Author: LeAenSUAREZGroup

For years, marine biologists and rescuers have faced a logistical challenge: the vast distance between the sea turtle hospitals in Sarasota and the Florida Keys. The opening of the new high-tech Sanibel Sea Turtle Hospital officially closes that gap. Designed to handle everything from tiny hatchlings to 400-pound adults, this facility represents a massive leap forward in our ability to protect the biodiversity of the Gulf.

Injuries from fishing gear entanglement, predator attacks, and human activity are unfortunately common in our active coastal waters. This hospital provides a specialized environment where these ancient mariners can recover with the assistance of cutting-edge technology and expert veterinary care.

Advanced Infrastructure: Built for the heaviest patients

One of the most impressive features of the new facility is its industrial-grade infrastructure. Handling a fully grown loggerhead or green sea turtle is a massive physical undertaking that requires more than just a large tank.

• The 2,000-Pound Lift System: To ensure the safety of both the patients and the medical staff, the hospital features a specialized lift system. With a capacity of 2,000 pounds, it can easily transport even the largest, most critically injured turtles from transport vehicles to their treatment tanks.

• Dual-Filtration Plumbing: Water quality is the “life support” of any marine hospital. Each tank is supported by extensive plumbing, water heaters, and pumps. Crucially, every tank is equipped with two independent filtration systems to maintain pristine water conditions, even during high-occupancy periods.

Facility Capacity and Care Zones

The hospital is designed to manage multiple cases simultaneously, offering tailored environments based on the size and life stage of the turtle.

Feature	Capacity & Detail
Adult Treatment Tanks	4 Large Tanks capable of housing up to 20 adults at once.
Hatchling Zone	1 Dedicated Tank specifically for the delicate care of neonates.
Filtration	Redundant dual-systems for every individual tank.
Patient Load	Scalable infrastructure to handle mass-stranding events.

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Why a Sanibel Location Matters

The geographic placement of the Sanibel Sea Turtle Hospital is strategic. Sanibel and Captiva Islands are among the most active nesting grounds in Florida. During the nesting and hatching season, the proximity of this hospital means that “cold-stunned” turtles or those injured by boat strikes can be in surgery or a recovery tank within minutes of being found, rather than hours.

This “Golden Hour” of treatment is often the difference between a successful release and a permanent loss. By providing a permanent, high-tech hub for marine rehabilitation, Sanibel is cementing its legacy as a world-class sanctuary for the wildlife that defines the Gulf coast.

A Community-Driven Mission

While the technology inside the hospital is impressive, the mission remains rooted in conservation. The facility will treat injuries caused by:

1. Fishing Gear: Entanglements and hook ingestions.

2. Predator Attacks: Natural injuries requiring surgical repair.

3. Human Activity: Boat strikes and the ingestion of marine debris.

The opening of this hospital ensures that Sanibel remains at the forefront of environmental stewardship, providing a second chance for the sea turtles that have called these waters home for millions of years.

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Project Logistics at a Glance

• Location: Sanibel Island, FL.

• Max Capacity: 20 Adult Turtles + Hatchlings.

• Specialty Tech: 2,000-lb Heavy-Duty Lift & Dual Filtration.

• Primary Focus: Rehabilitation and Release.

The By the Sea Sanibel Condos Rebuild is officially moving into its final stages following a groundbreaking ceremony for the third and final building of the complex. This project is a landmark event for the island’s real estate market; it is the first major ground-up condominium construction on Sanibel since the completion of Sedgemoor in 2002. For nearly 25 years, the island’s strict building codes and “built-out” status meant that new developments were virtually non-existent—until now.

Under the management of Benchmark General Contractors, this $22 million redevelopment is transforming the site at West Gulf Drive into a model of modern coastal engineering. The original structures, built in 1983, were heavily damaged when Hurricane Ian’s force lingered over the property for eight hours on September 28, 2022. Today, the association is not just rebuilding; they are creating what project leaders call the most sustainable condominiums on the island.

Architectural Specifications and Elevation

One of the defining features of the By the Sea Sanibel Condos Rebuild is its adherence to the most stringent modern safety standards. Each of the three new buildings is designed to be a “generational” structure capable of withstanding the increasing intensity of Gulf storms.

• Elevated Living: The residential floors are situated 14 feet above ground level. This design places the habitable space well above the surge levels experienced during recent storms, utilizing the ground floor exclusively for secure parking and storage.

• Scale and Scope: Each building totals 19,477 square feet and rises to a height of 45 feet. The complex consists of three buildings, each containing six luxury units, for a total of 18 units across the property.

• Sustainability Goals: The project incorporates advanced materials and building techniques aimed at long-term durability, ensuring that the complex remains a fixture of West Gulf Drive for decades to come.

Economic Investment and Insurance Recovery

The path to the By the Sea Sanibel Condos Rebuild began just days after Hurricane Ian, when the association board first met on October 1, 2022. Despite the scale of the destruction, the owners chose to “hang in there” and rebuild rather than sell the land.

The association utilized approximately $8 million in insurance proceeds to kickstart the $22 million reconstruction effort. While some owners moved on after the storm, the demand for high-quality, new construction on Sanibel is so high that all 18 units are currently owned. According to the City of Sanibel, modern developments that meet current FEMA and Florida Building Code standards are becoming the gold standard for island property valuation.

Benchmark General Contractors and Custom Interiors

The project utilizes a unique construction model that balances professional management with individual owner preference. Benchmark General Contractors is under contract to complete the exterior shells and the interior construction up to the drywall stage.

From there, owners have the flexibility to finish their interiors according to their personal tastes. Interestingly, Benchmark has been retained to complete the full interior finishings for 12 of the 18 units, showcasing a high level of trust in the builder’s quality. This approach ensures that while the buildings maintain a cohesive and “awesome” architectural exterior, each unit remains a unique reflection of its owner.

[Architectural rendering of a modern, three-story stilt condominium with impact glass and wrap-around balconies]

The Legacy of Resilience: 2022 to 2027

Sanibel Mayor Mike Miller, who attended the groundbreaking ceremony on March 18, 2026, noted that the restoration of island resorts and condominiums has been a complex journey. The By the Sea Sanibel Condos Rebuild is a testament to the perseverance of local officials and project partners like Double C Designs and J.R. Evans Engineering.

Construction on the first two buildings began in late 2025, and with the third building now underway, the entire project is on track for completion by the end of 2027. This timeline reflects the careful planning required to navigate the environmental and structural challenges of building on a barrier island. For those interested in the science of storm impacts, the National Hurricane Center provides extensive data on why elevation and modern roofing are critical for Florida’s coastal future.

A Future for the Next Generation

As the project moves forward, the focus remains on the “generational” aspect of the rebuild. Association President Bob Moyle emphasized that the goal was to create a place where grandkids could run around again—a sentiment that resonates deeply with long-time Sanibel families. The By the Sea Sanibel Condos Rebuild is more than just a construction site; it is a symbol of Sanibel’s refusal to be defined by a single storm, opting instead to build back stronger, higher, and more sustainably than ever before.

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Project Logistics at a Glance

• Total Project Cost: $22 Million.

• Total Units: 18 (6 per building).

• Elevation Height: 14 feet above grade.

• Building Height: 45 feet.

• Completion Date: Late 2027.

The results of the SCCF Christmas Bird Count 2026 are officially in, marking the 126th year of this global initiative organized by the National Audubon Society. On Sanibel and Captiva Islands, this tradition has spanned over 60 years, providing a robust longitudinal dataset that helps biologists track the long-term health of Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems.

On December 20, 2025 (as part of the 2025–2026 counting window), 114 dedicated volunteers and staff members fanned out across the islands to record every bird sighted within a designated 15-mile diameter circle. This year’s count documented 8,720 individual birds representing 95 different species, underscoring the islands’ continued status as a critical stopover and nesting ground for migratory and resident birds alike.

By the Numbers: Tracking Population Shifts

While the participant count reached a multi-year high, the total number of birds recorded in the SCCF Christmas Bird Count 2026 was lower than the previous year’s record of 12,104.

• 2026 Results: 8,720 individuals | 95 species

• 2024 Results: 12,104 individuals

• Volunteer Participation: 114 participants (up from 107 in 2024 and 95 in 2023)

Shorebird biologists, including SCCF’s Audrey Albrecht, note that these fluctuations are expected and often influenced by immediate weather conditions, tide levels during the count, and broader migratory shifts across the Atlantic Flyway.

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Leading the Flock: Top Species Observed

The SCCF Christmas Bird Count 2026 highlighted several “sentinel species” that are indicative of the islands’ wetland and shoreline health. The White Ibis once again took the top spot, a testament to the productivity of the islands’ interior freshwater marshes and managed residential landscapes.

Common Name	Scientific Name	Total Counted
White Ibis	Eudocimus albus	1,185
Snowy Egret	Egretta thula	606
Common Grackle	Quiscalus quiscula	597
Royal Tern	Thalasseus maximus	530
Mourning Dove	Zenaida macroura	463
Brown Pelican	Pelecanus occidentalis	371

Spotlight on Sanibel’s Favorites

• White Ibis: These birds are a frequent sight on island lawns and in the Erick Lindblad Preserve. Their high numbers suggest a healthy population of the crustaceans and insects they probe for in the soil.

• Snowy Egret: Known for their “golden slippers,” these elegant hunters were spotted in high numbers near the mudflats and mangrove fringes.

• Brown and White Pelicans: Both species made the top ten, with the White Pelican (291 counted) often serving as a winter-only highlight for visitors and residents.

Other notable high-count species included the Osprey, Palm Warblers, and the Great Egret, all of which play vital roles in the local food web.

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Increased Volunteerism: The Engine of Conservation

One of the most encouraging takeaways from the SCCF Christmas Bird Count 2026 is the steady rise in community involvement. With 114 participants, the event saw its highest level of engagement since the pandemic. This “citizen science” model allows organizations like the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation to gather data on a scale that would be impossible for professional staff alone.

The count is a collaborative effort, relying on partnerships with:

1. The Sanibel-Captiva Audubon Society: Providing expert birders and regional coordination.

2. J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge: Offering access to protected habitats that serve as the primary sanctuary for many of the counted species.

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The Environmental Significance of the Count

Why do we count every bird? For the LeAne SUAREZ Group community, these numbers represent more than just a hobby. They are a metric for the “carrying capacity” of our environment. High bird counts generally correlate with clean water, healthy mangrove systems, and resilient shorelines—all factors that contribute to the desirability and value of Sanibel and Captiva real estate.

As shorebird biologist Audrey Albrecht noted, the success of the event is a direct reflection of the community’s commitment to conservation. The data collected during the SCCF Christmas Bird Count 2026 will be uploaded to the National Audubon Society database, where it will be used by researchers worldwide to study the effects of climate change and habitat loss on avian populations.

How to Get Involved

If you missed the 126th count, there are year-round opportunities to contribute to island science. Residents can report shorebird sightings or volunteer for beach nesting bird monitoring programs through the SCCF website.

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Quick Facts & Logistics

• Count Duration: One full 24-hour period (Dec 20).

• Area Covered: 15-mile diameter “Count Circle” centered on Sanibel/Captiva.

• Data Source: National Audubon Society & SCCF Shorebird Program.

• Next Event: 127th Christmas Bird Count (Dec 2026).

The Opera on the Beach Captiva 2026 series is officially set to make its long-awaited return to the island’s Gulf-front landscape. On Friday, April 10, 2026, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the Captiva Chapel by the Sea, in partnership with ‘Tween Waters Inn & Marina, will host “Sunset Arias — Opera on the Beach.” This free performance marks the reinstatement of a cherished local tradition that was temporarily paused following the impacts of Hurricane Ian in 2022.

Gathering on the beachfront adjacent to the historic chapel, residents and visitors will witness a world-class operatic performance set against the natural splendor of a Captiva sunset. This event serves as a powerful reminder of the island’s resilience and its deep-rooted commitment to the arts.

The Performance: World-Class Talent on the Sand

The 2026 revival features an extraordinary lineup of performers known for their presence on international stages. The concert of arias and duets will showcase:

• Susan Hellman Spatafora (Soprano): A celebrated artist known for her “shimmering” high notes and dramatic depth.

• Adam Diegel (Tenor): Renowned for his powerful voice and frequent appearances at the Metropolitan Opera.

• Brent Douglas (Pianist): A versatile musician providing the foundational accompaniment for the evening’s vocal soaring.

The repertoire is curated to appeal to both seasoned opera-goers and newcomers. The program includes selections from legendary works such as Verdi’s La Traviata, Puccini’s La Bohème and Turandot, and Dvořák’s Rusalka. These pieces are chosen for their ability to harmonize with the rhythmic sounds of the Gulf, creating an immersive sensory experience.

The Historic Venue: Captiva Chapel by the Sea

The Opera on the Beach Captiva 2026 performance is uniquely tied to its location. The Captiva Chapel by the Sea, originally built as a one-room schoolhouse in 1903, stands as a symbol of the island’s history. Holding the concert on the beachfront adjacent to this historic site emphasizes the continuity of Captiva’s community spirit. Board Member Nathalie Pyle noted that experiencing the “soaring beauty of the human voice” in this specific setting is an “unforgettable” experience that reconnects the community with its heritage.

Planning Your Evening: Dinner and Logistics

To make the evening a full “night out,” ‘Tween Waters is offering a special pre-opera dinner at the Old Captiva House. This historic dining room is the perfect prelude to the performance, offering a refined menu that complements the sophistication of the evening’s music.

Essential Guest Information:

• Admission: Free and open to all.

• Seating: Attendees are encouraged to bring their own beach chairs or towels, as formal seating is limited.

• Parking: On-site parking will be available at the Chapel and surrounding ‘Tween Waters areas.

• Attire: Coastal casual is appropriate, though many attendees enjoy the “Opera on the Beach” theme with slightly elevated island wear.

A Symbol of Island Resilience

The return of the “Sunset Arias” is more than just a concert; it is a sign of the island’s successful recovery. For years before 2022, this series was a staple of the spring season. By bringing Opera on the Beach Captiva 2026 back to the calendar, ‘Tween Waters and the Chapel by the Sea are signaling that the cultural heart of the island is beating stronger than ever.

As the sun dips below the horizon on April 10, the voices of Spatafora and Diegel will bridge the gap between the island’s historic past and its vibrant, rebuilt future.

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Event Logistics at a Glance

The most talked-about “party with a purpose” is returning to the islands. On Saturday, April 4, 2026, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) will host the 12th annual Beer in the Bushes. This rain-or-shine outdoor event transforms the SCCF headquarters into a vibrant festival grounds, bringing the community together to support the protection of Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems.

As your local lifestyle experts, we know that Beer in the Bushes is the unofficial “capstone” of the spring social calendar. It captures the laid-back, yet sophisticated spirit of Sanibel, where world-class entertainment meets a deep-rooted commitment to our natural environment.

2026 Theme: A “Swing” Revival with Squirrel Nut Zippers

This year, the SCCF is taking a vintage turn. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best “swing” attire to match the high-energy sounds of the headlining act: the Squirrel Nut Zippers.

Known for their infectious blend of Delta blues, gypsy jazz, and 1930s-era swing, the Zippers are the perfect soundtrack for an evening under the stars. Whether you’re a fan of their 90s hit “Hell” or their deep-cut Southern storytelling, the dance floor at the Erick Lindblad Preserve is sure to be packed.

The Brews and “TruxBux” Experience

True to its name, the event features a massive lineup of regional craft breweries. Your ticket is an all-access pass to tastings from local favorites, including:

• Fort Myers Brewing Company & Millennial Brewing Co.

• Palm City Brewing & Point Ybel Brewing Company

• Hopsized Brewing, Swamp Cat, Riptide, and Tampa Bay Brewing.

Dining Made Easy: Admission includes “TruxBux,” which are redeemable for your choice of dinner from an array of curated food trucks on-site. Complimentary wine, soft drinks, water, and light snacks are also provided throughout the evening.

Logistics and Guest Information

To ensure a seamless experience for all 21+ guests, the SCCF has coordinated several important amenities:

• Off-Site Parking & Shuttles: To protect the preserve’s grounds, all parking is located off-site. Continuous shuttles will run throughout the evening (6 p.m. – 10 p.m.).

• Ride Share Zone: A dedicated drop-off area is available for those using Uber, Lyft, or local taxis.

• Seating: While this is a high-energy event, guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs for use in designated areas.

• Smoke-Free Environment: In keeping with SCCF’s conservation mission, the entire event is smoke-free.

Supporting the SCCF Mission

Beyond the music and the IPAs, Beer in the Bushes 2026 Sanibel is a critical fundraiser. Proceeds directly support SCCF’s work in land acquisition, wildlife habitat restoration, and water quality research. For residents and property owners, supporting SCCF is an investment in the long-term beauty and health of the islands we call home.

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Event Details at a Glance

• Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026 | 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.

• Location: SCCF Headquarters, 3333 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.

• Requirements: 21+ with proper ID.

• Tickets: Available via Humanitix. Note: Reselling tickets above face value is strictly prohibited.

If you’ve spent any time on Captiva, you know that The Mucky Duck is more than a pub; it’s a landmark. After the “one-two punch” of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in October 2024, many feared for the future of this historic building. Milton, in particular, brought structural challenges that would have made a lesser owner walk away.

But as Andreas Bieri, who has helmed the Duck for decades, put it: he’s not a quitter. The community and his staff needed the Duck back, and on March 14, the first cold beers and platters of fish were served once again.

The Rebuild: New Tech, Same Soul

While the internal systems have seen a major upgrade, the Bieris made a conscious choice to keep the aesthetic exactly as we remember it.

• Structural Repairs: The front of the building was pushed in by Milton, requiring a complete structural overhaul of the walls and roof.

• Modern Upgrades: The Duck now features a reconfigured kitchen and state-of-the-art computer systems to improve service.

• Preserving History: Because the building holds a historical designation, and because the owners wanted to maintain its charm, the restaurant was not elevated. They chose to restore the Duck to its original 1970s feel rather than opt for a modern new build.

“It looks the same, the feel is the same. We have not changed.” — Andreas Bieri, Owner

Why This Matters for Captiva Island

At the LeAne SUAREZ Group, we know that the value of island real estate is deeply tied to these “anchor” institutions. The Mucky Duck represents the resilience of the local business community. Its reopening helps restore the foot traffic and vibrant energy that makes Andy Rosse Lane one of the most desirable destination streets in Southwest Florida.

Plan Your Visit

The Duck is back to its standard operating style, which means the “no reservations” policy still stands.

• Hours: Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

• Menu: Serving all the classics—appetizers, soups, fresh salads, and seafood entrees.

• Location: 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva.

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Quick Visit Guide

• Reservations: None accepted (first-come, first-served).

• Parking: Limited on-site; walking or biking from nearby rentals is recommended.

• Best Time to Visit: Arrive early for a beachside seat to catch the world-famous Captiva sunset.

Easter in Southwest Florida is a spectacular blend of coastal tradition and community celebration. From the “egg drops” on Sanibel to the sophisticated garden hunts in Naples, our region offers an unparalleled holiday experience. Whether you are seeking a spiritual sunrise on the sand or a family-friendly scavenger hunt, here is your definitive guide to the 2026 season.

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Sanibel & Captiva Islands: Beachfront Traditions

The islands offer the most iconic “Florida” Easter experiences, focusing on the natural beauty of the Gulf.

• Sanibel Recreation Center Egg Hunt (April 4, 10:00 a.m.): Features the legendary Fire Department Egg Drop from a 4-story ladder truck. Register via CivicRec.

• Adventures in Paradise Cruise (April 5, 9:00 a.m.): A dolphin cruise to a private island for a massive 1,000+ egg hunt. Book Online.

• Sunrise Services (April 5, 6:30 a.m.): Join Sanibel Community Church (courtyard) or Captiva Chapel by the Sea (beachfront) for early morning worship.

• Easter Brunch at Old Captiva House (April 5): A luxury buffet at South Seas Resort from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. South Seas Dining.

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Fort Myers: Riverfront & Scavenger Hunts

Downtown Fort Myers provides an artsy, walkable alternative for holiday fun.

• Downtown Scavenger Hunt (Now – April 5): Explore the Historic District to find 14 artist-designed eggs in local shop windows. Fort Myers City Calendar.

• Newton Park Sunrise Service (April 5, 6:45 a.m.): A beautiful community service on the sand at Fort Myers Beach. FMB Events.

• Burroughs Home Brunch (April 5): A sophisticated family brunch on the banks of the Caloosahatchee. Reserve via Eventbrite.

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Naples: Garden Elegance & Luxury Hunts

Naples elevates the holiday with stunning park settings and high-end culinary experiences.

• City of Naples Hunt at Baker Park (April 4, 10:00 a.m.): Age-bracketed hunts (2–12) with photos with the Easter Bunny. Naples Gov Parks.

• Spring Fest at Naples Zoo (April 3–5): A three-day “Egg-stravaganza” where kids seek treasures throughout the animal habitats. Naples Zoo Official.

• Easter at Ocean Prime (April 5): A curated 5th Avenue South brunch featuring seasonal cocktails and prime seafood. Ocean Prime Reservations.

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Bonita Springs & Estero: Ice Cream & Outlets

Perfect for high-energy family fun and holiday shopping.

• Royal Scoop’s 26th Annual Hunt (April 4): A local legend featuring 25,000 eggs and free ice cream at Bonita Shores. Royal Scoop Info.

• Easter Bunny at Miromar Outlets (Now – April 4): Daily photos and games in the award-winning play area. Miromar Outlets.

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Easter 2026 At-A-Glance

Area	Top Event	Date	Highlight
Sanibel	City Egg Hunt	April 4	Fire Dept. Egg Drop
Fort Myers	Scavenger Hunt	Now–April 5	Walkable Art Tour
Naples	Spring Fest	April 3–5	Zoo Scavenger Hunt
Bonita	Royal Scoop	April 4	25,000 Eggs + Ice Cream

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Holiday Planning Tips

• Traffic: Allow 45–60 minutes of extra time for bridge traffic if heading to Sanibel for Sunrise Services.

• Reservations: Island brunches and cruises typically sell out by late March. Call today to check for cancellations.

• Parking: Beach parking lots fill by 6:15 a.m. on Easter Sunday. Have your permit or parking app ready!

The litigation surrounding South Seas is a multi-front effort involving the Captiva Civic Association (CCA), the City of Sanibel, and a coalition of community organizations. As of March 27, 2026, here is where the most pivotal cases stand.

The Appellate Court: Defending the 912-Unit Limit

A central victory for the community was Judge Shenko’s earlier ruling limiting South Seas to its historic 912 units. Both the county and South Seas have appealed this, but a date is now set for the showdown.

• Oral Argument: April 30, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

• Location: Lee County Justice Center, Courtroom 4A, Fort Myers.

• Judges: Mary Alice Nardella, Paetra T. Brownlee, and Roger K. Gannan.

• What’s at Stake: This appeal determines if the 2003 Settlement Agreement (which caps density) remains the law of the land. Until this is resolved, the county cannot approve new permits for hotels or condos exceeding this limit.

The Rezoning Challenge: Writ of Certiorari

Twenty petitioners, including the CCA and various associations, are fighting the county’s decision to permit increased building heights and density.

• The Argument: Petitioners claim the county failed to provide due process and ignored evidence regarding the limited capacity of the Gulf-side wastewater treatment plant and fire department staffing.

• Next Event: Judge Shenko has scheduled a Status Conference for April 6, 2026.

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The Rauschenberg Betrayal and Zoning Realities

One of the most disappointing recent developments is the sale of the 22-acre Rauschenberg Foundation property to South Seas. This marks a significant shift, as the community had hoped to preserve the land in its undeveloped state.

Legal Guardrail: Lee County has officially advised South Seas that this property is currently governed by the Lee Plan and Captiva Code, which limits development to three units per acre. Any attempt to expand the resort’s high-density plans onto this land would trigger a fresh wave of community opposition and legal challenges.

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Protect Captiva Judicial Schedule

Date	Key Event	Focus Area
March 23, 2026	Discovery Hearing	Barring discovery by South Seas
April 6, 2026	Status Conference	Sanctions, attorneys’ fees, and Rezoning Writ
April 30, 2026	Oral Argument	912-Unit Density Limit Appeal
TBD	DOAH Appeal	Hotel density limit exemptions

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Community Support: $35,000 Raised

The community’s commitment remains unshaken. On February 5, a silent auction of local art raised over $35,000 for the Protect Captiva Legal Fund. These funds are critical as South Seas continues to initiate new lawsuits, including a recent public records complaint against the Captiva Community Panel.

The message from the islands is clear: we are not just fighting for a view; we are fighting for a legacy.