As of 3:30 p.m. on October 14th, the city of Sanibel has issued the following updates after Hurricane Milton:
- Sewer System: The city’s sewer system is being restored ahead of schedule. While residents can use dishwashers and laundry facilities, water conservation is still encouraged. If you notice any issues or alarms at lift stations, contact the Sanibel Police Department’s non-emergency line at 239-472-3111.
- Trash Pickup: Regular household trash collection resumed today, October 14, following Waste Management’s normal schedule. Recycling and yard waste collections remain suspended.
- Storm Debris Collection: Starting October 16, storm debris pickup will begin for residential properties. Please ensure debris is sorted into five categories, as per city guidelines. Commercial properties must arrange for private contractors to handle debris; however, the city may offer assistance if FEMA approval is obtained.
- Recreation Center: The Sanibel Recreation Center at 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road will open on October 15 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Available amenities include locker rooms, fitness classes, and outdoor courts. The water features pool will be open from noon to 4 p.m., though the lap pool will remain closed for cleaning. Free childcare will be available for Sanibel School students from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with activities such as arts, crafts, and games.
- Curfew: The city’s curfew remains in place from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. and will be lifted at 6 a.m. on October 15.
- Emergency Permits: Information regarding emergency repair permits is available on the city’s website, including guidelines on work that can be completed without a permit and access to the city’s permit portal.
- Beach Closures: All beach parks remain closed, but the city aims to reopen Bowman’s Beach on October 15. The Department of Health in Lee County has issued an advisory against swimming at local beaches due to water conditions.
Island Partner Updates:
- Island Water Association: General Manager Diana Wilson confirmed that all facilities are fully powered, and the boil water advisory has been lifted. Residents experiencing water issues should check their meter boxes and contact Island Water Association at 239-472-1502 if necessary.
- LCEC: Approximately 85% of the power has been restored on Sanibel and Captiva, with about 450 customers still without power. Report outages at 239-656-2300.
- Comcast/Xfinity: Comcast aims to restore about 90% of the island’s services by October 23.
- SanCap Chamber of Commerce: Island businesses are encouraged to inform the Chamber as they reopen. The Chamber will release updates to the public, similar to previous post-storm efforts.
Stay tuned to the city’s website and social media for further updates.
