Author: LeAenSUAREZGroup

Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for more than 50 counties in Florida, including Lee County, in response to a tropical wave that has the potential to develop into a tropical depression. This weather event, identified as Invest 97L, is forecasted to bring significant rainfall and potential flooding to the state over the next week.

The emergency declaration, issued on August 1, highlights the threat posed by Invest 97L, which is currently causing disorganized showers and thunderstorms across Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. The tropical wave is expected to evolve into a tropical depression by the weekend or early next week near the eastern Gulf of Mexico and the Florida Peninsula.

Governor DeSantis emphasized the severe risk of heavy rainfall throughout most of Florida, warning of potential flash flooding, river flooding, coastal flooding, erosion, and gusty winds. These conditions could severely impact critical infrastructure, including major interstates, roadways, bridges, airports, schools, hospitals, and power grids.

“The anticipated weather conditions could disrupt the operational capability of essential infrastructure,” DeSantis stated. He also noted that water tables in the affected areas are already at high levels, and the additional rainfall could lead to prolonged river flooding, lasting several weeks.

The declaration also highlighted the likelihood of widespread power outages due to downed trees and power lines. In preparation, Governor DeSantis has authorized the activation of the Florida National Guard and the Florida State Guard to assist in emergency response efforts.

To ensure an effective response, the emergency declaration suspends any statute, rule, or order that could impede mitigation, response, or recovery actions necessary to manage the situation.

Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the situation develops.

On August 1 at 9 p.m., the City of Sanibel reported that a tropical disturbance, known as Invest 97L, in the Caribbean Sea has the potential to intensify into a tropical depression within the next 48 hours.

The area of development for this system has shifted westward and is now anticipated to move into the eastern Gulf of Mexico.

Sanibel residents, business owners, and visitors should prepare for potential heavy rainfall starting this weekend and continuing into the next week.

Everyone is advised to stay informed about the storm’s progress through the National Hurricane Center and the National Weather Service. Additionally, the city encourages the public to register with Alert Lee for emergency notifications from Lee County and to subscribe to the city’s announcements for timely updates.

For updates from the National Hurricane Center, visit NHC.

For updates from the National Weather Service, visit NWS.

To sign up for Alert Lee, visit Alert Lee.

To subscribe to the city’s announcements, visit City of Sanibel and click on the “I Want To” drop-down tab.

According to U.S. Census data, Fort Myers, Florida, has experienced the largest population increase due to net migration.

If you’ve ever witnessed a sunset along the pristine coastline of Fort Myers, you understand the allure of this stunning Gulf Coast city. Many have chosen to make Fort Myers their permanent home.

Fort Myers Takes the Lead

Every year, U.S. News releases its prestigious ranking of the best places to live in America, based on various categories including population growth, which contributes to each community’s desirability score. While this year’s overall winner is Naples, Fort Myers has earned the title of the fastest-growing place in the nation.

“Fort Myers is the fastest-growing of the 150 major cities in this year’s analysis, seeing a population increase of 6.73 percent between 2021 and 2022 due to net migration,” states U.S. News, citing the most recent data set from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The city now boasts a population of 109,595 residents with a median age of 45. U.S. News also highlights Fort Myers’ affordable real estate market, where the median home price is $273,214, though current Zillow estimates place it at $361,966. The median household income stands at $71,154, surpassing the state average for Florida.

What Makes Fort Myers So Attractive?

Fort Myers offers several appealing features:

• Vibrant Downtown: A lively city center with a mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
• Outdoor Activities: Abundant recreational opportunities thanks to its warm weather and natural beauty.
• Economic Prospects: The Cape Coral-Fort Myers area had an unemployment rate of just three percent in May, a full percentage point lower than the national average. WalletHub also recognized Fort Myers as the third-best small city to start a business, citing its high number of investors per capita.

While large metropolitan areas face record-high office vacancy rates, with a national average of 18 percent, the Fort Myers/Naples area maintains a much lower rate, just below five percent.

Other Fast-Growing Cities

Following Fort Myers, Killeen, Texas, ranks second on U.S. News’s list, with a population growth of 6.57 percent. The median home value in Killeen was $161,449, with current values at $229,154.

Port St. Lucie, another coastal Florida community, comes in third, experiencing a 4.93 percent increase in full-time residents between 2021 and 2022.

Florida cities dominate U.S. News’s ranking, with seven communities making it into the top 10. For the full report, visit usnews.com.

Fort Myers, with its combination of natural beauty, economic opportunities, and vibrant lifestyle, continues to attract new residents, solidifying its status as the fastest-growing city in the U.S.

As the peak of hurricane season approaches, the city of Sanibel urges residents and businesses to review their Disaster Supply Kit and confirm their hurricane preparedness plan.

Mayor Richard Johnson emphasized the importance of readiness: “The key to weathering whatever Mother Nature sends our way is to have a plan and be prepared. Please pay close attention to weather updates from our local meteorologists and follow the guidance of public authorities if a threatening storm heads this way.”

For detailed information on what to include in a Disaster Supply Kit, visit the Florida Disaster Supply Checklist.

Additional resources for hurricane preparedness can be found at the National Hurricane Center and the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

Lumen Technologies has announced the commencement of construction for Quantum Fiber’s high-speed internet on Sanibel Island. Starting August 1, the installation process is in full swing, beginning at the east end of the island and moving westward.

The entire project, including sod restoration, is expected to be completed by mid-January.

The construction will cover various areas, including:

• Periwinkle Way (from Seagrape Lane to Kings Crown Drive)
• East Gulf Drive
• Buttonwood Lane
• Bella Vista Way
• Glory Circle
• Seagrape Lane
• Sabal Avenue
• Lighthouse Way
• North Yachtsman Drive
• Schooner Place
• Morningside Place

Residents may notice activities such as path creation, excavation, and the pulling of fiber or conduit.

“This new market build-out will deliver gigabit and multigigabit speeds to more than 6,600 homes and businesses in the area,” Lumen Technologies reported.

For further information or questions about the construction, please contact Trevor at [email protected]

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) has revealed fascinating insights into the diamondback terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin), highlighting their unique adaptation to estuarine environments along the U.S. coast, from Massachusetts to Texas. These habitat specialists predominantly reside in salt marshes, with a significant portion in South Florida thriving in mangrove waterways.

“Throughout this expansive range, their appearance or phenotype changes depending on the region they occur in, even though they are all one species,” noted Chris Lechowicz, Wildlife & Habitat Management Director at SCCF. “These brackish water species can tolerate a wide variety of salinities, including hypersaline environments.”

Historically, diamondback terrapins have been classified into seven subspecies, each exhibiting distinct regional phenotypes. Florida is a biodiversity hotspot, hosting five of these subspecies, with three being endemic to the state.

In Lee County, terrapins are often identified as either ornate diamondback terrapins (M. t. macrospilota) or mangrove diamondback terrapins (M. t. rhizophorarum), depending on the source of the range maps.

“Since 2013, SCCF biologists have observed that most terrapins in the area resemble ornate diamondback terrapins,” Lechowicz explained. “However, a small yet consistent number of terrapins show characteristics more typical of the mangrove diamondback terrapin.”

The research highlights the occurrence of intergrades—terrapins with blended traits—at the intersection of the two subspecies’ ranges. Unlike hybrids, which result from the mixing of different species, intergrades occur within the same species.

Recent genetic studies by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, incorporating samples from researchers statewide, aimed to verify if the phenotype-based subspecies range maps align with genetic data. The SCCF was a significant contributor to this study.

The findings adjusted the range of mangrove diamondback terrapins, extending it further up Florida’s west coast, slightly north of Sarasota. Consequently, based on genetic data, Sanibel is now recognized as home to mangrove diamondback terrapins.

“We discovered a variety of phenotypes within our population, some not closely matching either subspecies, while others fit one or both subspecies well,” Lechowicz added. “Island populations tend to resemble one subspecies more closely than mainland populations. We have shared recent photos showcasing the diversity in coloration and patterning in our area.”

The public is encouraged to report sightings and share photos of diamondback terrapins by emailing [email protected].

The Sanibel Planning Commission recently approved several ordinances related to Land Development Code amendments, advancing them to the Sanibel City Council with a recommendation for approval.

Key Decisions from the July 23 Meeting:

1. Nonconforming Use and Structures Deadline Extension

The first ordinance addressed the extension of deadlines for reestablishing nonconforming uses and structures post-disaster. Initially set to 12 months before Hurricane Ian, this deadline was extended to 24 months if a local emergency persisted beyond six months. The new proposal extends this deadline to 36 months, until December 15, 2025. The commission unanimously approved this amendment, recommending council approval.

2. Conditional Use Applications

The second ordinance focused on expediting the review process for conditional use applications, allowing for temporary staff review instead of commission approval. Specifically, it proposed:

• Staff Review for Eating Places and Formula Retail: Streamlining applications from a long-form process to a short-form process handled by staff.
• Exemptions for Existing Businesses: Businesses in operation since the city’s incorporation would be exempt from obtaining new conditional use permits if needed due to post-disaster redevelopment.
• Traffic Impact Assumptions: Conditional uses would be presumed to have no greater traffic impacts than permitted uses.

The commission approved this ordinance with a 5-2 vote, after removing formula retail and adding provisions for reestablishment in the same location, along with conditions deemed necessary by staff.

3. Waiver Applications

The third ordinance also aimed at expediting applications, allowing staff review for waivers related to nonconforming commercial properties. The five types of waivers included:

• Design specifications for off-street parking and loading areas.
• Specifications for commercial vegetation buffers and landscaping.
• Modifications to nonconforming structures within commercial district setbacks.
• Permitted land coverage for nonconforming properties in commercial districts.
• Additional ingress/egress driveways to improve safety and traffic circulation.

The commission unanimously approved this ordinance, recommending council approval.

4. Long-Form Development Permit Applications

The fourth ordinance proposed staff review and approval for specific long-form development permits, including:

• Applications requiring variances or waivers.
• Applications requiring conditional use permits.
• Rebuilding nonconforming structures or uses within the original three-dimensional outline, with adjustments to reduce encroachment into the Gulf Beach Zone.

While variances and conditional uses, except for certain businesses, would still require commission approval, any implementing development permit could be approved by staff. This ordinance also allows staff to approve development permits for rebuilding in the Gulf Beach Zone with footprint adjustments. The commission unanimously approved this amendment, recommending council approval.

These proposed amendments stemmed from a joint workshop held in June between the commission and the council, with the aim to facilitate redevelopment post-disaster. With the Planning Commission’s recommendations, the Sanibel City Council will now consider these significant changes to the Land Development Code.

The 10th annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest returns to the beautiful beaches of Southwest Florida, kicking off 10 days of incredible performances from September 20 to 29th!

This year, the festival celebrates a decade of bringing fans closer to their favorite artists with intimate shows in stunning tropical venues. While most events are free and open to the public, some exclusive experiences require tickets.

Don’t Miss Out on These Ticketed Events:

• ACMA Showcase (Sept. 25, 6:30 PM): Witness the talent of BMI singer-songwriters Bill Metts, Robert Bidney, Karen Cohen, Bruce Gallant, and Roy Schneider at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in downtown Fort Myers.
• Jeffrey Steele with the Gulf Coast Symphony (Sept. 26, 7 PM): Experience the magic of five-time Grammy nominee Jeffrey Steele alongside the Gulf Coast Symphony at the Florida Repertory Theatre.
• Music Row @ Margaritaville (Sept. 27, 7:30 PM): Catch BMI singer-songwriters Kristian Bush, Kassi Ashton, and Shane Proffitt live at Margaritaville Beach Resort on Fort Myers Beach. While general admission tickets are gone, VIP packages with reserved seating, a meet-and-greet, and drink tickets are still available!
• Island Hopper Grand Finale with Scotty McCreery (Sept. 29, 5 PM): Wrap up the festival with a pool party performance by headliner Scotty McCreery at the Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina! Sing along to his hits like “You Time,” “Damn Strait,” and the tear-jerking ballad “Cab in a Solo.”

Free Events and Beyond:

In addition to the ticketed shows, free live music fills the air at host venues throughout the festival:

• Captiva (Sept. 20-22)
• Cape Coral (Sept. 23-24)
• Downtown Fort Myers (Sept. 25-26)
• Fort Myers Beach (Sept. 27-29)

Download the Island Hopper app for a chance to win a dream vacation package, including a stay at the DiamondHead Beach Resort, McCreery tickets, and a gift bag!

Ready to Island Hop?

Head over to IslandHopperFest.com or download the app for complete details and to secure your tickets for the must-see events.

Wild lime (Zanthoxylum fagara) is a tough, low-maintenance plant that thrives in our sunny climate. This native Florida shrub or small tree can add a splash of color to your landscape with its foliage ranging from light yellow to deep green.

Adaptable and resilient, wild lime tolerates drought and even occasional saltwater flooding. It’s a champion of our region, having bounced back stronger than ever after Hurricane Ian.

A haven for wildlife, this plant is a favorite of the giant swallowtail and Schaus’ swallowtail butterflies. Its fragrant leaves can also be used as a unique spice in cooking.

Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance addition to your garden or want to support local wildlife, wild lime is an excellent choice.

Great news, Sanibel Island visitors and residents! Traffic has officially shifted to the permanent lanes on the Sanibel Causeway. This marks a significant milestone in the ongoing restoration project following Hurricane Ian.

However, construction is still underway, so here’s what you need to know before your next trip:

What to Expect:

• Causeway Islands: Be aware that the islands surrounding the temporary roadway are currently closed to the public due to ongoing construction. This includes access from the water.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for protected beach-nesting birds that may be flying near the roadway. Please slow down and drive with caution.
• Westbound Traffic: Expect occasional traffic stops near the staging area entrance as construction equipment crosses the road.
• Debris Removal: Construction crews continue removing debris and working on the Causeway Islands. You might see construction equipment entering or leaving the travel lanes periodically.
• Westbound Merge: The westbound merge lane is now located west of the toll plaza. Remember to be cautious and obey the 20 mph speed limit.

Eastbound Traffic (From the Toll Plaza):

• Lane Closures: Expect temporary daytime lane closures on McGregor Boulevard (both eastbound and westbound) between Shell Point Boulevard and Punta Rassa Road. This is to prepare for a traffic shift scheduled for early August.
• Traffic Shift: Early next month, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction on McGregor Boulevard for about a half mile (from Shell Point to west of Port Comfort Road) as crews reconstruct an underground pipe crossing. Traffic will be shifted north while they work on the south side, and then vice versa.
• Eastbound Lane: One lane of eastbound traffic will remain open from the toll plaza to Shell Point Road on the south (beach) side of McGregor. However, the shoulder on this side remains closed for construction. Crews are excavating and installing shoreline reinforcement measures.
• Westbound Delays: Westbound motorists on McGregor Boulevard might experience short delays as Florida Highway Patrol stops traffic to allow deliveries to the staging area at Punta Rassa.

Important Reminders:

• Oversized vehicles are using the causeway for recovery efforts. Be patient, as travel times may be longer than usual.
• Bicycles and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway at this time.
• Obey the posted speed limit of 20 mph throughout the construction zone.

Stay Informed:

For the latest information on the Sanibel Causeway restoration project, visit the Florida Department of Transportation website: https://www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway