Incorporation of the Village of Estero
We coordinated all efforts resulting in the successful vote for the establishment of the Village of Estero. Work included initiating the feasibility study and charter and conducting public workshops to inform the community about the benefits of incorporation. We still advoate for improved services within the Village structure.
Development of the Coconut Mall
We set strict design/architectural standards, including landscaping designs, in the original Estero Community Plan, which resulted in the one-of-a-kind Coconut Point Mall.
Estero Historical Society Deck
Engage Estero donated $3,000 as an organization, and executed a fund-raising campaign that garnered over $20,000 to replace the ADA deck that provides access to both historical buildings.
Protected the DR/GR
We collaborated with Lee County, environmental groups and developers to negotiate environmentally reasonable means of developing Corkscrew Shores in the DR/GR.
Transportation victories
Our actions led to accelerated funding of the widening of Corkscrew Road east of I-75. Prevented funding of CR 951 between Bonita Beach Road and Alico Road between the Stonybrook and Wildcat Run communities through the Grandezza community.
Averted 951 Interchange
The removal of CR 951 and Coconut Road interchange from the 2035 Transportation Plan due to its placement in environmentally sensitive lands.
Estero Community Plan
We contributed to the update of the Estero Community Plan to protect the quality of life of the community.
We collect survey opinions
Our assistance resulted in the collection of 1,000 responses to the Estero needs assessment, and we shared the survey results with the Estero Village Council.
We contributed to stopping the I-75 flyover overpass
Joining with other civic groups, we thwarted the construction of an I-75 flyover east of Coconut Road, avoiding disruption, additional noise, and potential loss of property values for several Estero Communities.
Controlled Noise
We collaborated with the Grandezza Community and Lee County to minimize adverse noise and visual impacts of university community development south of FGCU.
Prepared a Transition Book
Prepared a Transition Book to assist the new Village Council members as they took on the responsibilities transferred to them on March 17, 2015.
Defeated mining on Corkscrew Road
We helped convince the Lee County Board to deny permits for three major mines on Corkscrew Road. Mines impair adjacent wetlands, which protect us from flooding and further contaminating Estero Bay. Teaming up with our rural neighbors, we stopped our roads from being traveled by thousands of dump trucks.
Protect the Environment
We keep residents apprised of projects impacting our water quality and quantity, as well as area wildlife. Our targets included Estero on the River, Hertz Arena’ Weeks Fish Camp, and residential development and mining proposals in the Density Reduction/ Groundwater Resource area along east Corkscrew Road, inside and outside the Village boundaries.
Monitor Planning and Zoning Matters
Communications to over 10,000 households significantly increased citizen participation in the Village’s Planning and Zoning Board and Design Review Boards activity.
Share Information on Healthcare Developments
We supported the development of Lee Health Coconut Point. We provided regular updates on the progress of the 172,000- square-foot Healthcare Village that opened on December 3, 2018.
Secure Volunteers
Helped Lee County Schools to secure volunteers, implemented Junior Achievement programs in five Estero area schools, and to mentor students and veterans at Florida Gulf Coast University’ Institute for Entrepreneurship.
Team up with Other Community Groups
Using our communication capabilities, we collaborate with community organizations, like the Koreshan State Historic Site, the Estero Historic Preservation Citizens’ Committee, and the Estero Art League, to strengthen their effectiveness.
Issue Warnings About Tropical Storms
At the Village’s request, we help inform residents about storm preparedness and emergency contact information in the event of a hurricane.
Sponsor Meetings as a Clearinghouse for Ideas
The ECCL’s 47 community and business representatives and the public participate in monthly meetings, unencumbered by Sunshine Law restrictions that can hobble Florida government bodies.
Extended Hours at Bonita Community Health Center
The ECCL worked to extend the hours at the Bonita Community Health Center to better serve residents until the 24/7 emergency department was available in Estero.
We harness the Experience of Residents
ECCL members have decades of experience in governmental and civic matters that communities and citizens can access to guide Estero’s future.
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