The (CEPD) has taken a decisive step toward securing the future of the island’s shoreline. At its August 10, 2026 meeting, the Board of Commissioners voted unanimously (3–0) to approve a $10 million non-ad valorem special assessment to fund ongoing beach renourishment initiatives.
This levy, which will be distributed among Captiva property owners, ensures the district has the necessary capital to maintain the protective dune and beach systems that guard island real estate against storm surge and erosion.
At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we track these special district assessments closely. Proactive beach management is the single most important factor in preserving Captiva’s property values and ensuring our island remains a resilient, world-class destination for residents and visitors alike.
Important Public Hearing: The commission has scheduled a formal public meeting to finalize the apportionment model and assessment roll for August 31, 2026, at 5:01 PM.
Administrative Transition: New Management Partnership
To streamline district operations and enhance financial oversight, the commission voted 3–0 to enter into a new partnership with Governmental Management Services (GMS). The annual contract, valued at $138,600, centralizes several administrative functions:
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Management & Accounting: Full financial oversight, revenue collection, and budget reporting.
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Assessment Administration: Managing the complexities of non-ad valorem tax rolls.
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IT & Digital Presence: Routine website maintenance and district cybersecurity updates.
Operational Continuity: Office Manager Lisa Batchelor will remain a key internal leader, continuing to manage daily office operations and district finances in coordination with the GMS team.
The “Sand Search”: Planning for a 20-Year Horizon
While funding for current renourishment is secured, the district is simultaneously planning for long-term resource availability. APTIM Lead Coastal Engineer Doug Mann presented a proposal for a Phase I Sand Search Survey ($89,864), citing that the traditional “borrow area” used for previous Captiva projects is now effectively exhausted.
LONG-TERM SAND STRATEGY
[ THE PROBLEM ] ──► Current offshore sand borrow sites are depleted.
[ THE PROPOSAL ] ──► $89,864 Phase I desktop study of regional marine sediments.
[ THE GOAL ] ──► Establish a 20-year master plan for routine & emergency renourishment.
[ CURRENT STATUS ] ──► Tabled for future board discussion.
The commission tabled the decision on the Sand Search Survey to allow for further review. Identifying viable, high-quality sediment sources offshore is critical, as it dictates the feasibility and cost of all future beach restoration projects for the next two decades.
