BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//EsteroToday.com by Engage Estero - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:EsteroToday.com by Engage Estero X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://esterotoday.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for EsteroToday.com by Engage Estero REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20220313T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20221106T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20230312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20231105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T103000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231003T010457Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231003T010457Z UID:33543-1700645400-1700649000@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Board of Lee County Commissioners Zoning / Comp Plan Hearings DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/board-of-lee-county-commissioners-zoning-comp-plan-hearings-4/ LOCATION:Old Lee County Courthouse\, 2120 Main Street\, Fort Myers\, FL\, United States CATEGORIES:Lee County Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T143000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231003T010319Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231003T010319Z UID:33541-1700573400-1700577000@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Board of Lee County Commissioners Workshop DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/board-of-lee-county-commissioners-workshop-2/ LOCATION:Administration East Building\, Conference Room 118 2201 Second Street\, Fort Myers\, FL\, 33901\, United States CATEGORIES:Lee County Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T103000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231003T010118Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231003T010118Z UID:33539-1700559000-1700562600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Board of Lee County Commissioners Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/board-of-lee-county-commissioners-meeting-4/ LOCATION:Old Lee County Courthouse\, 2120 Main Street\, Fort Myers\, FL\, United States CATEGORIES:Lee County Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231117T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231117T110000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231025T075654Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231025T075654Z UID:34031-1700215200-1700218800@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Painting with Passion DESCRIPTION:An immersive art event where you can unleash your creativity and explore the vibrant world of painting. Discover the joy self-expression through brushstrokes and colors in a supportive and inspiring environment. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/painting-with-passion/ LOCATION:Florida Blue CATEGORIES:Health END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231117T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231117T090000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231113T144549Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231113T144549Z UID:34234-1700211600-1700211600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Lee County MPO DESCRIPTION:The Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) will hold a public hearing on November 17\, 2023\, at 9:00 a.m.\, at the Lee County Administration East Building located at 2201 Second Street in Room 118\, to consider amendments to the 2045 Long Range Plan (LRTP) that include the following revisions to match recent funding commitments: \n\nAdjust the Metro Parkway funding to match the Tentative Work Program\nRevise the limits of the SR 78 W. of Santa Barbara to 24th Avenue project to Burnt Store Road to 24th Avenue to address the local funding that is being used for the Project Development & Environment study within those limits. Also\, adjust the funding to match what has been budgeted for the project (now funded in FY 2025).\nRevise the Burnt Store Road from Van Buren to the Charlotte County line design phase to now show this funded with the federal appropriation that was awarded to the County (now funded in FY 2024).\nChange the SR 31 from SR 80 to SR 78 project to adjust the phasing to account for the Right-of-Way and Construction funding that is now included in the work program over the next five years (Construction is funded in FY 2029).\nRevise the US 41 and Bonita Beach Road intersection project to include the design phase funded with federal and local funds to match recent changes (now funded in FY 2026).\nAdd in the widening of I-75 to eight lanes from the Collier County line to Corkscrew Road in the 2024 to 2027 time frame to match the Moving Florida Forward project. Also revise the I-75 managed lanes project limits currently shown in the Plan to match the typical section that has been shown in the recently completed I-75 South Corridor Master Plan.\n\nThe public hearing will also include amendments to the Transportation Improvement Program.  The current FY 2024 through FY 2028 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is being amended to adjust the funding for the Metro Parkway widening project from Daniels Parkway to Winkler Avenue and to add the PD&E and PE phases for the I-75 Moving Florida Forward widening project. \nThe changes to the projects are included in the LRTP tables in underline and strike through format\, the Metro Parkway adjusted project cost information is included on the TIP page\, and the Districtwide Lee and Collier I-75 widening project TIP page is also available at the following link:  LRTP and TIP Amendments  Hard copies of the document are available by contacting the MPO offices at 239-244-2220. Written comments may be submitted by e-mail to dscott@leempo.com\, faxed to (239)-790-2695 or mailed to P.O. Box 150045 Cape Coral\, FL 33915-0045. Written comments received by 5:00pm on Thursday November 16\, 2023 will be presented to the MPO Board members on November 17\, 2023 where formal approval will be decided. Public comments may also be made at the MPO Board meeting on November 17\, 2023 at 9:00a.m. at the Lee County Administration East Facility\, 2201 Second Street\, Room 118\, Fort Myers\, Florida. Additional information on the MPO Board meeting agenda can be found at www.leempo.com\,  when the full agenda packet is posted on November 9\, 2023. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/lee-county-mpo/ LOCATION:Lee County Administration\, 2201 Second Street Room 118\, Fort Myers\, FL\, United States CATEGORIES:Other Event END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231115T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231115T193000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20230914T184416Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231226T185512Z UID:33176-1700071200-1700076600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:November Member and Community Meeting DESCRIPTION:Wednesday\, November 15\, 2023\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Protecting our Water and Environment\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Captain Codty Pierce\n Calusa Waterkeeper \n Captain Pierce will discuss the urbanization of greater Estero: the threats to our water quality and what can be done to minimize the impact. He is a lifelong resident of the Caloosahatchee watershed. Growing up along one of its tributaries helped shape his passion\, love\, and admiration for the area’s history and biodiversity. \nCodty’s early background in reptiles\, wetland restoration\, and native plant landscaping\, coupled with a career as a professional fishing guide\, has created a unique collage of his in-the-field experience across local uplands\, wetlands\, estuaries\, and nearshore Gulf waters. As a Waterkeeper\, Codty’s mission is to protect and restore the Caloosahatchee River from Lake Okeechobee to Coastal Waters  and a passion for uniting and protecting this unique watershed. \n \n \n \n Calusa Waterkeeper URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/nov2023/ LOCATION:Estero Park & Recreation Center\, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd\, Estero\, FL\, 33928\, United States CATEGORIES:Engage Estero Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://esterotoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Nov-2023-Meeting-sq.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Engage Estero":MAILTO:info@esterotoday.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231115T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231115T190000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20230816T144957Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231011T184755Z UID:32835-1700067600-1700074800@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Women’s Self-Defense Class DESCRIPTION:Description: Learn basic self-defense techniques Ages-13 & up Registration Email-glevine@sheriffleefl.org – Advance Registration Required! \nDress-Gym attire URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/womens-self-defense-class-6/ LOCATION:Lee County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Center-Miromar Outlets\, 10801 Corkscrew Road Suite 190\, Estero\, FL\, 33928 CATEGORIES:Sheriff's Outreach Center ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://esterotoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/lee-women-fittness-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231115T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231115T170000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231010T132608Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231113T212436Z UID:33612-1700040600-1700067600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village Council Meeting DESCRIPTION:The Village of Estero Council will discuss several important matters at its next meeting on Wednesday\, November 15. \nThese meetings are an opportunity for residents to learn more about growth\, development\, and zoning changes within Estero and to voice questions\, concerns\, and comments on these topics. \nAmong the items to be discussed: \n\nContract negotiations with the top firm\, as ranked by the Village’s selection committee\, for construction management of the Estero Entertainment Center project. The final contract will be brought back to the Village Council for approval at a future Council Meeting.\nAn update on progress on the River Oaks Preserve project at 9541 Broadway Ave. E\nRevision to land development codes regarding parking standards for hotels and motels\, day care center standards\, and detached residential garages\n\nResidents who wish to comment during the meeting should complete a Public Comment Card. E-comment forms are also available before meetings and must be returned by noon the day before the meeting. \nThe full agenda and supporting documents can be viewed here by clicking “Village Council Meeting.” URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-council-meeting-3/ LOCATION:Village of Estero\, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle\, Estero\, FL\, 33928\, United States CATEGORIES:Village of Estero Event END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231114T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231114T170000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231010T132421Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231113T212604Z UID:33610-1699979400-1699981200@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village Planning Zoning Design Board Meeting DESCRIPTION:The Village of Estero Planning\, Zoning and Design Board will discuss several important matters at its next meeting on Tuesday\, October 14. \nThese meetings are an opportunity for residents to learn more about growth\, development\, and zoning changes within Estero and to voice questions\, concerns\, and comments on these topics. \nAmong the items to be discussed: \n\nAn application by Hilton Garden Inn to build a 5-story\, 115-room hotel at 8009 Sweetwater Ranch Boulevard (at the corner of Via Villagio\, next to the Estero Fire Station). Village staff have recommended approval\, with some changes required\nA development plan for a 15\,000-square-foot daycare\, Coastal Palms Academy\, to be built on a 3.5-acre site at 9600 Corkscrew Road (at the corner of River Ranch Road)\nA project update on the Estero Entertainment Complex. At their November 15 meeting\, the Village Council will discuss beginning contract negotiations with the construction firm ranked first from the Village’s request for proposals for this project.\n\nResidents who wish to comment during the meeting should complete a Public Comment Card. E-comment forms are also available before meetings and must be returned by noon the day before the meeting. \nThe full agenda and supporting documents can be viewed here by clicking on “Planning Zoning and Design Board Meeting.” URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-planning-zoning-design-board-meeting/ LOCATION:Village of Estero\, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle\, Estero\, FL\, 33928\, United States CATEGORIES:Village of Estero Event END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231108T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231108T103000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231003T005956Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231003T005956Z UID:33537-1699432200-1699439400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Board of Lee County Commissioners Zoning / Comp Plan Hearings DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/board-of-lee-county-commissioners-zoning-comp-plan-hearings-3/ LOCATION:Old Lee County Courthouse\, 2120 Main Street\, Fort Myers\, FL\, United States CATEGORIES:Lee County Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231107T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231107T143000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231003T005824Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231003T005824Z UID:33534-1699363800-1699367400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Board of Lee County Commissioners Workshop DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/board-of-lee-county-commissioners-workshop/ LOCATION:Administration East Building\, Conference Room 118 2201 Second Street\, Fort Myers\, FL\, 33901\, United States CATEGORIES:Lee County Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231107T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231107T100000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231003T005610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231003T005610Z UID:33532-1699349400-1699351200@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Board of Lee County Commissioners Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/board-of-lee-county-commissioners-meeting-3/ LOCATION:Old Lee County Courthouse\, 2120 Main Street\, Fort Myers\, FL\, United States CATEGORIES:Lee County Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231105T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231105T180000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231025T074822Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231025T074822Z UID:34011-1699200000-1699207200@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:GO Divas Benefit Concert DESCRIPTION:Gulfshore Opera’s GO Divas\, a popular women’s vocal ensemble will perform “Divas through the Decades” at this benefit concert at Arbor at Lamb of God Church. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/go-divas-benefit-concert-2/ LOCATION:Lamb of God church CATEGORIES:Arts END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231104T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231104T140000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231025T075146Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231025T075146Z UID:34017-1699099200-1699106400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:The Big Shred DESCRIPTION:Drive up and have your paper documents shredded at Estero Park and Recreation Center. Limit three banker boxes per car. No plastic bags or electronics accepted. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/the-big-shred/ LOCATION:Estero Park and Recreation Center CATEGORIES:Arts END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231104T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231104T110000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231025T080451Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231025T080451Z UID:34041-1699090200-1699095600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Affordable/Attainable Housing in Lee County DESCRIPTION:John Talmage\, Director\, Economic Development\, Lee County and Ali Ankudowich\, Florida Housing Coalition will discuss affordable housing\, an ongoing concern in Lee County. This unmet need was documented in the 2020 Lee County Gap Analysis. This need has become more critical to the most vulnerable populations and those without the resources to recover following Ian. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/affordable-attainable-housing-in-lee-county/ LOCATION:The Collaboratory CATEGORIES:Arts ORGANIZER;CN="League of Women Voters":MAILTO:reservations@lwvlee.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231103T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231103T193000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231025T074659Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231025T074659Z UID:34008-1699039800-1699039800@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Jaws vs. Claws DESCRIPTION:Engage Estero is proud to sponsor the annual Jaws vs. Claws High School football game between rivals Estero High School Wildcats and the Bonita Springs Bullsharks. The fun community event begins at 7:30 here at the Estero High School field. Tickets can be purchased at the door\, but all tickets sales will be online\, so bring your phone. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/jaws-vs-claws/ LOCATION:Estero High School\, 21900 River Ranch Road\, Estero\, FL\, 33928\, United States CATEGORIES:Arts END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231103T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231103T100000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231025T075853Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231025T075853Z UID:34033-1699002000-1699005600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Koreshanity: Estero's New Age Religion DESCRIPTION:Join a park ranger for a fascinating overview of Koreshanity\, the unusual religion that was practiced by the members of the Koreshan Unity. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/koreshanity-esteros-new-age-religion/ LOCATION:Koreshan State Park CATEGORIES:Arts END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231103T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231103T100000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231025T074410Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231025T074410Z UID:34004-1699002000-1699005600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Safely Slimming Down: Unveiling the Truth about Weight Loss Medications DESCRIPTION:Learn the potential risks and benefits associated with weight loss medications\, so you can make informed decisions.\nVenue: Lee Health Coconut Point URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/safely-slimming-down-unveiling-the-truth-about-weight-loss-medications/ LOCATION:Lee Health Coconut Point CATEGORIES:Health END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231102T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231102T193000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231025T075516Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231025T075516Z UID:34029-1698953400-1698953400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Andrus Madsen\, Harpsichord & Susan Ogata\, Violin DESCRIPTION:An evening of music that will transport listeners to the 17th and 18th centuries. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/andrus-madsen-harpsichord-susan-ogata-violin/ LOCATION:FGCU CATEGORIES:Arts END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231102T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231102T120000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20230818T142525Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230818T150721Z UID:32952-1698919200-1698926400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Mall Mutts DESCRIPTION:Adoptable and adorable dogs visit from the Gulf Coast Humane Society. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/mall-mutts-4/ LOCATION:Lee County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Center-Miromar Outlets\, 10801 Corkscrew Road Suite 190\, Estero\, FL\, 33928 CATEGORIES:Sheriff's Outreach Center ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://esterotoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/adoreble-dog.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231101T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231101T130000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231025T080030Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231025T080030Z UID:34035-1698840000-1698843600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Y&HOW Sustainability Workshop: Alternative Proteins DESCRIPTION:Ms. Renee Bell\, Senior Science Content Specialist from the Good Foods Institute will lead a virtual program on alternative protein options and why they benefit climate goals. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/yhow-sustainability-workshop-alternative-proteins/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Arts END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231101T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231101T093000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231010T132322Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231016T152229Z UID:33608-1698831000-1698831000@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village Council Meeting DESCRIPTION:Agendas are available the week prior to the meeting at https://esterotoday.com/meetings URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-council-meeting-2/ LOCATION:Village of Estero\, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle\, Estero\, FL\, 33928\, United States CATEGORIES:Village of Estero Event END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231028T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231028T204500 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231004T133959Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231011T184804Z UID:33583-1698512400-1698525900@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Spooktacular Night at Estero DESCRIPTION:Annual Trunk or Treat followed by a Movie in the Park. The park is accepting trunker applications. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/spooktacular-night-at-estero/ LOCATION:Estero Park and Recreation Center CATEGORIES:Arts END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231025T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231025T180000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20230816T172728Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240228T182853Z UID:32870-1698256800-1698256800@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:The Future of Estero: Public Forum DESCRIPTION:Public Forum\nGreater Estero’s Future : The Impact of Urbanization and Development\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Wednesday\, October 25\, 2023FGCU Cohen Ballroom\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Panel Discussion featuring local experts moderated by Shelton Weeks\, FGCU Professor of Economics and Finance. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Engage Estero conducted a free public forum on the impact of urbanization and land development and how it will affect Estero’s future. The platform featured expert panelists on land development and smart growth issues facing greater Estero. The discussion focused on the impact of urbanization as more people come to live in greater Estero and the current and projected level of development in greater Estero. \nWe improve our programs by gathering feedback from attendees. If you saw our forum in person or via video\, please take a moment to provide some guidance for our future forums and meetings. Thank you. \n \n Provide Feedback\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n November 2023 Greater Estero Community Report\n \n \n \n \n Read the Summary\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Key Concerns\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The impact and benefits of inevitable urbanization in Estero – yes\, it is here and growing. Urbanization is the process through which cities typically grow\, and higher and higher percentages of the population come to live. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mixed-use developments\, a type of urban development that blends multiple uses\, such as residential\, commercial\, cultural\, institutional\, or entertainment\, into one space and represents most projects critical to creating public amenities. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n How developers and planners will address concerns about the impact of urbanization and water quality and quantity. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s all about creative and adaptive reuse that spans economic\, social\, and ecological benefits. Selected benefits include sustainability\, addressing carbon burdens in the built environment and reusing existing materials and infrastructure\, avoiding new-construction costs\, and low acquisition costs. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why the retail landscape is undergoing significant shifts due to changing consumer behaviors\, the continued immersion of e-commerce into our daily lives\, and how retail spaces’ re-purposing benefits our communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Held October 25th at FGCU’s Cohen Student Center Ballroom\, the forum highlighted the initiatives in place and under consideration for developing the Greater Estero area. FGCU Professor Shelton Weeks moderated a four-member panel about these initiatives and what steps could be completed to improve the vision and objectives. The forum was sponsored by Greg Tolley\, Executive Director of FGCU’s Water School. \nThe meeting was recorded and watched by an additional 780 residents during the two weeks following its release. If you want to view the meeting recording\, please click here. \nAttendees and panel members noted the difficulties of the current and future traffic congestion on East Corkscrew Road and Coconut Road (West.)   Village Manager Steve Sarkozy\, a panel member\, detailed what efforts are being considered on these challenges. He also discussed current plans for future projects. \nEngage Estero’s management team prepared several recommendations for consideration that emerged during the forum: \n\nThe Village needs to encourage public input much earlier for planned developments and recreational changes being considered\, as panel member Jim Wallace suggested.\nThe Village often takes a “hard line” to achieve the acceptable Village requirements from developers to fit the vision for the Village. But there is a need for a more cohesive vision for the Village that takes account of all the developments and how they can enhance our community holistically.\nIt was suggested that the Village consider engaging with a planner or company with a proven track record in “thinking outside the box” to put forward their vision of what Estero will need to meet our future requirements. This does not imply that Village management is doing a poor job but that outside perspectives can provide a broader vision\, considering potential shifts in the behavior and needs of the public.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Hosts\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr. Aysegul Timur\, Opening Remarks\n President of FGCU \n Aysegul Timur\, Ph.D.\, was selected to become Florida Gulf Coast University’s fifth president on May 4\, 2023\, and was confirmed by the Florida Board of Governors on June 22\, 2023. Timur’s selection as FGCU’s next leader is historic\, as she is the first woman and immigrant selected to lead the university. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr. Shelton Weeks\, Moderator \n Professor of Economics and Finance \n Dr. H. Shelton Weeks is the Lucas Professor of Real Estate and Director of the Lucas Institute for Real Estate Development & Finance. He teaches corporate finance\, investments\, and real estate. Dr. Weeks has extensive industry experience in real property valuation\, emphasizing senior living projects. Dr. Weeks serves on the academic review panel of The Appraisal Journal and is the former Managing Editor of the Journal of Housing Research and former co-editor of the Journal of Real Estate Practice and Education. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Experts\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Daniel DeLisi\n Land use planning and water/environmental policy consultant \n Daniel DeLisi is a local water and environmental policy consultant/lobbyist and land use planner for local governments\, agricultural property owners\, and developers interested in ecological enhancement. In May 2011\, he was appointed to the water district governing board. DeLisi earned his master’s degree in city planning at MIT. DeLisi served as a planning consultant for the Estero Community Planning Panel prior to incorporation and was engaged in drafting Estero’s first community plan and design guidelines. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ross McIntosh\n Senior commercial real estate broker and respected speaker \n Ross Mcintosh has sold and assembled billions of dollars for land development or re-purposing in Lee and Collier counties. Ross has been located in Naples\, Florida\, for approximately 21 years. He previously served as Vice President of Axios Systems Inc.\, engaging and promoting developing\, producing\, and distributing computer software and computer systems design. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Steve Sarkozy\n Village of Estero Manager \n Steven R. Sarkozy serves as the Village Manager in Estero\, Florida. As Village Manager\, Sarkozy serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Village\, responsible to the Village Council. He keeps the Council fully advised on the financial condition and future needs of the Village and makes such recommendations to the Council. Steve came to the Village in November 2015 with 45 years of local government experience\, the latest as City Manager for the City of Carlsbad\, California. He also served as City Manager to the City of Bellevue\, Washington; the City of Roseville\, Minnesota; and the City of Geneva\, New York. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jim Wallace\n Key principal of Genova Realty LLC \n Since 1990\, Jim has designed\, marketed\, and built 2\,295 for-sale residences in 6 communities\, including Piper’s Grove and Calusa Bay in Naples\, Florida\, Lighthouse Bay at the Brooks\, and Rapallo and Genova in Estero. Before moving to Florida in 1990\, Jim was Creative Director and Managing Partner of Publicite Wallace/Saffer in Montreal\, Canada. He has served on the Village of Estero Planning\, Zoning\, and Design Board For eight years and taught a Real Estate Development Practicum at Florida Gulf Coast University in 2019 and 2020. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thanks to our Sponsor URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/futureforum/ LOCATION:FGCU Cohen Center Ballroom\, 11090 FGCU Blvd. N.\, Fort Myers\, FL\, 33965\, United States CATEGORIES:Engage Estero Event ORGANIZER;CN="Engage Estero":MAILTO:info@esterotoday.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231025T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231025T190000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231005T195437Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231005T195452Z UID:33592-1698253200-1698260400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:LCSO Women's Self-Defense Class DESCRIPTION:On Wednesday\, October 25\, 2023\, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Miromar Outlets Community Outreach Center will be hosting our R.E.A.D.Y. class from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm. The outreach center is located at the Miromar Outlets in Suite 190 (10801 Corkscrew Road\, Estero). \nThis FREE class is open to women age 13 and up. To register\, please email Gary Levine at glevine@sheriffleefl.org. Seating is limited. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/lcso-womens-self-defense-class/ LOCATION:Lee County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Center-Miromar Outlets\, 10801 Corkscrew Road Suite 190\, Estero\, FL\, 33928 CATEGORIES:Sheriff's Outreach Center ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://esterotoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/READY-without-date-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231025T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231025T113000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20230817T134404Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230817T140542Z UID:32893-1698229800-1698233400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Woof Walk DESCRIPTION:Furry friends from ARC (Animal Refuge Center) will be meeting and greeting guests! URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/woof-walk-3/ LOCATION:Lee County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Center-Miromar Outlets\, 10801 Corkscrew Road Suite 190\, Estero\, FL\, 33928 CATEGORIES:Sheriff's Outreach Center ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://esterotoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/woof-walk.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231021T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231021T110000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231004T133722Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231011T184813Z UID:33576-1697880600-1697886000@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Speaker Series: Ponce de Leon DESCRIPTION:Presenter\, local historian Jacob Winge\, will talk about de Leon’s interaction with our part of Florida. Program includes a continental breakfast. Advance registration is required. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/speaker-series-ponce-de-leon/ LOCATION:Country Creek Country Club\, 21180 Country Creek Drive\, Estero\, FL\, 33928\, United States CATEGORIES:Arts END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231020T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231020T100000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231004T132444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231011T184830Z UID:33565-1697792400-1697796000@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Mastering Your Medications: A Comprehensive Guide to Knowing Your Prescriptions DESCRIPTION:A Lee Health pharmacist will delve into the essential knowledge every patient should have about their medications. Feel empowered to make informed decisions about your prescriptions. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/mastering-your-medications-a-comprehensive-guide-to-knowing-your-prescriptions/ LOCATION:Lee Health Coconut Point CATEGORIES:Health END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231018T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231018T190000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20230816T144742Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230816T144742Z UID:32832-1697648400-1697655600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Women’s Self-Defense Class DESCRIPTION:Description: Learn basic self-defense techniques Ages-13 & up Registration Email-glevine@sheriffleefl.org – Advance Registration Required! \nDress-Gym attire URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/womens-self-defense-class-5/ LOCATION:Lee County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Center-Miromar Outlets\, 10801 Corkscrew Road Suite 190\, Estero\, FL\, 33928 CATEGORIES:Sheriff's Outreach Center ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://esterotoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/lee-women-fittness-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231018T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231018T103000 DTSTAMP:20260404T034452 CREATED:20231003T005352Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231003T005352Z UID:33530-1697621400-1697625000@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Board of Lee County Commissioners Zoning / Comp Plan Hearings DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/board-of-lee-county-commissioners-zoning-comp-plan-hearings-2/ LOCATION:Old Lee County Courthouse\, 2120 Main Street\, Fort Myers\, FL\, United States CATEGORIES:Lee County Events END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR