Author: LeAenSUAREZGroup

A beloved piece of Sanibel’s history is taking its first concrete steps toward recovery. The City of Sanibel announced it will utilize $24,000 in citizen donations to fund an engineering study, a critical move to determine if temporary repairs can be made to the Sanibel Fishing Pier.

Closed since suffering extensive damage during Hurricane Ian, the pier has remained an “eyesore” and a reminder of the storm’s toll. However, a new partnership between the City and determined residents aims to restore access.

The Financial Challenge Because the pier was not insured, the full cost of repair or replacement falls on the City and other funding sources.

• Repair Estimate: $651,190

• Full Replacement Estimate: $1,232,966

• FEMA Support: While the City sought reimbursement, FEMA has indicated it is prepared to obligate only $145,000—a figure significantly lower than even the estimated demolition cost.

Acknowledging that investment in the pier was initially a lower priority due to widespread infrastructure damage, City Manager Dana Souza noted, “It’s going to take a long time to get the funds to do the work.”

A Phased Approach to Reopening To accelerate the timeline, City staff and residents—led by fundraising organizers Robert Stern and Richard Birney—have developed a two-phase plan. The City Council has authorized moving forward with Option 1, which allows residents to raise private funds for the design and construction.

• Phase 1 (Top-Side Repairs): Estimated at $200,000. This phase focuses on necessary top-side repairs and access improvements to get the pier open to the public sooner. Permitting is expected to take six months or less.

• Phase 2 (Permanent Repairs): Estimated at $451,190. This involves in-water work, including pile installation. Permitting could take up to a year.

Funding the Fix The financial roadmap relies on a mix of public and private support:

• City Contribution: The City is prepared to provide $233,000 toward the pier’s future (roughly equivalent to the cost of demolition).

• Citizen Fundraising Target: The community goal is to raise approximately $600,000 to cover the remaining costs for both phases.

The Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI) will handle the collection and disbursement of funds, which will be held at Bank of the Islands. A dedicated citizens committee will lead the fundraising charge.

Next Steps With the $24,000 in hand for the design phase, an engineer will now prepare the specifications for the repairs. Once the design is complete and sufficient private funds are raised, the City will issue an Invitation to Bid for construction.

As the Citizens’ Committee noted in their presentation, “The Sanibel Pier is a key part of our island legacy.” This project aims to transform a symbol of loss back into a vibrant service for islanders and visitors alike.

The City of Sanibel is taking a closer look at how fast drivers are really traveling on our island’s busiest thoroughfares. In a city-funded initiative, the City Council is reviewing data from a comprehensive Roadway Speed Study performed by Johnson Engineering with support from city staff.

The goal of the study is to analyze existing conditions—including city-wide speed limit signage and passing zones—to determine if current speed limits need adjustment in select locations.

How the Data Was Collected To get an accurate picture of traffic behavior, the study utilized a 24-hour monitoring period over 20 consecutive days (from November 19, 2025, to December 9, 2025). Sensors collected data at six specific locations: four along Sanibel-Captiva Road, one on East Periwinkle Way, and one on Rabbit Road.

Preliminary Highlights: What the Numbers Say The draft report offers a fascinating glimpse into driver behavior. While the majority of drivers appear to be adhering to general flow, there are notable outliers, particularly on Sanibel-Captiva Road.

• Sanibel-Captiva Road (East of Pine Ave):

  • Most drivers (37,908) maintained speeds of 30-35 mph.

  • However, 21 vehicles were clocked driving over 60 mph.

• Sanibel-Captiva Road (West of Buckthorn Lane):

  • The bulk of traffic (43,036) traveled at 40-45 mph.

  • Concern lies in the higher speeds: 1,924 cars were recorded going over 55 mph, with 20 of those exceeding 70 mph.

• Sanibel-Captiva Road (East of Gulf Pines):

  • The majority (61,519) traveled at 35-40 mph.

  • 39 cars were recorded driving over 70 mph.

• Sanibel-Captiva Road (East of Rabbit Road):

  • Most traffic (66,252) stayed within the 35-40 mph range.

  • 351 cars were clocked over 60 mph, with 59 exceeding 70 mph.

• East Periwinkle Way & Rabbit Road:

  • Speeds were generally lower here. On East Periwinkle, most drivers stayed between 30-35 mph, while Rabbit Road saw the majority at 35-40 mph.

  • Extreme speeding was less frequent but still present, with roughly 18-29 cars exceeding 50 mph at these locations.

What’s Next? A full draft report from city staff and Johnson Engineering will be forthcoming soon. In addition to speed limits, the final report will also address the safety and placement of passing lanes along Sanibel-Captiva Road.

The future of the East Periwinkle Way Bridge has been decided. Following months of study and community debate regarding the bridge’s dimensions, the Sanibel City Council voted unanimously on January 13 to proceed with the current engineering design “as is,” foregoing proposals to significantly raise the bridge’s height.

Background: A Necessity Born from Ian The bridge approaches were famously washed out during Hurricane Ian, cutting off access to the east end of the island for months. While repairs were made to restore access, the State of Florida has declared the current structure “functionally obsolete,” necessitating a resilient long-term replacement.

The “Sweet Spot” Design In June 2024, the City hired consultants TYLin to design a replacement that would improve resilience, pedestrian access, and boat navigation. By February 2025, the consultants presented a design that balanced these needs with the constraints of the nearby intersections (Pen Shell Drive, Limpet Drive, and Tulip Lane).

The approved design features:

• Vertical Clearance: A one-foot increase in clearance for boat traffic.

• Speed Limit: A reduction to 25 mph on the bridge (with a potential extension of this speed limit along East Periwinkle Way) to accommodate the slope.

• Pedestrian Access: Widening the shared-use path from 8 feet to 10 feet, achieved by slightly narrowing the vehicle travel lanes.

The Debate Over Height During the planning phase, some residents advocated for a more significant increase in vertical clearance to better accommodate boat traffic. Consequently, the Council directed staff to obtain cost estimates for raising the bridge by two to three feet.

The Final Verdict At the recent January 13 meeting, TYLin reported that increasing the bridge height beyond the proposed one foot would face significant hurdles:

• Cost: It would add an estimated $4 million to the project.

• Engineering: The currently proposed one-foot increase already utilizes the maximum available road slope.

Faced with these constraints, the City Council voted unanimously to move forward with the design as currently proposed to avoid further delays.

The Sanibel City Council recently conducted a flurry of public hearings, addressing everything from hurricane recovery measures to renewable energy codes. Here is a breakdown of the key decisions made.

Extending Hurricane Recovery Tools To continue supporting the island’s rebuilding efforts, the Council unanimously approved several extensions for temporary permitting allowances. These provisions, which were originally set to expire at the end of 2025, have now been extended through December 31, 2026.

• Expediting Waiver Reviews: The temporary allowance for “short-form” administrative approval of waivers has been extended.

• Conditional Uses: The allowance for short-form approval of certain conditional uses was also extended. Note: Notice is still provided to neighbors within 300 feet, and any resident can request that an application undergo a full “long-form” review by the Planning Commission.

• Waiving Long-Form Development Permits: While variances and most conditional uses must still go before the Planning Commission, the subsequent implementing development permits can now be approved by planning staff for another year. This streamlines the process while ensuring all standards of review still apply.

Solar & Renewable Energy Updates Moving to its second reading, the Council is finalizing an ordinance to support renewable energy adoption.

• Easier Installs: The amendments make it easier to install solar batteries and associated equipment.

• Simplified Process: Permitting is simplified through an administrative deviation process.

• Clarity: The revisions provide clearer definitions to accommodate evolving technology.

Property Compliance: 4560 Waters Edge The Council voted unanimously to levy an assessment of $25,954.96 against the property at 4560 Waters Edge. This action recovers the costs the City incurred to demolish the dangerous structure after the owner failed to abate code violations or pay the demolition bill.

Sanibel Harbours Dredging The Council held a required hearing to formalize the Sanibel Harbours Inlet Dredging Assessment District.

• The Plan: A recurring annual special assessment of $586.23 will be levied on the 44 parcels within the district.

• The Goal: Residents requested this district to pay for future dredging via their annual tax bills rather than facing large lump-sum payments when dredging becomes necessary.

Police Pension Adjustment A review of the Municipal Police Officers’ Retirement Trust Fund revealed that a 3.0% contribution for supplemental medical benefits is voluntary, not mandatory. Consequently, twelve sworn officers who stated they would not have opted into this contribution will be issued refunds. The mandatory 5.0% pension contribution remains unchanged.

Community Housing & Resources (CHR) made a landmark announcement at the January 13 Sanibel City Council meeting, revealing plans to purchase the former Fish House property located at 1523 Periwinkle Way.

CHR Executive Director Nicole Decker-McHale outlined an ambitious redevelopment plan that will transform the vacant site into a vibrant, mixed-use community asset.

The Project: By the Numbers The proposed $21 million project aims to revitalize the Periwinkle Way location with a scheduled completion date of July 2028. The development plans include:

• 38 Affordable Housing Apartments: A significant boost to the island’s housing inventory.

• Commercial Space: 2,500 square feet designated for commercial use, creating a true mixed-use environment.

Reaching City Goals This development is historically significant for Sanibel. Once completed, the additional units will allow the city to finally reach its long-standing affordable housing population goal of 3 percent for the first time. The City Council voted unanimously to provide a formal letter of support for the project.

Grant Requirements & Eligibility While the project is a major win for the island, Decker-McHale noted an important stipulation regarding resident eligibility. Under the specific terms of the grant awarded to fund this development, CHR is required to open the application process to all Lee County residents, considering them alongside applicants from Sanibel and Captiva.

Upcoming Event: “Full Moon” Fundraiser

In addition to the development news, the City Council also approved a request for CHR’s upcoming fundraising event.

Mark your calendars for February 2, when CHR will host a “Full Moon” Fundraiser featuring a beach campfire at the Sundial Beach Resort. It promises to be a magical evening supporting the organization’s vital mission on the island.

The Santiva Islanders have announced their upcoming schedule of activities, featuring fitness classes, social gatherings, and nature walks. The group welcomes all adult islanders and visitors, regardless of age.

Wednesday, January 21

• 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | Cardio & Strength: Hosted by Mahnaz Bassiri at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ (2050 Periwinkle Way). Bring water/towel; light weights optional.

• 11:00 a.m. – Noon | Cardio & Strength: Second session at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ.

• Noon – 1:00 p.m. | Leisure Lunch: Meet at Thistle Lodge at Casa Ybel Resort (2255 W. Gulf Drive). Attendees order individually. RSVP to Erika Arnowitz at 239-472-4775, ext. 107.

• 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Social Hour: Casual gathering at American Legion Post 123 (4249 Sanibel-Captiva Road). Attendees order individually.

Thursday, January 22

• 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. | Breakfast Club: Meet at Jerry’s Cafe (1700 Periwinkle Way). Attendees order individually. Contact: Bernard Arroyo at 239-295-5463.

• 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Social Bridge: Held at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church (2304 Periwinkle Way). Cost: $5. Contact: Bryant Korn at bryantekorn@gmail.com.

• 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Social Mahjong: Held at Santiva Islanders Place (SIP) (2330 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 17). Cost: $5. Contact: sanidona@gmail.com.

Friday, January 23

• 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | Cardio & Strength: Hosted by Mahnaz Bassiri at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ.

• 11:00 a.m. – Noon | Cardio & Strength: Second session at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ.

Monday, January 26

• 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | Cardio & Strength: Hosted by Mahnaz Bassiri at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ.

• 11:00 a.m. – Noon | Cardio & Strength: Second session at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ.

• 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Brown Bag Lunch: Bring your own lunch to Santiva Islanders Place (SIP) (2330 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 17).

Tuesday, January 27

• 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. | Walking Group: Explore the SCCF’s Shipley and Pond Apple trails. Meet at the SCCF’s Bailey Homestead Preserve (1300 Periwinkle Way) in the front parking lot. Lunch at a local restaurant follows (optional).

• 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Euchre: Held at Santiva Islanders Place (SIP). Cost: $5. Contact: Les Carlson at lescarlson@comcast.net.

Wednesday, January 28

• 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | Cardio & Strength: Hosted by Mahnaz Bassiri at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ.

• 11:00 a.m. – Noon | Cardio & Strength: Second session at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ.

• 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Social Hour: Casual gathering at American Legion Post 123.

Membership & Class Costs

• Annual Membership: $25

• Cardio & Strength Cost: Members: $5/class or $60/month | Non-members: $10/class or $120/month.

For more information, visit santivaislanders.org or email santivaislanders@gmail.com.

The Captiva Community Panel (CCP) convened on January 13 for a packed meeting, addressing the future of the Rauschenberg property, upcoming fire district elections, and infrastructure resilience.

Rauschenberg Property: A Contract is Signed The future of the iconic 22-acre Rauschenberg Foundation property appears to be taking a definitive direction. CCP President David Mintz reported that while no official confirmation has been released by the foundation, a contract has been signed.

Mintz clarified that the contract is not with the Captiva Island Fire Control District nor the community investor group that sought to preserve a portion of the land. Instead, strong evidence points to South Seas as the buyer. Mintz noted that attorneys for the resort recently requested information from Lee County regarding zoning and the Captiva Plan specifically for those 22 acres.

Fire District Referendum: February 10 Despite the developments with the Rauschenberg land, Captiva Fire Chief Jeff Pawul emphasized the critical nature of the upcoming special election on February 10.

Voters will decide on a referendum allowing the district to issue bonds—not to exceed $24 million—to purchase and improve property for public safety purposes. Chief Pawul clarified that while the original hope was to acquire part of the Rauschenberg site, the district’s needs remain urgent regardless of that specific parcel.

Current critical needs include:

• A new emergency helicopter landing zone.

• Additional staff housing and apparatus storage.

• A post-disaster staging area.

• A dock for public safety vessels.

“All of the things we need have not changed,” Pawul said, noting that potential development on the Rauschenberg site would only increase the island’s population and safety requirements. If passed, the tax increase aims to stay at or below 1 mill, and funds would only be spent after a transparent public process to identify suitable land.

Infrastructure & Resiliency Panel Member Mike Bennett provided updates on key county infrastructure projects:

• Jensen’s Curve/Santiva: The county is currently selecting a consultant to plan and model resiliency improvements for this area.

• Blind Pass Bridge: Officials are exploring possible repairs and additional fortification for the bridge.

2026 Officer Election The panel unanimously elected its officers for the 2026 term:

• President: David Mintz

• Vice President: Bruce McDonald

• Secretary: Jay Brown

• Treasurer: Sandy Stilwell Youngquist

LCSO Safety Reminders Sgt. Rich Zeltman of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office reminded residents and visitors that golf carts are prohibited on dunes and beaches. This follows a recent report of a violation. “It is against the law,” Zeltman stated. He also reported that the Captiva crew responded to approximately 4,000 calls for service last year, ranging from water rescues to traffic enforcement.

With the major sand placement of the beach renourishment project complete, the Captiva Erosion Prevention District (CEPD) is turning its focus to the finishing touches: vegetation, access paths, and dune protection.

At a meeting on January 12, the CEPD commission reviewed proposals presented by General Manager Brighton Heard regarding the next phase of the restoration.

Ropes, Bollards, and Beach Access The board discussed how to best manage public access and protect the new dunes. While the initial proposal suggested installing ropes and bollards on both sides of the road from the “S curve” at Jensen’s to north of the Alison Hagerup beach park, the commission opted for a different approach.

Chairman John Wade noted that these barriers have historically only been used along the beach side. Consequently, the board directed staff to proceed with installing ropes and bollards on the seaward side only.

Regarding specific beach access points:

• Andy Rosse Lane: The commission voted 4-1 to maintain the path extending west off of Andy Rosse Lane but decided not to include “stake-out” paths extending to the north and south.

Beautifying the Entrances To enhance the visual appeal and stability of the dunes, the commission voted 4-1 to engage Coastal Vista, a landscaping firm. The company will prepare planting design renderings for the Village area, specifically focusing on four key public access locations:

• Andy Rosse Lane

• Wightman Lane

• Laika Lane

• Alison Hagerup Beach Park

The approved $10,500 contract covers the first two phases of the design process, with future phases to be considered later.

Australian Pine Removal Update General Manager Heard also provided an update on the Australian Pine Removal Program. Approximately 60 trees are scheduled for removal. However, work near active bald eagle nests has been proactively rescheduled for April, after the nesting season concludes, to ensure the safety of the wildlife. Heard noted that the current removal plans utilize less than one-quarter of the available grant funds.

Community Support for Dune Heights In other news, staff reported receiving a letter from residents expressing strong support for the new dune heights. The residents emphasized that maintaining the current height is a critical investment in the island’s long-term protection, resilience, and sustainability against future storms.