Protecting Property Values While Planning for Growth
Engage Estero’s Perspective:

Every fall, the Village of Estero undertakes one of its most vital tasks: preparing, presenting, and approving the annual budget. For property owners, most of whom are closely watching their retirement income, the budget is more than just numbers on paper. It serves as the blueprint for safeguarding property values, investing in community amenities, and maintaining the Village’s debt-free and financially resilient status.

The 2025–2026 budget reflects the Village Council’s clear message to management:

• Operate Village Lite – keep a lean staff structure to prevent future liabilities such as pensions and long-term benefits.
• Maintain strong reserves – uphold fiscal stability and serve as a buffer against unexpected challenges.
• Seek external funding — actively pursue grants to reduce costs.
• Re-Prioritize Projects – shift capital improvements as needed, always to stay debt-free.

The proposed $70.9 million expenditure is primarily focused on long-term investments that maintain and improve property values.

• Culture & Recreation: 39.2% – parks, trails, and community amenities
• Transportation: 28.1% – roads, bike/pedestrian safety, intersection upgrades
• Physical Environment: 20.6% – utilities, stormwater, landscaping
• General Government & Public Safety: 12%

Capital Projects for 2025–26

• $27.3 million for parks and recreation
• $13.4 million for utility improvements
• $11.9 million for roadway improvements
• $2.5 million for intersections
• $1.5 million for bike and pedestrian improvements

At the first reading, two new developments emerged that could influence priorities:

• FEMA funding – The Village may receive $24 million to cover Utility Expansion Project (UEP) costs. If approved, this could significantly lessen the financial burden on residents and allow the Village to reallocate resources.
• BERT project – The potential purchase of the rail right-of-way could happen within this fiscal year. If approved, this once-in-a-generation project could enhance Estero’s connectivity and recreation options. However, it might also require a bond issue, temporarily breaking the Village’s tradition of remaining debt-free.

What Happens if They Materialize?

If both opportunities materialize, Estero will reach a crucial point in its financial planning. FEMA funds would reduce the burden on property owners, making the UEP more affordable while maintaining reserves. Meanwhile, the BERT purchase would be a bold step to improve Estero’s future livability and property values—but it would also involve taking on temporary debt. Managing these two changes would require careful planning, and the Village Council would need to revisit the Capital Improvement Plan to adapt to these new circumstances.

The Big Questions for Residents

• Does this budget safeguard property owners from a potential nationwide decrease in real estate values?
• Does it represent residents’ priorities for investment locations?
• And if FEMA funding and BERT materialize, how should Estero balance reduced costs in one area with new debt in another?

Closing Call to Action

Engage Estero’s mission is to keep residents informed and provide a forum for organizing and focusing feedback. The Village Council will cast the final vote on the budget on September 17, 2025, at 5:05 p.m. at Village Hall.

Property owners are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and share their views. The Village’s long-term fiscal health and the preservation of Estero’s property values depend on engaged residents who help guide these important decisions.

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