Author: LeAneSUAREZGroup

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) has reported that Lee County’s Conservation 20/20 land acquisition program has secured 31,722 acres of conservation land since its approval by voters in 1996. The program, reaffirmed by 84% of voters in 2016, was designed as a willing-seller initiative to protect ecologically sensitive lands across the county.

Funding Concerns

Although a 2021 county ordinance pledged to replenish the program’s acquisition fund, county staff have recommended not adding new funds for the upcoming fiscal year, citing ongoing economic challenges related to hurricane recovery.

Currently, the program’s fund balance is about $19 million, while nominated properties awaiting purchase are valued at approximately $47 million. Purchases moving forward will be determined through a tiered point-system, prioritizing properties based on environmental and community impact.

Potential Impact on Sanibel

One property potentially affected by the funding pause is the Sanibel Community Church site, which has been placed on the Tier 2 nomination list. Properties in this category may still be acquired, but only after Tier 1 properties are processed.

“These properties provide critical benefits, including storm protection, flood control, water recharge, wildlife habitat, public access, and recreation,” said Holly Schwartz, SCCF Policy Associate. “There may still be a possibility for Tier 2 properties to be purchased, but it will depend on how Tier 1 properties are prioritized.”

Next Steps

The Lee County Board of County Commissioners is scheduled to adopt the countywide budget at its final public hearing on September 16. The SCCF emphasized its continued support for the program and plans to advocate strongly for replenishment in future budgets.

“As successful as Conservation 20/20 has been, thousands of acres of wetlands and uplands are converted to high-density development each year,” Schwartz said. “It is essential to strike a balance between growth and environmental protection to safeguard Lee County’s ecosystems and tourism-driven economy.”

For more information on the county’s tiered land acquisition system, view the presentation from the Conservation Land Acquisition and Stewardship Advisory Committee (CLASAC) meeting at Lee County’s document portal.

Trailways Camp has officially opened registration for its 2025-26 season, offering overnight camping experiences designed for adults with special needs.

Camp Session Dates

The upcoming sessions will be held at the Riverside Retreat in LaBelle and on Sanibel Island, with the following schedule:

• October 20–23, 2025 – Riverside Retreat, LaBelle

• November 17–20, 2025 – Riverside Retreat, LaBelle

• January 19–22, 2026 – Riverside Retreat, LaBelle

• February 23–25, 2026 – Riverside Retreat, LaBelle

• May 18–21, 2026 – Sanibel Island

About Trailways Camp

Trailways Camp provides a welcoming and supportive environment for adults with special needs ages 18 and older. Each day and evening features engaging activities that promote fun, friendship, and community connections.

In addition to enriching the lives of campers, the program also offers respite opportunities for parents and caregivers, who can feel confident knowing their loved ones are supported by trained and caring staff in a safe environment.

Registration Information

Families interested in participating can begin the application process by visiting www.trailwayscamps.org. Once registration is submitted, the camp team will follow up to guide applicants through the next steps.

The Sanibel Sprout officially marked its reopening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the SanCap Chamber of Commerce on August 20, celebrating the restaurant’s resilience following Hurricane Ian.

The plant-based eatery returned to its original location at the Islander Center on Periwinkle Way on June 4, after operating from a food truck since May 2024. Owner Jianna Senkeleski expressed gratitude to the community for its continued support throughout the challenges.

“The community’s love and encouragement have been overwhelming. It truly feels like family being reunited,” Senkeleski said, crediting the chamber for its steady guidance during the transition.

A Legacy of Healthy Dining

The Sanibel Sprout brand has been a staple in the island’s dining scene for more than a decade. Originally founded by Chef Nikki Rood at the Bailey Center, the restaurant has long been known for its commitment to organic, wholesome, and nourishing meals.

Senkeleski shared that while the mission remains the same, the new Sprout has expanded into coffeehouse offerings, now serving lattes, cappuccinos, and iced coffees alongside its signature vegan specialties. Menu favorites include the Breakfast Bowl, smoothies, veggie burger, and Coconut Bacon BLT.

“Our mission is still the same — wholesome food made with whole ingredients — but now with even more options to meet everyone’s needs,” she explained.

Community Impact

SanCap Chamber President and CEO John Lai praised the reopening, noting the eatery’s loyal following and important role in the local food community.

“Jianna stuck with it, and we are proud to see the Sprout re-emerge into a permanent location,” Lai said. “The Sanibel Sprout fills an essential place in the islands’ culinary scene.”

Location

The Sanibel Sprout is located at:
2407 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL

The City of Sanibel has announced the upcoming launch of the Sanibel Boat Ramp Dock Replacement Project, which is scheduled to begin on September 8. The project will require the temporary closure of the boat ramp for an estimated 60 days, depending on weather conditions. During this time, both the ramp and adjoining dock structures will be unavailable for public use.

Project Details

The initiative focuses on replacing the existing wooden dock structures, which have reached the end of their service life. The old docks will be removed and rebuilt using more durable materials to ensure safety, accessibility, and long-term usability for boaters.

The concrete boat ramp and walkways are not part of the replacement, as they remain in suitable condition and will continue to serve visitors without modification.

According to city officials, these improvements are intended to enhance safety standards, improve accessibility, and provide a more reliable facility for the boating community.

Alternate Boating Access

While the Sanibel Boat Ramp is closed, boaters are encouraged to use the Lee County Punta Rassa Boat Ramp, located across the Sanibel Causeway near the toll plaza. This alternative facility will remain open and provide access to the same surrounding waters during the closure period.

Commitment to Community Safety

The City of Sanibel acknowledged that the temporary closure may cause inconvenience and expressed appreciation for the community’s patience. Once completed, the upgraded dock system will offer a safer, more modern, and user-friendly experience for residents and visitors.

In addition, the city reminded the public that Sanibel beach parks remain open following extensive restoration efforts. However, due to impacts from recent hurricanes, visitors are urged to use caution, as buried debris may still be present on land and in the water. Swimming and wading should be approached carefully, and protective footwear is recommended.

Stay Informed

For project updates or additional information, residents and visitors are encouraged to visit the City of Sanibel’s official website or contact the Public Works Department directly.

Bonita Springs will soon welcome a brand-new Dunkin’ restaurant at 24126 S. Tamiami Trail, set to open this fall. The 1,300-square-foot location marks the first store for franchisee Garrett Koroghlian and is expected to bring 20 new jobs to the community.

The new Dunkin’ will feature the brand’s Next Generation design, offering guests a modern atmosphere, a premium beverage tap system, and a front-facing bakery case for easy access to fresh selections.

A grand opening celebration will be announced closer to the official launch, giving residents a chance to experience the new store firsthand.

This addition expands Dunkin’s presence in Southwest Florida, providing more convenient access to the brand’s popular coffee, donuts, and breakfast items for Bonita Springs residents and visitors alike.

The Cape Coral–Fort Myers metro area has earned national recognition, ranking No. 13 on Realtor.com’s 2025 list of Top Metros for New Construction. The report highlights housing markets where builders are stepping up to deliver affordable, sustainable homes in response to growing buyer demand.

Key Highlights for the Cape Coral–Fort Myers Market

• 18.3% of local listings represent new construction.

• Newly built homes are priced, on average, 13.1% lower than existing homes.

• The metro ranks as one of the most affordable places in Florida to purchase a new home.

This strong supply of affordable new homes positions the Cape Coral–Fort Myers area as a leading destination for buyers seeking value in today’s competitive market.

National Perspective

Realtor.com’s report notes that Fayetteville, Arkansas; Boise, Idaho; and Nashville, Tennessee took the top three spots, with Southern and mid-sized cities driving much of the growth. Analysts also emphasized that new construction is playing a critical role in offsetting the nation’s housing shortage of nearly 4 million homes, helping improve both inventory and affordability as mortgage rates remain elevated.

The Sanibel Recreation Center has announced an updated schedule for its Triathlon Swim Training program, now set to run from August 28 through September 25. The program is designed to help athletes strengthen their swimming skills in preparation for upcoming competitions, including the South Seas Captiva Island Triathlon on September 28.

Program Details

• Dates: August 28 – September 25

• Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7 a.m. – 8 a.m.

• Cost: $38 for members | $48 for non-members

• Capacity: Limited to 15 participants

This structured program provides targeted swim workouts to improve endurance, technique, and open-water readiness. Whether training for a first triathlon or looking to improve competitive performance, participants will benefit from personalized coaching and a supportive group environment.

Registration Information

Spots are limited, and early registration is encouraged.

• Register online: Sanibel Rec Center Registration

• Phone: 239-472-0345

• Location: Sanibel Recreation Center, 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

The City of Sanibel has released its updated holiday schedule for Labor Day. On Monday, September 1, the City’s Administrative Offices will be closed in observance of the holiday. Regular office hours will resume on Tuesday, September 2. Residents who need further details can reach City Hall at 239-472-3700.

Refuse, Recycling, and Vegetation Collection

Waste Management (WM) has announced that there will be no refuse, recycling, or vegetation collection on September 1. All scheduled pickups will move forward by one day for the remainder of the week. For additional information about collection services, residents may contact Waste Management at 239-334-1224.

Sanibel Recreation Center

The Sanibel Recreation Center will also be closed on September 1 in honor of Labor Day. Normal operations will resume on September 2. For more details, the center can be contacted directly at 239-472-0345.

Stay Informed

The City encourages residents and visitors to plan ahead for the holiday schedule changes. Whether it’s managing waste collection or planning visits to local facilities, being aware of the adjusted hours ensures a smooth holiday weekend on Sanibel.