Category: Island Update

Nearly four years after Hurricane Ian caused catastrophic damage along Sanibel Island’s coastlines, another community has achieved a major recovery milestone. On September 4, 2026—just 24 days shy of Ian’s fourth anniversary—the owners of Gulf Beach Condominium and general contractor Benchmark General Contractors came together with golden shovels to celebrate the official Gulf Beach Condominium Sanibel rebuild groundbreaking.

Located at 527 E. Gulf Drive, roughly a quarter-mile west of the historic Sanibel Lighthouse, the 14-unit residential building has stood vacant since September 2022 while owners resolved complex insurance filings, navigated FEMA’s stringent 50% substantial damage regulations, and committed to a complete ground-up reconstruction.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we celebrate every groundbreaking across Sanibel and Captiva. The return of boutique residential complexes on the East End preserves our neighborhood heritage, strengthens long-term real estate values, and demonstrates the enduring commitment of owners who call this sanctuary home.

“When we got the shovels in hand, the skies cleared. The primary reason was we were trying to figure out if we could repair the building rather than replace it. That was the first hurdle we had to get through. The second one was the amount of money. People wanted to understand what kind of a check they were going to have to write.”

— Leo Farley, President of Gulf Beach Condominium Association

The Anatomy of the Storm: Why Replacement Was Necessary

The original structure at 527 East Gulf Drive was elevated approximately 10 feet above ground level over a ground-floor concrete parking slab, featuring two living levels of seven units each. During Hurricane Ian, historic storm surge heights reached 12 to 13 feet.

The repeated, hydraulic lifting of the building off its foundation pilings caused structural fracturing across floor panels on the second story, leaving gaps visible through to the parking area below. Combined with intense pressure forcing wind and water through building plumbing and blowing out top-floor drywall, engineering evaluations made it clear that repairing the damaged framework was structurally impractical under current building codes.

                 HURRICANE IAN IMPACT & REBUILD DECISION
  
  [ ORIGINAL ELEVATION ] ──► ~10 Feet above grade on ground-level parking pad
  [ SURGE HEIGHT ]       ──► 12 to 13-foot repetitive Gulf surge waves
  [ STRUCTURAL DAMAGE ]  ──► Lifted off pilings; floor slab cracking & interior blowouts
  [ NEW SPECIFICATIONS ] ──► Elevated by an additional 5 feet above prior elevation

Project Scope, Architecture & Investment Breakdown

The total reconstruction of the 28,542-square-foot condominium complex represents an estimated $6.5 million construction investment—translating to roughly $464,285 per unit owner for approximately 1,100 square feet of interior living space.

                    PROJECT BUDGET & RESPONSIBILITIES
  
  [ $6.5M BASE CONTRACT ] ──► Complete building shell, framing, pool, wiring & plumbing
  [ PER-OWNER SHARE ]     ──► ~$464,285 per owner for 1,100 sq. ft. unit shell
  [ INTERIOR FINISHES ]   ──► Flooring, custom cabinetry, lighting & appliances (Owner choice)
  [ FEMA 50% COMPLIANCE ] ──► Full ground-up replacement meeting all current flood elevations

While demolition of the storm-damaged structure is actively underway by Benchmark, the construction team plans to test the site’s existing foundation pilings. If tests confirm integrity, the original concrete pilings may be supplemented or reincorporated alongside approximately 200 pilings driven 20 to 30 feet into the ground—a unique approach that could provide cost savings for owners.

The Project Team

• General Contractor: Benchmark General Contractors (Led by President Brad Nickel and VP of Operations Doug Hrabik)

• Architect: Michael Sheeley, AIA, of MK Architecture

• Civil & Structural Engineering: Michael Stewart

• Association Leadership: Leo Farley, Board President

Doug Hrabik likened the boutique project to a scaled-down version of By the Sea, an oceanfront condominium project Benchmark is currently completing along West Gulf Drive.

East End Desirability & Resilience

While the journey required navigating extensive insurance claims, contractor vetting, and emotional tolls that prompted a few owners to sell, the majority of original owners chose to stay.

Positioned on Sanibel’s prestigious East End just moments from the Lighthouse, fishing pier, and Gulf beaches, the rebuilt Gulf Beach Condominiums will stand as a model of modern coastal construction, designed to protect owners and their investments for decades to come.

The true heart of Sanibel and Captiva has always been its people, and when tragedy strikes, our islands rally like nowhere else. This weekend, the community is coming together for the Sanibel Burnsed Family Community Fundraiser 2026 on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 12:30 PM to 6:30 PM at the Sanibel American Legion Post 123 (4249 Sanibel-Captiva Road).

The benefit is designed to lift up one of our barrier islands’ most cherished, longtime families—the Burnseds—after a devastating residential structure fire destroyed their home earlier this summer.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we know that what makes our coastal sanctuary extraordinary isn’t merely the beaches or sunshine; it is the unbreakable community bond that surrounds our neighbors in times of profound need. Supporting the Burnseds as they navigate this transition embodies the enduring island spirit we hold so dear.

The Tragedy at Brainard Bayou Road

On June 22, the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District, Captiva Island Fire Control District, and off-island mutual aid partner agencies responded to a serious structure fire at 4596 Brainard Bayou Road on Sanibel.

Despite emergency response efforts, the home of matriarch Laurel Burnsed and five family members was declared a total loss and entirely uninhabitable. While most of their beloved household pets were saved, two tragically perished in the fire.

                 BURNS FAMILY IMPACT SUMMARY
  
  [ RESIDENCE ]       ──► 4596 Brainard Bayou Road, Sanibel (Deemed a Total Loss)
  [ FAMILY DISPLACED] ──► Laurel Burnsed and 5 family members
  [ CURRENT STATUS ]  ──► Temporary housing secured through early December
  [ REBUILD HURDLES ] ──► Lengthy insurance claims, contractor delays & escalating costs

The Burnsed family’s ties to the islands run deep. Laurel is widely known as an indispensable pillar of the Captiva rental industry, while her son Joey is a respected and beloved charter fishing captain. Local non-profit FISH of SanCap has provided emergency assistance and casework, but ongoing replacement, temporary rental, and reconstruction expenses remain substantial.

“Everybody has been great. FISH has been a great help. It’s overwhelming. It’s been awesome. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to live.”

— Joey Burnsed

Live Music, Island Food & Event Schedule

Organized by Joni Stokes with broad support from island business owners, Saturday’s gathering promises to be an uplifting afternoon filled with classic blues, rock, and heartfelt island camaraderie.

                    EVENT ITINERARY & DETAILS
  
  [ DATE & TIME ]     ──► Saturday, September 12, 2026 | 12:30 PM – 6:30 PM
  [ LOCATION ]        ──► Sanibel American Legion Post 123 (4249 SanCap Road)
  [ LIVE BANDS ]      ──► The Marty Stokes Band & The Damon Fowler Band (Tampa)
  [ DINNER DONATION ] ──► $25 Suggested donation for gourmet food (No door admission fee)
  [ AUCTION CLOSING ] ──► Silent Auction ends promptly at 6:00 PM

Culinary Support Led by Paper Fig Kitchen

Chef Jeramie Campana, owner of Paper Fig Kitchen (formerly located at Tahitian Gardens), is spearheading the food service. Campana has coordinated with six to seven local island restaurants to donate an array of culinary offerings. Attendees can enjoy dinner on-site with an optional $25 donation to directly support the family.

Silent Auction: Over 80 Island Experiences & Getaways

Island businesses, resort operators, and charter captains have stepped up with remarkable generosity, providing nearly 80 silent auction lots. Bidding runs throughout the afternoon and closes promptly at 6:00 PM.

How You Can Participate & Support

Whether you stop by to bid on auction items, enjoy a plate of island food, dance to live blues, or make a direct donation, every contribution helps this legacy family rebuild their foundation.

• When: Saturday, September 12, 2026 (12:30 PM – 6:30 PM)

• Where: Sanibel American Legion Post 123, 4249 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, FL

• Admission: Open to the public; $25 suggested donation for dinner.

Our beloved sanctuary island has earned a major international spotlight. Featured prominently in Travel + Leisure, Expedia recently unveiled its definitive 2026 Island Hot List, with Sanibel securing the No. 8 ranking among the world’s top trending island destinations.

Even more impressive, Sanibel holds the exclusive honor of being the only island in the contiguous United States to break into the global top ten. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder with exotic destinations across Europe, the South Pacific, and the Caribbean, this accolade underscores what residents and returning visitors have always known: Sanibel’s blend of pristine nature, low-density charm, and coastal tranquility remains globally unmatched.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we celebrate every recognition of our barrier islands. Accolades like Expedia’s Hot List reinforce international interest, maintain exceptional second-home demand, and preserve long-term property values across Sanibel and Captiva.

What Puts Sanibel Island on the Global Map?

Unlike hyper-commercialized resort destinations, Sanibel’s appeal lies in its intentional preservation and relaxed pace. Decades of strict city planning and dedicated conservation have protected the island from high-rises and neon commercial strips, allowing every trip to take on a genuine, personal rhythm.

                    WHAT MAKES SANIBEL STAND OUT
  
  [ WORLD-CLASS SHELLING ] ──► Unique east-west orientation scoops up Gulf seashells.
  [ NATURE & CONSERVATION] ──► Over 65% of the island permanently preserved wildlife refuge.
  [ ZERO HIGH-RISES ]      ──► Strict low-density zoning preserves natural horizon lines.
  [ PEDAL-POWERED LIVING ] ──► 25+ miles of paved, shaded shared-use recreation paths.

A typical day on Sanibel might begin at sunrise with a coffee and the famous “Sanibel Stoop,” searching the tide line for rare whelks, conchs, and calico scallops. By afternoon, visitors can kayak through the mangrove tunnels of the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, pedal cruiser bikes to local boutiques on Periwinkle Way, or savor fresh Gulf pink shrimp at an open-air bistro.

Expedia’s Top Trending Islands: A Distinctive Group

Securing a spot alongside world-renowned escapes illustrates how strongly travelers value authenticity and environmental harmony:

Being the sole representative from the continental U.S. demonstrates that travelers are prioritizing tranquil coastal havens that combine accessible travel logistics with pristine natural surroundings.

Curating the Perfect Island Escape

The right vacation property defines your experience. Working with established local specialists like Island Vacations of Sanibel & Captiva enables travelers to tailor accommodations to their exact lifestyle:

• Direct Gulf-Front Living: Wake up to panoramic Gulf horizons and step directly from your private boardwalk onto world-class shelling sands.

• Private Heated Pools & Spas: Unwind in secluded, lushly landscaped backyards after a day of cycling and exploring.

• Multi-Generational & Pet-Friendly Homes: Ample square footage, multiple suites, and pet-friendly amenities allow the entire family to gather together.

While international accolades like the Sanibel Island 2026 Expedia Island Hot List feature are exciting milestones, the true magic of the island reveals itself in personal moments—finding that perfect Junonia shell, enjoying dinner with family as dolphins play in the surf, and returning season after season to your favorite coastal retreat.

A purposeful revitalization project is underway with Motley Market Fort Myers Cleveland Avenue, breathing new life into a prominent midtown commercial corridor. On August 31, 2026, local commercial real estate broker Dan O’Berski—managing partner at Trinity Commercial Group (TCG)—finalized the $1 million acquisition of the 4,200-square-foot former bike shop at 3630 Cleveland Avenue under the corporate entity Cleveland Hill LLC.

Instead of developing a conventional strip retail store or fast-food drive-through, the building is being transformed into Motley Market Fort Myers Cleveland Avenue, an eclectic farmers market, neighborhood general store, and cross-cultural community gathering place.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we actively monitor commercial investments, adaptive reuse projects, and urban infill redevelopments across Southwest Florida. Transforming historic properties into thriving gathering hubs enhances walkable neighborhood amenities, encourages local foot traffic, and drives long-term value for nearby residential communities.

From Legacy Cycling Anchor to Motley Market Fort Myers Cleveland Avenue

Located at the northwest corner of Cleveland Avenue (U.S. 41) and Hill Avenue, the building served as an active bicycle shop for more than three decades. It first operated as Fort Myers Schwinn, followed by a 28-year run as Fort Myers Cyclery under Michael and Diane Holm, before being acquired in September 2023 for $815,000 by 3630 Cleveland Ave LLC, owned by Edward Wian and operated by his son, Michael Wian.

With the Wians moving their retail operations east to Centerplace at Esplanade off Alico Road, the site is embarking on an entirely new chapter. Even so, the location will honor its two-wheeled heritage: the team behind Motley Market Fort Myers Cleveland Avenue intends to sell refurbished, discounted electric bicycles alongside fresh food to encourage sustainable local mobility.

                  PROPERTY ACQUISITION TIMELINE
  
  [ 1990s–2023 ] ──► Operated as Fort Myers Schwinn / Fort Myers Cyclery
  [ SEPT. 2023 ] ──► Acquired by 3630 Cleveland Ave LLC ($815,000)
  [ AUG. 31, 2026]──► Purchased by Dan O’Berski / Cleveland Hill LLC ($1,000,000)
  [ 2026–2027 ]  ──► Redevelopment into Motley Market Farmers Market & General Store

The Mission & Community Vision for Motley Market

O’Berski funded the acquisition using equity from his ownership share in the $65 million summer sale of The Pointe at Founder’s Square in North Naples. Facing a tight timeline to execute a traditional 1031 tax-deferred exchange, O’Berski opted to deploy the capital directly into this community-oriented urban revitalization venture.

The facility will be leased to For Prophet, a dedicated non-profit organization founded by O’Berski, which will manage operations, oversee vendor relationships, and direct outreach initiatives:

• Farm-to-Table Pipeline: Sourced directly from a 10-acre agricultural farm O’Berski placed under contract, scheduled to close this fall, ensuring a continuous supply of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and greens.

• Essential General Store: Supplying daily grocery staples, household pantry essentials, baked items, and refurbished e-bikes.

• Civic Gathering Space: Serving as an inclusive neighborhood meeting ground across from Latimer Crossing, a 92-unit mixed-income apartment community whose retail space recently welcomed Foxtail Coffee.

• Food Truck Activation: An on-site food truck will be activated on the property to provide food and beverage options while the main structure undergoes renovation.

                 REDEVELOPMENT TARGET BENCHMARKS
  
  [ LATE 2026 ]   ──► Complete interior buildout & layout modifications
  [ FALL 2026 ]   ──► Finalize purchase of 10-acre supporting produce farm
  [ EARLY 2027 ]  ──► Exterior CRA façade enhancements & site modifications
  [ MARCH 1, 2027]──► Targeted grand opening for Motley Market general store

To assist with streetscape improvements and exterior façade restoration along U.S. 41, O’Berski is preparing an application for municipal grant funding through the Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA).

Redefining Urban Connectivity & Neighborly Culture

For O’Berski—a long-time resident of nearby Jefferson Park who leads an in-home faith group known as L1A (“Love One Another”)—the decision to open across from an adult entertainment venue is an intentional choice rooted in community-first values.

The name “Motley” reflects its dictionary definition: incongruously varied in appearance or character; disparate. The ultimate vision for Motley Market Fort Myers Cleveland Avenue is to bring together families, business professionals, and residents from diverse backgrounds, fostering connection across the neighborhood.

Labor Day weekend on Sanibel is kicking off at the crack of dawn with incredible savings, island camaraderie, and a touch of festive fun. In partnership with the SanCap Chamber, local boutique leaders Adventures in Paradise Outfitters and A Little Adventure have announced the return of the Sanibel Island Sunrise Sale on Saturday, September 5, 2026.

Starting promptly at sunrise (7:09 AM) and running through 5:00 PM, the event brings together over 45 local Sanibel small businesses—spanning coastal boutiques, art galleries, bookstores, outfitters, wellness spas, and beloved island eateries—all offering deep discounts, giveaways, and early-morning perks.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we believe that vibrant local commerce is the heartbeat of our island community. Gathering together in our pajamas at sunrise to champion our independent retailers not only boosts our neighborhood economy during the late-summer season but also celebrates the close-knit spirit that makes Sanibel living truly special.

“When Audrey and I first pitched the Sanibel Sunrise Sale, we honestly weren’t sure anyone would set an alarm and wake up early for an island shopping event, but the community showed up. It turned into something bigger than we imagined and to watch it come back for a second year as an actual Sanibel tradition is pretty surreal.”

— Josh Stewart, Co-Owner of Adventures in Paradise Outfitters & A Little Adventure

Event Highlights: Black Friday, Island-Style

Think of the Sunrise Sale as Black Friday with coastal sunshine, fresh coffee, and pajama-clad shoppers. Participating merchants will open their doors at 7:09 AM with exclusive promotions available only during this one-day event:

                    SUNRISE SALE IN-STORE PERKS & DEALS
  
  [ EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS ] ──► Up to 50% off select items, tiered sales & BOGO deals.
  [ COMPLIMENTARY PERKS]──► Free morning mimosas, breakfast treats & chair massages.
  [ PAJAMA CONTEST ]    ──► Wear your favorite island pajamas for extra prizes and fun!
  [ LIMITED GIVEAWAYS ] ──► Free gifts with purchase while early supplies last.

“People came out in their pajamas, ready for fun and a little retail therapy. Business owners were thrilled with the success. This really has become something that belongs to all of the participating businesses.”

— John Lai, President & CEO of the SanCap Chamber

How the Event Passport & Grand Prizes Work

Shoppers can pick up an official Event Map-Passport at the SanCap Chamber Visitor Center (1159 Causeway Blvd., Sanibel) or at any of the 45+ participating retail locations.

                  HOW TO ENTER THE GRAND PRIZE DRAWINGS
  
  [ STEP 1: GET PASSPORT ] ──► Pick up map at the Visitor Center or any participating shop.
  [ STEP 2: COLLECT STAMPS]──► Receive a sticker at each business you visit throughout the day.
  [ STEP 3: HIT 10 STOPS ] ──► Collect 10 or more stickers by 5:00 PM on Saturday.
  [ STEP 4: WIN PRIZES ]   ──► Submit your passport to enter the luxury island prize drawings!

Featured Grand Prizes

Passports with 10 or more stickers qualify for drawings featuring premier staycation and recreation packages:

• Resort Stays: Complimentary getaways at The Anchor Inn & Cottages, Shalimar Beach Resort, and Tarpon Tale Inn.

• Island Experiences: Gift certificates and adventure packages from The Moke & Cabana Club, Adventures in Paradise Cruises, and more.

Plan Your Sunrise Shopping Route

While great deals will be available throughout the holiday weekend, the deepest discounts and festive in-store experiences are exclusive to Saturday, September 5.

Set your alarms, put on your finest island sleepwear, and come out early to support the independent merchants that make Sanibel paradise!

One of Sanibel Island’s most beloved community fixtures is gearing up for its upcoming season. Noah’s Ark Thrift Shop, located on the grounds of Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, has announced it will officially begin accepting merchandise donations on September 1, 2026.

The shop will then open its doors for retail shopping on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, welcoming bargain hunters, collectors, and seasonal residents back to explore its treasure-filled aisles.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we cherish the non-profit institutions that give Sanibel its close-knit, philanthropic spirit. For more than six decades, Noah’s Ark has served as both a recycling hub for quality home goods and a charitable powerhouse that directly funds vital local, regional, and global outreach programs.

Key Dates: Donation Intake & Shopping Reopening

Before the retail floor opens for the winter and spring season, church volunteers spend the entire month of September sorting, pricing, and displaying thousands of incoming goods:

                    SEASONAL TIMELINE AT-A-GLANCE
  
  [ SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 ] ──► Donation Intake Begins at the Church Loading Dock
  [ SEPTEMBER 2–OCT 5 ] ──► Volunteer Sorting, Cleaning, Curation & Merchandising
  [ OCTOBER 6, 2026 ]   ──► Official Retail Grand Reopening for the 2026–2027 Season

Donation Guidelines: What to Give & What to Skip

Operated by dedicated volunteers through the church, Noah’s Ark relies on clean, high-quality, gently used items. Because all proceeds support community grants, donated items should be in good, working condition and ready for immediate resale:

Shopping With Purpose: Community Impact

Every dollar spent or item donated at Noah’s Ark delivers a tangible community benefit. For over 60 years, 100% of the thrift shop’s net proceeds have been awarded as charitable grants to local non-profits across Lee County—including food banks, emergency shelters, educational foundations, and health clinics—as well as national and international humanitarian relief organizations.

                 HOW NOAH'S ARK SUPPORTS OUR REGION
  
  [ RESIDENTIAL DONATIONS ] ──► Local homeowners donate quality furniture & goods
             │
             ▼
  [ VOLUNTEER POWER ]       ──► Church volunteers sort, price, and curate items
             │
             ▼
  [ AFFORDABLE SHOPPING ]   ──► Residents & visitors find quality treasures
             │
             ▼
  [ CHARITABLE OUTREACH ]   ──► 100% of proceeds fund local & regional non-profit grants

Location & Contact Information

Whether you are decluttering your island home, remodeling a seasonal condo, or shopping for unique vintage coastal decor, here is how to connect with the team:

• Address: 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957 (Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church campus)

• Phone: 239-799-7146

• Official Website: saintmichaels-sanibel.org/noahs-ark

• Social Channels: Follow updates on Facebook and Instagram (@noahsarkthrift.sanibel)

Island homeowners looking to safely clear out old paints, pool chemicals, pesticides, and automotive fluids have a free, convenient opportunity just around the corner. Hosted jointly by the City of Sanibel and Lee County Solid Waste, a dedicated household chemical waste collection event will take place on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the parking lot of the Sanibel Public Library (770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel).

Operated as a contactless, drive-through drop-off, this service is provided at no charge to all island residents.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we know that protecting Sanibel’s pristine environment begins right at home. With our island’s interconnected canals, interior freshwater wetlands, and delicate coastal aquifer, properly disposing of hazardous household compounds prevents toxic runoff, preserves water quality, and safeguards our wildlife habitats.

Event Details & Drive-Through Logistics

The collection is made possible through an ongoing interlocal agreement between the City of Sanibel and Lee County, offering residents a responsible disposal solution for materials that cannot enter standard municipal waste streams.

                 COLLECTION EVENT QUICK FACTS
  
  [ DATE & TIME ]  ──► Wednesday, September 2, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  [ LOCATION ]     ──► Sanibel Public Library Parking Lot (770 Dunlop Road)
  [ COST ]         ──► 100% Free for Sanibel residential households
  [ FORMAT ]       ──► Drive-through service (Staff unloads your trunk/truck bed)

What to Bring: Accepted Household Chemical Waste

Residents are encouraged to check garages, sheds, workshops, and under-sink cabinets for hazardous substances, including:

• Paints & Solvents: Leftover oil-based paints, stains, varnishes, thinners, and strippers.

• Lawn & Garden: Herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, and chemical fertilizers.

• Automotive Liquids: Motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, steering fluid, and antifreeze.

• Pool & Home Care: Chlorine, shock, algaecides, muriatic acid, and concentrated household cleaners.

Items Not Considered Chemical Waste (Regular Curbside Garbage)

Certain household and maintenance items do not require hazardous processing and may be placed directly in your standard household trash collection:

Commercial & Business Waste Disposal Guidelines

This collection event is reserved exclusively for residential properties. Commercial enterprises, contractors, and landscape businesses requiring hazardous chemical disposal should arrange a drop-off appointment via MXI Environmental Services by calling 276-477-0947 or emailing CESQG@MXIINC.com.

Alternatively, commercial entities may coordinate directly with Lee County’s permanent Household Chemical Waste facility off Metro Parkway in South Fort Myers (6441 Topaz Court) by calling 239-533-8000.

For more details on upcoming county recycling drives and hazardous waste guidelines, visit the official Lee County Solid Waste Chemical Portal.

Shoreline protection and financial planning took center stage on August 20, 2026, as the Captiva Erosion Prevention District (CEPD) held a dedicated workshop to fine-tune the upcoming special assessment notice for island property owners.

Following the board’s earlier vote setting a baseline $10 million levy, commissioners and district consultants worked through the exact methodology and wording for the formal notices that will soon arrive in property owners’ mailboxes.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we track local infrastructure assessments closely. Coastal protection directly impacts barrier island property values, neighborhood storm resilience, and holding costs across Captiva Island’s residential communities.

County Funding Update: Requesting $4.5 Million in Relief

Chairman Bob Walter opened the workshop with encouraging news regarding inter-governmental funding. About a month prior, the CEPD submitted a formal request to Lee County for $4.5 million in additional financial assistance to help offset total project expenses and reduce the burden on local property owners.

Following recent discussions with county leadership, Walter reported that county officials expressed strong support for the funding request, which is scheduled for formal review during an upcoming Lee County budget workshop.

                    PROJECT FINANCING COMPARISON
  
  [ TOTAL PROJECT COST ]  ──► ~$33 Million (Includes tilling, plantings & execution)
  [ PRIOR PROJECT COST ]  ──► ~$24 Million (Previous restoration benchmark)
  [ COUNTY AID REQUEST ]  ──► $4.5 Million sought from Lee County to lower local burden
  [ TOTAL APPORTIONMENT ] ──► ~$10 Million to ~$12 Million split among property owners

Notice Range Debate: $10 Million vs. $12 Million

During the meeting, representatives from district consultant Governmental Management Services (GMS) presented a draft letter prepared with a $12 million apportionment figure. This prompted a debate among commissioners regarding the appropriate numbers to state in the public notice:

• Chairman Bob Walter: Favored presenting a range of $10 million to $12 million on the property owner notice to ensure flexibility, but expressed openness to listing $12 million if a range is legally restricted.

• Secretary & Treasurer Bernie Dupre: Advocated for maintaining the $10 million figure previously voted on by the board or listing an “estimated $10 million,” emphasizing that the board has no established baseline for higher amounts.

“We have no basis for 12, no basis for 11, no basis for 15.” — Bernie Dupre, CEPD Secretary & Treasurer

Following board deliberations, the commission directed GMS to utilize the $10 million to $12 million range in the mailed notices if permitted by statutory guidelines, or to designate the cost as an estimated $10 million if a single figure is required.

How the Apportionment Model Works

In response to public inquiries regarding the calculation formula, Chairman Walter and GMS clarified that the fundamental methodology mirrors past renourishment cycles, balancing two core criteria:

                    APPORTIONMENT MODEL DRIVERS
  
  [ STORM PROTECTION ] ──► Assessed based on the property's physical flood/erosion barrier benefit.
  [ RECREATION BENEFIT ]──► Assessed based on direct shoreline access and beach usage value.
  [ HOMESTEAD CREDIT ] ──► Statutory discount applied for primary Florida homestead residences.

While the core principles remain identical, the updated model incorporates current real estate variables—including shifts in parcel counts, updated property classifications, and current just/market property valuations established by the property appraiser.

The district continues to refine the final apportionment roll ahead of upcoming public hearings, ensuring that the cost of defending Captiva’s shoreline is distributed equitably across the island.

Island runners, walkers, and supporters are gearing up for one of Sanibel and Captiva’s premier annual charity traditions. Early-tier registration for FISH of SanCap’s 2026 JOG N JAM is set to close on August 31, 2026, marking the final days to secure discounted entry before rates rise.

The two-part island celebration combines a morning of scenic community racing on Sanibel with a December beachfront concert on Captiva.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we believe that backing local social safety nets like FISH keeps our island communities healthy, resilient, and closely connected. Every step taken on race morning directly supports neighbors, families, and seniors across Sanibel and Captiva.

“Every person who registers becomes part of something bigger. You’re spending a great morning with friends and family, but you’re also helping FISH provide essential programs that support our neighbors every day.”

— Leah Winkler, FISH Board Member & JOG N JAM Committee Chair

Part 1: The Race Weekend (November 7 on Sanibel)

The racing events kick off on Saturday, November 7, 2026, hosted at The Community House (2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel). The event features a 10K, 5K Walk/Run, and the family-favorite Kids Fun Run.

                   RACE PRICING (TIER ENDS AUG. 31)
  
  [ 10K & 5K RUN/WALK ] ──► $45 (Increases after Aug. 31)
  [ YOUTH & MILITARY ]  ──► $35 (Ages 17 & under, active military & veterans)
  [ VIRTUAL 10K / 5K ]  ──► $55 Flat Rate (Participate from anywhere)
  [ KIDS FUN RUN ]      ──► FREE (Registration required)

Team Competition Rules & Standings

Local businesses, neighborhood groups, and run clubs can form teams with unlimited participants:

• Scoring: The top five fastest chip times on a team combine to decide the champion in each race.

• Recruitment: Team captains are encouraged to assemble at least six runners.

• Active Teams: Confirmed groups include Billy’s Bikes & Rentals, Catching Coastal Realty, Henderson Franklin Run Club, Sanibel Community Church, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, and Vietnam Veterans.

• Team Sign-Up Deadline: Closes November 6 at noon. Contact Mark Toretsky of Lin-Mark Sports at linmarksports@linmarksports.com to link your registration to a specific team.

Part 2: The Beach Concert & Fireworks (December 5 on Captiva)

The festivities continue on Saturday, December 5, 2026, with an open-air beach concert featuring the Ben Allen Band at ’Tween Waters Island Resort & Marina (15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva). The evening will include two live musical sets and a fireworks display over the Gulf during intermission.

Where the Proceeds Go & How to Register

Every dollar raised through race entries and concert tickets funds FISH’s core island services:

• Food Security: Food pantry operations and emergency feeding initiatives.

• Senior Services: Case management, meal deliveries, and wellness checks.

• Crisis Aid: Emergency rental/utility assistance and disaster recovery casework.

                    IMPORTANT EVENT LINKS
  
  [ RACE REGISTRATION ] ──► runsignup.com/Race/FL/Sanibel/10K5KRace4FISH
  [ CONCERT TICKETS ]   ──► jamwithfish2026.rsvpify.com
  [ VOLUNTEER CONTACT ] ──► Mary Jean Hays: mj@fishofsancap.org
  [ SPONSORSHIPS ]      ──► Maggie Goldsmith: maggiegoldsmith@fishofsancap.org

Sign up before August 31 to lock in the lowest race pricing and join your fellow islanders in giving back!