Estero Village Utilities Expansion Program Update: A Path Toward Cleaner Waters

On August 28th, Estero Village held a public meeting to provide updates on the Utilities Expansion Program (UEP). Led by Steve Sarkozy, Village Manager, and David Willems, Public Works Director, the meeting focused on the progress of this vital project aimed at reducing contamination in the Estero River.

Initiated in 2021, the UEP identified septic system leakage from 13 communities as a significant source of river pollution. Key communities involved in the current phase include West Broadway, Estero River Heights, and Cranbrook Harbor.

Project Funding and Grants Overview
Sarkozy provided an overview of the grant funding efforts:

$32.2M in grants requested for the seven West Broadway communities, which contain 72% of the identified septic systems.
Future grant requests will total $28.7M, bringing the total project cost to $60.9M.
West Broadway communities account for 53% of total project costs.
The Village has already secured several state grants:

$1.73M (FY 22-23)
$7.5M (FY 23-24)
$2.5M (FY 24-25)
However, $5.9M in state funding was vetoed for FY 24-25 by Gov. DeSantis. Sarkozy emphasized the ongoing challenges in securing funds and the need to coordinate future grants with Hurricane Ian relief efforts.

Current Grant Status
The primary focus is on Estero River Heights and Cranbrook Harbor, though additional grants are being sought for other affected communities, including Quarterdeck Cove and Sherrill Lane. Major pending grants include:

$16.5M FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP)
$800K Non-Point Source Grant

Potential Cost to Residents
Sarkozy outlined potential cost-sharing models. Similar projects in other municipalities serve as a benchmark:

Cape Coral: Construction costs range from $15K to $25K, with utility connection fees between $2.7K and $3.7K.
Bonita Springs: Outsourced to an independent utility company.
The Village will help subsidize costs through grants, but property owners will likely cover some construction, connection, and decommissioning costs. Estimated assessments include:

Estero River Heights:
50% share: $34.3K
25% share: $17.1K
Cranbrook Harbor:
50% share: $52.9K
25% share: $26.4K
These figures may decrease as new grants are secured.

Community Concerns and Recommendations
Residents expressed concerns about stormwater drainage in the West Broadway area. Improved communication with residents—both affected and non-affected—is essential to ease worries about potential costs and property taxes.

A suggestion was made to establish a task force with representatives from the affected communities. This group could serve as a “sounding board” for upcoming issues and help streamline communication between the Village and its residents.

Next Steps for the Village of Estero
On October 1st, Jim Gilmartin, President of Engage Estero, and Allan Bowditch, Chief Communications Officer, met with Village Manager Steve Sarkozy to confirm details. Their findings indicate:

The Village is making every effort to secure the best financial outcomes for its residents.
Successful grant acquisition requires strong partnerships with government agencies and organizations.
The Village is committed to transparency, with full disclosure of project details and costs.

Conclusion
While the UEP faces challenges, the Village of Estero is working diligently to secure funding and minimize costs for residents. The goal is to address contamination in the Estero River while balancing environmental needs with financial responsibility.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed, participate in discussions, and collaborate with the Village to ensure a smooth transition from septic to sewer systems. If you have questions, contact Brianna Smith at Cella Molnar & Associates, who will provide answers and updates via the project FAQ page.

Together, Estero is working toward a cleaner, healthier future for all residents and the environment.