Category: Island Update

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, most Lee County administrative offices will be closed on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026. While many offices will be unavailable, essential services such as public transit and waste collection will maintain their regular operations.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the service adjustments:

Administrative and Public Offices

• Community Development: Lobbies and phone lines will be closed on Jan. 19. Residents can still access the electronic permitting portal online. Normal operations resume Jan. 20.

• Domestic Animal Services: The facility located on Banner Drive in Fort Myers will be closed on Jan. 19, reopening the following day.

• Solid Waste Offices: Administrative offices and the Household Chemical Waste Collection Facility on Topaz Court will be closed.

Open Facilities and Continued Services

• Solid Waste Collection: There is no change to residential garbage, recycling, or yard waste collection. Schedules remain on their regular cycle.

• Disposal Sites: The Resource Recovery Facility, Lee-Hendry Landfill, and the LaBelle and Clewiston Transfer Stations will remain open on Jan. 19.

• LeeTran: All bus, trolley, tram, paratransit, and ULTRA on-demand services will operate on their regular schedules.

• Outdoor Recreation: Beaches, parks, preserves, and boat ramps will remain open for public use on the holiday.

Parks and Recreation Closures

While outdoor parks remain open, specific managed facilities will be closed on Jan. 19, including:

• Recreation centers

• Community swimming pools

• Administrative offices

All closed facilities and offices are scheduled to resume regular operating hours on Tuesday, Jan. 20.

The Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners has officially voted to transition Emergency Management into a standalone department. Previously a division under Public Safety, the new structure recognizes the increasing complexity and critical importance of disaster preparedness, response, and recovery in our region.

Adapting to a Growing Community

County leaders emphasized that this reorganization is a proactive response to Charlotte County’s growth and the evolving nature of local hazards. From major hurricanes and tornado outbreaks to public health emergencies, the responsibilities of emergency management have expanded significantly over the last several years.

County Administrator Hector Flores stated that this decision strengthens the county’s ability to manage long-term recovery and community resilience while staying ahead of potential risks.

Leadership and Expertise

With the creation of the independent department, the County Commission appointed Patrick Fuller as the Director of Emergency Management. Fuller has served as the county’s emergency management director since 2019 and brings a wealth of experience to the role:

• Proven Track Record: Led response efforts during multiple presidential and state disaster declarations.

• Regional Experience: Previously served as Region 6 coordinator for the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

• Military and Academic Background: A Master Sergeant in the Marine Corps Reserve and a graduate of Florida State University.

• Professional Credentials: Holds certifications as a Florida Professional Emergency Manager and a Florida Certified Public Manager, with over 600 hours of specialized FEMA training.

Focused on Long-Term Resilience

The newly formed department will focus its resources on preparedness education, emergency planning, and inter-agency coordination. By elevating Emergency Management to its own department, the county aims to provide more focused leadership and streamlined planning to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors during future emergencies.

Director Fuller expressed his commitment to building stronger partnerships and enhancing public safety as the department begins this new chapter.

The Harry Chapin Food Bank has released its 2025 Impact Report, providing a comprehensive look at the organization’s efforts to combat food insecurity throughout Southwest Florida. The report highlights both the massive scale of food distribution achieved over the last year and the persistent, growing demand for assistance in our local communities.

By the Numbers: Food Distribution and Fresh Produce

In 2025, the food bank distributed a total of 38.7 million pounds of food. A key focus was the delivery of nutritional options, with 12 million pounds of that total consisting of fresh fruits and vegetables—a 14.3% increase in fresh produce compared to the previous year.

On average, the organization served nearly 300,000 residents every month across five counties: Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades.

Regional Breakdown and Rural Outreach

The distribution was strategically allocated to ensure both high-population areas and rural communities were supported:

• Lee County: 19 million pounds

• Collier County: 11.5 million pounds

• Charlotte County: 5.2 million pounds

• Hendry County: 2.2 million pounds

• Glades County: Over 705,000 pounds

Notably, when adjusted for population, Hendry and Glades counties received the highest amount of food per person. This underscores a deliberate effort to reach underserved rural areas where access to affordable, healthy food is often limited.

Education and Specialized Programs

The mission of the Harry Chapin Food Bank extends beyond immediate relief to long-term health. In 2025, the organization conducted 556 health and nutrition classes, reaching over 3,300 seniors, adults, and children. Specialized initiatives like “Harry’s Helpings,” in-school pantries, and the “Care and Share Senior Feeding Program” remained vital lifelines for the region’s most vulnerable populations.

The Power of Volunteerism

These accomplishments were made possible through significant community involvement. More than 4,300 volunteers contributed 49,000 hours of service throughout the year. This labor is valued at an estimated $1.5 million in in-kind support, allowing the organization to direct more of its financial resources toward food procurement.

As the demand for assistance continues to rise, the Harry Chapin Food Bank remains a central pillar of the Southwest Florida safety net.

The recovery of Captiva Island reached a significant turning point this winter as South Seas unveiled several major new amenities. In partnership with Curran Young Construction, the resort has officially opened the doors to the Beach House restaurant and the expansive Captiva Landing water attraction, signaling a new era for the historic property.

These projects represent more than just new facilities; they are a testament to resilient design and a commitment to restoring South Seas as a premier destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast following the impacts of Hurricane Ian.

Elevated Dining: The Beach House

Opened in October 2025, the Beach House is a $6.6 million, ground-up construction designed to balance luxury with durability. Built with reinforced concrete and metal roofing to withstand coastal conditions, the 6,667-square-foot venue offers a refined aesthetic featuring natural wood tones and porcelain tile. The highlight of the space is a series of oversized bifold doors that create a seamless transition between the indoor dining room and a spacious patio overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

Family Adventure: Captiva Landing

Launched in late December 2025, Captiva Landing is a 2.5-acre destination dedicated to family-friendly recreation. The complex includes:

• Bottlenose Bay: A splash zone featuring six water slides.

• Gulfstream: A winding lazy river for relaxation.

• The Cove: A dedicated pool area for guests looking to unwind.

• Amenities: The site also features Flippers quick-service restaurant, a classic arcade, and Camp-tiva, a nature-based club for children.

A Broader Vision for Resilience

The partnership with Curran Young Construction has resulted in 11 completed projects across the 330-acre property. Beyond the new builds, significant renovations were completed to refresh existing favorites:

• Harborside: A $2.85 million transformation into an open-concept Italian steakhouse overlooking the marina.

• Redfish Grill: Now a two-story indoor-outdoor dining experience overlooking the Bayview pools.

• The Clutch: A new open-air clubhouse serving the golf course and Gulf views.

Every phase of this redevelopment followed strict FEMA compliance, focusing on elevated structures and upgraded infrastructure to ensure the resort’s longevity. By blending modern engineering with the classic character of Captiva, South Seas is positioning itself for a vibrant future.

Sanibel city leaders are once again focusing on one of the island’s most critical transit points: the intersection of Periwinkle Way and Causeway Boulevard. As the primary gateway for everyone entering and exiting the island, the current four-way stop is a frequent source of frustration for residents and commuters alike.

The Problem: Peak-Hour Gridlock

The intersection currently utilizes a four-way stop with right-turn yields. During peak seasons and daily rush hours—specifically mornings when workers arrive and mid-afternoons when day-trippers depart—traffic often backs up in all directions. Local residents, like Sharol Daltrui, note that the congestion has become a predictable part of island life.

The Proposed Solution: A Roundabout

After analyzing the traffic patterns, engineers have recommended a roundabout as the most effective long-term solution to keep vehicles moving. The project has had a rocky path to approval:

• Early 2025: Funding was temporarily paused to see if adding more lanes to the Sanibel Causeway was a viable alternative.

• Present Day: The lane expansion was deemed unfeasible, putting the roundabout back at the top of the agenda.

Local Perspectives

Community opinion remains divided. Some residents, such as Tom Daltrui, worry that a roundabout shifts the decision-making from a single traffic guard to multiple drivers simultaneously, which they fear could lead to confusion. Conversely, other residents like Wally Dudun are ready for a change, suggesting the city give the new design a chance to prove its worth.

What’s Next?

The project is nearing a “go or no-go” moment. The Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization has offered a grant to cover 30% of the design costs. This Tuesday, the City Council will vote on whether to accept that funding. If they move forward, the roundabout will transition from a conceptual idea into a formal design plan.

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge has announced a temporary closure affecting a portion of the Bailey Tract. Effective this week, the parking lot on Tarpon Bay Road and the boardwalk adjacent to Ani Pond and Airplane Canal are closed to the public to facilitate essential construction activities.

This closure is a key step in the ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian, which made landfall in 2022 and caused significant damage to the refuge’s trail and boardwalk systems.

Building for Resilience

Administration has been working closely with engineers and federal contractors to redesign infrastructure that can better withstand future tropical cyclones. As part of this initiative, the current rehabilitation project involves constructing new concrete boardwalk systems at the Bailey Tract to replace those destroyed or damaged by the storm.

Access and Alternative Parking

While these specific areas are closed, the vast majority of the Bailey Tract and its trail systems remain open for exploration.

Visitors wishing to access the open trails should utilize the parking area adjacent to Smith Pond on Island Inn Road.

Duration and Safety

Construction activities are currently scheduled to last approximately two months. The Refuge administration thanks visitors for their cooperation in respecting all posted closure signage and barriers, which are in place to ensure public health and safety during this period.

Fast Facts: Bailey Tract Closure

• Closed Areas: Bailey Tract parking lot (Tarpon Bay Road) & boardwalk near Ani Pond/Airplane Canal.

• Reason: Construction of new, storm-resilient concrete boardwalks.

• Alternative Access: Trails remain accessible via the Smith Pond parking lot (Island Inn Road).

• Estimated Duration: Approximately two months.

• Updates: Visit the Refuge Website or follow their Facebook page for the latest information.

The Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ (SCUCC) invites the community to participate in a unique, immersive workshop experience titled “A Council of All Beings.” The event is scheduled for Sunday, January 12, running from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the church’s location on Periwinkle Drive.

This interactive program offers attendees a chance to deepen their connection with the natural world through a blend of creativity, meditation, and ecological mindfulness.

About the Workshop Experience

The core of the program involves co-creating a “Council,” where participants are invited to temporarily step aside from their human identities. During the session, attendees will choose another life form to represent, speaking on its behalf to express concerns, describe challenges, and offer unique gifts to the human participants.

The afternoon will be enriched by a variety of activities designed to facilitate this shift in perspective, including:

• Guided Meditation: To help center participants and connect with their chosen life form.

• Creative Arts: Mask-making using natural objects and craft supplies.

• Music & Teachings: Songs and insights drawn from the “Work That Reconnects.”

Registration and Impact

Participation in the workshop is based on a donation system with a sliding scale of $10 to $35.

Proceeds from the event serve a dual purpose: covering the cost of snacks and materials, with all remaining funds dedicated to purchasing native plants for the SCUCC butterfly garden.

• Registration Deadline: Interested participants are required to register before January 9.

Event Snapshot

• Event: “A Council of All Beings” Workshop

• Date: Sunday, January 12

• Time: 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

• Location: Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, 2050 Periwinkle Drive, Sanibel

• Cost: Sliding scale donation ($10 – $35)

• Registration: Visit www.annegoodwin.com/events to sign up.

The Sanibel Recreation Center has released its schedule for upcoming programs, featuring a mix of creative workshops, youth fitness, and community educational series. From sewing basics to resiliency discussions, here is what residents and visitors can look forward to in early January.

Creative Arts & Skills Workshops

Learn to Sew (Workshop) In partnership with Fashion First Workshops, this introductory session covers sewing basics, fabric selection, pattern making, and practical stitching skills.

• Date: January 7

• Time: 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

• Cost: Members $45 | Non-members $54

• Registration required.

First Stitches (Youth Series) A 5-week series designed to teach youth how to use sewing machines, follow patterns, and create a wearable piece of fashion.

• Dates: Wednesdays, Jan. 7 – Feb. 4

• Ages 7-10: 2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

• Ages 11+: 4:15 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.

• Cost: Members $220 | Non-members $260

• Registration required.

Sew Your Own Bag Participants will create a shell, yoga, or tote bag in this single-session workshop.

• Date: January 14

• Time: 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

• Cost: Members $50 | Non-members $75

• Registration required.

Picture Perfect: 5 Weeks to Better Photos Instructor Casey Bradley Gent leads this photography class. The January 12 session focuses on “Picture Perfect Places.”

• Date: January 12 at 5:00 p.m.

• Cost: Single class: Members $20 / Non-members $25 | Full Series: Members $90 / Non-members $110

• Registration required.

Community & Education

Resiliency Cafe Hosted by the City’s Resiliency Department, this event fosters community discussion on recovery and future planning.

• Date: January 13 at 10:00 a.m.

Get to Know Your Island: SanCap Resilience Part of a speaker series designed to connect the community with local organizations, this free event will feature SanCap Resilience.

• Date: January 13 at 12:00 p.m.

• Details: Free and open to the public (registration required). Light refreshments served.

Sports & Fitness

Kids Tumbling Hosted by All Out Mobile Training, this weekly class improves coordination and fitness for elementary and middle school students.

• Dates: Wednesdays, Jan. 14 – Feb. 4

• Grades K-3: 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

• Grades 4-8: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

• Cost: Full Session: Members $60 / Non-members $85 | Drop-in: Members $20 / Non-members $25

• Registration required.

Spring Softball League Team registrations are now open for the upcoming season.

• Season Dates: Jan. 14 – March 25

• Contact: Chase Brown at chasen.brown@mysanibel.com for registration details.

Facility Information

Operating Hours:

• Mon – Thu: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

• Fri: 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

• Sat: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Location: 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel Contact: 239-472-0345 Registration: Click here to register online or visit the front desk for assistance setting up a CivicRec account.

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel is preparing for a significant day of remembrance and renewal. On Saturday, January 10, the Refuge will host a dual event honoring a beloved community figure and unveiling major restoration milestones.

The morning will begin at 10:00 a.m. with a Celebration of Life for the late Jim Sprankle at The Roost. Following this tribute, the focus will shift to the official debut of three new additions to the Refuge’s visitor experience: the new welcome archway, pollinator gardens, and Ranger Toni’s Nature Nook.

Restoration and Resilience

The original welcome archway, dedicated in 2013, was among the many structures destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022. Staff immediately began designing a replacement that honors the past while embracing the future.

The new archway was sculpted by North Carolina wildlife artist David Williams, who also created the original structure (as well as elements for the America’s Best Restrooms exhibit). While the new version pays homage to its predecessor, officials note it holds “some new surprises” for visitors to discover.

New Spaces for Education and Nature

Located at the bottom of the Visitor & Education Center ramp, two new features will also be unveiled:

• Ranger Toni’s Nature Nook: Named in honor of former Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland, this space serves as both a picnic area and an outdoor classroom. It features interpretive elements highlighting the Refuge’s five distinct habitats and the wildlife that thrives within them.

• Pollinator Gardens: Adjacent to the Nook, these new gardens are designed to educate adults and children alike on the critical role of habitat conservation for birds, bees, and other essential pollinators.

Event Snapshot

• Date: Saturday, January 10

• Time: 10:00 a.m. (Celebration of Life); Ribbon-cutting to follow.

• Location: J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel (The Roost & Visitor Center Ramp).

Tarpon Bay Explorers (TBE), the official concessionaire for the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel, has officially resumed its popular eco-cruises. This marks a significant milestone in the company’s recovery efforts following the impacts of Hurricane Ian in 2022.

Recovery and Readiness

The return of these tours was delayed due to damage sustained by the company’s primary vessel, Explorer IV. According to General Manager Adam Sauerland, the storm left the vessel stranded atop mangroves and a handicap ramp railing, with both engines submerged.

However, the vessel has since been restored and has officially passed its U.S. Coast Guard inspection.

“So we are ready to roll,” Sauerland confirmed. “We get asked about our cruises on a daily basis. We are overjoyed that we can resume eco-cruises so visitors are able to explore Tarpon Bay in all its wonder.”

Cruise Offerings

TBE is now offering two distinct guided experiences throughout the week, both designed to immerse visitors in the local ecosystem.

1. Nature & Sealife Cruise

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

• Experience: A naturalist-led, covered pontoon tour around Tarpon Bay.

• Highlights: Attendees will learn about the mangrove estuary ecosystem while spotting wildlife such as manatees, dolphins, and various fish. Naturalists provide educational insights into the biology, ecology, and history of Sanibel Island and the refuge.

2. Evening Cruise

• Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

• Experience: A sunset tour focusing on the rookery islands.

• Highlights: Guests can watch dozens of birds swoop in to roost for the night against the backdrop of a Sanibel sunset. Depending on the season, sightings may include brown and white pelicans, great and snowy egrets, and tricolored, great blue, and little blue herons. Bottlenose dolphins and manatees are also frequently sighted.

Visitor Information

Operating Hours: Tarpon Bay Explorers is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Rentals end at 3:00 p.m.).

Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended for all eco-cruises to ensure availability.

Contact & Booking:

• Phone: 239-472-8900

• Website: www.tarponbayexplorers.com