Category: SWFL Update

The City of Fort Myers is moving forward with plans to launch a vibrant new Saturday morning farmers market in the historic downtown district, joining neighboring communities like Punta Gorda and Sarasota in celebrating local agriculture and commerce.

Following a directive from the City Council on December 8, Economic Development Director Steve Weathers is spearheading the initiative, which aims to bring fresh energy to the city center.

When and Where The market is tentatively scheduled to launch on January 17 and will operate weekly from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through April. If the inaugural season proves successful, officials indicated the market could transition to a year-round schedule.

While the final site layout is being confirmed, the proposed location would stretch along First Street—between Monroe Street and Broadway—and extend north up Broadway to Main Street.

What to Expect The goal is to curate a bustling marketplace featuring approximately 40 vendors. Shoppers can expect a diverse array of offerings, including:

• Fresh produce and seafood

• Prepared foods and cheeses

• Local honey and flowers

• Arts and crafts

The market is also designed to highlight the city’s newly designated Culinary District. Plans include potential food demonstrations by downtown chefs to cross-promote local restaurants.

Experienced Leadership The city is negotiating with Local Roots LLC to operate the event. A staple in the Southwest Florida community, Local Roots was co-founded by Jean Baer and launched the Sanibel Island Farmers Market 18 years ago. The company currently manages nine successful markets across the region, including locations on Captiva Island, at Coconut Point, and in Bonita Springs.

Boosting Downtown Economy “We see this as kind of an impetus to bring more people to downtown, to the culinary district,” said Weathers.

The project is expected to benefit existing brick-and-mortar businesses as well. Baer noted that industry studies show approximately 27% of farmers market visitors continue their day by shopping or dining at nearby downtown establishments.

The City of Naples has received a significant boost in its hurricane recovery efforts, with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officially obligating more than $11.4 million in funds dedicated to rebuilding the iconic Naples Pier.

This funding marks a critical step forward in restoring the 137-year-old landmark, which suffered catastrophic damage during Hurricane Ian in September 2022.

A “Christmas Gift” for the Community FEMA notified the Florida Congressional Delegation on December 12 regarding the advancement of the project through the Department of Homeland Security.

“This is truly a wonderful Christmas gift for our residents and for everyone who treasures the Naples Pier,” said Mayor Teresa Heitmann. “The obligation of these funds brings us one step closer to restoring a landmark that reflects the heart of our city. We are grateful for the dedicated work of our partners and staff who have moved this project forward.”

Timeline and Construction City officials are on track to issue a Notice to Proceed on January 5 to the project contractor, Shoreline Foundation Inc. The Broward County-based company was awarded the $23.45 million construction contract, which includes a $1.17 million contingency allowance.

The restoration timeline is projected as follows:

• Demolition: Expected to take approximately nine months.

• Construction: Followed by 1½ years of rebuilding.

A Stronger, Resilient Future This project represents the seventh resurrection of the historic pier. The new design focuses on resilience, creating a structure that is stronger and higher to withstand future storms. The total project cost, including design and engineering, is estimated at $26 million.

Funding the Vision The rebuild is supported by a diverse mix of funding sources:

• Federal: ~$12.66 million (including the $11.4M FEMA grant).

• Local Bonds: $11 million.

• Tourist Development Taxes: $2 million.

• Donations: Contributions from the Naples beach fund and public donations via the Collier Community Foundation.

City officials credited the collaborative efforts of local and federal leadership, including DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, for coordinating the federal review process.

For project updates, visit naplesgov.com/PierRebuild. To contribute to the project, donations are being accepted through the official city channels.

This weekend, Southwest Florida is set for a spectacular display of holiday cheer as three festive boat parades light up the regional waterways! Residents and visitors are encouraged to gather and witness these unique maritime celebrations:

St. James City Christmas Boat Parade

• Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025

• Time: Kicks off at 6:00 p.m.

• Location: Begins near the Waterfront Restaurant.

• Details: Watch as boats, meticulously covered in lights and decked out in holiday spirit, glide along the water.

✨ Naples Holiday Boat Parade

• Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025

• Time: Starts around 6:15 p.m.

• Route: Cruises through Naples Bay.

• Viewing: Spectators can enjoy the festive sight from prime spots along the Riverwalk and various local restaurants lining the route.

⛵ Northwest Cape Coral Boat Parade

• Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025

• Time: Sets sail at 6:45 p.m.

• Route: Approximately 50 decorated boats will navigate through the neighborhood canals.

• Community Spirit: Organizers encourage neighbors to participate by decorating their docks to enhance the illumination for the parade.

The School District of Lee County has successfully transitioned to a centralized dashboard system for documenting Exceptional Student Education (ESE) accommodations. This major initiative was launched following audit recommendations to enhance the monitoring of ESE service delivery.

The new system, built within the FOCUS platform, integrates data from Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), provider logs, and attendance to enable real-time tracking of student services and accommodations. This allows teachers to easily review listed accommodations and certify their weekly provision. Principals can also monitor weekly accommodation reports, ensuring fidelity across all schools.

As Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin noted, the focus is on the provision of accommodations as well as the documentation.

This standardized process offers significant benefits: consistency across all schools, easier demonstration that accommodations are being provided, and better-trained staff. While a daily progress report for parents is not yet available, the district plans to continually monitor and update the system to improve transparency and accuracy.

This proactive response to audit findings is a critical step in strengthening oversight and ensuring that every student receives the support they need.

Get ready for the Lee County Library System’s annual Fandom Fest, a free, all-ages celebration of cosplay and pop culture!

The event takes place on December 13th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Fort Myers Regional Library outdoor plaza.

Created to support literacy through comics and common interests, Fandom Fest is a fantastic starting point to encourage a love of reading. Attendees will receive free comics throughout the day.

The festival is packed with fun, family-friendly activities, including a cosplay DIY makerspace, face painting, a bounce house, and a Super Mario STEM tech zone featuring interactive library technology.

Don’t miss the costume contest starting at 1 p.m., with categories for Pre-K up to Adults, plus a new Group category this year. You can also meet and take photos with popular characters from KPop, Star Wars, Disney, Marvel, and more, plus a North Pole area for younger fans.

Enjoy live entertainment like a steel drum concert and a K-pop dance performance. Food trucks will be on site selling a variety of cuisine.

For more details on the costume contest and event rules, visit leelibrary.net/fandomfest. Come connect, create, and celebrate!

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is excited to announce that Florida Trust Wealth Management will be the presenting sponsor for its annual benefit, The Cause.

The event takes place on January 17th from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the beautiful Bailey Homestead Preserve (1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel).

Attendees will enjoy island-centric cuisine from around the globe, cocktails, musical entertainment, a special video premiere, and a streamlined, cause-related auction.

Proceeds from “The Cause” are essential, directly supporting the SCCF’s critical mission to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for businesses and individuals who wish to support this important cause.

For more information or to reserve your spot, visit sccf.org/the-cause or contact SCCF Development Director Cheryl Giattini at   239-822-6121 or cgiattini@sccf.org. Join us in protecting our local environment!

The holiday season officially arrives on the beach this weekend as the 37th Annual Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade prepares to light up the waters. Set to begin this Saturday, December 6, at 6:00 p.m., this cherished island tradition promises an evening of dazzling lights and community spirit.

The Route & What to Expect The parade will kick off at Salty Sam’s Marina, with a festive fleet cruising through Estero Bay. Spectators can look forward to special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus leading the procession. In a win for parade-watchers, the boats will make two loops through the back bay, offering extended viewing opportunities and ensuring everyone gets a good look at the creative displays.

On-Land Festivities The celebration isn’t limited to the water. A lively atmosphere awaits at Bayside Veterans Park at the base of Old San Carlos Boulevard, where live music will set the tone for the evening.

How to Get Involved

• Vote for Favorites: Attendees are encouraged to participate in the “People’s Choice Award” by voting for their favorite boat. Voting details are available on the event website.

• Join the Fleet: For captains wishing to join the procession, boat registration is still open via the same website.

• Support Local: Local businesses are ready to welcome visitors. This event serves as a perfect opportunity to dine and shop locally, supporting the community’s continued recovery while enjoying the holiday cheer.

Bonair Towers, once the tallest building in Fort Myers, has been completely demolished, leaving only rubble at the site as the Fort Myers Housing Authority prepares for redevelopment.

The demolition of the 11-story building, which overlooks the fifth hole of the Fort Myers Country Club, was managed by Chris-Tel Construction. The process began in September and concluded last week.

Constructed in 1965, the tower had a complex legacy. It was originally built as segregated housing for white residents only, before later transitioning into a vital refuge for senior citizens in need of affordable housing.

Residents living in the building’s 101 units began relocating last year to clear the way for the project. Housing officials have confirmed that these residents will be given the opportunity to return to the new housing once it is constructed.

The Fort Myers Housing Authority issued a written statement, noting that specific redevelopment details are still being finalized.

“Plans are in development for modern, updated affordable housing that will continue to serve residents and the broader community,” the authority stated.

The Lee County Tax Collector’s Office has mailed more than 541,000 property and business tax bills across the county as of Oct. 31. These bills are based on property values assessed as of Jan. 1, per Florida law.

To make paying taxes faster and more convenient, the office has introduced new payment options this year:

New 24/7 Secure Drop Boxes — Now available at the Cape Coral and Lehigh Acres offices, in addition to locations in downtown and South Fort Myers. Drop off payments anytime; allow five business days for processing and print your receipt online.

Self-Service Kiosks — Available at all six service centers for credit card or e-check payments, with instant receipts.

You can also view or pay your bill online at LeeTC.com/pay-online, by mail, or over the phone.

Early payment discounts:

• 4% in November

• 3% in December

• 2% in January

• 1% in February

Funds collected support key county services like schools, fire rescue, law enforcement, and local infrastructure.

For FAQs and contact info, visit LeeTC.com

With temperatures expected to drop below 40°F, Lee County Government and partner agencies have activated their cold-weather outreach plan to help residents and individuals experiencing homelessness stay safe and warm.

Shelter:
The Salvation Army (2400 Edison Ave., Fort Myers) is offering single beds on a first-come, first-served basis through the morning of Nov. 12. For details, call 239-789-1169.

Outreach:
Housing, Outreach and Treatment (HOT) teams are distributing jackets, socks, blankets, and hand warmers to those in need.

Warming Buses (LeeTran):
Available Nov. 11–12 at:

• Rosa Parks Transfer Station (6–8 a.m.)

• Edison Mall Transfer Station (6–10 a.m.)

• South Fort Myers Transfer Station (6–10 a.m.)

Warming Stations:
Multiple United Way Resiliency Hubs across Lee County — including FISH of Sanibel-Captiva (2422 Periwinkle Way) — are open to provide warmth, resources, and community support.

Those seeking help can download the HVS Reach app (Apple or Google Play) or call 239-533-7996 for assistance.