What is being proposed?

The Fire District is considering the purchase of property on the south end of Captiva for a maximum cost of $5 million. The property would serve as a long-term public safety investment for the community.  The ideal parcel would be greater than 100’ in width, a minimum of 2.5 acres in order to provide an area sufficient for a helicopter landing zone, and a residential structure to house EMS personnel and ambulance.

Why is the Fire District interested in acquiring property now?

As development continues on the island and available land becomes increasingly limited, acquiring property now helps ensure the District can continue meeting the needs of residents and visitors well into the future.  Large parcels of land on Captiva are extremely limited. Opportunities for us to acquire strategically located property are becoming increasingly rare. Waiting could result in significantly higher costs or the permanent loss of the opportunity.

How would this benefit the community?

The ideal site could provide several long-term community benefits, including:

• Permanent landing zone for emergency helicopters
• Improved emergency response capabilities on the south end of Captiva
• Potential future use by Lee County EMS, Lee County Sherriff, and disaster response operations
• Enhanced hurricane preparedness and recovery capabilities
• Additional space for emergency staging, equipment, and logistics during disasters
• Preservation of land for public safety use rather than private redevelopment vacation rentals

Is the Fire District planning to build a new fire station?

No. The acquisition is intended to secure property for long-term strategic and operational needs and provide an opportunity to relocate EMS from the Fire Station in order to provide more space to house firemen and fire equipment.  Relocating EMS will extend the useful life of the current station and provide better emergency response time across the island.  Our staff have the same advanced life support credentials as EMS.  By spreading resources across the island, response times will be improved

How does this support disaster preparedness?

Captiva’s barrier island location creates unique emergency response challenges during hurricanes and severe weather events. The property could support emergency staging, equipment storage, responder support operations, and recovery efforts during and after disasters, in addition to providing for a permanent community owned landing zone.

Does this mean we no longer need a landing zone in South Seas or the village area?

No. We still very much need a landing zone to serve the north and central part of the island.  Currently, with the support of the owners of South Seas, we are able to utilize the Rauschenberg property to land medical helicopters until such time as they develop the property.  We intend to work with South Seas, and County officials to develop a long-term solution that will meet the needs of the island. 

What happens next?

The Fire District Board will continue evaluating property, financing options, and long-term operational considerations before moving forward with any final decisions.  We welcome and encourage any feedback on this project.  Please contact Jeff Pawul, Fire Chief directly at jpawul@captivafire.com or 239-472-9494 x203.