Category: Island Update

The Captiva Community Panel recently received updates on several ongoing initiatives at its latest meeting, including the South Seas rezoning, legal efforts in Lee County, and a proposed survey on possible annexation.

South Seas Rezoning and Legal Efforts

On May 14, Vice President David Mintz shared updates from the Protect Captiva coalition, which the panel is a part of, regarding South Seas’ redevelopment and rezoning efforts. Mintz reported that the coalition has filed a complaint in Florida’s Circuit Court to enforce the 912-unit density limit at the Captiva resort. The county must respond to the complaint by May 24.

Additionally, Mintz reiterated that Protect Captiva filed a petition with the county and the Florida Department of Commerce. This two-step process challenges the Land Development Code amendments passed by the county last year, arguing they are inconsistent with the Lee Plan. After an informal hearing, the state agency released its findings, allowing the coalition to seek a formal hearing before an administrative law judge with the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings. The coalition’s attorneys are currently preparing for this next step.

“We are as confident as one can be, under the circumstances, that our case is strong and better than the county’s case on this matter,” Mintz stated.

He also reported that on April 25, the county’s Zoning Section rejected the revised plan application submitted by South Seas. The application cannot proceed to a public hearing until it is complete.

Proposed Survey on Annexation

President Jay Brown discussed the idea of conducting a preliminary survey of Captiva residents to gauge their stance on possible annexation with the city of Sanibel. A draft survey was shared with the council, which included assumptions such as Captiva continuing to be managed under the Captiva Plan, no significant impact on property taxes, and likely representation on the city council.

“There was quite a bit of concern amongst the council members about doing the survey, and particularly in the way it was worded,” Brown explained. He noted that the council was worried that Sanibel residents might misinterpret the survey and assume the council had agreed to its contents, potentially leading to backlash.

Based on this feedback, Brown will explore other methods for conducting the survey. Mintz emphasized the importance of avoiding misinterpretations. “We just want to make sure that if we even look at annexation as a possible option, we want to do it in the best way possible, so that everybody understands exactly what we’re doing and, more importantly, exactly what we’re not doing,” he said.

In Other News

• Mintz provided an update on a proposed Captiva Drive crosswalk at Sunset Captiva, just south of Jensen’s Marina. The county’s Department of Transportation plans to send a team to assess the area and will report back within 30 days.
• Captiva Island Fire Control District Fire Chief Jeff Pawul reported that the EMS helicopter landing zone at the Rauschenberg property is operational again. The Rauschenberg Residency has updated the site to make it a dedicated permanent zone as part of a larger property project.

“We’re glad to have that back and just want to thank them for making that happen,” Pawul said.

• Lee County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Rich Zeltman reminded the public that driving ATVs on Captiva Drive or the beaches is illegal. “We’ve noticed that and we’re enforcing it,” he stated.

Lee County residents with a passion for gardening now have the opportunity to enhance their skills and contribute to the community through the 2024 Master Gardener Volunteer Program Training Course.

This comprehensive 12-week program begins on August 20 and concludes on November 20.

To accommodate the summer heat and transient residents, the course starts online and later transitions to in-person, hands-on learning experiences.

The curriculum is customized for Lee County’s unique environment and population, ensuring that participants acquire practical knowledge and skills relevant to local gardening practices.

Applications are due by May 31.

For more information or to apply, visit here.

The Florida Master Gardener Program, an outreach initiative of UF/IFAS Extension, consists of certified volunteers trained to offer research-based horticultural education to Florida residents through workshops, demonstrations, and gardening advice.

For additional details, visit the Florida Master Gardener Program.

In observance of Memorial Day, most Lee County administrative operations will be closed on May 27. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the county’s holiday schedule adjustments:

Domestic Animal Services

• Closed on May 27: Lee County Domestic Animal Services, located at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers.
• Resume Regular Hours on May 28: Operations will resume as usual.

LeeTran

• No Service on May 27: Bus, trolley, and Passport services will be suspended.
• Resume Service on May 28: Regular services will continue. For route schedules and maps, visit www.rideleetran.com.

Libraries

• Closed on May 27: All Lee County Library System branches, including the Captiva Memorial Library.
• Resume Regular Hours on May 28: Libraries will reopen. The library is always accessible online at www.leelibrary.net/online.

Parks & Recreation

• Offices and Recreation Centers Closed on May 27: They will reopen on May 28.
• Parks, Pools, and Preserves Open on May 27: For a list of open locations, hours, and amenities, visit www.leeparks.org.
• Reminders: No alcohol is permitted in county parks. The Causeway Islands Park on the Sanibel Causeway remains closed to watercraft, pedestrian, and bicycle traffic due to ongoing construction.

Solid Waste

• Collection Schedule Adjustments: Garbage, recycling, and yard waste collections in unincorporated Lee County, the city of Bonita Springs, the village of Estero, and the town of Fort Myers Beach will occur one day later than usual from May 27 through June 1. Regular collection schedules will resume on June 3.
• Facilities Closed on May 27: This includes:
  • Household Chemical Waste Collection Facility, 6441 Topaz Court, Fort Myers
  • Resource Recovery Facility on Buckingham Road
  • Lee/Hendry Regional Solid Waste Disposal Facility

Residents are encouraged to recycle plastic, metal, and glass containers from their holiday weekend activities.

Jerry’s Foods is excited to announce the launch of Wine Down Wednesdays, a weekly event designed to bring the community together for a delightful evening of wine, food, and music. Starting this Wednesday, from 5 to 7 p.m., head over to 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, and join in the fun!

Every Wednesday, guests are invited to sip and stroll through Jerry’s Foods while enjoying live music, wine sampling with expertly paired food, and exclusive wine specials.

“Jerry’s of Sanibel is proud to be the neighborhood place of our community, and we are excited to introduce Wine Down Wednesdays as a way to bring people together for a relaxing and enjoyable evening,” said General Manager Rick Winningham. “Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a music lover, or simply looking for a fun midweek outing, Wine Down Wednesdays has something for everyone.”

Come and experience the perfect blend of flavors, melodies, and community spirit at Jerry’s Foods. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to unwind and connect with friends and neighbors. See you there!

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) recently reported finding 48 sea turtle nests on Sanibel and Captiva Islands as of May 14th. This exciting number includes 47 loggerhead nests and one leatherback nest.

The recent warm weather seems to be encouraging nesting activity, with over 30 new loggerhead nests discovered between May 10th and 14th. The breakdown shows 36 loggerhead nests and one leatherback nest on Sanibel, with 12 loggerhead nests found on Captiva.

This is a positive sign for the local sea turtle population. However, we can all do our part to ensure their nesting success and hatchling survival. Here are some ways you can help:

• Minimize nighttime light: Turn off lights and flashlights near the beach after 9 pm. Artificial lights can disorient nesting mothers and hatchlings.
• Keep beaches clean: Remove furniture, trash, and level sandcastles before leaving the beach. These obstacles can deter nesting or harm hatchlings.
• Respect posted nesting areas: Avoid disturbing marked nesting sites.
• Report sightings: If you see any sea turtles nesting, hatchlings emerging, or have any concerns, contact the SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-728-3663.

For more information on sea turtles and how you can help them, visit the SCCF Sea Turtle Tips page at

In a recent meeting, the Sanibel Planning Commission unanimously supported an ordinance to amend the Master Development Plan for Bailey’s Shopping Center’s Planned Unit Development (PUD).

On May 14, the commission voted 6-0 in favor of recommending that the Sanibel City Council adopt an ordinance amending the Land Development Code (LDC) and revising the master plan for the properties at 2477 and 2431 Periwinkle Way.

The commissioners determined that the proposed LDC amendments by the applicant were consistent with the Sanibel Plan and met all LDC section requirements.

The amendment request was submitted by Dan DeLisi, a land use planner from DeLisi Inc., on behalf of the property owners, Baileys Center LLP and Periwinkle Adventures LLP.

Before the vote, Deputy Planning Director Craig Chandler presented the city staff’s report, which included details on the property, the applicant’s proposal, and an analysis of the draft Master Development Plan and proposed text amendments.

Key changes in the proposed plan include reconfiguring building placement and size, expanding parking areas, and increasing required vegetation buffers for the redevelopment. The plan also outlines commercial zoning designations, off-street parking, commercial floor area, developed area, and impermeable coverage totals. Additionally, it proposes combining the parcels to remove a shared property line and setback/landscape buffer requirements.

Following the LDC process, the applicant will need to apply for a conditional use permit and development permit, both requiring the commission’s approval.

Chandler highlighted the staff’s recommendations related to the LDC and PUD:

• Deletion of Section 126-1474: The Master Vegetation Plan section is now obsolete as redevelopment must comply with current landscaping and environmental performance standards.

Regarding the master plan, staff recommended:

• Landscape Plan Submission: Required with the conditional use permit application, adhering to landscape buffer, vegetation screening, parking islands, and environmental performance standards. The southeast corner buffer area should be revised to avoid overlapping the 15-foot-wide buffer with an open body of water.
• Ingress-Egress Points: Approval of four points for efficient traffic circulation, maintaining 200 feet from the driveway to the Periwinkle Way/Tarpon Bay Road intersection.
• Scenic Preservation: Consistent with the Sanibel Plan, encourage pervious surfacing for parking areas to comply with coverage standards (82%) of the Town Center General Commercial District.

Dan DeLisi addressed the commission on behalf of his client, explaining the redesigned site plan following Hurricane Ian, which required the demolition of the entire center.

“The site has been significantly redesigned,” DeLisi said. “The buildings are broken apart, not a continuous strip center. There’s a lot more pedestrian orientation, with a sidewalk through the middle of the site, and we’re adding more landscaping and buffers.”

DeLisi emphasized that the changes do not increase the intensity of use, maintaining the existing 60,000 square feet, and ensuring conformance with Sanibel’s codes. He highlighted the family’s long history on the site, dating back to 1965, and the benefit the redevelopment will bring to the community.

During public comments, Bailey’s family members expressed their support and gratitude.

Fourth-generation owner-operator Bailie Johnson shared, “The catastrophic storm surge destroyed Bailey’s center, requiring us to redevelop the entire site. Our new design will meet all current code requirements and keep us above future storm surge. We are not asking for any exceptions.”

Dane Johnson thanked the city staff for their support, noting the planning process’s focus on resiliency and community service.

The commission’s motion to approve the resolution included all staff recommendations.

In partnership with the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) and dedicated volunteers, the city of Sanibel diligently monitors its beaches to safeguard shorebirds and sea turtles. Given the island’s critical role as a nesting habitat for these species, beachgoers and boaters are urged to contribute to the preservation of this barrier island sanctuary.

SHOREBIRDS

Shorebird nesting season spans from February through August. Their eggs, often laid in shallow scrapes in the sand or among seashells, are well-camouflaged and easily disturbed by unsuspecting beachgoers and their pets. Here’s how you can help:

• Respect posted areas: Avoid nesting and resting zones by using designated beach paths or dune walkovers.
• Maintain your distance: If shorebirds take flight as you approach, step back. Disturbing nesting birds exposes their eggs to predators and the harsh sun.
• Do not intentionally disturb birds: Chasing or scaring birds depletes their energy reserves, crucial for nesting and migration.
• Keep pets away from nesting areas: Even well-behaved pets can be seen as threats. If you bring pets to the beach, ensure they are on a leash no longer than 8 feet.
• Keep the beach clean and do not feed wildlife: Food scraps attract predators like raccoons and crows that prey on shorebird eggs and chicks. Dispose of all waste properly to prevent wildlife entanglement.

For more information, visit the SCCF at SCCF Shorebirds. Watch the city’s “Share the Shore with Shorebirds Conservation Video” here.

SEA TURTLES

Sea turtle nesting season runs from mid-April through October. Nesting females and hatchlings face numerous hazards, including boat strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, and disorientation from artificial lighting. Help protect them by following these guidelines:

• Comply with beachfront lighting ordinances: Gulf-front property owners must ensure their lights do not illuminate the beach, in line with the city’s marine turtle protection laws.
• Avoid using flash photography, flashlights, or phone lights near nesting areas: Artificial lights can disorient sea turtles, causing them to stray from the ocean.
• Remove beach furniture and equipment when not in use: Items left on the beach between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. can obstruct nesting and entangle hatchlings.
• Level sandcastles and fill holes before leaving the beach: This ensures a clear path for sea turtles and hatchlings.

Report violations immediately to the Sanibel Police Department at 239-472-3111, Sanibel Code Enforcement at 239-472-4136, or Natural Resources at 239-472-3700.

For questions about the city’s lighting regulations, contact Rachel Rainbolt at Rachel.Rainbolt@mysanibel.com.

By adhering to these guidelines, we can all play a part in protecting the precious wildlife that relies on Sanibel’s shores.

Click here for the full report

Southwest Florida Market Perspective: After three consecutive months when year-over-year declines were posted, closed sales for April were up 4%. This uptick for April held true, not just for the Southwest Florida market at large, but also for its largest market areas including Naples, Bonita-Estero, and Fort Myers. The Naples market posted the most significant year-over-year increase for April, at 8%. On a 12-month rolling basis, closed sales for Southwest Florida through April 30th were down 5.1%, an improvement compared to the past three months when year-over-year declines ranging from 8 to 10% were posted. New listings for April were up 16% year-over-year and up 13% on a 12-month rolling basis; however, from a longer-term perspective, new listings have not yet returned to their pre-pandemic pace. New listings over the 12 months ending April 30 were down 9% compared to the average for 2017 through 2019. Months of supply was 6.98 months as of April 30th, moving little year-to-date, and remaining within the 6–12-month range which reflects balanced market conditions. At $812,206 as of April 30th, the 12-month rolling average closed sale price rose 2% compared to the preceding 12 months.
A historically slow pace of new listings has offset much of the decline in sales that has occurred since the pandemic-driven surge, bringing our overall market back to a state of balance rather than shifting to a buyer’s market. Although market conditions remain strong for sellers, they need to bear in mind that there’s no longer a shortage of inventory. Buyers have the luxury of choice, and a seller’s pricing should be in line with the most recent, relevant closed sales and be competitive with other available listings. Homes priced in-line with today’s market are selling, and serious buyers need to be positioned to recognize properly priced homes and act quickly, before others. Localized market conditions can be tough to gauge and can vary considerably by neighborhood, product type, and price segment; making the expert knowledge of a skilled Realtor® critical to a successful outcome for both buyers and sellers.

Sanibel Island is known for its beautiful scenery and relaxed pace. Many visitors and residents choose to explore the island’s 26 miles of shared paths by bicycle, offering a scenic alternative to driving.

For those who don’t have their own bikes, rentals are readily available, with e-bikes becoming increasingly popular.

The City’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee is currently reviewing regulations regarding electric bicycles and scooters on shared paths. Currently, only Class 1 e-bikes, which require pedaling for electric assist and have a speed limit of 20 mph, are allowed.

The committee is exploring the possibility of expanding access to Class 2 e-bikes, which also have a lower top speed than the currently prohibited Class 3 e-bikes (30 mph).

Safety is a top priority. The committee is focused on education rather than implementing additional signage for the existing 20 mph speed limit. Additionally, they are considering lowering the minimum age for e-bike riders from 18 to 16, with further details to be determined.

The future of electric scooters and throttle-powered e-bikes on shared paths is also under consideration. The committee will be evaluating the safety implications of these micro-mobility devices.

While there have been some incidents on the shared paths in the past (167 reported since 2019), data shows a significant decrease this year (only 4 incidents).

Stay tuned for updates on the City Council’s decision in June regarding the committee’s recommendations for e-bikes and potential changes to shared path regulations on Sanibel Island.

Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida welcomed a record-breaking 40.6 million visitors in the first quarter of 2024, marking a new high for a single quarter. This impressive figure follows revised statistics for 2023, which indicated that 140.6 million people visited the state, reflecting a 2.3% increase from the previous year.

The details of the tourism surge in Q1 2024 are as follows:

• Domestic Visitation: Reached a record high with 37.2 million visitors.
• Overseas Visitation: Recorded at 2.1 million visitors.
• Canadian Visitation: Rose to 1.3 million visitors.

Additionally, enplanements at 19 Florida airports showed significant growth:

• Total Enplanements: Increased by 9.4%, reaching 30.2 million.
• Domestic Enplanements: Made up 81.6% of the total, slightly down from 82% in Q1 2023.

These figures highlight the growing popularity of Florida as a destination for both domestic and international travelers, showcasing the state’s appeal and the effectiveness of its tourism strategies.