Info Central Archives - Palm Island Estates

04.06.23 Commissioner Bill Truex

January 8, 2025

On Thursday, April 6th Info Central hosted a town hall meeting with Commissioner Bill Truex to give Islanders an opportunity to ask questions about local issues. The Commissioner introduced himself as the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners. He has been a commissioner for 11 years and a resident of the area for 32 years.

First topic: Hurricane recovery.

The county is swamped with permit requests. There were 30,000 permits in February alone. Five consultants have been hired for permit reviews. Also, the process has been modified to allow for more review time – an additional two hours per day. Roofing permits and inspections are easy. The permits can be issued electronically and inspections can be done by affidavit.

Remember, you must pull a permit for your rebuild. If you do not have a permit, your insurance company will not cover it. Make sure you hire local contractors who know the permit regulations.

Question: Are we getting any additional assistance for hurricane debris vegetation clean-up including on private roads?
They have no plan for any additional cleanup at this time. They are done.

Comment: The county did a great job on clearing the road right-of-ways. Commissioner Truex said that their contractor was great. They had over 225 units in this community. In his estimation, it was the fastest cleanup ever. County staff and the contractors deserve much kudos.

Question: Will the debris in the canals be cleared?
-Charlotte County hired a contractor who had to be fired, causing a delay in the process. Recently the state took over canal clearing operations. All of the canals will be cleared, both natural and man-made. The state will be reimbursed by the federal government for the cleanup. However, it will take some time to get to all of the canals. The Commissioner’s office will get contact information to PIE for the state cleanup.

Question: We have issues with folks clearing lots and putting it out for debris pickup. Also, there are debris piles left on the sand roads in front of homes and vacant lots. What can CC do?
-Contact Commissioner Truex to research the addresses of the vacant lots and he will see if it can be removed.

Question: Resident’s homeowners’ insurance would not renew and their agent said that no one is writing in Charlotte County now for the barrier islands. What can they do?
-Commissioner Truex said it was not safe to go without coverage, particularly liability insurance for workers on site. Tower Hill and Universal are Florida-based insurance companies. You may contact Key Agency for details.

Question: There was a “work camp” set up on a vacant lot across from the canal. The contractor’s workers are living there. How long is the emergency code regarding trailers and campers in effect?
-The emergency regulation put in effect which allows campers and trailers on lots during the rebuilds is only for residents. It is not in effect for contractors or workers. Contact the county to notify them.

Question: Can we prevent clearing of mangroves and installation of sea walls on properties?
-Seawalls are allowed by the state on man-made canals. Mitigation is required when mangroves are cut for seawall installation. However, if the regulations are followed sea wall installations are permitted. Preventing sea walls would be an incursion on private property rights.

Question: Please explain Charlotte County’s neighborhood planning program and the benefits for Island stakeholders. Also briefly describe procedures.
-Many of the issues that Islanders face may be proactively avoided in the future by coming together to produce a neighborhood plan. Will the county support community planning on the island? Commissioner Truex brought a copy of the Community Plan first developed in 2004. He stated that there is currently no funding for the County’s neighborhood planning program. However, he stated that the Island Streets and Drainage MSTU has funding that can be made available for planning. The first step would be to introduce what community planning is and how it is done to the Island stakeholders. We can ask one of the community development staff members at the county to present at a town hall meeting hosted by Info Central.

Question: What is the status of the old Fire House?
-The Old Firehouse will be torn down because it is unsafe, and the property will be surplused meaning it will go to sale. However, it is not a priority so it will not happen quickly.

Question: Can the property be donated to the Bocilla Islands Conservancy Inc.?
-The Board of County Commissioners will consider it.

Question: Red tide is aggravated by the agricultural run-off coming from Lake O releases. The C-43 reservoir will help, also conservation land for filtration. The Kissimmee River needs to be straightened. There are currently 5 state projects ongoing. What is the County doing about water quality and red tide?
-Charlotte County has hired Brandon Moody, water quality expert formerly of SWFMD. He is testing around Charlotte County and building a plan. The water is dirty here. The problem is septics along the Peace River. The County sewage treatment systems are being upgraded to Advanced Wastewater Treatment systems.

Question: Please explain the Commission’s actions regarding the density hearing on February 28, 2023 for West Charlotte County. The information that was circulating regarding increased density to West County was not accurate. The higher density designation applied only to 3 pre-approved areas that already had special zoning allowing the higher density, which could not be modified.

Question: Please explain the new FEMA flood zone maps and it may impact Island stakeholders.
The new flood zone maps went into effect on December 15, 2022. They can be viewed on the Charlotte County website. Essentially, the elevation level for first floor of building was lowered by 1.15’.

Other misc: The Eldridge Marina property sale fell through. Across the street, 4.4 acres were purchased by Charlotte County. They will be putting in a new boat ramp there. Inquiries were made to the County by Boca Grande residents regarding putting in a cell tower at the north end of Boca. Nothing can be done about the number of storage units going up on the mainland. Message the Commissioners for details regarding 1. Reimbursement by FEMA for debris removal or 2. FEMA housing.

04.06.23 Sheriff Prummell and Deputy Billy

January 8, 2025

On April 6th, 2023, at 9:00 AM, Sheriff Bill Prummell and Deputy Bill Prummell, Jr. came out to the island for an Info Central Town Hall on law enforcement. Joining them was Fire Chief Jason Fair and Michael Davis, Deputy Chief of Operations (Public Safety). Here’s what was discussed:

Sheriff Prummell spoke about Hurricane Ian and the aftermath:

We were lucky we did not get the storm surge from Ian. In Charlotte County, 75% of residents live on or near the shore. If storm hit further north, 75% of County would have been under water.

When you hear the call to evacuate – get out. 34 residents stayed on LGI, lucky they stayed alive. After the storm, mutual aid for CCSO came from all around the state. They move in to provide safety and security, also to give the CCSO staff a break so they can take care of their homes. Sheriff Prummell lost his home in the storm.

We already had a construction boom before the storm and now repairs are swamping local contractors.

Many contractors moved in from out of state so CCSO has been getting reports of lots of scams and theft of service. Be cautious: bring your fishing gear and things you store on boats inside and secure it.

It is extra difficult for law enforcement now because they were already short on staff. Lack of applicants has CCSO competing with Lee & Sarasota for workers. They are presently investing in a real crime intelligence center, hiring analysts responding to major crime. CCSO has access to all of the cameras in all of the schools.

Deputy Billy spoke about local law enforcement issues:

This is Deputy BIlly’s twelfth year down here. Previously, he was part of an undercover surveillance team with the Private Investigations Unit. It was a big change for him coming out here. His patrol territory includes Palm Island, LGI and the north end of Boca Grande. When Billy is on the island, you will get a rapid response to your call. If a call comes in when he’s working, CCSO will dispatch Billy to the Island. He will come out here to respond. He can get here on an after-hours call. You may get a phone call from a deputy if the incident is after the fact, but in an active disturbance they will come. He familiarized deputies with all equipment available on the Island. Billy adjusts his schedule to be around more during spring break period. It is too hard to dedicate a deputy to the Island because they are spread thin.

Left to Right: Michael Davis (Deputy Chief of Operations, Public Safety), Deputy Billy Prummell (“BP3”), Sheriff Bill Prummell, Fire Chief Jason Fair, Eddie Diaz and George Bartlett (Station 10 Firefighters)

Topic: Golf Carts.

The law for golf carts will be changing soon. Golf carting will require a driver’s license. Renters need to know. Adults can be held liable for criminal citation.
Do you have capability to ticket now for underage drivers? Yes.

Topic: Dogs on the beach.

Dogs are allowed on the beach but MUST be on a leash. This applies County-wide. Billy will initiate a report but according to Michael Davis, Deputy Chief of Operations (Public Safety), Animal Control has to handle the issue. If it’s a repeat offender, they can ticket. For interference with shorebird nesting and turtle nesting, FWC gets involved. Even if Billy is here on patrol, animal control has to be called to come out for dog complaints.

Question:

Aren’t the animals gone by the time they get there? That will most likely be the case. Take a photo of the dog! The more information you can provide to animal control, the better equipped they are to deal with it. They all have the same dispatcher – – same communication center. If it’s an emergency, dial 911. Otherwise dial Sheriff’s dispatch.

Topic: Driving on the beach.

Deputy Billy checks on vehicle tracks on the beach that are not tracks from the CCSO off-road vehicle. Question: are pedal assist bikes are allowed on the beach? Yes. Electric wheelchairs are not considered a motor vehicle on the beach.

Topic: Debris pickup & Illegal Dumping.

Reporting is sent to Billy, but this is mostly a timing issue where the debris piles were placed after the deadline for County removal. There is rarely intent. There is no violation unless they can make the case of intent i.e. contractor dumping on empty roads, vacant lots.

The Economic Crimes Unit is investigating contractor scams.

Billy will share information with community about contractors that are involved when they are confident the case is made. During a state of emergency, out-of-state contractors are allowed to operate under another licensed contractor. Billy will post links for contractors who are licensed and insured in FL.

Topic: Speeding traffic.

Lots of times it looks like people are speeding but radar does not show them breaking the speed limit. In part, the dust clouds help create the appearance of high speed. Enforcement of speed limit is difficult here. They have to establish abuse of speed limit, then explore traffic mitigation options.

Comment: If tickets for speeding were issued, word would get around and discourage speeding. Billy uses speeding warnings with discretion. The Sheriff could establish a policy of no more warnings for speeding, but that means the policy will be enforced equally for all. The actual speed limit is 25 MPH on North Gulf, 20 MPH everywhere else.

Comment: R&B had requested all of the speed limits be lowered and the County turned them down. 639-2101 (check) non-emergency number.

Other misc.

Bring to Billy’s attention any places where he may need to establish “directed patrol”.
Billy participates in marine emergency response. The Coast Guard support equipment is less up-to-date than CCSO. CCSO has air support with helicopters and harnesses for water rescue.

If something is going on, don’t wait to see Billy. Call the sheriff’s dispatch non-emergency number. A deputy would rather come out and find out it’s a minor issue than to wait and find out it was a major incident. At that point it’s too late to follow up. If there’s an active situation, the barge will hold for CCSO. Also, they have a dock available to bring the marine unit.

In a storm, particularly with a storm surge, EMS comes off the Island. 911 service stops at 45 mph sustained winds. When they make the decision to call for evacuation, get out. Try to be proactive and get out early. Heed the warnings.

PATRICK FULLER Director of Charlotte County Emergency Management (1)

06.21.24 Hurricane Preparedness

June 21, 2024

Click to Download

A small but attentive audience gathered on June 21st to hear the experts speak about hurricane protocols and procedures. PIE President Meryl Schaffer introduced the speakers: Patrick Fuller (Director of Charlotte County Emergency Management) and Jason Fair (Charlotte County Fire Chief).

Patrick Fuller began with the bad news: experts at the National Hurricane Center predict an extremely active year – the highest expected ever. There is no La Nina to inhibit storms and the water temperatures are now as warm as the average for August. The first named storm of the season — Alberto –- caused a storm surge as far north as Louisiana.

Here are some highlights from the presentation:

DO NOT STAY IN A STORM! We live on a Barrier Island, the last strip of land before the mainland.
Know your ZONE: we are in the RED ZONE. It is possible for storms to over wash the Island. Mr. Fuller emphasized that no two storms are the same in terms of speed and size and can’t be expected to behave in the same way.
PREPARE IN ADVANCE>: Have an evacuation plan. FIRST plan to stay with a friend or family member outside the area. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO GO LONG DISTANCES. Get away from the most deadly aspects of the storm, which is storm surge and/or flood waters. STORM SURGE is the #1 killer in a hurricane. 60% of hurricane deaths are water-related.

Charlotte County developed with most of its infrastructure within the lowest evacuation zones. Everything is built near the water. The County does NOT have enough shelter space. There are 3 schools and a recreation center, that is all.

GET OUT well in ADVANCE of a storm, 4-5 days before landfall. Your evacuation route is any road that gets you away from the impact area. If you wait too long you run the risk of being stuck in traffic and potentially running out of gas.
What is the evacuation procedure? There isn’t an exact time evacuation is called, but usually within 48 hours of the storm. Emergency management holds a press conference to make the announcement. At that point, EMS will not respond. If evacuation is declared, crews will be moving out for the safety of Charlotte County personnel. There is no set communication announcing their departure. The threshold to stop operating fire and EMS vehicles is gale force winds (45 MPH+). At that point emergency calls pile up at dispatch, all departments stop work.
SPECIAL NEEDS: Help for people dependent on medical devices (i.e. oxygen) or who have cognitive/memory impairment. File an application with Emergency Management to get access to a special needs shelter located in a church in Port Charlotte. FL Dept of Health reviews the applications and determines qualification for access, but you must be registered in advance. CC Transit picks up qualified people to transport them to the shelter. Again, the first evacuation choice should NOT be a shelter. Shelter information is available on page 7 of brochure.
SIGN UP for “Alert Charlotte” (alertcharlotte.com, page 4 of guide). Give them your address and a means to communicate: cell, email, landline. Emergency Management will notify you when an evacuation is called. “Alert Charlotte”, the wireless emergency system, replaced the old Emergency Broadcast System and will notify for civil emergencies and weather emergencies. They also provide weather alerts (i.e. thunderstorms) etc. DO NOT TURN THE ALERTS OFF.
Maintain an emergency supply kit, enough for 5-7 days. Remember that now there are more billion dollar disasters than ever because more people live in disaster-prone areas. There is competition for resources after events, and wider time gaps between events allow these resources time to build up. If there are back-to-back events the longer the wait for resources and assistance to arrive. Next sales tax holiday is last week of August – good for large ticket items like generators.
KEEP IN CONTACT (stay informed): follow social media before the storm. Digital means usually fail in a storm. Make sure you have a battery powered radio in the event of cell tower failure. There is a volunteer group in CC for amateur ham radio operators (last resort communications) Information hubs and drop centers used by CC are fire houses, libraries, recreation centers. Static locations that have information and resources after the storm (i.e. charging stations)
Jason Fair, Charlotte County Fire Chief

PATRICK FULLER Director of Charlotte County Emergency Management

Don’t engage in unsafe activities. SAFETY after a storm is most important. There are more fatalities after a storm due to dangerous conditions than by the direct impact of the storms. ALL FLOOD WATER is contaminated (open wounds in water get infected, can cause fatal sepsis). Know how to operate a generator correctly and keep it 20 feet from the house. Use a CO2 monitor.
AFTER A STORM the best info comes from Station 10. Island is considered a “Neighborhood Pod” for relief and assistance (i.e. military drops after Ian, MREs). Emergency Management can work with the fire dept on-scene for communication.
Who looks at results and makes future changes to building code, regs? Florida Association of Building Officials review after each storm and make recommendations. FEMA also has Mitigation Assessment Teams. Reporting is available online.

In the past the focus was on industrial buildings. Wind-driven rain issues have to do with the duration of the storms. Code was not designed to take wind-driven raid for periods of 12+ hours. Current code may not stand up to low-moving and powerful storms. However, building to ICC 500, the international building code, would be prohibitive.

Is there any relief available for homes that are still damaged? Debris can be dangerous going into storm season. Having condemned homes removed works like derelict vessels, which is a very long process. If there is a safety or health concern go to code enforcement. There is a “Rebuild Florida” program sponsored by FloridaCommerce that provides state administered grants to assist in outstanding repairs. Eligibility requirements at Rebuild Florida Hurricane Ian Housing Recovery Efforts.
DON’T MISINTERPRET THE “CONE”: new visual graphic. Cone has gotten smaller to reflect only the center of the storm. They removed the center line from the cone, so people will understand that the center of storm is likely to be somewhere within the cone. FOLLOW THE OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT SOURCES: National Hurricane Center, the National Weather Service (Tampa area, Ruskin)

The trigger for evacuations is “slosh model” based on potential inundation, usually when prediction puts storm surge potential at 4’ above ground level.

Both speakers emphasized: you don’t have to evacuate from the path of the storm, just evacuate AWAY FROM WATER. Todd Dunn added ways that the County disseminates information: on FB, NextDoor, Alert Charlotte, Media (TV, radio) and local public radio stations like WGCU.

Are the Station 10 vehicles taken off the Island? Evacuation of the citizens is their first priority. They make an effort to get fire equipment off the Island and protected but can’t guarantee it will happen. If they have the opportunity, the apparatus comes off Island but the tanker stays. The lessons learned from Ian were about road access, risk assumption

Mr. Fair pointed out that in an evacuation we should NOT assume “oh, they’ll take care of me”. “No, we’re [the fire & EMS personnel] are getting out too.”

Is there a way to notify evacuated Islanders that fire/EMS was back on Island and station 10 is restored to service? Todd Dunn explained that there is no such thing as an “all clear” after a storm. He explained that communicating this to residents is a double-edged sword. They do not want to create a false sense of security causing people to return if it is still unsafe.
Mr. Fair emphasized DO NOT CONFUSE ACCESS after a storm for BEING SAFE on the Island. There are structural fires that start when the power comes up. It is easy to make a mistake jumping into restoration, and the hospitals may be closed or damaged during/after the storm. After the last storm the hospital in Punta Gorda had 1st floor water incursion, Fawcett Memorial had vent failures and wind-driven rain. Shorepoint hospital had the least damage. The County has triage-style locations to provide care when the hospitals are closed. CCFD conducted 80 rescues after Ian.

05.04.24 Central Sewer Q&A

May 4, 2024

Topic: Environmental Utilities’ (EU) Application for Central Sewer

Presented by: PIE ACTION COMMITTEE
www.palmislandestates.org

Date: Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.

Location: Firehouse, Gasparilla Way

On Saturday about 50 Islanders gathered for updates and to ask questions about the proposed wastewater installation on our Islands. Meryl Schaffer kicked off the meeting with a brief statement of the initiative:

SUMMARY

This is our 3rd go-round with septic to sewer conversion applications – 2002, 2022 and now 2024
The docket for the last Environmental Utilities LLC (EU) application to service our islands was just closed in Sept. 2022 . Here we are, 18 months later, fighting essentially the same application again filed with the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC).

PIE represents the vast majority of islanders who oppose the Application. EU is a private, for-profit utility – proposed by the owners who currently run the Little Gasparilla water utility.

Detailed information is available on our website … palmislandestates.org (dot-org not dot-com)

What has happened to date?

EU filed the application to provide sewer service in February 2024. Notices were sent to those property owners in the service area.

The PSC allows 30 days to file a formal objection and request a public hearing. Note that objection letters must go to the PSC and not the Charlotte County Board of Commissioners (BOCC).

Linda Cotherman was the first to file an objection requesting a formal hearing as a “Party of Record” (also called an “intervenor”). Last week, PIE formally filed an objection through our attorney, Brad Kelsky.

The PSC has a big rate case underway with FPL so we will watch the docket to determine timing of next steps.

What’s next?

For the next year or more, the PIE Action Committee will work with the attorney through discovery, interrogatories, depositions, testimony, etc. It’s a long legal process leading up to the Administrative Hearing which is essentially like a trial.

The Administrative Hearing consists of a Technical Hearing (testimony of Parties of Record and expert witnesses) followed by a Service Hearing, usually held the next day. This is where the public is given opportunity to speak directly to the PSC.

We are now waiting for the docket calendar, the CASR (Case Assignment and Scheduling Record), to be posted. The PSC staff is still reviewing EU’s application for completion. We are expecting the CASR to be posted on June 28th.

1. QUESTION: EU was just turned down, so what’s different in their application this time?

Much of the application is unchanged.
EU included several requests for service, which he did not do last time. The number in support is roughly 16 individuals/entities who control fewer than 31 lots/pieces of property. A single developer developer owns 21 properties. 4 individuals were related to the owners and 1 or 2 have no ownership interest on the Islands.
This application contained a stronger message (by way of a resolution, not an ordinance) of support for the Environmental Utilities proposal from the Charlotte County Commissioners.
EU has hired what it considers to be an expert, Brian LaPointe, Ph.D, who has submitted a report on the detrimental effects of septic systems on the barrier islands.
EU included support letters from CHNEP, the Coastal and Heartland National Estuary Program. This is an environmental alliance funded by the EPA to protect our national waters.

2. QUESTION: Is there support from the Resort and is it individual or as a group?

The service area is south of the resort, so they are not included in this application for certification. In the future the Resort could hook up to the new lines without sharing in the installation costs, which would be borne by the owners outside the Resort Also note on LGI the Hideaway Bay Beach Club has a small sewer plant, and this would be required to be dismantled as they are in the service area as well.

3. COMMENT: The PSC Commissioners are appointed by the Governor, not elected.

This application is filed with the State of Florida Public Service Commission, not Charlotte County. The PSC Commissioners are appointed by the Governor, not elected. So, threatening to “vote them out” has no validity. The way to get your message across to the PSC is to write a letter.

4. QUESTION: Is it better to send one letter or send many letters?

You can write more than 1 letter — it makes a difference. The PSC looks at the support/opposition of each potential customers so every person in your home and each property owned counts as a stakeholder. For example, if one letter is signed by a couple that is two potential customers. Amanda Small has been doing some amazing work collecting stats and details of all the letters posted.

Our next Call to Action will be requesting that individuals send a letter to the Clerk of the PSC requesting to be added to the Docket as an “Interested Person”.

5. QUESTION: Is it too late for another individual or utility to apply for certification to compete with EU?

Yes. EU has the certificate application process tied up for this go-round. Only one at a time can be considered.

6. QUESTION: Was there a need study done?

Not that we are aware of, and there is none contained in the application. With the larger red tide blooms, focus of testing by Charlotte County includes testing for nitrates and phosphates. The state continues to test for fecal coliform at the beaches, which is the standard for swimming safety.

EU has focused on the filtration system of the drain field. Is the sand in the drain field offering enough filtration to eliminate nitrates and phosphates? The proposed EU solution would pump the liquid effluent to the Rotonda treatment plant which is then sent out as “gray water” to be used for watering. This gray water is used on lawns and golf courses and flows back into Lemon Bay.

The County now has a water quality expert who advocates updating the sewer plants to advanced wastewater treatment, which reduce nitrates and phosphates. Major upgrades are planned for other areas but the Rotonda plant is only planned for a small capacity increase. Sarasota County stopped new sewer hookups until they can implement the advanced wastewater treatment upgrades.

7. QUESTION: I have a low-pressure system already. Will I need to connect?

Yes, there is no grandfathering provision. Once the county notifies you in writing of the availability of the utility, you have 365 days to hookup.

8. QUESTION: There’s a pump involved. How long would this work with a power outage?

After the tank fills up with 50-60 gallons, you will have to stop using it. People are encouraged to go to the expense of buying a generator to keep the system going. In the County there are trucks that travel around during outages to pump out the tanks, but we don’t know that this would apply here.

9. QUESTION: What are we supposed to do while the tanks are being installed?

That’s an excellent question. No information has been provided. Do people need to move out until completed?

10. QUESTION: Is the system only removing liquid effluent?

Yes, the tank has a duel chamber; the solids settle and still have to be pumped out on a regular basis. So, the new tanks will need a pump-out on essentially the same timetable as septic systems.

11. QUESTION: Is there a limit to the number of times EU can apply for this certificate?

Sadly, no. Some believe that testing would give a definitive solution to this issue. There are groups on the mainland looking into testing to see what can be shown to come from septics vs. other sources such as the nitrogen and phosphates coming from gray water irrigation and mines, Lake Okeechobee water releases, etc.

12. QUESTION: Was there any research done about installations at Colony Don Pedro? Is there enough room to install the tanks and equipment?

We have no knowledge of the condos being studied to address the minimum 10’ radius for installation. All the PSC issues to EU is a certificate or franchise for the sewer project. We have seen no evidence of engineering for permitting at this point. And there’s a lot of permitting required – DEP, Coastal Construction, Florida Fish & Wildlife, gopher tortoise permitting – all of which increases the cost of the project and these costs are likely to be passed on to us.

13. QUESTION: What is the time frame to start construction?

According to the application, within 2 years.

14. QUESTION: Should we be sending letters to the Charlotte County Commissioners?

No. Our attorney has told us that this is between the PSC, EU and the prospective ratepayers. The County has no legal responsibility here. However, the County Commissioners did supply additional support in the form of a resolution which attempts to address some of the deficiencies from the last application.

15. COMMENT: Research was done on water rates and we have the most expensive in the country.

A property owner researched water rates nationwide for the last rate increase proposal, and with the water utility increases that were approved we are now the most expensive water rate of any islands in the country by 200%-300%. For sewer, this proposal would make us 300%-500% the highest rates for islands in the country.

16. QUESTION: Does Bill Truex represent us and what is his position on this application?

Bill Truex is the commissioner from West County. However, we vote for all of the Commissioners and they all vote for the best interests of the whole County. So, we are represented by all five of them.

Like all of the commissioners, he supports septic-to-sewer conversion. It was noted that Commissioner Tiseo, while supportive of sewer, says he is open to looking at hard data and research. The new water quality expert, Brandon Moody, was a great hire. He is taking the broad view and conducting quality research throughout the County. It was interesting to note that Bill Truex will be running against an Island resident and County employee in the August primaries this year.

17. COMMENT: A property owner did some research on sewer spills throughout Florida and they are numerous.

There have been cases where environmental groups have sued cities over this and won. Another comment was made that in the event of a spillage lawsuit EU does not have the monetary capabilities of dealing with damages.

18. COMMENT: An LLC is not able to support the cost of this project.

PIE hired a forensic accountant during the last application to examine EU’s finances. She found that he did not have the means to meet the debt obligation on this project. However ultimately the PSC found that the applicant does not need to have the money or the technical expertise to do the installation – he only needs access to it and the ability to hire others. The cost to the consumers is a big consideration to the PSC.

19. QUESTION: Can EU sell the certificate once approved?

Yes.

20. QUESTION: Can we test our own waterways?

Yes. PIE started water testing in 2012 after our first bout with central sewer. Our testing was for fecal coliform mimicking the state beach testing for swimming safety, and did not include testing for nitrates/phosphates, PIE is considering meaningful testing which would require shallow well testing through the wet and dry season to determine if nitrates/phosphate are found so that we can determine where they are coming from. However, this would take a minimum of one year to produce data. Individual testing would have to follow lab protocols i.e. videotaping sample extractions, chain of custody of the samples, etc.

Eddie Diaz and Kelly Lube show off the gifts of firefighter key chains presented on Saturday.

Before we adjourned:

Lindsay Yates, PIE Treasurer, thanked all of the donors who have participated so far in our funding campaign for PIE Action. She also encouraged everyone to join PIE if they were not already members.

In honor of International Firefighters Day, Kelly Lube shared some of the island firehouse history from growing up here and documented it in photos. She then presented some special key chains to our terrific island firefighters.

We thank everyone who took the time to attend Info Central, and hope these notes are helpful to those who were unable to attend.

The PIE Action Committee

01.24.24 Dune Restoration 2024

January 24, 2024

Topic: Dune Restoration 2024
Guest Speakers: Michael Poff, PE, President, Coastal Engineering, Inc
Matt Logan, Charlotte County Projects Manager
Presented by: Palm Island Estates Association Inc. (PIE)
www.palmislandestates.org
and
Bocilla Islands Conservancy, Inc. (BICI)
www.bocillaislandsconservancy.org
Date: January 24, 2024, at 10:30 a.m.
Location: Palm Island Resort Clubhouse – Thank you!

On Wednesday, January 24th, PIE’s Info Central, in partnership with Bocilla Islands Conservancy, presented a fact-filled program on Charlotte County Beach Restoration and Inlet Management Projects, including the topic of dune restoration. Heading up the program was Michael Poff, P.E., President of Coastal Engineering Consultants, Inc., who has been involved in restoration projects on our islands since the late 1990’s. Mr. Poff was joined by Matt Logan, Charlotte County Project Manager who has been in charge of Charlotte County beach projects for 10 years.

Following is a very brief synopsis of the remarks made by Mr. Poff and Mr. Logan. A recording of the meeting is located below, and we encourage you to watch it to learn the history of beach renourishment here on Palm, Knight, and Don Pedro Islands — as well as on Manasota Key — the methods of dredging and placing the sand on the beaches, and the past dredging of Stump Pass. Additionally, there was a Q&A session at the end of the presentation and any questions you may have may have been answered at that time.

The current project will replace approximately 181,000 yards of sand along the beach from Stump Pass to Don Pedro State Park. It will cost approximately $7.67 million with approximately $4.14 million being contributed by FEMA, $1.6 million coming from the State of Florida, and the remainder being paid through the local MSBU/MSTU. The goal is to put the beach back as it was prior to Ian, Nicole, and Idalia, not only by raising the elevation of the sand, but also by replacing the dunes as they were prior to the storms. The dunes also will be replanted as they were. The project is currently in the permitting process, and it is hoped that the final design phase will occur June-July, the bid process will occur August – October and the construction process will begin in November. It is hope that it will be finished by February 2025, prior to bird nesting season.

It was explained that in order to obtain federal and state funds to share the costs of the renourishment projects, it is required that public accesses to the beaches be provided. We have 5 public accesses on N Gulf and S Gulf and an additional requirement is that each public access must have a certain number of parking spaces within ¼ mile of that access. If the accesses and associated parking are not maintained, the state and federal cost sharing will not be available, and islanders will then be responsible for 100% of renourishment costs rather than the current approximate 13% share.

Beach-Side Boundary Lines:

Finally, an explanation was given of what constitutes the beach-side boundary line for private property, i.e. high mean water line vs. erosion control line. On our islands the erosion control line is the private ownership boundary. This line was established prior to the first renourishment project in 2003 in order to receive public funding. At that time the beach was severely eroded. The surveyed line was the mean high tide line prior to commencement of the project and that became the property line for all Gulf-front properties. From that line seaward the property is owned by the State of Florida. In most cases the State property starts at the dune.

Again, we encourage you to watch the recording of the meeting – it runs less than one hour – and many thanks to Michael Poff and Matt Logan for coming out to educate us.

Watch the Zoom Recording:This will go to your downloads, wait for it to load then click on the downloaded video.

DOWNLOAD THE ZOOM RECORDING HERE

Read the Audio Transcript:

DOWNLOAD THE AUDIO TRANSCRIPT HERE

Estimated Schedule:

Post-Idalia Category B Engineering Report Submittal: Jan 2024
FEMA Requests for Information and Responses: Jan – Feb 2024
Environmental and Historic Preservation Review: Mar – May 2024
Project Worksheet and FEMA Approval: June – July 2024
Final Design: June – July 2024
Bid Process: Aug – October 2024
Construction Projects: November – February 2025

Charlotte County Parking Maps

Below are the Charlotte County Parking Maps for our beaches provided to us at our meeting.
There are 5 areas referenced and each map depicts the location, clearing distance, and the number of parking spaces.

Parking Area “A” – Palm Island Resort, total of 31 parking spaces.
Parking Area “B” Gulf Boulevard – Lot 13, WCIND Property, total of 61 parking spaces.
Parking Area “C” Gulf Boulevard – Unit 10 Beach Place, total of 62 parking spaces.
Parking Area “D” – Lot 5, WCIND Property, total of 66 parking spaces.
Parking Area “E” – Colony of Don Pedro, total of 67 parking spaces.

Community Funding:

The total number of parking spaces is 287 according to these maps. For our community to receive funding from the State and Federal government, the beach must have public access. Therefore, it behooves us as a community, to work together in conjunction with our County to continuously maintain beach access, which includes available parking spaces, so we can have continued shared expense to maintain our beautiful beaches.

Mini-CERT Training Session

March 25, 2019

The mini-CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training on 3.25.19 was amazing! Nearly 2 hours of hands-on learning including how to use a fire extinguisher, how to perform CPR and how to pack a wound and or apply a tourniquet. The Charlotte County team was top-rate, and everyone who attended were glad that they did. Don’t miss it next time!

Recap of PIE’s Info Central Meeting – April 25, 2018

April 25, 2018

Palm Island Clubhouse

On April 25th representatives from Three Charlotte County Departments made presentations to a very large and receptive audience. This Seminar was sponsored by PIE’s Info- Central Committee. Thank you to Barbara DeYulio, Lou Ellen Wilson, Dave Mulvaney, Sally B Johnson and the Palm Island Resort.

Ellen Pinder – Charlotte County Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTS).
This program offers training to Charlotte County Residents in the following areas:

What to expect following a major disaster in terms of immediate service
Training in lifesaving skills with emphasis on Disaster Preparedness, proper use of fire extinguishers, rescuer safety, light search and rescue and doing the greatest good for the greatest number as well as first aid including stopping a bleed out, how to recognize stroke and heart attack victims, etc..

Training consists of a three day program 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. usually held in Punta Gorda; however, they
will provide free of charge training on the island provided we have a minimum of 15 participants.
Go to their website: charlottecountycert@gmail.com for full information regarding this program.

She urged everyone to sign up for Alert Charlotte – which provides accurate information regarding storms/fires, etc. that will affect our island – local TV stations give information for areas that could be several miles away.

Dee Hawkins – Charlotte County Fire & EMS – reviewed programs available to Charlotte County Residents

Red Dot Medical Information Program – A Red Dot is placed above the exterior of your entry door just above your door knob to alert EMS/Fire responders that medical information is in a “red packet” on the refrigerator door. Also information is recorded in the County 911 database, so it is available to the responders prior to arriving at the scene and also to Emergency Room personnel. The red pouches are available to have in golf carts and/or vehicles. Red Dot sign up packets are available at the island fire station or online: Red Dot Program or call (941) 833-5600.
Knox Home Box: Keys to the home are placed in the Knox Box and EMS/Fire Rescue have the master key – saves valuable time in case nobody can answer the door and/or not at home in case of fire. More information: on line www.KnoxHomeBox.com or call (855)438-5669.
Save Our Pet Stickers: Place near the front door to alert responding personnel that a pet is in the house. If no one is available to care for your pets, Animal Control will be notified and will provide the proper assistance to the pet’s owner for the care of the animal until the owner is capable to arrange for the pet’s care. “Save Our Pet” stickers cost $3. 941-86-33-5600
Reflective Address Markers: Charlotte County Fire & EMS will provide reflective address markers to be placed on your property so they are clearly visible from the street. Cost $25 Installation is free. 941-833-5600
Safety Tips: For more information on all programs on line: Charlotte County Emergency Mgmt. or call (941)833-5600.

Flicker of Life –Helps emergency workers find their way to your door. Light is used in a normal way but when you have an emergency you turn the light switch off and then back on, this will cause the light to flash on and off for 20 minutes. 941-833-5600
Replace all Smoke/Fire alarms in the home after ten years even if they test okay. Local Fire personnel are available to assist you with replacement of alarms/batteries provided it does not require electrical work. To arrange an appointment call headquarters (941)833-5600. (do not contact local fire station personnel)
Sprinkler Systems – recommend owner review the owner manual or contact manufacturer representative for testing requirements. All systems are different.
AED – ( Automated External Defibrillator) Ensure that locations of AEDs on the island are identified. Also recommended that several be placed on homes throughout the island and locations communicated to all residents.
Emergency Procedures: Recommended that all homes and rental properties have an emergency procedure information sheet – readily available in the home (inside cabinet door one possibility) with the correct street address, location of fire extinguishers, etc. Also recommended in all home for use by visitors.

Melanie Bailey – Charlotte County 911
When calling 911 – use landline if available – their system will show the location immediately. If calling from a cell phone be sure to give the correct full STREET address – do not say Palm or Gulf Blvd make sure you identify it as Palm Drive and Gulf Blvd North, etc. Within Charlotte County there are several streets with the name Palm or Gulf, etc. Also identify that you are on Palm Island Resort, Don Pedro, or Knight Island –
Stressed: DO NOT DRIVE TO FIRE STATION OR BARGE – wait for EMS personnel to come to the address given. DO NOT GO DIRECTLY TO THE FIRE STATION. Call 911, fire station personnel could be on another call, doing island inspections, etc.
Texting available – however use only when unable to talk – one example: a home invasion and you are hiding in a closet.
Magic Jack phone systems MUST have your FL address.

NON EMERGENCY TELEPHONE #: (941) 639-0013

Regarding 911 Calls
Rescue 14 gets called first because they have the ambulance which will transport you to a medical facility. The 911 operators will also inform station #10 and they will be contacted on every call regarding our Island. They will administer to you while the ambulance is enroute. Only the ambulance can transport you.
If you go to Fire Station #10, and knock on the door, they still have to call for the ambulance( Rescue 14) and precious time is wasted. CALL 911. They emphasized that we should not hesitate to make a 911 call. When in doubt….CALL. They will evaluate your situation and if you don’t need to be transported by ambulance you may decide that someone drive you. They are here to help us any way they can, but call 911 first.
Be specific as to your address: Street number, Street name, Knight Island, Don Pedro Island, Palm Island Resort. Palm Island Resort is located on Knight Island. You can also say Station #10 is on Island.

In An Emergency your address information needs to be clearly posted in your home for friends and family.

Recap of Meeting Regarding Fire Service on the Island

February 14, 2018

February 14, 2018 Reported by Sally Johnson
Info Central Guest Speaker: Bill Van Helden, Fire Chief
FACTS:
New Fire Station

Location: Facility Management Director Dave Milligan has not yet defined where the new location may be. Chief stated they prefer it be north of the bridge and have water access. They cannot use the current building and location because not enough property to accommodate the requirements of the new station and not cost effective (nearly impossible) to retrofit the building to meet current codes, including ADA, wind, space etc.
Design/Size: Ideally will be two story (tilt wall construction); will be able to accommodate up to six firemen/paramedics when emergency situations demand, have a meeting room that can be used as triage facility (Casualty Collection Area) in case of emergency; accessible to water and have capabilities of docking new fire boat. Residents may be able to use community room (will have to wait for approval after building is complete). Designed to be used during Tropical Storms; not hurricanes.
Estimated Time Frame: Expect to take 2-1/2 yrs. However, depends on approvals from all the governmental agencies including FEMA, Corp of Engineers, etc. With no undue delays should be ready in 2019.
Cost: 3.6 Million to be funded thru the Charlotte County Capital Improvement Fund – no additional cost to the island residents. Purchase of land is included in the cost estimates.
Current Location: Too early to determine what will be done with current location/building.
New Fire Boat has been purchased just waiting for Coast Guard approval. It has twin inboard diesels with jet drive and can pump 1250 gallons per minute.

ISO Ratings

Fire Chief stated in his opinion there is nothing that the residents can do to lower the ISO rating even if the number of full time personnel was increased to 4 and increased the water pressure – the rating is determined by the insurance companies and because this is an island, insurance industry relies very heavily on time it would take to get personnel and equipment to the emergency. Stated that even if barge ran 24/7 it would not affect the rating because of time to load equipment on and off barge.
Staffing: Current budget for 2019 is approximately $600,000 for two personnel, four personnel would increase the cost to $1,200,000 which would be paid for by the residents. Current salaries are based on the average pay for fire fighters throughout the entire county, not actual costs of current employees. Also, we are not charged for administrative fees. Current federal law states in order to fight a fire there must be a minimum of four personnel on site (some fires could require 18 or more), two inside the structure and two outside; however in case of personal safety – they can enter the structure with only two available, and can also begin fighting the fire from the exterior. Fire Chief stated that as soon as a call comes in it not only goes to the Island Station it goes to the nearest fire station and their equipment/personnel are dispatched immediately.
Water Pressure – representative from Bocilla Utilities (Eileen Montanez) was at the meeting and agreed that they would work with the Fire Department to test the flow rate on our hydrants – meeting to be set up to arrange a time.
Dry Hydrants – stated they are very difficult to work with and would not affect rating.