Jacksonville, Florida native Curtis Ludwig has been hired as the new Harbormaster for Fort Myers Beach. He’ll be paid a salary of $70,000, $2,500 to relocate, insurance and a retirement contribution. All in, salary and benefits, taxpayers will pay Ludwig $93,112.90 per year.
Ludwig replaces Austin Gilchrist who was an employee of the town from April of 2015 to March of 2024. Gilchrist was let go by the town for unspecified reasons. When he left Gilchrist was making a salary of $66,394 per year.
Ludwig brings the town experience in Marine Operations. He served 10 years in the United States Coast Guard where he was stationed in the Middle East on a patrol boat, and he spent time on a tug and barge.
After his service he stayed in the Maritime Industry where he has experience working as a Shipping Agent, Port Manager, Project Manager, and an Operations Manager where he oversaw the daily operations of a port, docking and releasing vessels. He also has his 100-ton Master Captains License.
In a Wednesday press release from the town Ludwig said he’s excited about his new role. “I feel as though it is the right fit based off the Towns needs and my skillset and knowledge in the industry. I am looking forward to continuing the build back process of the Marine Operations Division post Hurricane Ian, and playing a vital role in growing the division to where it needs to be.”