The Captiva Island Fire Control District commission has directed staff to proceed with a potential purchase of bayside parcels from the Rauschenberg property, a move aimed at expanding and consolidating the district’s services for the future.
During their October 7 meeting, Fire Chief Jeff Pawul and Commissioner Jeff Brown presented findings from their due diligence on acquiring land for a new fire station, which could include a helicopter landing zone and a boat dock.
Commissioners reviewed several options with significant price tags. The main debate centered on two choices: a $23 million option that would split operations across Captiva Drive, or a more expensive $29 million option to acquire approximately 9.8 acres on the bayside, keeping all facilities unified.
While acknowledging the high cost, the commission recognized the unique and fleeting nature of the opportunity. “If this 10 acres sells, it’s going to be developed,” Chief Pawul stated, emphasizing the land’s strategic value.
Commissioner Sherrill Sims called the bayside parcels “perfect” for the district’s current and future needs, adding, “There’s not going to be another chance… You’ve got to go for an opportunity like this.”
Ultimately, the commission unanimously agreed to pursue the more comprehensive bayside option to keep all operations together. The next step is for staff to finalize the financial details of the proposal, which will then be presented to the community for a vote. Any potential purchase is contingent on voter approval through a ballot referendum.
“Then see if the community supports it,” Pawul said.
In Other News
- New Hires: The district has filled two of its three new positions. Firefighter-EMTs Mason Kennington, a recent graduate who previously worked in radiology, and Douglas Leuge, a former firefighter from Kentucky, are expected to begin soon. The district will test again to fill the final open position.
- Policy Updates: The commission voted 3-0 to approve updates to the district’s administrative policies.
- September Report: The district responded to 22 incidents and conducted 23 fire inspections during the month of September.
