Hi there, Sanibel! We've got your morning read ready! Read on to stay connected. ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: GMF Online Auction and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: What do you call a belt that is made of watches? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. FISH of SanCap Resiliency Hub's variance application approved (captivasanibel.com) — Sanibel's Planning Commission has approved a key variance and conditional use permit allowing FISH of SanCap's planned Resiliency Hub on Periwinkle Way to be significantly larger than normally allowed. Supporters say the expanded facility will better serve residents year‑round and during hurricanes, while two commissioners opposed the size and tax implications. FISH will now finalize design and continue working with the city and Lee County.
2. Sanibel Fire and Rescue District sets final millage rate, budget (captivasanibel.com) — Sanibel's Fire and Rescue District has finalized next year's property tax rate at 1.3016 mills, keeping it level with the rolled-back rate for 2026-27. With a total budget just under $30.9 million, funded by more than $6 billion in taxable value, the district says nothing changed from the preliminary plan, giving Sanibel homeowners clarity on fire services funding.
3. The Sanibel School students to participate in National Walk & Roll to School event (captivasanibel.com) — Families with students at The Sanibel School can join next week's early‑morning National Walk & Roll to School event, biking or walking from the Rosalita's and Bailey's lot to campus with police escorts. Local partners like the Sanibel Bike Club, Billy's Bikes, and "Ding" Darling will provide safety gear, bike support, and snacks, turning the ride into a fun community celebration of safe cycling.
4. Celebrate Florida Native Plant Month This October! (mysanibel.com) — Sanibel's Vegetation Committee is inviting residents to celebrate Florida Native Plant Month in October, including a native‑plant information booth at the Farmers Market on Sunday, October 25. Locals can learn which plants thrive in Sanibel's barrier‑island conditions, explore extensive guides on MySanibel.com, and join free seasonal tours of City Hall grounds to see low‑maintenance native landscaping in action.
5. Use of Scat DNA to Estimate Coyote Abundance on a Newly Colonized Barrier Island (usu.edu) — Researchers closely examined Sanibel Island's growing coyote population and found about 39 animals, more than double earlier estimates based on sightings and cameras. Using DNA from scat collected across the island, they showed how quickly coyotes have spread since arriving in 2011, underscoring the need for better management to protect sensitive wildlife on Sanibel.
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Ok Sanibel! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: A waist of time. (Thank you Martin L. for sending it in!)
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