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: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 BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250327T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250327T183000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20250313T105027Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T105027Z UID:41240-1743094800-1743100200@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Ribbon Cutting & Open House of Lee Health’s Advanced Lung Care Center DESCRIPTION:Meet our expert team\, explore new screening tools\, and see how we’re improving early diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. First 25 attendees receive a free lung cancer screening consultation! URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/ribbon-cutting-open-house-of-lee-healths-advanced-lung-care-center/ LOCATION:8925 Colonial Center Dr. Suite 2002\, Building A Fort Myers\, FL 33905 CATEGORIES:Health END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250327T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250327T140000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20250314T055724Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250314T055724Z UID:41260-1743073200-1743084000@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Save out Water DESCRIPTION:Join Calusa Waterkeeper for an inspiring afternoon in support of their mission. Expert guests will discuss solutions and challenges to improving our water quality\, human health and public policies. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/save-out-water/ LOCATION:Broadway Palm Dinner Theater CATEGORIES:Environment END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250326T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250326T113000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20250106T135719Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251112T140259Z UID:40561-1742983200-1742988600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Community & Membership Meeting: Estero Traffic Study Results DESCRIPTION:Village of Estero 2024 Traffic Study Results \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 Read the Full Summary\n \n \n \n \n \n Little affects our daily quality of life as significantly as traffic. Engage Estero and the Village of Estero take road conditions and management seriously. \nThe Village utilizes a series of Master Plans in each of the areas of functional responsibility to help guide community investment and growth. Recently\, the Estero Village Council selected Johnson Engineering to update the Village-wide Traffic study Master Plan. The study is designed to identify current and future traffic issues and provide recommendations to improve traffic flow and safety in Estero. The study includes: \n\nProjected development on vacant parcels.\nTraffic impacts from areas outside Estero.\n\nAt the Engage Estero March Community and Membership Meeting\, the results of the study were provided to a capacity crowd by: \n\nSteve Sarkozy: Estero’s Village Manager.\nDavid Willems: Estero’s Director of Public Works\nLeah Holmes: Transportation Engineer at Johnson Engineering\n\nAfterwards\, the speakers answered questions from the audience. Learn what is in store for the roads in Estero\, the future impact of traffic in our area\, and what may be needed to mitigate problems by watching the video. \nThe meeting was held Wednesday\, March 26\, 2025 at Estero Park and Recreation Center\, 920 Corkscrew Palms Blvd\, in Estero\, Florida. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Steve Sarkozy\n Estero Village Manager \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n David Willems\n Village Director of Public Works \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Leah Holmes\n Johnson Engineering Transportation Engineer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Community-Meeting-Mar-26th-presentation \nDownload PDF URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/mar2025/ LOCATION:Estero Park & Recreation Center\, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd\, Estero\, FL\, 33928\, United States CATEGORIES:Engage Estero Event ORGANIZER;CN="Engage Estero":MAILTO:info@esterotoday.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250321T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250321T090000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20250311T134211Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250311T134211Z UID:41132-1742547600-1742547600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:MPO Public Hearing DESCRIPTION:The Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) will hold a public hearing on March 21\, 2025 at 9:00 a.m.\, at the Lee County Administration East Building located at 2201 Second Street in Room 118\, to consider amending the MPO’s FY 2024/2025 through FY 2028/2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The amendments add a Federal Transit Administration grant award to LeeTran for capital projects\, additional State operating funding to LeeTran for the US 41 corridor service and a new rail safety project on Veronica Shoemaker. Additional information on the projects as well as the proposed TIP pages are attached and posted here:  TIP Amendments. Additional information on the MPO Board meeting agenda can be found at www.leempo.com\, when it is posted a week before the meeting date. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/mpo-public-hearing/ LOCATION:Lee County Administration East Building\, 2201 Second Street Room 118\, Fort Myers\, Fl 33901 CATEGORIES:Other Event END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250320T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250320T200000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20250314T055603Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250314T055603Z UID:41256-1742493600-1742500800@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:A Virtual Rally for the Right for Clean Water DESCRIPTION: Help the Right to Clean Water’s grassroots campaign to collect signatures for an amendment to be added to the 2026 ballot. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/a-virtual-rally-for-the-right-for-clean-water/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Environment END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250319T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250319T213000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20241231T081105Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241231T081105Z UID:40486-1742376600-1742419800@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village of Estero Council Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-of-estero-council-meeting-6/ 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:20250311T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250311T213000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20241231T085951Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T135652Z UID:40523-1741710600-1741728600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY: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\, March 11. \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. \nItems for discussion on the agenda include proposals for: \n\nRedesign of the outside of the South County Library located on Three Oaks Road\, part of a larger renovation of the facility.\nA public hearing on a potential relocation of the maintenance building at Estero Community Park.\nDevelopment of a Discount Tire store on Corkscrew Road and Corkscrew Commons Drive (in between Rib City and Mr. Tequila restaurants).\n\nAdditionally\, the board will hear development project updates from Village staff. \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/planning-zoning-design-board-meeting-15/ 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:20250305T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250305T213000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20241231T081039Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T135616Z UID:40484-1741167000-1741210200@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village of Estero Council Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-of-estero-council-meeting-5/ 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:20250227T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250227T210000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20240719T143440Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250314T152807Z UID:39235-1740679200-1740690000@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:2024 Don Eslick Estero Person of the Year Award DESCRIPTION:2024 Don Eslick Estero Person of the Year Award\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Joe and Joni Pavich \nwere Honored at\nThe Don Eslick Person of the Year Award Dinneron Feb. 27\, 2025\nEstero Country Club at The Vines\nOn Thursday night\, February 27\, 2025\, at the Estero Country Club at the Vines Engage Estero had the extraordinary opportunity to honor Joe and Joni Pavich with the prestigious Don Eslick Estero Person of the Year Award. This award recognizes their unwavering commitment and passionate belief in Estero for over 35 years. \nJoe and Joni have shown incredible dedication through their volunteer work with various organizations in Estero\, such as the Chamber of Commerce\, Rotary\, Estero Forever Foundation\, Bonita Springs Estero Realtors Association and Engage Estero. Their contributions are exemplary examples of community spirit and teamwork. \nThe couple worked tirelessly in their new Real Estate business after they arrived in 1989. Joe’s efforts to attract potential new residents highlight his belief in Estero as a great place to live. He didn’t just promote the community; he built a sense of belonging and excitement that resonated with newcomers. Meanwhile\, Joni’s meticulous organization and people and sales skills ensured every initiative ran smoothly and efficiently. It was a team effort. “Our mom gets credit for finding the Estero area. She was the one who pushed us to come here\,” recounts their sons\, Joe Jr. and Jason Pavich. \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 The Engage Estero “Don Eslick Estero Person of the Year Award” is an annual event memorializing Don Eslick for his clarity\, vision\, persistence\, and significant contributions to the Estero community\, and to honor those that make exceptional contributions to improving the quality of life in Estero. \nIf you would like to learn more about the history of Estero and the positive impact that a dedicated team of committed\, unpaid volunteers who helped create such a sought-after destination in Southwest Florida had on our quality of life\, please click here to purchase a copy of “Forging a Better Path” that provides an insight into what helped shape the past and influence the future of Estero.   URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/2025award/ LOCATION:Estero Country Club\, 19501 Vintage Trace Circle\, Estero\, United States CATEGORIES:Engage Estero Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://esterotoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/web-banner-POTY.png ORGANIZER;CN="Engage Estero":MAILTO:info@esterotoday.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250226T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250226T113000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20241231T161629Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T152738Z UID:40546-1740564000-1740569400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Community & Membership Meeting: Traffic Safety Action Plan DESCRIPTION:Lee County MPO’s Strategic Safety Action Plan Traffic\, Safety\, Congestion\, and Recommendations Part 2 \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 Road safety has become an increasing concern for many residents in greater Estero. The presentation will look at the high-injury network and discuss potential solutions. \nEngage Estero was pleased to host: \n\nDon Scott\, Executive Director of the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization.\nCarmon Monroy\, Senior Transportation Manager\, CTS Engineering.\n\n \n Full Summary of the Meeting\n \n Q&A Session Summary\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Don Scott\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Carmen Monroy\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Community-Meeting-Feb-26th-presentation \n \n \n \n \n \n Presentation Slides(download) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Background\nThis meeting is a follow up to the October 2024 meeting\, featuring Fank Domingo\, Professional Engineer and Principal at Stantec and Ron Gogoi\, AICP Transportation Planning Administrator of the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). You can find a summary of that meeting here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you can’t attend in person\, you can still provide information about safety in Estero by completing the survey. \n \n Take the Survey\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n As part of the Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan\, a dashboard was created to examine crashes in Lee County. \n \n View the Dashboard URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/feb2025/ LOCATION:Estero Park & Recreation Center\, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd\, Estero\, FL\, 33928\, United States CATEGORIES:Engage Estero Event ORGANIZER;CN="Engage Estero":MAILTO:info@esterotoday.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250219T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250219T213000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20241231T080956Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241231T080956Z UID:40482-1739957400-1740000600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village of Estero Council Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-of-estero-council-meeting-4/ 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:20250211T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250211T213000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20241231T084926Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241231T084926Z UID:40521-1739291400-1739309400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Planning\, Zoning & Design Board Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/planning-zoning-design-board-meeting-14/ 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:20250205T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250205T213000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20241231T080928Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241231T080928Z UID:40480-1738747800-1738791000@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village of Estero Council Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-of-estero-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;VALUE=DATE:20250201 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250203 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20240614T134515Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250115T164352Z UID:38903-1738368000-1738540799@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Breaking Par at Grandezza 2025 DESCRIPTION:Breaking Par at Grandezza is the annual Golf Tournament and Gala raising funds for LEAD Estero\, a local non-profit by students\, for students\, that funds scholarships and leadership training opportunities for Estero High School students. Engage Estero is proud to be a sponsor of the event! Tickets now available at: https://leadestero.ejoinme.org/BreakingPar25 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Guest of Honor\nSteve Sarkozy\, the Village Manager of Estero since 2015.  He had 45 years of local government experience when he came to Estero. Now in his 10th year the Village continues to grow and is considered by many as a premier location to live in Lee County. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/breaking-par-at-grandezza-2025/ LOCATION:Grandezza\, 11481 Grande Oak Blvd\, Estero\, FL\, 33928\, United States CATEGORIES:Engage Estero Event ORGANIZER;CN="Lead Estero":MAILTO:Donate@LEADestero.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250122T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250122T213000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20241231T080855Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250120T161240Z UID:40478-1737538200-1737581400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village of Estero Council Meeting DESCRIPTION:Headline: Items of Interest on Upcoming Village Council Meeting Agenda \nThe Village of Estero Council will discuss several important matters at its next meeting on Wednesday\, January 22. \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 on the agenda: \n\nApproval of the Estero Sports Park master plan\, which will allow the Village to build on approximately 100 acres at Williams Road and Via Coconut. The park will include numerous recreational facilities for pickleball and tennis\, track and field\, baseball and softball\, basketball\, and a driving range\, plus additional amenities including the High 5 entertainment complex\, food truck parking\, an entertainment pavilion\, and more. After approval\, the proposal will be with the South Florida Water Management District for review of the project’s stormwater plan.\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 “Special Village Council Meeting.” \nHow to Attend \nThis Village Council meeting will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday\, January 22\, in the Council Chambers at Village Hall\, 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle. \nMeetings are also streamed live online and can be accessed here. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-of-estero-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:20250115T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250115T190000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20250113T150749Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250113T150749Z UID:40601-1736956800-1736967600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps Open House DESCRIPTION:January 15\, 2024 at 4:00 – 7:00 pm \nLee County’s Administration East Building\, 2201 Second St.\, Fort Myers\, 33901\, in the Green Room on the first floor URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/fema-flood-insurance-rate-maps-open-house/ 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:20250114T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250114T213000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20241231T084615Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250113T150820Z UID:40519-1736872200-1736890200@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Planning\, Zoning & Design Board Meeting DESCRIPTION:Genova Partners\, LLC will be requesting approval of a development order to construct 11 townhomes and 20 single family (villa) units. \nEstero Country Club is seeking to renovate one existing tennis court into 4 pickleball courts and add a new tennis court on the eastern portion of the club house located at 19501 Vintage Trace Circle. \nPruitt Family Real Estate Holdings\, LLC\, is proposing to convert the existing 4\,800 square foot vacant old post office building into a small office building located at 8111 Broadway Avenue East. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/planning-zoning-design-board-meeting-13/ 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:20250108T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250108T213000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20241231T080811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241231T080811Z UID:40476-1736328600-1736371800@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village of Estero Council Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-of-estero-council-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:20241218T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241218T093000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20240119T070629Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240119T070629Z UID:37098-1734514200-1734514200@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village Council Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-council-meeting-24/ 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:20241210T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241210T163000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20240119T071518Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240211T054935Z UID:37121-1733848200-1733848200@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Planning Zoning Design Board Meeting DESCRIPTION:Agendas are posted the week prior to the meeting. Council meetings are open to the public. \nThe Village Planning\, Zoning and Design Board will discuss several important matters at its next meeting. \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. \n  URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/planning-zoning-design-board-meeting-12/ 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:20241209T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241209T190000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20241114T183224Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241114T183224Z UID:40061-1733763600-1733770800@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Safe Streets for All: Public Meeting 2 DESCRIPTION:Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization’s (MPO) Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan will hold its second public meeting on Monday\, December 9\, 2024\, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. \nThe purpose of the second meeting is to gather safety issue feedback and present potential improvements to address the high crash areas. MPO staff and consultants will be available at the meeting to answer questions and provide a brief presentation. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/safe-streets-for-all-public-meeting-2/ CATEGORIES:Other Event END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241204T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241204T093000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20240119T070539Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240119T070539Z UID:37096-1733304600-1733304600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village Council Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-council-meeting-23/ 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:20241120T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241120T093000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20240119T070511Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240119T070511Z UID:37094-1732095000-1732095000@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village Council Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-council-meeting-22/ 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:20241118T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241118T170000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20241118T104044Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241118T104044Z UID:40078-1731916800-1731949200@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:3rd Annual Pedal for a Purpose DESCRIPTION:The 3rd Annual Pedal for a Purpose event will benefit the Lee Health Cancer Institute and the Cancer Care Communities Fund. Participants will be riding on a stationary bicycle and pedaling away to raise money for cancer care in Southwest Florida.\n\n\n\nFriday\, January 10\n\n5-9 p.m.\n\nLee Health Coconut Point\n\n23450 Via Coconut Point\n\nEstero\, FL 33928\n\n\n\nConnect with your family\, friends\, neighbors\, coworkers and put together your very own team!\n\n\n\nHere’s how it works:\n\n• There must always be a rider on the bike during the 4-hour pedal-a-thon.\n\n• Riders can switch at any time and ride as little or as much as they want.\n\n• Teams can have between 4 – 8 riders.\n\n• A team captain is needed for registration purposes.\n\n\n\nFor questions\, email Healthylifecenter@leehealth.org or call 239-468-0050. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/3rd-annual-pedal-for-a-purpose/ LOCATION:Lee Health Coconut Point CATEGORIES:Health END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241112T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241112T200000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20240907T182751Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241126T165154Z UID:39553-1731434400-1731441600@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:November 2024 Public Forum: The Impact of Climate Change on Our Community DESCRIPTION:A Public Forum on the Impact of Climate Change on Our Community   \nSupported by the Water School at FGCU \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 Are You Concerned About the Urgent and Hazardous Nature of Climate Change? This forum was the first in a two-part series addressing Climate Change\, Issues\, Solutions\, and Sustainability in greater Estero. \nGreg Tolley\, Dean\, The Water School at Florida Gulf Coast University\, will moderated the Forum. \nPanel Members: \n\nMike Savarese\, Professor\, Department of Marine and Earth Sciences\, FGCU.\nMatt DePaolis\, Policy Director\, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation.\nCodty Pierce\, The Calusa Waterkeeper.\nJenny Morris\, FGCU Graduate Student studying environmental issues.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Written Summary of the Forum\n \n \n \n \n \n You’ll Learn: \n\nWhat pressing climate change and warming issues threaten our environment and quality of life in greater Estero?\nHow are increasing temperatures directly impacting greater Estero?\nWhat do climate change and warming mean in a municipal environment (transportation\, energy efficiency\, waste reduction\, environmental sustainability growth policies?)?\nWhat climate change and warming threat-mitigating projects can be implemented?\nWhat examples of active participation are pivotal to driving the transformative changes we need?\nWhat is a “Reasoned Plan of Action” approach?\nWhat organization should lead the establishment of the approach in greater Estero?\nHow can we establish local climate change and warming efforts related to water quality\, municipal climate change and warming\, environmental education\, and community engagement?\nWhat are the potential sources of water pollution\, climate change\, and warming in greater Estero?\nGiven the continued growth in urbanization\, is the quantity of water in greater Estero available from our aquifers?\nWhat are the solutions if there is a potential water shortage?\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 Mike Savarese\n \nProfessor\, Department of Marine and Earth Sciences\, FGCU \nMichael Savarese is a Distinguished Professor of Coastal Geology\, Climate Resilience\, & Preparation within the Department of Marine and Earth Sciences within Florida Gulf Coast University’s Water School. He has degrees in geoscience with background in coastal geology\, paleontology\, and sedimentology & stratigraphy. Throughout his years at FGCU\, he has served as a liaison between scientists and managers/decision-makers. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Matt DePaolis\n Policy Director\, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation \nMatt has a master’s degree in marine biology and a Juris Doctorate with environmental and ocean and coastal law certificates from the University of Oregon. His strong science and environmental law background support leading the policy team and advancing policies needed to improve water quality and protect our natural resources.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Codty Pierce\n \nThe Calusa Waterkeeper \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jenny Morris\n \nGraduate Student Year: 2ndMajor: Environmental Science \nJenny Morris is a second-year master’s student in Environmental Science at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU). She is actively engaged in research focused on climate change in Southwest Florida. Jenny’s work utilizes advanced technologies\, such as drone-based LiDAR\, to study areas impacted by coastal changes. In addition to her research\, she has gained valuable experience through internships and professional roles in environmental conservation in The Bahamas. Notably\, she served as a Science Officer at the Bahamas National Trust\, where she conducted ecological fieldwork. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/nov2024/ 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:20241112T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241112T163000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20240119T071444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240211T054644Z UID:37119-1731429000-1731429000@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Planning Zoning Design Board Meeting DESCRIPTION:Agendas are posted the week prior to the meeting. Council meetings are open to the public. \nThe Village Planning\, Zoning and Design Board will discuss several important matters at its next meeting. \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. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/planning-zoning-design-board-meeting-11/ 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:20241106T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241106T093000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20240119T070431Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240119T070431Z UID:37092-1730885400-1730885400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Village Council Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/village-council-meeting-21/ 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:20241029T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241029T163000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20240119T071418Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241016T152213Z UID:37117-1730219400-1730219400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Rescheduled: Planning Zoning Design Board Meeting DESCRIPTION:Agendas are posted the week prior to the meeting. Council meetings are open to the public. \nThe Village Planning\, Zoning and Design Board will discuss several important matters at its next meeting. \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. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/planning-zoning-design-board-meeting-10/ 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:20241024T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241024T113000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182911 CREATED:20240814T134804Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241029T130537Z UID:39415-1729764000-1729769400@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:Community & Membership Meeting: Improving Road Safety DESCRIPTION:Improving Road Safety in SW Florida: A Review of the MPO’s Strategic Safety Action Plan\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Road safety has become an increasing concern for many residents in greater Estero. Engage Estero was pleased to host Ron Gogoi\, Transportation Planning Administrator at Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization\, and Frank Domingo\,Professional Engineer and Principal\, Stantec Consulting\, speaking to the development of a plan to reduce crashes\, serious injuries\, and fatalities on Lee County roads. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Presentation Slides\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary\nRoad safety issues are on many residents’ minds in greater Estero and are of considerable interest. Despite the topic’s importance\, attending the Community and Member Meeting arranged by Engage Estero was disappointing. However\, early voting concerns and cleanup after Hurricane Milton will have affected attendance. \nA YouTube-edited video recording of the important information conveyed at the meeting can be seen by clicking on the link – https://youtu.be/ebpEeMb5E-g \nAllan Bowditch\, Engage Estero’s Chief Communications Officer\, welcomed those in attendance and introduced the two eminent speakers: \n\nFank Domingo\, Professional Engineer and Principal at Stantec.\nRon Gogoi\, AICP Transportation Planning Administrator of the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)\n\nFrank Domingo explained the various steps of the Safety Action Plan that involved \n\nIdentifying stakeholders.\nEvaluating safety data.\nSelecting proven strategies\nImplementation\n\nFrank pointed out that the work of Stantec and the MPO focuses on the wide range of available information and considers specific traffic studies conducted by various municipalities\, which are incorporated into the following analysis and recommendations. He mentioned that although the Village of Estero’s traffic study wasn’t finalized\, he had seen some provisional information and would review the findings when completed. Stantec is in close touch with the Village’s management team\, particularly Steve Sarkozy\, Manager\, and David Willems\, Public Works Director. The work of Stantec and the MPO was currently at the third step in the process – selecting proven strategies. \nLee County’s statistics on accidents are in the top 5 or 6 of the worst counties in the USA!  There are around 100 deaths per year on Lee County roads and 600 serious accidents. The work that Frank Domingo pointed out identifies and focuses on those “corridors” with the highest level of accidents. Evaluating the cost implications of accidents is important to determine where best to spend funds to rectify the causes. \nThe Department of Transport determined in calculations that in addressing these problems\, a life lost is $11M in these assessments. Although it is appreciated that this process may seem harsh\, it is necessary to determine where extra funds may be needed. Safety assessment in greater Estero has been focused on US41\, Estero Parkway\, and Three Oaks Parkway. Frank asked the audience for their input on where else their work might be focused based on their local knowledge. The comments made were: \nThe design of pedestrian crossings and bike lanes seems to be an afterthought. This was felt to need improvement. \nThis led to a considerable amount of detailed discussion on this issue. While the existing road width determines the size of the bike lanes and pedestrian paths\, it was pointed out that some municipalities had reduced the road width for vehicles and increased the size of bike lanes. While this slows down vehicle speeds and journey times\, it also improves safety! \nThe discussion also centered on the use of electric scooters and e-bikes. These are often used on pedestrian and bike lanes\, and there are clear dangers when these types of transport can generate speeds of 20 to 30 mph. Those who use them often wear no helmets; thus\, they are associated with an alarming rise in injuries. \nSome municipalities\, like Estero\, only allow Class 1 E-bikes (maximum assisted speed of 20 mph) on sidewalks and bike paths. Still\, there are no consistent regulations in place that require further examination. Ordinances are in place in some municipalities\, but Bonita Springs doesn’t have one\, and Estero Village does. It was agreed that there needed to be more consistency across municipalities. \nBERT would be worthwhile in helping improve safety. Concerns were expressed about the delays in moving forward with this initiative. \nEnforcement of speed limits and red-light running requires more attention. \nThe use of cameras was discussed as an important means of enforcement. \nPrivacy concerns would need to be addressed \nNarrow shoulders on I75 were criticized as dangerous. Law enforcement had safety concerns when pulling drivers over for traffic violations.    \nWhen the new entertainment complex is developed on Via Coconut and Williams Road\, people will be using River Ranch Road\, which is not designed to take a lot of traffic – this was expressed as a potential future concern. \nSome side roads leading from Via Coconut and Broadway onto US 41 need to be examined. \nHigh traffic density following concerts at Hertz Arena has led to huge delays for those leaving and those caught up in the traffic. Frustration can lead to errors of judgment and accidents – more should be done to address this. Cut-through traffic is a safety concern. \nOn East Corkscrew\, more care is needed in the planning for gated communities on the north and south of the road to match their entrances and exits and enable one set of traffic lights to be used for multiple communities. \nOther items mentioned included: \n\nUS 41 at Pelican Colony Blvd. The implementation of traffic lights has been delayed by the developer (on the east side); there have been accidents\, including two deaths.\nProblem on the west side of Williams Road at Walgreens – mini-roundabout would be sensible.\nNeed for a coordinated approach (Bonita Springs\, Lee County\, Estero Village) to widen West Corkscrew because of the developments near the gulf.\n\nIt was pointed out that various countermeasures can be used depending on the circumstance. These involve speed management\, multiple procedures to enhance safety for bicyclists and pedestrians\, and changes to intersections and road departures. \nThe chart below summarizes the road countermeasure. As mentioned earlier\, they coordinate with the FDOT and consider the information provided by various municipalities when determining the needed actions. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The implementation process needs to incorporate the following aspects: education\, encouragement\, enforcement\, equity\, and evaluation. \nTowards the end of the meeting\, Ron Gogoi answered several questions that Engage Estero had received before the meeting. \nRon addressed the timeline for the Rails to Trails development and pointed out the lengthy process of obtaining grants and funding for the project. If funds are forthcoming\, the earliest work to be completed would be in 2031. \nThe next question addressed was\, “What are the plans to reexamine the possibility of extending Route 951 north of Collier County? And What route will it take?” \nRon first pointed out the route considered in 2005 as part of Lee County’s PD&E Study. Route 951 is an unfunded needs project in the Lee MPO’s 2045 Transportation Plan. However\, a segment of this route called the Airport Haul Road Extension\, north of East Corkscrew Road to Alico\, is in the MPO’s Cost Feasible Plan and is expected to be built in the 2036 to 2045. \nIf it were to be reconsidered\, the issues of the route to the south are far from clear. There was some discussion about whether the road could form part of Immokalee Road leading north\, but no firm decisions about its construction or the route have been made.  Various alignments will be considered part of the ongoing CR 951 Feasibility Study Alternatives\, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year. \nRon discussed the concerns expressed and the actions taken if a driver inadvertently drives the wrong way onto I75. These typically occur on the off-ramps in FDOT District 1\, and the hot spots are all in Lee County. 75% of wrong-way driving occurs at night and is committed by inebriated drivers. \nHe pointed out that a wrong-way driver notification system on off the off-ramp is activated after a vehicle trips the detection devices to trigger LED warning lights around wrong-way signs. An automated alert is sent to the controllers at the Regional Traffic Management Center (located at the Daniels Parkway rest area)\, followed by pictures of the make\, model\, and color of the car along with the license tag. Drivers on I-75 are cautioned via Dynamic Message Signs (posted on I 75) within 15 miles radius for 15 minutes of where the incident occurs. \nAn Alert has also been sent to the Florida Highway Patrol. All but three off-ramps (both NB and SB) in Lee County are currently equipped with this system (see the slide presentation for details). By the end of the year\, a notification system will be implemented at Bayshore\, Colonial\, and the Bonita Beach Road off-ramps. \nLastly\, Ron mentioned that along East Corkscrew\, the concerns that had been expressed about the dangers to schoolchildren when picked up by the school buses that were not previously allowed to turn into the entrances or a safe area of a community off the road had been mostly resolved. \nOne of the problem communities\, Verdana\, now has a protected stop on Verdana Village Boulevard (with access to the mail kiosk) opposite the new Publix\, where children can board the school bus following an agreement between Lee County Schools and the development.Ron mentioned Broadway Avenue as a different example of a bus stop safety issue in Estero\, where the Village resolved the problem of students having to wait on the pavement by building concrete pads of the road pavement with lighting and seating areas for students. Ron wished to know if there were similar issues of this nature within Estero that needed to be resolved. \n \n \n \n \n \n Allan Bowditch mentioned several important upcoming meetings and plans for the New Year. \n\nThe Impact of Climate Change on Our Community\, What You Need to Know & What Solutions Should be Implemented This Public Forum will be held on Tuesday\, November 12\, At FGCU’s Cohen Ballroom from 6 pm to 8 pm and supported by FGCU Water School. The impact of climate change on our community is undeniable\, and we need to come together to address the pressing environmental issues we face. Your involvement is crucial and integral to ensuring our discussions are inclusive and reflect the community’s needs and aspirations. Please visit our website\, www.esterotoday.com\, to register for the event. We look forward to seeing you there.\nWe will announce a celebratory meeting in December for our 25th Anniversary get-together shortly.\nOn Wednesday\, February 26\, at the Estero Recreational Center\, we will hold a follow-up to the recent meeting on Road Safety. Don Scott\, head of the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)\, and Camen Monroy\, Strategist focused on innovative transportation at CTS Inc. On March 26th at the Estero Recreational Center\, we will request that the village management share the outcome of the 2024 Traffic Survey results and their implications.\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 If you couldn’t attend in person\, you can still provide information about safety in Estero by completing the survey. \n \n Take the Survey\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n As part of the Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan\, a dashboard was created to examine crashes in Lee County. \n \n View the Dashboard URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/oct2024/ 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/2024/08/Oct-2024-promo.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Engage Estero":MAILTO:info@esterotoday.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241019T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241019T200000 DTSTAMP:20260403T182912 CREATED:20240917T054643Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240917T054643Z UID:39652-1729357200-1729368000@esterotoday.com SUMMARY:2024 Beach Gala DESCRIPTION:Join Happen365.org for a night of sunset toasts and fun times to celebrate their 2nd year as a non-profit fighting childhood obesity. URL:https://esterotoday.com/event/2024-beach-gala/ LOCATION:Margaritaville\, 251 Crescent Street\, Fort Myers Beach\, Fl 33931 CATEGORIES:Health END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR