Fort Myers Names New City Attorney & Clerk

The Fort Myers City Council has appointed Ronald A. Dente Jr. as the new City Attorney and sworn in Lilliana Baker as the new City Clerk. Both bring experience from within the city organization to these charter officer roles.

Dente, who has served the city since 2019, most recently as deputy city attorney since 2024, succeeds Grant W. Alley, who retired after nearly 31 years. Dente's legal background includes advising city leadership on municipal governance, land use, procurement, contracts, labor law, ethics, and risk management, as well as representing the city in litigation. The Florida Bar board-certified him in City, County and Local Government Law, and he is a Florida Supreme Court certified circuit civil mediator.

“It is an honor to continue serving the City of Fort Myers in this new role and to build on the strong legal foundation established by Grant Alley,” Dente stated. “My experience with the city provides continuity and a clear understanding of its priorities, and I look forward to working with City Council, staff and the community to navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead.”

Baker, who has served the City of Fort Myers for eight years, succeeds Mary Hagemann, who retired Sept. 9. Baker brings over 17 years of experience in local and federal government, nonprofit organizations, and higher education. As City Clerk, Baker plans to enhance resident engagement with local government and is exploring initiatives such as partnering with local middle schools to conduct mock City Council meetings.