Author: LeAneSUAREZGroup

The ongoing legal battles to preserve the historical charm, low-density zoning, and environmental balance of Captiva Island reached a critical crossroads this week. A single panel of appellate judges issued two disappointing rulings on the same day regarding the density restrictions at South Seas Resort.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we stay deeply connected to these developments. Comprehensive land use, zoning laws, and building heights are the single most significant drivers of long-term real estate values and neighborhood character on our barrier islands.

Here is a straightforward breakdown of the recent rulings issued on May 26, 2026, what they mean for the island, and the critical cases that still lie ahead.

In a nutshell: An appellate court panel overturned a lower court’s enforcement of Captiva’s historic 912-unit density cap, labeling the 2003 restriction as unenforceable “contract zoning”. While legal teams prepare appeals, a major petition to completely invalidate the county’s recent resort rezoning remains scheduled for September.

1. The Court of Appeals Overturns the 912-Density Cap

In a major setback for conservation advocates, the Court of Appeal reversed a prior decision by Circuit Court Judge Shenko, which had strictly enforced the historic 2003 Settlement Agreement. That landmark agreement explicitly stated that the total number of dwelling units at South Seas Resort is permanently capped at 912 units at any time, barring the county from issuing any building permits that would exceed that threshold.

The Legal Basis for the Reversal

The appellate opinion, authored by Judge Gannam, centered on a real estate concept known as “contract zoning”.

• The court held that Lee County did not possess the legal authority in 2003 to sign an agreement that indefinitely freezes density or prevents future boards from enacting new zoning ordinances.

• By permanently capping the resort at 912 units, the court argued the county essentially “contracted away” its legislative right to adjust density in the future, rendering the agreement unenforceable.

The Counter-Argument

Legal representatives for the Captiva Civic Association (CCA) and island advocates point out that true contract zoning typically involves a private developer making a deal with a county to rezone their land behind closed doors, bypassing public hearings. In contrast, the 912-unit cap was established via a transparent public hearing process all the way back in 1973.

Furthermore, critics of the ruling note that the court failed to reference the Florida Constitution, which protects the sacrosanct contract rights of private citizens from being stripped away or eliminated by government entities.

What’s Next: Attorneys for the CCA have 15 days to review the opinion and determine the most effective strategy to appeal this decision to a higher court.

2. The DOAH Administrative Appeal Is Denied

On the exact same day, the identical panel of appellate judges handed down a second unfavorable decision. The court denied the CCA’s request for oral arguments regarding their appeal of the Division of Administrative Hearings (DOAH) case.

The panel “affirmed per curiam” the Administrative Law Judge’s original decision, effectively dismissing the appeal without granting a formal hearing or providing a written explanatory decision. Legal teams are currently evaluating alternative responses to this ruling.

The Silver Lining: One Massive Case Remains Pending

While these twin appellate decisions are undoubtedly disappointing for conservationists, the most consequential legal mechanism to protect the island is still very much active and moving forward.

The Petition for Writ of Certiorari, which seeks to completely “quash” (invalidate) Lee County’s controversial decision to rezone South Seas for increased density and taller building heights, remains firmly on track.

                UPCOMING LEGAL TIMELINE FOR SOUTH SEAS RESORT
  
  [ JUNE 5, 2026 ] ────────────────► Petitioners' Reply Brief Due to the Court
                                              │
                                              ▼
  [ SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 ] ───────────► Oral Arguments Scheduled Before Judge Shenko

This multi-party petition represents an unprecedented coalition of island stakeholders, uniting:

• The Captiva Civic Association (CCA)

• RLR Investments & Royal Shell Vacations

• 12 separate South Seas Condominium Associations

• 8 distinct Timeshare Associations

Why This Remaining Case Matters

If the petitioners are successful in this upcoming battle, the county’s newly approved rezoning ordinances will be legally thrown out. As a result, the entirety of the South Seas Resort footprint will automatically revert to being governed by its 1973 Rezoning Resolution and original Administrative Interpretation, restoring the historical, protective limits on both building heights and density.

The petitioners’ final Reply Brief is due on June 5, 2026, with formal oral arguments scheduled to take place before Judge Shenko on September 3, 2026, at 1:30 PM.

How to Support the Island’s Future

Community members, property owners, and visitors who wish to aid these ongoing defense efforts can make a tax-deductible contribution directly to the Protect Captiva Legal Fund. Every bit of local advocacy directly ensures our paradise remains protected for generations to come.

Heads Up Sanibel! Free “Choose to Cruise Safely” Bike Safety Day Announced

Whether you are a lifelong resident cruising the island on a traditional beach cruiser or a visitor navigating our scenic pathways on a modern e-bike, safety on the saddle is paramount. In recognition of National Bike Safety Month, the Sanibel Recreation Department has announced a brand-new, free community event: “Choose to Cruise Safely Sanibel”.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we love highlighting events that keep our community active, connected, and safe. Sanibel’s famous shared-use paths are a signature lifestyle feature of the island, and this educational workshop is the perfect opportunity to build riding confidence for cyclists of all ages and skill levels.

In a nutshell: The Sanibel Recreation Center is hosting a free bike and e-bike safety event on Tuesday, May 26, featuring expert demonstrations, proper helmet fittings, and local law enforcement guidance.

Event Details & Interactive Activities

The family-friendly event is designed to tackle the growing presence of alternative transportation on the island, specifically addressing how to responsibly share space between pedestrians, traditional cyclists, and e-bike riders.

• When: Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

• Where: Sanibel Recreation Center, 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, FL 33957.

• Cost: Completely FREE and open to the general public.

Attendees walking or riding over to the recreation center will have the opportunity to participate in several hands-on stations:

• E-Bike Demystification: Explore and learn about the different legal classes of e-bikes and understand exactly how they operate.

• Helmet Safety Checks: Receive professional helmet inspections, safety checks, and custom-fit adjustments.

• Expert Q&A: Speak directly with local bicycle professionals, public safety representatives, and cycling advocates.

• Rules of the Road: Learn the core rules, city regulations, and navigate best practices for riding defensively on Sanibel’s shared-use paths.

A Coalition for Safer Island Pathways

The initiative brings together a powerful alliance of local public safety entities and trusted island businesses. Representatives from the Sanibel Police Department, Sanibel Fire & Rescue District, Sanibel Bicycle Club, Billy’s Bike Shop, Island Breeze Bikes, and Finnimore’s Bike Shop will all be on-site to assist riders.

The day will heavily emphasize a unified community protection message: “Heads Up Sanibel — Helmets On! One Ride. One Rule. Protect Your Head.”

“Sanibel is a community built around outdoor recreation and connectivity. Whether you’re riding a traditional bike, trying an e-bike for the first time, or walking and running around the island, we want everyone to feel informed, confident, and safe.” — Andrea Miller, Sanibel Recreation Department Director

For more information regarding the safety stations, pathway rules, or event logistics, you can call the Sanibel Recreation Center front desk directly at 239-472-0345. Gear up, strap on your helmet, and let’s keep our island trails safe for everyone this summer!

Captiva Community Panel Outlines 2028 Resiliency Project and Key Island Safety Regulations

The Captiva Community Panel recently convened to address structural infrastructure timelines, local bike and pedestrian regulations, and essential safety measures ahead of the busy holiday season.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we believe staying informed on community governance is vital for property owners. From multi-million dollar roadway hardening projects to daily traffic laws, these updates directly impact the lifestyle, safety, and long-term values of our sanctuary islands.

In a nutshell: The latest panel meeting revealed an early 2028 timeline for a major roadway resiliency project near Jensen’s curve, established clear guidelines for e-bike operations in unincorporated Lee County, and introduced a free life jacket loaner program at the fire station.

Jensen’s Curve Resiliency Project Slated for 2028

Panel Member and Infrastructure Committee Member Mike Bennett provided an update regarding the planned mitigation efforts designed to improve island resiliency along the 800 feet leading up to Jensen’s curve.

• Design Phase Underway: Lee County has officially signed a contract with an engineering firm to spearhead the design phase, which is expected to take approximately one year to complete.

• Bidding Process: Following the design phase, the construction bidding process will require an additional six to eight months.

• Target Construction Date: Bennett noted that actual construction activity will take place in early 2028 at the earliest.

• Unified Scope: This specific infrastructure hardening is directly tied to the broader mitigation and storm-surge protection work planned for the Blind Pass area.

LCSO Clarifies E-Bike and Roadway Regulations

Because Captiva is unincorporated, it falls under Lee County jurisdiction rather than neighboring Sanibel’s specific municipal codes. Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) Sgt. Adam Winton clarified that while the county lacks highly specific e-bike ordinances, standard bicycle regulations apply to riders and motorists alike.

Rules for Bicyclists & E-Bike Riders

• Speed Limits: The maximum legal speed for e-bikes on county roadways is 28 mph.

• Helmet Mandate: Any rider under the age of 16 is legally required to wear a helmet.

• Road Positioning: Cyclists must travel as close to the right side of the roadway as safely possible.

• Night Riding: Standard equipment must include a functional white light on the front and a red light or red reflector on the back of the bike.

• Hand Signals: Riders must utilize proper hand signals when turning, slowing down, or coming to a stop.

• Stop Signs: A cohesive group of 10 or more bicycles is legally permitted to proceed through a stop sign together as a single unit.

Rules for Motorists

• Clearance: Drivers must maintain a minimum of 3 feet of clearance when passing a bicycle.

• Double Yellow Lines: Motorists are legally permitted to cross double yellow lines (normally a strict no-passing zone) if necessary to safely pass a cyclist.

Holiday Safety and Life Jacket Loaner Program

With the Memorial Day holiday weekend approaching, Sgt. Winton anticipates a significant influx of non-islander visitors. Residents are strongly urged to take basic protective measures—such as locking vehicles and houses—and are reminded that open alcoholic containers are strictly prohibited in public spaces throughout Lee County.

To further enhance holiday safety on the water, Captiva Island Fire Control District Fire Chief Jeff Pawul highlighted the district’s free life jacket loaner program.

How it works: Available in both adult and children’s sizes directly at the fire station, the program is completely free to the public with no paperwork or fees required. It is an excellent resource for vacationers or islanders hosting visiting family and friends.

Additional Panel News & LCSO Statistics

• Stormwater Study Timeline: Stormwater Committee Chair Jay Brown reported that a recent computer hack affecting the county’s consultant has been fully rectified. The first draft of the comprehensive Captiva stormwater management study is on track for August, with the final report arriving in October.

• April Crime & Traffic Statistics: Sgt. Winton shared the official LCSO dispatch breakdown for Captiva in April, which included 333 service calls, 1 domestic violence arrest, 39 citations or warnings issued, and 5 total crash investigations (comprising one single-vehicle golf cart incident, one multi-vehicle golf cart incident, and minor parking lot fender benders).

Sanibel Community Invited to Moving Memorial Day Observance and Playing of ‘Taps’

In observance of the national Taps Across America initiative, Sanibel residents and visitors are invited to gather for a solemn and beautiful neighborhood tribute this Monday. Local hosts William “Bill” A. and Debbie Larson are opening their island home to the public for a special Memorial Day Observance and live performance of “Taps” on May 25.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we believe these intimate, community-driven gatherings showcase the true heart and tightly knit spirit of Sanibel Island. It is a wonderful opportunity for neighbors to pause, reflect, and honor our nation’s fallen heroes together.

In a nutshell: Join your island neighbors at 3:00 PM on Memorial Day for a live rendition of “Taps” performed by a retired Air Force Colonel, followed by a complimentary poolside ice cream social.

Event Schedule and Performance Details

The live performance of “Taps” carries profound military significance and will be played precisely in alignment with national timing echoes across the country.

• The Bugler: “Taps” will be expertly performed by homeowner Bill Larson, a retired U.S. Air Force colonel.

• When to Arrive: The ceremony begins promptly at 3:00 PM. Attendees are strictly asked to arrive by 2:50 PM to ensure everyone is settled before the music begins.

• The After-Party: Immediately following the ceremony, the Larsons will host a complimentary social hour by their pool featuring cold drinks and a full ice cream sundae bar, running until approximately 4:30 PM.

• RSVP Requirements: The event is completely free and open to the public; absolutely no RSVPs are required. Guests are highly encouraged to bring a friend or family member along.

Logistics, Seating, and Parking Directions

Because this event takes place at a private island residence, attendees are asked to follow a few simple logistical guidelines to ensure a smooth afternoon for the neighborhood.

• Location: The observance takes place at the Larson residence, located at 4597 Bowen Bayou Road, Sanibel, FL 33957.

• What to Bring: The hosts will have a limited supply of standard seating and lawn chairs available. However, to guarantee you have a comfortable spot, you are highly encouraged to toss a standard beach chair into your vehicle to bring with you.

• Where to Park: To keep the flow of traffic safe, attendees are asked to park directly on the street along Bowen Bayou Road, pulling as close to the side of the road as possible. Alternatively, you may park in the adjacent driveways at 4610 or 4609 Bowen Bayou Road, as the neighbors have generously granted full permission for event parking.

• Spotting the House: The designated parking areas and the home itself will be clearly marked with a distinct flag or a vibrant red balloon so you can easily spot the location from the road.

For those interested in learning more about the history of this national musical tribute or discovering how other communities across the country are participating, you can explore the Official Taps Across America Website. Have a safe, meaningful, and reflective Memorial Day weekend on the islands!

CEPD Advances Beach Protection Infrastructure and Reviews Renourishment Apportionment

The Captiva Erosion Prevention District (CEPD) recently held a dynamic commission meeting addressing key shoreline infrastructure projects, upcoming financial assessments for property owners, and internal leadership discussions.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we track these coastal management updates closely. Shoreline protection, beach renourishment, and erosion control are the absolute bedrock of preserving property values and protecting real estate assets on Captiva Island.

In a nutshell: The CEPD unanimously approved a new beach infrastructure project for the Beach Villas and announced that the final financial apportionment data for last year’s massive beach renourishment will be unveiled in June.

Beach Villas Ropes and Bollards Project Approved

The CEPD commission took immediate action to enhance managed access and protect local dune habitats by approving a brand-new Captiva Erosion Prevention District project.

• The Request: The Beach Villas neighborhood requested the installation of a standard ropes-and-bollards boundary system to match the existing infrastructure found across other managed beach areas.

• The Cost: General Manager Brighton Heard presented a formal project quote totaling $4,500 for the completion of the work.

• The Vote: The board voted unanimously 5-0 to approve the funds and proceed with the installation immediately.

Renourishment Apportionment Timeline Set for June

Property owners tracking the financial logistics of the island’s latest coastal defense initiative received a definitive timeline update during the session.

• Final Data Coming Soon: General Manager Heard reported that staff are on track to present the finalized financial apportionment data for last year’s beach renourishment project at the upcoming June board meeting.

• Third-Party Validation: The CEPD received an initial proposal from Integral Consulting to independently review, validate, and certify the final apportionment calculations.

• Next Steps: Because the district anticipates receiving additional competing validation proposals in the near future, the commission agreed to table the selection and review all consulting bids at a single, upcoming workshop.

Commission Debates General Manager Performance and Compensation

The meeting also turned toward internal administration as Brighton Heard presented a comprehensive four-page memorandum detailing his first-year accomplishments and contributions ahead of his annual performance review.

Heard expressed his gratitude for serving the district but noted that he feels his current compensation does not adequately match the extensive scope, round-the-clock responsibilities, and island-residency mandates attached to the role.

The evaluation quickly sparked a spirited—and at times heated—debate among commissioners regarding contract structures, merit-based raises, and the logistical realities of the island residency rule. Ultimately, the board voted to table the formal contract renewal discussion to the next scheduled meeting. In the interim, Chairman Bob Walter will meet privately with Heard to compile a specific list of metrics and compensation requests to distribute to the full board.

Additional District News

• Personnel Transition at APTIM: The CEPD was informed that APTIM Coastal Market Lead Nicole Sharp has departed the firm. Doug Mann has officially stepped up within the company to take over the account and serve as the primary engineering liaison for the CEPD.

• Securing Mainland Funding Support: Chairman Walter shared that board members and district staff have been actively holding strategic meetings with Lee County Commissioners and county administrative staff. These workshops are explicitly designed to advocate for Captiva’s environmental value and secure essential county-level funding partnerships.

Lee County Approves $4.8 Million Storm Hardening Project for Blind Pass Corridor

Infrastructure and coastal resilience are taking center stage in Southwest Florida. On May 19, 2026, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted to advance a major structural hardening project designed to protect the vital transportation artery linking Sanibel and Captiva islands.

The county officially awarded an engineering services contract to provide additional structural protection for Sanibel-Captiva Road and Captiva Drive, specifically targeting the areas on both sides of Blind Pass to make them significantly more resilient to future storm surge.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we recognize that safeguarding our infrastructure is the single most important investment we can make for long-term property values and peace of mind on the islands. This unified project is a massive win for our community’s future connectivity.

In a nutshell: Lee County has approved a $4.8M storm-hardening project for Sanibel-Captiva Road and Captiva Drive on both sides of Blind Pass. Funded by HUD disaster recovery grants, engineering begins now to prepare for structural reinforcement against storm surge.

A Unified Island Partnership

What makes this project unique is the seamless coordination between local municipalities to protect a single, continuous transportation link. The initiative highlights a partnership between Lee County and the City of Sanibel, combining forces to improve a city-maintained street (Sanibel-Captiva Road) and a county-maintained street (Captiva Drive) under a single, unified design.

By tackling the Blind Pass corridor as a whole, the project ensures that the critical connection between the two islands remains intact and passable during extreme weather events.

Project Scope & Infrastructure Improvements

The engineering framework goes far beyond basic roadway paving. The comprehensive scope of the resiliency project includes:

• Storm Surge Hardening: Structural reinforcement of the roadways directly adjacent to the Blind Pass waterways.

• Stormwater Management: Comprehensive upgrades to local drainage systems to mitigate heavy rainfall and tidal flooding.

• Utility Relocation: The safe relocation and reinforcement of the main sewer force main running through the corridor.

• Full-Cycle Engineering: Funding covers the complete lifecycle of design, environmental permitting, and post-design services.

Funding, Costs, and Construction Timeline

The initial phase of the project kicks off with an $874,907 engineering services contract awarded to HighSpans Engineering. This design phase represents a portion of the total estimated $4.8 million project cost.

Island taxpayers will be pleased to know that the entire project is funded through federal grants via the U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant — Disaster Recovery Program (CDBG-DR), ensuring no direct draw on local municipal operational budgets.

While the physical construction footprint isn’t slated to break ground until early 2028, the engineering and permitting phases are moving forward immediately to guarantee the structural integrity of the design. To monitor the progress of this project or explore other federal disaster mitigation efforts currently underway in Lee County, you can visit the official Lee County CDBG-DR Portal.

Sanibel Recreation Center Announces 2026 Summer Camp & Teen Leadership Programs

Summer planning just got a lot easier for island families! The Sanibel Recreation Department has officially unveiled its highly anticipated Summer Camp Program, running from June 8 through July 31, 2026. This long-standing island tradition provides an unforgettable, high-energy outlet designed to keep kids active, engaged, and connected throughout the school break.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we love seeing our local community resources shine. The Sanibel Recreation Center is a world-class facility, and its comprehensive summer programming is one of the many reasons why raising a family on the islands is so uniquely rewarding.

In a nutshell: The Sanibel Recreation Center is launching its 8-week summer camp for grades K-8 on June 8, featuring local outdoor adventures, massive off-island field trips, and a dedicated leadership program for teens.

The K-8 Summer Camp Experience

The main camp program caters to youth entering grades K-8 in the fall. Operating Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the camp blends structured recreation, creative arts, and safe outdoor adventures.

On-Island Daily Activities

Campers staying on the island will enjoy a diverse, rotating itinerary of activities right in their backyard:

• Daily swimming and pool fun at the recreation center’s aquatic complex.

• Creative crafting stations and hands-on themed projects.

• Classic island excursions including kayaking, golfing, and beach days.

• On-site bounce houses, specialized themed experiences, and seasonal treats.

Epic Weekly Off-Island Field Trips

Organizers are turning up the adventure dial this year with an incredible lineup of weekly excursions off the island:

• Arcades & Entertainment: Interactive gaming at Dave & Buster’s, alongside classic fun at HeadPinz and Happy’s Fun Center.

• High-Energy Sports: Rock climbing at Fort Rock and Central Rock, plus trampoline action at Sky Zone and Slick City.

• Water Parks: Multi-day excursions hitting Sun-N-Fun Lagoon, Sunsplash, and Brightwater Lagoon.

• Special Highlights: A full-day immersive adventure at Great Wolf Lodge and a private theater trip to AMC to catch Toy Story 5.

All-Inclusive Camp Dining

Parents can skip the morning rush of packing lunches. Balanced breakfasts and lunches are provided daily. Meals are supplied by the School District of Lee County when summer sessions are active, with FISH of Sanibel-Captiva stepping in to provide fresh meals on days when the school district is not in session. Daily afternoon snacks are also included for all campers.

Counselor in Training (C.I.T.) Program for Teens

For teenagers entering grades 9-10 in the fall, the Recreation Department is hosting its junior-level Counselor in Training (C.I.T.) Program. Running concurrently from June 8 through July 31, this one-week leadership tract offers valuable, hands-on work experience in a safe, supportive environment.

Teens participating in the program will:

• Work alongside professional camp counselors and mentor younger children.

• Build critical communication, teamwork, and organizational skills.

• Earn official community service hours required for high school and scholarships.

• Receive formal training in compression-only CPR skills.

• Enjoy supplied breakfast and lunch, culminating in a massive end-of-summer celebration.

Note: There is a mandatory C.I.T. Training session on June 5, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the recreation center.

Registration Details & Costs

Spaces for both programs are limited, and early registration is highly encouraged to lock in your desired weeks.

How to Sign Up

• Summer Camp Registration Portal: Secure your child’s weekly slots via the Sanibel Rec Summer Camp Catalog.

• C.I.T. Registration Portal: Register your teen for leadership weeks via the Sanibel Rec C.I.T. Catalog.

For specific registration questions, facility tours, or fee waiver inquiries, you can reach out directly to Dave DeFonzo (dave.defonzo@mysanibel.com) or Cassie Hill (cassie.hill@mysanibel.com) at the front office by calling 239-472-0345. The Sanibel Recreation Center is located at 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, FL 33957.

Sanibel Public Library Launches 2026 Summer Reading Journey

As the school year winds down, the ultimate antidote to the dreaded “summer slide” is making its grand return to the island. The Sanibel Public Library has announced the return of its highly anticipated annual summer initiative, themed “Island Adventures: Summer Reading Journey through Sanibel,” running from June 1 through July 25, 2026.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we know that our world-class library is one of the absolute gems of Sanibel living. This year’s program isn’t just designed to keep kids’ minds sharp; it features separate reading challenges tailored for four distinct age brackets spanning from toddlers to adults:

• Ages 0–5

• Ages 6–12

• Ages 13–17

• Ages 18 and older

According to Library Director Amber Cox, summer reading programs have been a vital community tradition since the 1890s. Over the break, daily reading habits significantly reduce summer learning loss for youth, while sharp cognitive habits help adults preserve long-term memory and brain health.

The Big Summer Kickoff Party

To celebrate the launch, the library is hosting a massive, high-energy Summer Reading Kickoff Party open to the entire community.

• When: Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 10:00 AM to Noon.

• The Vibe: A lively festival atmosphere packed with complimentary food and drinks.

• Activities: Attendees can navigate hands-on creation stations, a mini-golf setup, a dino toss, and jumbo board games.

• Perks: This is your first opportunity to officially register for the summer journey, giving early birds a shot at exclusive bonus registration prizes.

An Action-Packed Summer Calendar

Once the journey begins, the library will transform into a hub of live entertainment, community partnerships, and artistic competitions all summer long.

Special Guests & Showcases

The library has curated an extraordinary lineup of weekly performers, presenters, and storytellers:

• High-Energy Shows: Live interactive rhythm sets with Drum Life and the Australian-themed Didgeridoo Down Under Show.

• Magic & Stories: Illusionist Cesar Domico and master storyteller Windell Campbell.

• Animal Encounters: The highly requested return of Adam’s Animal Encounters.

• Neighbor Spotlight Storytimes: Special reading hours featuring island experts from the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District, CROW, and the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium.

Weekly Recurring Programs

• Tuesdays & Fridays: Family Storytime.

• Wednesdays: “Crafternoon” hands-on workshop sessions.

• First Fridays (3:00 PM): A brand-new social hour for adults to gather, discuss their current reads, and exchange recommendations.

• Special Feature: A dedicated Family Movie Night scheduled for the month of June.

Community-Wide Scavenger Hunt & Art Contest

The popular island-themed scavenger hunt returns with fresh challenge questions from local participating organizations. You can pick up a physical map at any participating location, and small prizes await those who crack the codes.

Additionally, the annual bookmark art design contest is expanding to include adults this year. Winning designs across each age bracket will be professionally printed on limited-edition bookmarks distributed to library patrons throughout the year.

Read for Others: Giving Back with Every Page

Supported generously by the Sanibel Public Library Foundation, the wonderful “Read for Others” philanthropic initiative is back. The program turns logged reading minutes into direct community good.

                     THE "READ FOR OTHERS" REWARD LADDER
  
  [ Every 250 Minutes ] ───► Earn 1 Book + Donate 1 Book to Golisano Children's Hospital
                                    │
                                    ▼
  [ Reach 1,000 Minutes ] ──► Earn Entry Into Grand Prize Raffle for Island Experiences

For every 250 minutes of reading logged, participants earn a brand-new book for their personal collection, while a matching book is donated to the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. Once a reader hits the 1,000-minute mark, they earn entry into a grand prize raffle focusing on premier island experiences donated by local businesses.

How to Register

Registration officially opens on May 30. You can sign up in person at the kickoff party or manage your reading goals digitally at any time via the Sanibel Public Library Beanstack Portal. For additional information on scheduling, visit the Sanibel Public Library Website or call the front desk at 239-472-2483.

Traffic Alert: Temporary Road Closures Announced for Doc Ford’s 7K Race

If you are planning to travel around the west-central portion of the island this Saturday, you will want to adjust your route and timing accordingly. The City of Sanibel has announced temporary road closures to accommodate the second annual Doc Ford’s National Yucatán Shrimp Day 7K Race on May 23.

To ensure the safety of all participants, portions of Tarpon Bay Road and Island Inn Road will be completely closed to vehicular traffic during the morning hours.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we want to make sure our neighbors and visitors navigate the weekend smoothly. Here are the specific road closures and time frames you need to know before you head out.

Affected Streets and Closure Times

The following closures will take effect on Saturday, May 23, starting at 6:30 AM. Please note that all times are approximate and rely entirely on how quickly the runners and walkers safely clear the racecourse.

• Tarpon Bay Road Closure (6:30 AM – 10:00 AM): Tarpon Bay Road will be closed from Sanibel Boulevard to the Trost Parking lot. This closure includes access to the Bailey Tract parking lot.

• Island Inn Road Closure (6:30 AM – 10:00 AM): Island Inn Road will be closed from Tarpon Bay Road all the way to the gate.

• What Remains Open: The Trost Parking Lot will remain open and accessible throughout the entirety of the event.

                  TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES (6:30 AM - 10:00 AM)
  
  [ Sanibel Blvd ] -------- ( CLOSED: Tarpon Bay Road ) -------- [ Trost Lot ]
                                       |                           (OPEN)
                                       |
                            ( CLOSED: Island Inn Rd )
                                       |
                                    [ Gate ]

Tips for Island Motorists

The city advises all drivers to expect local traffic delays and plan travel routes accordingly. If you must drive through this area on Saturday morning, keep the following in mind:

• Stay Alert: Watch closely for an increased volume of pedestrians, runners, and spectators navigating the roadsides.

• Follow Directions: Carefully follow all instructions provided by local law enforcement officers stationed along the route, as well as temporary event traffic signage.

• Race Information: If you are participating or looking for last-minute event details, you can visit the official Doc Ford’s 7K RunSignup Page.

For immediate traffic concerns or non-emergency updates regarding the closures, you can contact the Sanibel Police Department directly at 239-472-3111.

Once the roads reopen at 10:00 AM, the party moves over to Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille (2500 Island Inn Road) for the post-race festivities! Drive safely, stay patient, and enjoy the holiday weekend on the islands.