Category: Island Update

In a key step to finalize funding for island coastal defenses, the Captiva Erosion Prevention District (CEPD) Board of Commissioners has officially approved the final assessment apportionment for its recent emergency beach renourishment project. During a special meeting on August 31, 2026, the commission voted 4–0 on a formal resolution authorizing district management to submit the final non-ad valorem assessment roll to the Lee County Property Appraiser.

The action formalizes the distribution methodology for a $10 million local assessment levied across island properties based on 2025 just (market) values. The assessments will appear directly on property owners’ upcoming annual property tax bills as a non-ad valorem line item.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we emphasize to our barrier island property owners that wide, engineered shorelines and restored dunes are Captiva’s most vital protective barrier. Understanding how non-ad valorem assessments are structured helps owners evaluate their holding costs, anticipate tax bills, and protect long-term coastal real estate investments.

Apportionment Methodology: How the Assessment Works

Presented by district consultant Governmental Management Services (GMS), the adopted methodology mirrors the established framework utilized during the 2021–2022 renourishment project.

Under Florida statutory guidelines for independent beach and shore preservation districts, every property on Captiva derives measurable economic and recreational utility from a healthy beach. Assessments are divided into two distinct components:

                    CEPD ASSESSMENT STRUCTURE
  
  [ RECREATION BENEFIT ]     ──► Levied on ALL Captiva properties (Island-wide utility)
              +
  [ STORM PROTECTION BENEFIT]──► Levied ONLY on Gulf-front properties (Buffer defense)
              =
  [ TOTAL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT]──► Billed as a non-ad valorem line item on Lee County tax roll

Zone-by-Zone Breakdown: Storm Protection Benefit

Properties positioned along the Gulf of Mexico receive a storm protection benefit, as the renourished berm and dune profile directly absorb offshore wave energy, protect structural pilings, and prevent catastrophic loss of foundation land.

To account for historical erosion rates and physical exposure, Gulf-front parcels are divided into specific geographic zones. Based on a $2 million just property valuation, the estimated storm protection assessments are calculated as follows:

Recreation Benefit: Discounts for Homesteaded Properties

The recreation benefit applies to all island real estate—including interior parcels, bay-front properties, and commercial complexes—reflecting the universal economic value, foot access, and business activity generated by pristine beaches.

                 RECREATION ASSESSMENT BY USE CATEGORY
                     (Based on $2,000,000 Just Value)
  
  [ HOMESTEADED RESIDENTIAL ] ──► ~$3,265  (Reflects statutory 42.1% discount)
  [ STANDARD RESIDENTIAL ]    ──► ~$6,225  (Second homes, seasonal rentals & investment)
  [ COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES ]   ──► ~$16,202 (Resorts, retail, hospitality & dining)

Primary residents who hold an active Florida Homestead Exemption on Captiva receive a 42.1% statutory discount on the recreational component of the assessment. This adjustment ensures full-time residents who do not operate commercial rentals receive appropriate relief.

District Leadership & Administrative Restructuring

Alongside the assessment approval, the commission finalized several key administrative actions to solidify operations:

• Management Transition: Commissioners voted 3–0 to approve an agreement formally appointing Governmental Management Services (GMS) as district manager for the CEPD.

• Officer Appointments: Approved a slate of district officers, appointing Bob Walter as Chairman, Timothy McGowan as Vice Chairman, Bernie Dupre as Treasurer and Secretary, and Rene Miville and John Wade as Assistant Secretaries. GMS representatives Sharyn Henning, Darrin Mossing, Patti Powers, and Paul Winkeljohn were designated as assistant treasurers and secretaries.

• Banking Signatories: Formally authorized GMS staff and district officers as signatories across existing banking accounts with Regions Bank and Pinnacle Bank/Synovus.

(Note: Commissioner John Wade was excused and not present during the special meeting vote.)

Property owners with questions regarding their specific parcel STRAP numbers, just values, or assessment line items can review official records directly via the Captiva Erosion Prevention District Portal.

Downtown Naples will remain a premier destination for automotive enthusiasts during peak winter season. In a decisive 6–1 vote, the Naples City Council granted permit approval for an all-new Fifth Avenue South luxury car event Naples 2027, officially greenlighting a curated showcase scheduled for February 27, 2027.

The vote follows months of discussion and a high-profile split between the City of Naples and the organizers of the longstanding Cars on Fifth, which relocated outside municipal boundaries to the Bayshore Drive corridor after city officials rejected its permit over parking, crowd density, and safety logistics.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we watch cultural events and municipal policy across Southwest Florida closely. High-caliber automotive exhibitions, art festivals, and culinary showcases along historic shopping avenues like Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South highlight the luxury lifestyle, active downtown foot traffic, and enduring property desirability of Naples.

Event Vision: Scaled-Down Footprint, Curated Luxury & Merchant Synergy

Organized by Meg Stepanian, the newly approved event introduces a more balanced model designed to directly resolve the crowd management issues that complicated prior street closures:

                 NEW 5TH AVENUE SOUTH EVENT BLUEPRINT
  
  [ EVENT DATE ]       ──► Saturday, February 27, 2027
  [ ATTENDANCE GOAL ]  ──► Projected up to 20,000 daytime visitors
  [ VEHICLE CAPACITY ] ──► ~50% fewer display cars than previous Cars on 5th shows
  [ CORE EXPERIENCES ] ──► Exotic vehicles, fine jewelry, wine tastings, arts & live music
  [ CHARITABLE FOCUS ] ──► 100% of event net proceeds benefit local non-profit charities

Rather than prioritizing maximum vehicle counts, the event focuses on collaboration with existing Fifth Avenue retailers, art galleries, and fine dining establishments.

“We don’t have a name yet, but we are excited that we have City Council approval to proceed. The community loves and enjoys cars and wine and jewelry and all of those fun things. So we’ll be looking to our merchants to cultivate and curate a fun event for the community.”

— Meg Stepanian, Event Organizer

Downtown merchants welcomed the decision. Augusto Marenco, general manager of acclaimed Italian restaurant Vergina, highlighted the economic importance of keeping high-end events on Fifth Avenue:

“Anything that goes on, we want to be involved. A lot of restaurants want to be involved. The retail shops also benefit heavily from it.”

— Augusto Marenco, General Manager of Vergina

The Council Debate: Addressing Crowd Safety vs. Tradition

The 6–1 council vote reflected broad consensus among council members, who maintained that public safety adaptations were essential for any street closure of this scale.

                    CITY COUNCIL VOTE BREAKDOWN
  
  [ IN FAVOR (6) ]  ──► Vice Mayor & Council members backed the scaled merchant concept
  [ DISSENTING (1) ]──► Mayor Teresa Heitmann cited unresolved parking & safety impacts

Councilman Scott Shultz noted during deliberations that while Cars on Fifth had a remarkable 20-year history, organizers needed to adapt to the city’s evolving safety parameters:

“You’ve got to get out there and work with us or don’t. But if you’re going to work with us for 20 years and start blasting us for something that you failed to do, that’s a whole different animal.”

— Councilman Scott Shultz

Mayor Teresa Heitmann cast the lone dissenting vote, expressing concerns that a crowd of up to 20,000 visitors could still overwhelm downtown parking garages and emergency response lanes.

Two Major Shows: Naples Becomes a Dual-Event Destination in 2027

The relocation of the original event creates a major win for regional automotive enthusiasts. Instead of choosing between events, Southwest Florida will now host two premier luxury car gatherings spaced several weeks apart in early 2027:

Cars on Fifth founder Tom O’Riordan moved the show to Bayshore Drive after rejecting city proposals that would have restricted the display to one side of Fifth Avenue, barred vendors and dealers, and capped attendance at 3,500 people.

With both venues moving forward, visitors and residents across Naples, Marco Island, and the barrier islands will enjoy an extraordinary winter season celebrating world-class automotive craftsmanship, fine dining, and community philanthropy.

Four years after Hurricane Ian caused catastrophic storm surge across Captiva’s historic village district, one of the island’s most recognizable hospitality staples is back. The Captiva Island Inn rebuild Andy Rosse Lane has reached its first major milestone, officially opening its initial five guest suites on September 18, 2026.

Owner Sandy Stilwell Youngquist has invested approximately $6 million to reconstruct the property at 11508 Andy Rosse Lane following the total loss of the original 10 ground-level cottages in September 2022. The reopening is timed to coincide with the annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest, which features two adjacent Stilwell Youngquist-owned establishments—Keylime Bistro and RC Otter’s Island Eats—as signature festival venues.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we view the revival of Andy Rosse Lane as vital to Captiva’s real estate and tourism foundation. Rebuilding historic commercial centers with storm-resilient engineering preserves the relaxed, pedestrian-friendly island character that defines Captiva’s long-term property appeal.

“It’s been a long four years. It’s been something of bringing her inn back to life following the difficult decision to take down the preexisting wood-frame cottages. I have tears coming down my eyes. We’ve been through it all. And with the anniversary, it’s perfect timing to reopen.”

— Sandy Stilwell Youngquist, Owner of Captiva Island Inn

Design & Engineering: Modern Luxury Meets Cottage Charm

Replacing original 60- to 70-year-old wood-frame cottages within Captiva’s specialized zoning framework required creative architectural solutions. General contractor Stevens Construction built the new structures elevated 10 feet above ground level on concrete foundation pilings to satisfy current flood codes.

National architecture firm MHK Architecture, led by national director Mark McLean, designed two primary buildings—an L-shaped structure on the north and a U-shaped structure on the south—that maintain the visual aesthetic of separate historic cottages.

                 CAPTIVA ISLAND INN REBUILD SPECIFICATIONS
  
  [ TOTAL INVESTMENT ] ──► ~$6 Million private reconstruction investment
  [ ELEVATION HEIGHT ] ──► Built 10 feet above grade on pilings for flood surge defense
  [ NORTH BUILDING ]   ──► Jasmine Suites (5 elevated suites; L-shaped configuration)
  [ SOUTH BUILDING ]   ──► Hibiscus Suites (5 elevated suites; U-shaped configuration)
  [ INTERIOR UPGRADES] ──► Vaulted high ceilings, larger full kitchens & luxury baths
  [ EXTERIOR PALETTE ] ──► Historic pastels: pink, yellow, light purple, green & blue

“Due to the existing zoning, it was tough to replace what was there. We did it with one continuous building and changed the colors, just to give it that cottagey feel. We vaulted all the ceilings and worked on giving those small units a much bigger feel. If you’re across the street or coming up from the south end at the Green Flash, it doesn’t necessarily loom over you as one unit.”

— Mark McLean, National Director for MHK Architecture

Suites Breakdown, Pricing & Phased Openings

Rather than individual cottage names, the accommodations are organized into two boutique enclaves. Open green courtyards fronting each building are intentionally preserved to accommodate modernized below-ground infrastructure.

                    RECONSTRUCTION PHASE TIMELINE
  
  [ PHASE 1: COMPLETED ] ──► Jasmine Suites (5 north units open Sept. 18, 2026)
  [ PHASE 2: FINAL WORK] ──► Hibiscus Suites (5 south units complete late Nov. 2026)
  [ FULL CAPACITY ]      ──► 10 total luxury guest units fully operational for season

Andy Rosse Lane Village Momentum

Stilwell Youngquist remains a central figure in Captiva’s hospitality corridor. Her portfolio includes Andy Rosse Lane destinations such as Keylime Bistro, RC Otter’s Island Eats, Latte Da Coffee Shop & Ice Cream, Sunshine Seafood Cafe and Wine Bar, and Cantina Captiva.

Reopening the inn ahead of high season restores crucial short-term room capacity to the Village, driving evening foot traffic to surrounding dining, art galleries, and the Gulf beaches at the end of the lane.

“Two of the five new rooms are already booked. Out of all the bad, something good has come out of it. And I’m really thrilled.”

— Sandy Stilwell Youngquist

A Major Win for Island Protections: Commissioners Halt Measure Eliminating Community Plans from Lee Plan

In a significant victory for barrier island residents, civic advocates, and grassroots coalitions across Southwest Florida, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted to halt planned amendments to the county comprehensive plan (CPA2026-00005). The controversial proposal, which would have removed specialized Community Plans from the Lee Plan and altered accompanying Land Development Code (LDC) sections, has been sent back to staff for a complete timeline restructuring and community outreach overhaul.

The decision officially cancels the scheduled October 7, 2026, public hearing, giving civic organizations like Protect Captiva and the Lee Communities Coalition an important window to ensure localized development safeguards remain intact.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we understand that thoughtful zoning, density caps, and height restrictions are the bedrock of Captiva Island’s character and property value stability. Diluting community plans threatens the delicate ecological balance and historic low-density charm that make our barrier island real estate among the most coveted coastal sanctuaries in the nation.

The Vote: Commissioners Ruane & Mulicka Lead the Pushback

The motion to discontinue any immediate action on the Lee Plan and LDC revisions was initiated by Commissioner Kevin Ruane (whose district encompasses Sanibel and Captiva) and seconded by Commissioner David Mulicka.

Both commissioners expressed sharp concerns regarding the scale of the proposed text changes, the speed with which they were introduced, and the intense public opposition voiced by neighborhoods throughout Lee County:

• Commissioner Kevin Ruane: Emphasized that his office has been flooded with calls and emails from outraged constituents. Stating he refused to make decisions with “a gun to his head” on something so vital, Ruane underscored that commissioners had not received adequate time to analyze the hundreds of pages of complex amendments.

• Commissioner David Mulicka: Reiterated that communities have spent decades developing tailored blueprints that form their civic identity. Mulicka noted that when a general plan update was initially authorized more than a year ago, he never anticipated staff would draft language that “meant deleting the names of the communities out of the plan altogether.”

                 COMMISSION ACTION SUMMARY (CPA2026-00005)
  
  [ MOTION INITIATOR ] ──► Commissioner Kevin Ruane (District 1)
  [ SECONDED BY ]      ──► Commissioner David Mulicka
  [ OUTCOME ]          ──► Cancelled Oct. 7, 2026 hearing; sent back to county staff
  [ DIRECTIVE ]        ──► Formulate revised review timeline & formal public outreach

Why Community Plans Matter: The 17 Specialized Areas

Across Lee County, 17 distinct Community Plan Areas exist within the Lee Plan. Each holds dedicated chapters in the comprehensive plan and specialized articles within the Land Development Code to address unique geographic realities—ranging from coastal barrier islands and inland rural agricultural belts to riverfront suburban neighborhoods.

                    HOW CAPTIVA'S PROTECTIONS WORK
  
  [ CHAPTER 23 ]          ──► Codifies Captiva-specific policies in the Lee Plan
  [ CHAPTER 33, ART. IX ] ──► Establishes enforceable Land Development Code standards
  [ DENSITY & HEIGHTS ]   ──► Restricts over-densification, multi-story creep & subdivisions
  [ LOCAL VOICE ]         ──► Guarantees public hearings on Captiva for variances & rezoning
  [ ECO-SAFEGUARDS ]      ──► Enforces dark-sky rules, mangrove fringe & beach buffers

For Captiva, the protections established in Chapter 23 of the Lee Plan and Chapter 33, Article IX of the LDC were drafted and refined over decades by the Captiva Community Panel. Removing or weakening these articles would eliminate local veto powers over building heights, weaken subdivision prohibitions, alter mangrove fringe buffers, and strip the requirement that Captiva-specific rezonings and variance hearings take place physically on Captiva.

Next Steps for Captiva Property Owners

While sending the amendments back to staff is an encouraging pause, community leaders stress that vigilance and active participation remain crucial as revised schedules are prepared:

The LeAneSuarezGroup will continue tracking all regulatory and zoning developments affecting Captiva and Sanibel to keep homeowners informed.

Sanibel Island is set to come alive with color, creativity, and conservation spirit this fall. From October 20 through October 22, 2026, the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society Friends of the Refuge (DDWS) will host Art in the Wild, an inspiring three-day island celebration honoring the 150th birthday of Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling.

Born on October 21, 1876, Darling was a two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoonist, pioneer of the Federal Duck Stamp program, founder of the National Wildlife Federation, and former head of the U.S. Bureau of Biological Survey. Above all, his tireless advocacy safeguarded thousands of acres of Sanibel’s vital mangrove ecosystems from rampant overdevelopment.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we know that our barrier island lifestyle exists today because of Jay Norwood Darling’s early environmental vision. Honoring his legacy through the intersection of creative expression and conservation reminds us why Sanibel remains an internationally treasured coastal sanctuary and a premier place to live, invest, and put down roots.

The Man Behind the Sanctuary: Celebrating 150 Years of Impact

More than a century ago, Jay Norwood Darling used his nationally syndicated ink drawings to ignite America’s modern ecological conscience. When land speculators sought to develop Sanibel’s fragile backcountry wetlands, Darling organized community leaders and lobbied federal authorities to ensure permanent protection.

                 JAY NORWOOD "DING" DARLING (1876–2026)
  
  [ PULITZER LAUREATE ]   ──► Won Pulitzer Prizes for Editorial Cartooning in 1924 & 1943
  [ DUCK STAMP CREATOR ]  ──► Conceived & illustrated the first Federal Duck Stamp in 1934
  [ CIVIC FOUNDER ]       ──► Instrumental in establishing the National Wildlife Federation (1936)
  [ SANIBEL PROTECTOR ]   ──► Spearheaded federal protection for Sanibel's interior wetlands

Today, the 6,400+ acre refuge bearing his name stands as a global beacon for low-impact recreation, coastal resilience, and migratory bird habitat protection.

Event Highlights: What to Experience at Art in the Wild

The 2026 festival bridges natural beauty and fine arts, offering interactive activities for seasoned collectors, nature enthusiasts, photographers, and visiting families:

                    FESTIVAL SCHEDULE AT-A-GLANCE
  
  [ TUESDAY, OCT. 20 ]   ──► Festival Kickoff, Plein-Air Painting & Refuge Guided Walks
  [ WEDNESDAY, OCT. 21 ] ──► Darling's Official 150th Birthday Commemoration & Special Exhibits
  [ THURSDAY, OCT. 22 ]  ──► Art Workshops, Wildlife Photography Masterclasses & Closings

Refuge Access & Visitor Guidelines

The festival takes place across the refuge campus, centered at the “Ding” Darling Visitor & Education Center (1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel).

• Free Center Admission: Admission to the Visitor & Education Center and festival pavilions is free and open to the general public.

• Wildlife Drive Logistics: Visitors exploring Wildlife Drive by motor vehicle, bicycle, or on foot will encounter active artists along the 4-mile paved trail. Please observe posted wildlife distances and give plein-air painters ample space.

• Refuge Hours: The Visitor & Education Center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM; Wildlife Drive opens at 7:00 AM and closes at sunset (closed on Fridays for wildlife resting).

To review artist schedules, register for limited-seat workshops, or learn more about refuge initiatives, visit DingDarlingSociety.org.

Few island rituals capture the essence of coastal living quite like Sunday mornings on Sanibel. Celebrating its milestone 19th season, the Sanibel Farmers Market 2026 season reopening officially takes place on Sunday, October 4, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM on the grounds of Sanibel City Hall (800 Dunlop Road).

Organized by Local Roots—founded in 2008 by island residents Jean Baer and Betsy Ventura—the open-air market has grown from a humble collection of booths at Tahitian Gardens into an essential cultural anchor for barrier island life. Operating every Sunday from October through May, the weekly market unites residents, seasonal homeowners, local chefs, and weekend visitors in support of regional growers, makers, and non-profit organizations.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we believe vibrant local traditions are what turn a beautiful location into a true home. Walking or cycling to the farmers market on a Sunday morning embodies the relaxed, wellness-focused sanctuary lifestyle that makes Sanibel and Captiva real estate among the most desirable in the country.

Fresh Flavors & Artisan Finds: What to Expect in Season 19

With approximately 50 curated vendors lining the perimeter of City Hall, the 2026 market offers an expansive selection of locally sourced foods, specialty gourmet items, and coastal craftsmanship:

                    MARKET OFFERINGS AT-A-GLANCE
  
  [ FARM-FRESH PRODUCE ] ──► Florida greens, heirloom citrus, avocados & tropical fruits
  [ GULF COAST SEAFOOD ] ──► Fresh-caught grouper, snapper, stone crab & pink shrimp
  [ ARTISAN BAKERIES ]   ──► European breads, chocolate croissants & gluten-free baked goods
  [ SPECIALTY CREATIONS] ──► Small-batch cheeses, fresh-pressed juices, sauces & acai bowls
  [ ISLAND CRAFTS ]      ──► Local potters, fine jewelers, photographers & coastal artisans

Shoppers can stock up on longtime island staples—including freshly made guacamole, local raw honey, cut tropical flowers, and prepared lunch items to take directly to the beach. The market also features a rotating monthly booth dedicated to highlighting local Southwest Florida artists.

Community Partnerships & Giving Back

The Sanibel Farmers Market remains deeply rooted in island philanthropy.

• FISH of SanCap Food Pantry Partnership: At the close of each market day, vendors regularly donate unsold fresh produce, baked goods, and proteins directly to FISH of Sanibel-Captiva, helping stock the island’s primary charitable food pantry for families and seniors in need.

• Weekly Non-Profit Spotlight: Each Sunday, Local Roots reserves a dedicated complimentary booth for a local non-profit organization to educate the public, raise awareness, and promote upcoming civic initiatives. During October and November, FISH will host a regular booth featuring event details and race registrations for their annual JOG N JAM.

                 SUSTAINABILITY & MARKET ETIQUETTE
  
  [ BRING REUSABLE BAGS ] ──► Support island conservation; canvas bags available on-site.
  [ PET POLICY ]          ──► ADA service animals permitted; household pets & ESA are not.
  [ PAYMENT OPTIONS ]     ──► Most vendors accept cards, but cash is ideal for quick transactions.

Parking, Biking & Logistics

Because opening weeks draw enthusiastic crowds, arriving early or utilizing the island’s 25-mile shared-use path system is recommended:

(Sister Market Note: The Captiva Island Farmers Market will return on Tuesdays starting in late fall at The Shops at South Seas.)

Visit BuyLocalLee.com for regional vendor rosters and seasonal updates across all Local Roots market locations.

For generations of islanders, anglers, and visiting families, the fishing pier at Lighthouse Beach Park has stood as one of Sanibel’s most treasured waterfront landmarks. Now, the City of Sanibel is taking definitive steps to restore and reimagine this East End centerpiece for future generations.

The City has scheduled an official public workshop for Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 5:30 PM in MacKenzie Hall at Sanibel City Hall (800 Dunlop Road). During this session, City staff and engineering consultants will unveil three candidate sites currently under evaluation for the Sanibel fishing pier replacement Lighthouse Beach Park project.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we view our coastal recreation infrastructure as essential to the island’s heritage and property appeal. Waterfront parks, public shoreline access, and active community amenities elevate the sanctuary lifestyle that draws residents and investors to Sanibel’s East End.

Two-Pronged Strategy: Temporary Repairs & Permanent Vision

To balance immediate recreation needs with long-term coastal planning, the City of Sanibel is executing a parallel, two-track strategy:

                    TWO-PRONGED PIER RECOVERY STRATEGY
  
  [ TRACK 1: INTERIM USE ] ──► Permitting temporary repairs on the existing pier structure
                               to reopen public access as quickly as possible.
  [ TRACK 2: PERMANENT NEW ]──► Evaluating three resilient locations for an all-new,
                               engineered replacement pier built for the future.

1. Expedited Temporary Reopening

The City is currently navigating the regulatory permitting process to execute targeted temporary repairs on the existing pier. The objective is to restore public fishing access as soon as repairs are safely completed and approved. By maintaining the existing pier for as long as reasonably possible, the community avoids extended gaps in shoreline access while the permanent structure progresses through planning, permitting, and construction.

2. Designing the Permanent Replacement

Concurrently, the permanent replacement initiative aims to build a modern, hurricane-hardened pier designed to withstand the hydrodynamics and tidal surges of San Carlos Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Evaluating the 3 Potential Pier Locations

During the September 15 workshop, municipal engineers and coastal consultants will present three distinct location alternatives for the new pier within Lighthouse Beach Park.

Each site is being scored against several critical operational and environmental criteria:

Public Workshop Details & Community Feedback

Public input will directly shape which design and location alternative advances to formal engineering. Attendees will have the opportunity to view detailed site renderings, pose questions to consultants, and submit written comments.

                    PUBLIC WORKSHOP QUICK FACTS
  
  [ DATE & TIME ] ──► Tuesday, September 15, 2026 | 5:30 PM
  [ LOCATION ]    ──► MacKenzie Hall, Sanibel City Hall (800 Dunlop Road)
  [ AGENDA ]      ──► Review 3 site alternatives, project timelines & public Q&A
  [ DEPARTMENT ]  ──► City of Sanibel Public Works Department
  [ CONTACT ]     ──► Email: sanpw@mysanibel.com | Phone: (239) 472-6397

Whether you are an avid local angler who casts from the pier at dawn, an East End homeowner, or an island resident dedicated to preserving park amenities, your voice is an essential part of the design process.

A long-awaited community amenity is officially returning to Sanibel’s East End. The Sanibel Planning Commission has unanimously approved a conditional use permit and associated waivers to redevelop the storm-damaged service station at 1015 Periwinkle Way, positioned at the corner of Bailey Road.

The approval clears the path for the property—historically operated as Sanibel Standard and later Chevron—to be restored into an active fueling station complete with a modernized, hurricane-hardened convenience store.

Ever since Hurricane Ian made landfall nearly four years ago, East End residents, seasonal visitors, and island commuters entering from the Sanibel Causeway have lacked an immediate fueling option. Restoring this landmark location fills a crucial retail gap, eliminating the need to drive miles west toward the center of the island just to top off a gas tank.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we view every step of commercial recovery as an essential piece of Sanibel’s resurgence. Restoring foundational neighborhood services enhances daily convenience, supports walkable and bikeable island living, and strengthens property values across the East End corridor.

“The east end of the island has needed a gas station since Hurricane Ian. This is definitely the cherry on top. We want the island to welcome you and look like nothing at all has ever happened.”

— David Muench, Sanibel Resident

Retro Aesthetic Meets Modern Resilience: The 1950s Design

The planned redevelopment focuses on blending nostalgia with modern coastal engineering. Rather than modern corporate architecture, the exterior remodel will maintain a retro 1950s-era aesthetic, paying homage to the location’s historic island roots dating back more than 46 years.

                 PROJECT DESIGN & RESILIENCE HIGHLIGHTS
  
  [ BUILDING FOOTPRINT ] ──► Renovating existing 1,627 sq. ft. building + 340 sq. ft. addition
  [ RETRO ARCHITECTURE ] ──► 1950s service station character with native landscape buffers
  [ FLOOD RESILIENCE ]   ──► Fully flood-proofed structure built to latest Florida building codes
  [ UPGRADED TANKS ]     ──► Electronically monitored, state-of-the-art underground storage
  [ SITE SAFETY ]        ──► Two 24-ft driveways on Bailey Rd designed for safe tanker access

The permit authorizes the renovation of the existing 1,627-square-foot commercial structure along with a roughly 340-square-foot addition. The building plus pump canopy footprint totals approximately 2,824 square feet, keeping it well below the maximum allowable commercial floor area for the district.

In keeping with Sanibel’s strict dark-sky values and environmental ordinances, all exterior lighting will be downward-directed to prevent glare into neighboring residences, and site plans incorporate 100% native vegetation buffers where feasible.

Community Context: Leadership Perspectives & Timelines

Sanibel leaders view the revitalized corner as another tangible symbol of the island’s steady comeback.

“Every single step towards recovery is good news. My expectation is for it to be done in a year. I would like to see it done in a year. I think it’s possible, but we’ll see.”

— Mike Miller, Mayor of Sanibel

The property originally included a residential dwelling unit that was demolished following severe storm surge damage during Hurricane Ian. Under the approved plans, the owner retains the right to add a residential dwelling unit back onto the parcel via a standard building permit in the future.

                    NEXT STEPS IN DEVELOPMENT
  
  [ PERMIT APPROVED ]    ──► Conditional Use Permit & Driveway Waivers granted
  [ BUILDING PERMITS ]   ──► Detailed architectural, MEP & photometric plans submitted
  [ CONSTRUCTION PHASE ] ──► Structural floodproofing, canopy upgrades & tank modernization
  [ TARGET COMPLETION ]  ──► Projected operational opening within 12 months

With conditional zoning entitlements now established, the property developer will finalize site-level building permits, stormwater management plans, and signage specifications before breaking ground.

Island generosity is the lifeblood of our sanctuary community. In honor of National Philanthropy Day, the Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI) has announced the return of its premier annual signature event: the CFI Generosity Breakfast 2026 Sanibel, scheduled for Monday, November 16, 2026, at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa (1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel).

Presented by the CFI Board of Directors, this inspiring morning gathers island residents, civic leaders, local entrepreneurs, and non-profit partners to celebrate the spirit of giving that defines Sanibel and Captiva—and to collectively invest in the future of our islands.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we believe that true luxury living is rooted in a thriving, caring community. Supporting the institutions, non-profits, and grassroots leaders who preserve our island’s natural beauty and social safety net ensures that Sanibel and Captiva remain an extraordinary place to live, invest, and raise families for generations to come.

100% Impact: Event Underwriting & Strategic Sponsorships

A standout highlight of the 2026 breakfast is that 100% of every dollar generated from ticket and table sales goes directly into CFI’s Community Impact Fund. This complete passthrough is made possible by generous underwriting and corporate leadership:

• Spirit of Generosity Co-Chairs: Longtime island benefactors Susan “Sam” Boren and Steve King are fully underwriting the breakfast. Both have historically backed coastal conservation, affordable workforce housing through Community Housing & Resources (CHR), and CFI’s Accelerate Small Business Loan Program. Boren also serves on the CFI Board of Directors.

• Venue Host Sponsor: Sundial Beach Resort & Spa has generously underwritten the event venue space, maximizing the net funds directed toward island community initiatives.

• Exclusive Corporate Sponsor: Sanibel Captiva Community Bank returns as the exclusive corporate sponsor for the second consecutive year, following the successful 2025 inaugural event that welcomed more than 175 attendees. Since its founding in 2003, the bank has contributed over $5 million to 400+ local charitable initiatives, provided extensive post-storm recovery relief, and contributed nearly 1,000 employee volunteer hours annually across Southwest Florida.

                 COMMUNITY IMPACT ALLOCATION MODEL
  
  [ EVENT UNDERWRITING ]  ──► Boren & King + Sundial absorb 100% of operational costs
  [ TICKET & TABLE SALES] ──► 100% channeled directly to CFI Community Impact Fund
  [ GRANT DEPLOYMENT ]    ──► Direct funding to local non-profits, housing & coastal resilience

“Supporting the communities we serve has been part of our mission since the bank was founded. Whether through financial support, volunteerism, or community partnerships, we’re committed to helping the islands and Southwest Florida thrive. We’re honored to serve again as the exclusive corporate sponsor of the Generosity Breakfast and to stand alongside CFI in recognizing the neighbors whose generosity shapes these islands.”

— Kyle DeCicco, President & CEO of Sanibel Captiva Community Bank

2026 Program Highlights: Keynote, Awards & 2027 Priorities

The morning’s itinerary features thought-provoking keynote perspectives and community-led priority planning:

                    EVENT ITINERARY AT-A-GLANCE
  
  [ 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM ]  ──► Breakfast Buffet & Community Networking
  [ 9:00 AM – 9:45 AM ]  ──► 2026 Generosity Champion Awards Presentation
  [ 9:45 AM – 10:30 AM ] ──► Keynote Address by Lynne Wester
  [ 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM] ──► 2026 Grantee Stories & Interactive 2027 Priority Session

• Keynote Speaker Lynne Wester: Nationally renowned founder and principal of the Donor Relations Group, Wester will present her keynote address: “You Matter More Than You Know: One Person, One Community.” Her message highlights how sustainable communities are built not by sporadic massive gestures, but through steady, individual moments of everyday caring.

• Generosity Champion Awards: Recognition of exceptional local leaders whose volunteerism, leadership, and philanthropy have profoundly shaped island life.

• Voices of Impact: Firsthand presentations from 2026 Community Impact Fund grantees detailing how local contributions funded tangible island solutions.

• Shaping the 2027 Agenda: Attendees will participate in an interactive session, identifying emerging community needs and helping CFI establish its funding priorities for the 2027 grant cycle.

“The Generosity Breakfast shines a light on what makes our islands special: the wholehearted gift of time, talent, and treasure. We are grateful to Sam and Steve for underwriting this year’s breakfast, to Sanibel Captiva Community Bank for their continued leadership as our exclusive corporate sponsor, and to Sundial Beach Resort & Spa for hosting us once again.”

— Dolly Farrell, Executive Director of the Charitable Foundation of the Islands

Event Registration & Ticket Information

Due to limited seating inside the Sundial ballroom, early registration is encouraged for individuals, civic clubs, and business groups:

                    EVENT DETAILS & LOCATION
  
  [ DATE ]     ──► Monday, November 16, 2026 (National Philanthropy Day)
  [ TIME ]     ──► 8:00 AM Buffet | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Program
  [ VENUE ]    ──► Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, 1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel
  [ REGISTER ] ──► secure.qgiv.com/for/generositybreakfast/event/generositybreakfast2026
  [ LEARN MORE]──► MyCFI.org

Join your fellow islanders at Sundial this November to celebrate the spirit of giving that keeps Sanibel and Captiva resilient, welcoming, and strong. Click here for tickets

Travel between Michigan and Southwest Florida’s barrier islands is about to get much more convenient. Las Vegas-based carrier Allegiant Air has officially announced an expansion of its winter schedule, headlined by new nonstop Allegiant Air RSW Fort Myers Flint flights launching on February 11, 2027, out of Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW).

The new route directly links the greater Fort Myers region—including Sanibel and Captiva islands—with Flint Bishop International Airport (FNT), a strategic gateway for travelers throughout eastern and central Michigan.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we view direct airport connectivity as a primary driver of our regional real estate market. Seamless, low-cost flights allow second-home owners, snowbirds, and vacationers to transition effortlessly between their northern residences and their island retreats, sustaining long-term property demand and tourism vitality.

Florida-to-Flint Expansion: Full Route Breakdown

In addition to the new service at RSW, Allegiant is expanding its presence across the Sunshine State by introducing routes from Orlando and increasing flight frequencies from Sarasota-Bradenton and Tampa Bay.

                  ALLEGIANT FLORIDA-TO-FLINT EXPANSION
  
  [ FORT MYERS (RSW) ]       ──► Launches Feb. 11, 2027 (Direct Nonstop Service)
  [ ORLANDO (SFB/MCO) ]      ──► Launches Feb. 10, 2027 (New Round-Trip Service)
  [ SARASOTA-BRADENTON (SRQ)]──► Expands Feb. 10, 2027 (Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays)
  [ ST. PETE-CLEARWATER (PIE)]──► Expands Feb. 11, 2027 (Tuesdays, Thursdays & Sundays)

Strategic Growth: Allegiant’s Leisure Network Expansion

Specializing in linking small-to-midsize hometown communities with premier leisure destinations, Allegiant’s footprint has expanded significantly following its strategic acquisition of Sun Country Airlines in May.

                    AIRLINE NETWORK BENCHMARKS
  
  [ COMBINED PASSENGERS ] ──► ~22 Million annual travelers (Passenger, Charter & Cargo)
  [ ROUTE REACH ]         ──► 650+ routes serving nearly 175 cities nationwide
  [ FINANCIAL STRENGTH ]  ──► Posted nearly $2.55 Billion in annual operating revenue

This increased capacity allows Michigan vacationers to bypass congested mega-hubs like Detroit Metro (DTW) and fly directly from Flint Bishop Airport into regional Florida destinations with minimal hassle.

Real Estate Impact: The Michigan-to-Sanibel Pipeline

For decades, the Midwest—and Michigan in particular—has served as one of the strongest feeder markets for real estate buyers on Sanibel, Captiva, and Fort Myers Beach. Adding targeted routes right at the height of peak winter season (February) offers notable advantages for local owners:

• Elevated Rental Occupancy: Direct flight routes provide easy weekend and weekly access, boosting bookings for short-term vacation rental owners.

• Convenient Second-Home Access: Seasonal residents can commute quickly without long layovers, making split-season living between Michigan and Southwest Florida even more seamless.

• Buyer Accessibility: Prospective buyers touring winter inventory can easily schedule weekend property preview trips.

Travelers looking to book winter escapes or reserve travel for visiting family can view flight calendars and promotional fares directly through the official Allegiant Air Booking Portal.