Brief Summary of the Proposed Changes to South Seas Island Resort
At the behest of the new owners of South Seas Island Resort, Lee County has set a public hearing on June 20 to consider changes to the county’s Land Development Code that would:
- Eliminate the three-units-per-acre density restrictions inside South Seas, with no new density restrictions cited to replace them.
- Exempt South Seas from Captiva’s building height restrictions.
- Raise the permitted heights on Captiva by 11 feet — allowing the construction of three-story buildings above base flood elevation.
- Create a path for South Seas to plan a new, larger development with buildings up to 75 feet high.
Under the guise of resiliency and conformity, the county is rushing to enact these sweeping changes without regard for the community’s concerns, prudent planning principles, or preservation of Captiva’s unique and fragile environment.
The county and South Seas are sacrificing our unique island ambiance for the sake of bigger buildings and more dwelling units.
Community Informational Meeting Monday, June 12, 2023
The Captiva Civic Association will be hosting an informational meeting about the proposed changes via a Zoom Webinar.
The webinar will be held to help the community understand more about this issue.
Members from island organizations will be sharing important information about the proposed changes and the concern about the impact this would have on the land and community.
There will also be an opportunity for Q&A.
To Join the Zoom Webinar Meeting on June 12, 2023
Click on the link or call in on Monday, June 12 at 6:00 pm:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81458571312?
pwd=U0hPUnRyMVJFNzZpaGN0RWVkUmlFZz09
Passcode: 645846
Or One tap mobile :
+13052241968,,81458571312#,,,,645846# US +16469313860,,81458571312#,,,,645846# US
Or Telephone:
Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
+1 305 224 1968 US +1 646 931 3860 US
To Oppose the Changes to South Seas Email & Call Each Commissioner
District 1: Kevin Ruane – dist1@leegov.com or (239) 533-2224
District 2: Cecil Pendergrass – dist2@leegov.com or (239) 533-2227
District 3: Ray Sandelli – dist3@leegov.com or (239) 533-2223
District 4: Brian Hamman, Chairman – dist4@leegov.com or (239) 533-2226
District 5: Mike Greenwell, Vice Chairman – dist5@leegov.com or (239) 533-2225
Sample Message:
I am a property owner/voter/business owner on Captiva and I oppose the proposed increases to Captiva’s building heights and the elimination of the longstanding density and height limitations at South Seas Island Resort that will be presented at the upcoming June 20 public hearing.
These proposed changes run counter to Captiva’s historic pattern of low-rise and low-density development and will allow more and higher buildings on a fragile barrier island. These changes do not increase storm safety and resilience and do not protect the environment. They do the opposite.
These sweeping changes are also being pursued without the necessary public input, and with complete disregard for the residents, owners, and visitors of Captiva. We encourage you to serve the interests of the entire Captiva community, not just those who wish to change the rules in order to build more units with bigger buildings.
I urge you to reject these changes at the June 20 public hearing and vote for
protecting Captiva’s future.
Voice Your Opposition at a Public Hearing On June 20, 2023
You are strongly encouraged to voice your opposition at a public hearing on Tuesday, June 20, from 5:00 PM-6:00 PM
The hearing will be held at the board chambers in the Old Lee County Courthouse, 2120 Main Street, downtown Fort Myers.
In Conclusion
Proposed changes to South Seas Island Resort have sparked concern among many individuals and island organizations.
These changes, if implemented, could potentially disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem and compromise the charm that draws visitors to this area.
Preserving the unspoiled allure of South Seas Island Resort is essential to protect its unique character and ensure that future generations can experience the same enchantment that has captivated us all.
