlefsen at the group’s monthly meeting Tuesday.
Feichthaler said he feels he can benefit the community in the position, combining his knowledge and connections in the city with his legal background to be effective.
“I have a unique perspective … and a strong background on the practical issues they face,” he said.
CRA Executive Director John Jacobsen said he considering three individuals for the position, which has been vacant since renowned land use attorney David Cardwell died last year.
The two other candidates are from Tampa and Fort Myers, Jacobsen said.
While he admitted that no one will be able to match Cardwell’s grasp on redevelopment law, he said each candidate brings their own strengths and weaknesses.
One might have extensive experience in redevelopment law for instance, while another might have intimate knowledge of the Cape Coral’s laws and ordinances, as is Feichthaler’s case.
“I come with no preconceived decision by any means,” Jacobsen said. “I’m just trying to find the best fit.”
Jacobsen will interview each candidates before making his recommendation to the CRA board.
Chairman Don Heisler said it would be impossible to replace Cardwell, who was instrumental in helping the board come to grips with redevelopment law.
“As a board, we’ve matured since we’ve met David Cardwell. He brought us forward, and perhaps our specific needs …. may not be what they were a few years ago,” Heisler said. “But it falls back on John’s shoulders to evaluate.”
Feichthaler said he has not had any contact with city council regarding the city manager position, which he previously had shown interest in.
Juggling a busy schedule, he said the CRA position might serve him better.
“This is probably a better fit for me when it comes to time,” he said.
Feichthaler and Jacobsen are supposed to meet on Thursday.