April 2016 Southwest Florida Business Today by Southwest Florida Business Today

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

We’re All Business

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S BUSINESS VOICE • 239-573-9732 Vol. 9 No. 6 / APRIL 2016 www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com

Distributed in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Estero, Bonita Springs and Naples

TAKE ONE

Bonita-Estero EDC invites public to board meeting The Bonita Springs Estero Economic Development Council (BSEEDC) is inviting the public to attend its quarterly open Board Meeting from 3:30 to 5 p.m. April 13 at the Bonita Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, 25071 Chamber of Commerce Drive, Bonita Springs. The BSEEDC is committed to building a prosperous, sustainable and economically diverse community. It exists to help local companies succeed and grow, to assist relocating companies and help get their businesses up and running as quickly as possible, and to attract new businesses to the region.

CareerSource Florida launches B2B website CareerSource Florida has launched a new website aimed at better meeting the talent and training needs of Florida businesses. The website, CareerSourceFlorida. com, now features streamlined navigation, added functionality and more concise content to quickly direct businesses to the information and resources they need to remain competitive and succeed. Floridians looking to start or build careers also can quickly find local and online resources. “Florida’s talented and diverse workforce is our state’s No. 1 asset,” said CareerSource Florida President and CEO Chris Hart IV. “Our new website provides easy access to valuable workforce development resources for businesses and for Floridians looking to start or build careers. Businesses can apply for training grants directly from our website, learn more about recruiting and hiring services and connect with the talent that helps make Florida a top state for business.”

More than 1,500 community members and area professionals attended the Bonita Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, 2016 Community Business Expo on March 10 at The Promenade. The event was presented in partnership with the City of Bonita Springs, The Promenade, and Royal Shell Real Estate & Vacations and featured 80 business exhibitors sharing information about their products and services. Designated as the 2014 Chamber of Commerce of the Year by the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals, the Five-Star Nationally Accredited Bonita Springs Area Chamber of Commerce strives to serve members, promote a region where business can grow and prosper and enhance the quality of life of the Bonita Springs area. For more information, please call (239) 992-2943 or visit www.BonitaSpringsChamber.com.

Above: Arpad Solti, Christine Ross, Bob Rosier, Alicia Rosier, Paul Stevens Below left: Donald Thomson, Christine Ross, Scott Hennells Below right: Lisa Bramm, Donnie Henderson

Goodwill to train auto technicians in Collier

FGCU gives biz workshops for Charlotte Co. chambers

PROGRAM See page 12

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Chamber holds business expo

WEBSITE See page 6

The office of Continuing Education & Off-Campus Programs at Florida Gulf Coast University presents the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Series, providing workshops that foster and facilitate small and medium sized business organizations growth through innovative Sales and Marketing techniques.

A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in SWFL

Arleen Hunter, Lora Taylor, Sharleen Johnson and Addison Smelko

IN THE NEWS

MEETING See page 12

Commercial Real Estate Market

Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida, Inc is teaming up with automotive professional Pam Oakes ASE/EETAS to provide automotive technician training in Naples.

Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida, Inc is teaming up with local automotive professional Pam Oakes ASE/EETAS to provide automotive technician training in Naples. The seven-week program combines classroom instruction with hands-on repairs and maintenance. Students will gain the knowledge and skill to earn ASE G1 certification and perform the duties required of the certification. Naples classes start April 15 and are held on Fridays from 9:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Goodwill’s classes are taught by Pam Oakes, host of the nationally syndicated radio show “Car Care for the Clueless.” Oakes is a fourth generation mechanic and is an instructor for Delphi Automotive Systems. GOODWILL See page 14

THE LAW: WHAT BUSINESS OWNERS NEED TO KNOW

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

Rachel Valdes-Moya, a student at Clewiston High School, signs up for the Coalition and Regional Action Teams in her community, giving her “a student voice at a bigger level,”

High school students discuss school challenges at summit

Mariam Riveron, Cleef Joseph and Latham Johnson, students from three different Southwest Florida high schools, were surprised to learn they face the same challenges despite the miles separating them. The students share similar obstacles to attaining a post-secondary education and dilemmas about choosing school activities and sports or finding a part-time job to help their families. Riveron, Joseph and Johnson were among 27 students from 16 Southwest Florida high schools attending the 2016 FutureMakers Regional Student Summit in February at Hodges University in Fort Myers. They openly discussed their thoughts about challenges they confront at school, at home and in their communities, and the changes they can make to improve their opportunities for post-secondary education and successful careers. As members of the Student Leadership Team, the students were given the opportunity to have a voice in shaping the future of Southwest Florida and helping the FutureMakers Coalition understand the struggles of students throughout the five-county region. Students were also invited to join the coalition and its Regional Action Teams. The Community Foundation is the anchor organization for the FutureMakers Coalition, which is dedicated to increasing the number of Southwest Florida residents with college degrees and post-secondary certifications from 27 to 40 percent by 2025. The summit was designed to engage and involve students as context experts by understanding their educational and career aspirations, and challenges from their perspective. The cross-county, cross-school district meeting of the minds was an educational process for the students as well. They learned about successful programs at other schools and discovered they’re not alone with their current and future concerns. The teenagers participated in three sessions, responding with emoticon stickers and Post-It notes to poster questions delving into their perceptions of their communities and neighborhoods, commenting on obstacles and also offering suggestions for success. Students candidly discussed their concerns about financing a college education. They also talked about the reality of leaving home and being independent, of growing up, and the need for guidance in filling out college applications and managing finances. Several students also discussed personal decisions about working to help their single-parent families or continuing with sports and extracurricular activities to improve their chances for college. Talking face to face, cellphones stowed in

Twenty-seven students from 16 Southwest Florida high schools attended the 2016 FutureMakers Regional Student Summit at Hodges University. backpacks and purses, they offered support and advice. “Money is a big problem right now,” said Joseph, a Haiti-born Fort Myers High junior and football player who wants to be an engineer. “My mum works two jobs, and I want to help. I feel bad I don’t have a job.” Johnsons, a former wrestler, told Joseph he often regrets his decision to drop the sport to work. “Playing football is your job,” added Jessica Burgos, a career coach at Clewiston High. “Don’t discredit the time and effort you put into football. You can get scholarships. You have the rest of your life to work.” The FutureMakers Coalition will calibrate summit information into a regional report that will be shared with the Southwest Florida community. The student leaders were selected to represent their schools after participating in countywide summits. Summit partners included Hodges University, the Rocket Lounge, HyperTeam, Promotional Incentives, Domino’s Pizza and the Lumina Foundation. Formed in 2015 around existing regional collaborations, the FutureMakers Coalition’s goal is to transform the workforce by increasing the number of college degrees and post-secondary certifications from 27 percent to 40 percent by 2025 throughout Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry and Lee counties. The coalition is committed to creating a cradle-to-career pathway to ensure success for traditional students and adult learners. The FutureMakers Coalition is one of Lumina Foundation’s 75 national Community Partners in Attainment. Residents are encouraged to join and support this community-changing initiative. For more information, visit FutureMakersCoalition. com, call (239) 274-5900 or email Tessa LeSage at TLeSage@floridacommunity. com.

APRIL 2016

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com PUBLISHER Karen P. Moore PRINT EDITOR Bob Massey SOCIAL MEDIA Angelica Torres WEB DESIGNER & EDITOR Michelle L. Hudson

P.O. Box 152299 Cape Coral, FL 33915-2299 News: 239-573-9731 All other: 239-573-9732 News email: editor@swfbiztoday.com All other information requests: publisher@ swfloridabusinesstoday.com The contents of Southwest Florida Business Today are copyright 2013 by Southwest Florida Newspapers, Inc. No portion may be reproduced without the express written consent of Southwest Florida Newspapers, Inc. The publication of any advertisement or article does not necessarily reflect the view of the publisher of Southwest Florida Business Today. For more information about any article or column appearing in Southwest Florida Business Today, for advertising rates or subscription information please call 239-573-9732 or email: publisher@ swfloridabusinesstoday.com

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Southwest Florida Business Today is to provide the best business-to-business marketplace where business executives operating in Southwest Florida buy and sell goods and services via the exchange of news, advertising and information. O V E R

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DEP recognizes CCU treatment plant The Charlotte County Utilities Department was recognized during Florida Rural Water Association’s “Focus on Change” workshop. Its Burnt Store Water Treatment Plant received the 2015 Plant Operations Excellence Award from the

Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The commendation cited outstanding treatment plant operations, maintenance and compliance. “Ben Jacobsen (the chief operator), along with his entire water treatment

plant staff, are clearly outstanding in their efforts to provide, safe and reliable drinking water to our customers in the Burnt Store service area,” said Stephen Bozman, treatment facilities superintendent. “We are proud to congratulate their efforts.”

Office copiers can be connected with apps Revolutionary advances in office copiers are improving work place efficiencies. No longer is it just a question of keeping employees in touch with their workplace. Office connectivity is now focusing on helping people to become more productive and efficient, even on the move. Tools have been developed that allow remote access to emails and control the building’s security – smartphones, tablets, key fobs and ID cards. All these systems can be integrated allowing the user to gain deeper access into the office environment, networking with printers and other multifunctional devices. A hybrid development platform can also be utilized, which allows for the creation and implementation of software applications using Java or web services. These solutions integrate seamlessly with standard enterprise software, such as Microsoft SharePoint, and the new applications have been developed for tablets and smartphones. This solution platform also puts multifunctional devices at the center of the enterprise to allow enhanced information sharing, resource optimization and improve both preexisting and future workflows. It enables the development of custom business applications made specifically for the client’s business. One of the most useful and popular tools in the modern office today is a simple Scan-to-Self application that allows people to scan documents at an MFP and, with a swipe of their ID badge or key fob, send them direct to their inbox. Alternatively, users can use software to scan hard copy documents for automatic routing to an existing back-end document management system.

Y E A R S

For users on the go, apps that allow scanning directly to an iPhone or iPad, quickly transferring meeting minutes, notes or reports are being used. Card authentication apps allow an employee to use ID badges or a key fob, to gain access to features specific to their job. It’s a cost-effective way to protect information and increase productivity while tracking usage for reporting or accounting purposes. BY VICKI Customers, documents and people HELMER are at the heart of any business. AdGuest Columnist vances in mobile technology have now created an enormous opportunity for employees to further focus on their customers and contribute to the bottom line of any business. It is critical to have an open platform for the development of software applications and integration to be competitive. The hybrid approach that software platforms offer is helping companies to unleash and maximize their potential. With 38 years in the industry, Vicki Helmer is the leading senior account manager in Southwest Florida with 38 years in the industry for DEX Imaging, which provides solutions for document imaging and management, and is the longest privately held dealer in North America. Contact her at (239) 444-2193 ext. 1714, or email vhelmer@deximaging.com.

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

APRIL 2016

Before signing a contract, make sure to read it first Part 1 of 2

In today’s fast-paced society, nobody thinks twice when asked to “click here to agree to the terms and conditions.” Does anyone ever actually read those terms and conditions before clicking the little box that says you did? Of course not, and usually for good reason – such agreements are ridiculously lengthy and teeming with “legal-ese” such that the average person wouldn’t know what they were reading if they did bother to read it. Plus, could there possibly be anything in that contract that would give you pause? Is something in that agreement really going to stop you from clicking “agree” so that you can use that app? Again, probably not. So for the most part, when confronted with that choice, people don’t worry about it too much. After all, we’re just talking about an app, right? What are the chances you’re going to get embroiled in a legal battle over it? And therein lies the problem. We’re now trained to simply accept those “terms and conditions”, whether it be related to use of a smartphone application or something more significant, such as taking out a business loan or placing an order for delivery of materials or supplies. You’d think that small business owners would be more

careful with what they sign, but thanks to e-conditioning, and sometimes an innate (but not necessarily deserved) level of trust, some entrepreneurs still don’t carefully read the business contracts they sign. This article is to stress the importance of breaking that habit. Even to those not trained in the intricacies of the law, reading your contracts before you sign them can potentially save you from BY JOSEPH big problems if you ever do find C. LOTEMPIO yourself in a legal quandary. Guest Columnist A common clause, found in nearly every contract these days, is what’s referred to as the venue clause. Venue refers to where a lawsuit can be filed. Principles of contract law usually determine where a breach of contract lawsuit can be filed. However, the law also gives the parties to a contract the ability to agree that, if they ever do get into a legal battle, the lawsuit must be filed in a certain venue. Most larger companies have simple form contracts that are not modified for par-

ticular circumstances. Their venue clause might require any dispute arising out of the contract to be filed in, say, Broward County (Florida) Court. Well, that might be fine for them – they’re a big state-wide company with offices all over the place, and access to attorneys in every county. But what about you? If you’re a small business proprietor with one location in Lee County, having to litigate in Broward County (which is north of Miami Florida) is thoroughly inconvenient. If you read your contract carefully, and catch that clause, you can bring it to the other party’s attention and potentially negotiate a more convenient forum for a lawsuit. It might not sound like a big deal now, but you’ll be very glad you did in the event you ever have to file suit – or get sued yourself. Look for Part 2 in the next issue of SWFBT, when we further discuss what to look for when entering into business contracts. Joseph C. LoTempio, Esq. is a consumer litigation attorney with the Dellutri Law Group, P.A. LoTempio focuses his practice on protecting individual consumers from illegal debt collection activities taken by debt collectors and other creditors. Contact him at jlotempio@dellutrilawgroup.com or (239)939-0900.

Impact of and response to domestic violence at work

Domestic violence costs the United States economy an estimated $8.3 billion each year, which includes medical care, mental health services, and lost productivity. Nearly 8 million paid workdays are lost as a result of domestic violence, the equivalent of 32,000 fulltime jobs. The subject is a difficult one to discuss, though it is important to recognize that domestic violence is not just a private, family matter. The effects of the violence, in addition to the violence itself, can – and does – spill into the workplace. While it is likely that, as employers, you may know someone who has experienced domestic violence or even someone who has perpetrated violence against an intimate partner, you may not know what to do or how to help in these cases. The following is provided to help give you information about what domestic violence is and isn’t, potential signs that a colleague or employee may be a victim of domestic violence, and recommendations on how you can help. Additional information and resources are available through Abuse Counseling and Treatment Inc. (ACT) by visiting ACTabuse.com or calling (239) 939-2553. What you should know about domestic violence:

• Domestic violence is not just about physical attacks. Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors that individuals (men or women) use against their intimate partners to establish power and control. • It may include physical, emotional, sexual, spiritual or economic abuse, as well as the use of threats, seclusion, pet abuse, utilizing children as pawns and a range of other behaviors to maintain power over one’s partner through violence, fear, and intimidation. • Domestic violence is not a disagreement, a marital dispute or even an anger management problem. It is abusive, disrespectful and hurtful actions that one partner chooses to use against their partner. • Domestic and dating violence is never the fault of the victim. The perpetrator is completely responsible for their behavior, though they frequently blame their partner. • It can happen to anyone at any time. Recognizing the signs of a victim: • Regularly calls in sick. • Displays unexplained bruises and is prone to repeated “accidents.” • Wears clothing that may seem inappropriate for the weather (for example: long sleeves or turtlenecks when it’s hot out).

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• Receives continual phone calls that result in an emotional reaction. • Isolation and/or avoidance of coworkers. • Sensitive about home life or personal situations. Recognizing the signs of an abuser: • Blames others for their problems, especially their partner. • Frequently calls or emails their partner. May use company property to help stalk the victim such as phones, security

equipment or vehicles. • May be frequently absent for short periods while calling the victim or stalking the victims’ home or place of work. • Answers questions directed toward their partner. • Is often very loud or speaks in a condescending manner to others. • Often speaks in a demeaning manner to the victim or about the victim to others. VIOLENCE See page 12

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

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Regional Technology Partnership holds awards dinner

The Southwest Florida Regional Technology Partnership (RTP) has announced the awards finalists for its Eighth Annual Awards Dinner, to be held April 13 at Crowne Plaza Bell Tower, 13051 Bell Tower Drive, Fort Myers. RTP was originally chartered in 2008 and is a member of Lee County’s Horizon Council. It is the only group dedicated solely to the growth of the technology cluster in southwest Florida. It is comprised of technology companies and technology users, economic development groups and higher education institutions. The partnership produces educational seminars, forums, networking events and the annual awards gala. Finalists for the Transformation Award, for a business that has achieved success through implementation of IT to overcome a challenge are: Amerispec SWFL, 21st Century Oncology, and Salus Care Florida. Finalists for the Innovention Award, given to a

company that has invented or demonstrated an innovative and creative technology solution, are: Get Efficient, HyperTeam, and REfindly. Finalists for the Women in Technology Award to recognize contributions made by women in technology through professional expertise and leadership are: Tracey Lanham with Hodges University, Brandie Duncan with Get Efficient, and Wendi Fowler with The Client Server. Finalists for the Partnership Award, which recognizes someone who has truly forwarded the mission of the organization are: Dr. Al Ball of Hodges University, William McDonough of the McDonough Law Firm, and Jose Ruggero of Gartner. This year, Carl Stringer, VP of Information Technology and Employee Benefits for United States Sugar Corp., will be the keynote speaker. His address is titled “The Exponential Growth in Technology and Its Effect on Our Lives.” Stringer joined the company in June 2004 as

chief information officer and gained increased responsibilities in the employee benefits area during 2009. His information technology areas of responsibility include application development, infrastructure management, desktop support, communications, corporate printing and business continuity. For employee benefits, he is responsible for retirement, health and welfare, payroll, workers’ compensation and employment. Stringer was previously a member of the Ryder System Inc. senior IT team at their headquarters in Miami for two years. Prior to that, he worked for Accenture for five years in their Solutions Operations business unit at the Ryder account, where his primary role was in IT management for Ryder. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for networking and a cocktail reception, with dinner and ceremony to follow at 6 p.m. Tickets are $125 may be purchased online at swfrtp.org.

Protect the business you built Experienced business leaders know how difficult and expensive it is to hire, train and retain good employees. It can take years of “on the job” training for an employee at any level to become master of their trade. Businesses invest thousands of hours and dollars in honing those skills and often do nothing to protect their most valuable asset, their people. You must take steps to protect your business up front; otherwise, former employees and contractors may be free to solicit your employees and customers or claim ownership or co-ownership in your intellectual property. In over 30 years, I have received many calls from anxious clients regarding former employees. Do any of these statements sound familiar: • “What can I do? My office manager just took a job with another company and he/she is telling all of my best employees/customers to jump ship?” • “What can I do? I assigned one of my employees to create a new marketing plan [product]: he/she left and is claiming ownership.” • “What can I do? I hired a company to do [blank] for me, and now they’re using that same concept for my competitors.” The Good News One agreement which is required to be signed by all employees and independent contractors can make a world

BY GUY E. WHITESMAN Guest Columnist

of difference in the answers to these questions. For instance, a standardized confidentiality, non-piracy and non-compete agreement may handle many of these issues and allow an employer to protect its business when relationships change.

Confidentiality The confidentiality aspect of the agreement describes the employee’s or contractor’s exposure to proprietary information of the company. This may be anything from trade secrets, to customer lists, to processes, to financial history, to pricing policies. The agreement basically puts the employee/contractor on notice that this information is considered proprietary to the company and that the employee/contractor is required to keep it confidential for the company – not only while engaged with the company – but for a period of time after they cease to be engaged and, possibly with regard to trade secrets, for periods as long as ten years. Look for Part 2 in the next issue of SWFBT, when we further discuss the measures business owners can take to protect their enterprises.

Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers celebrated the graduation of its most recent class in February. Pictured: Gary Bryant, Nelson Acevedo, Paul Dunaway, Jordan Hess and Gary Trippe

Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers honors new graduates

Disabled Veterans Insurance Careers (DVIC) – the nonprofit organization that helps train, educate and create meaningful employment opportunities within the insurance industry for disabled veterans – celebrated the graduation of its most recent class in February. The three graduating disabled veterans, Nelson Acevedo-Diaz, Jordan Hess and Paul Dunaway, were each awarded their Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR) designations. The CISR program, developed by The National Alliance for Insurance Education, is a CE credit-approved, nationally recognized designation that included five courses of study. “I am so proud of our three recent graduates,” said Gary Bryant, president and CEO of DVIC. “They have each

spent the last six months training and working toward the goal of achieving their CISR designation, and they each accomplished that. With their military training and insurance training combined, the have very successful careers ahead of them.” DVIC was established in 2011 with the mission to educate, train and create meaningful employment opportunities within the insurance industry for disabled veterans. The organization relies on corporate donations, personal donations and support from the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs to continue to sponsor disabled veterans who go through the CISR training program. To sponsor a veteran or make a donation to DVIC, visit DVIC.us or call (239) 4338523.

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

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Gov. Scott activates emergency loan program Gov. Rick Scott has activated Florida’s Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program for more than 100 businesses affected by the federal government’s water releases from Lake Okeechobee. Earlier this month, Scott directed the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) to activate a business emergency operations center to survey businesses damaged by the water releases in Lee, Martin and St. Lucie counties. After receiving survey results, DEO has opened the application period for loans to eligible small businesses until April 30. “I’m committed to ensuring all those affected by the federal government’s releases from Lake

Okeechobee can quickly recover so families and businesses can move forward,” Scott said. “Small businesses have an incredible impact on our communities, and it is important that we provide the necessary tools for them to continue growing and doing business.” “DEO has worked quickly to determine the negative effects of the federal government’s water releases from Lake Okeechobee on local businesses,” said DEO Executive Director Cissy Proctor. “Small businesses are the backbone of Florida’s thriving economy, and it is critical that the businesses supporting South Florida communities have the tools

they need to recover quickly. By activating the emergency bridge loan program, DEO is helping local businesses get back on their feet.” The Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program provides short-term loans to assist a business until other financial resources are secured after a natural disaster. To see if a business is eligible or to complete an application by April 30, visit FloridaDisasterLoan.org. For additional questions regarding local administration of the Emergency Bridge Loan Program, Lee County businesses should contact the Florida Small Business Development Center Network at (239) 745-3704.

EHC wraps up at Somero, Tuscany Pointe EHC Inc., a construction company that provides pre-construction, earthwork and infrastructure services, is wrapping up the site construction services for the new Somero Enterprises Inc. Global Headquarters and Training Facility with Chris-Tel Construction, as well as the Phase 2 development of Tuscany Pointe with America’s Builder DR Horton Inc. Founded by native Southwest Floridians in March of 1990, EHC has grown from one project for one client to the completion of hundreds of projects worth hundreds of millions of dollars for a vast number of municipalities, developers, builders, owners and general contractors. Development began in October on the new headquarters of Somero, a leading manufacturer of technologically advanced concrete placing equipment and associated machinery within the Southwest International Commerce Park in Fort Myers. The headquarters was EHC’s first project with Chris-Tel, a general contracting company based in Southwest Florida. Chris-Tel is building the new facility and selected EHC for earthwork, grading, import fill, concrete paving, underground utilities, striping and traffic signage. This project will feature executive offices and a training facility with an equipment warehouse, a classroom, covered parking and a training ground. The approximately 14,000 square foot building will also include the Somero Concrete College that will allow cus-

EHC Inc. is wrapping up the site construction services for the new Somero Enterprises Inc. Global Headquarters and Training Facility with Chris-Tel Construction, at left, as well as the Phase 2 development of Tuscany Pointe with America’s Builder DR Horton Inc., pictured above. tomers to train on machines in concrete. Tuscany Pointe – a community with 116 homes ranging up to 3,609 square feet in North Naples, and conveniently located close to upscale shopping at the Mercato and Waterside Shops, fine dining, golf and recreational facilities – marked EHC’s first project with DR Horton. EHC’s scope was earthwork, lake excavation, rock excavation and crushing of rock, import fill for grading, and sodding for over 60 home sites. Plus, EHC provided roadway construction which included subgrade,

curb, asphalt, and pavement marking. The Phase 2 project kicked off in late summer of 2015. EHC currently has eight active projects and several in the planning stages from Sarasota County to Collier County spanning the real estate and government industries. Many of the projects are multimillion, multi-phased projects such as Kalea Bay in Naples, 1-75 improvements in Charlotte County along with nearly 16 miles in Sarasota and Charlotte Counties, Lindsford in Fort Myers, High Tech Buildings in Fort Myers and Tuscola in North Port.

WEBSITE PAGE 1 The new website helps businesses recruit, hire and train by providing: • A clean, modern and responsive design for easy navigation across desktop and mobile devices. • A dedicated Business Services page with additional resources and information. • News, blog and social media feeds on the homepage to help visitors stay informed. • A Boardroom page with information about our state board, upcoming board meetings and resources to better serve our board, local partners and stakeholders. • An enhanced Contact form and a new Team page to make it easier for businesses to connect with members of the CareerSource Florida professional team. • Quick access to employflorida. com and the websites of local workforce development boards for businesses and job seekers alike. The CareerSource Florida network provides effective, market-relevant workforce solutions that drive economic growth and sustainability for job seekers, workers and employers. Recognizing that the state’s job creators are essential to economic vitality and growth, the state team primarily focuses on the training needs of businesses across Florida while local workforce development boards serve both businesses and job seekers in their local communities. In fiscal year 2014-2015, the CareerSource Florida network served a record 124,336 businesses statewide.

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

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COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

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MAXWELL, HENDRY & SIMMONS LLC 239-337-0555 geraldh@mhsappraisal.com www.mhsappraisal.com

• • • • •

APPRAISAL CONSULTING COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL TAX APPEALS

BRYAN V. KEHOE, CCIM Sarasota, Charlotte & Lee Counties Experienced lender with 15 years in SWFL market and 25 years of commercial lending experience.

CENTENNIAL BANK 941-286-4802 bkehoe@my100bank.com www.my100bank.com

• • • • • •

COMMERCIAL VACANT LAND INVESTMENT RETAIL INDUSTRIAL OFFICE

Specializes in all facets of commercial brokerage and leasing in Charlotte County area. 2016 CCIM Florida Chapter Southwest District President.

Why use a CCIM?

COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL NRT 941-769-3316 rstruthers@ccim.net www.commercialrealtyfl.com

Lee, Collier, Charlotte & Sarasota Counties SWFL CCIM past president, Florida CCIM membership chair, CCIM international committee. Hablo Español.

iCORE GLOBAL

239-265-2628 theresa@bobackcommericalgroup.com www.bobackcommercialgroup.com

MEASUREMENT

Overall, CCIM’s global network enables members to close thousands of transactions annually. representing more than $200 billion in value. But closing transactions is only part of what CCIMs can do. In addition to holding deal making occupations in every property sector, CCIMs are also found in’ leasing, asset management, development, lending, financing, property management, site selection and corporate real estate positions. So, whatever assistance your real estate project requires, a CCIM can help you achieve a better result. In fact, only 6 percent of all commercial real estate practitioners hold the elite CCIM designation, which reflects not only the caliber of the program, but why it is one of the most respected designations in the industry. When you use a CCIM, you choose a professional who produces measurable results.

The CCIM designation is conferred by the Chicagobased CCIM Institute, a commercial real estate affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS. Learn more about the value of working with a CCIM.

INVESTMENT RETAIL OFFICE INDUSTRIAL

Lee, Collier & Charlotte Counties

Senior Associate Broker with 30 years of experience. Licensed in Florida and Pennsylvania. Specializing in investment and retail sales and leasing. • • • • •

LANDQWEST COMMERCIAL

941-999-1188 bmicciche@lqwest.com www.lqwest.com

INTEGRITY

• • • •

BRUCE MICCICHE, CCIM

COMMUNITY

Today there are CCIMs in every state, across Canada and Mexico, and in more than 30 countries around the world. Domestically, the network encompasses more than 1,000 markets, from large metropolitan areas to small cities and towns. A truly global network, CCIMs are a powerful force in markets large and small. When you use a CCIM, you choose a trusted community of real estate professionals that are consistently sought for their dependability, intelligence, success and confidence.

INVESTMENT RETAIL OFFICE INDUSTRIAL LEASING

THERESA BLAUCH-MITCHELL, CCIM

CREDIBILITY

CCIM is the most prestigious designation commercial real estate professionals can achieve within the industry. Graduate-level education, coupled with industry-leading technology tools, practical proven experience, and indepth knowledge of their local markets, gives CCIMs the ability and the credibility to conduct business confidently and successfully. By partnering with a CCIM, you effectively utilize the top-level, most reliable performers in the industry: with an average of 19 years of experience, 70% of CCIM members hold executive-level positions and 90% of members refer clients to other business services. When you use a CCIM, you choose the most credible professional in the business.

• • • • •

INVESTMENT RETAIL DEVELOPMENT COMMERCIAL SALES & LEASING

DEREK BORNHORST, CCIM Lee, Collier & Charlotte Counties Derek brings 10+ years of experience in the SWFL market working with local and national clients to establish specific real estate objectives, including acquisition, disposition and leasing.

LEE & ASSOCIATES | NAPLES — FORT MYERS

• INVESTMENT • INDUSTRIAL

239-898-7987 dbornhorst@lee-associates.com www.lee-fl.com

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

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COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

Choose the right commercial professional for you ADAM PALMER, CCIM

MARYANN MIZE, CCIM

Fort Myers, Naples, Sarasota, Tampa & Orlando Principal & Managing Director LandQwest Commercial, Vice President of Finance for the Florida CCIM Chapter, 10-time CoStar Power Broker Award Winner

LANDQWEST COMMERCIAL

239-898-8686 adam@adampalmer.com www.adampalmer.com

• • • • •

OFFICE INVESTMENT LAND RETAIL INDUSTRIAL

WILLIAM H. ROLLINS, JR., ALC, CCIM Lee, Collier, Charlotte & Polk Counties Senior broker. He is licensed in Florida, Georgia and Alabama and is an Accredited Land Consultant.

LAND SOLUTIONS, INC. 239-633-1963 wrollins@landsolutions.net www.landsolutions.net

• AGRICULTURAL • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

CONI DEAN, CCIM Lee County Broker/Owner with 20+ years local experience. Specializing in investment portfolios, aquisition to disposition, residential, commercial and redevelopment

VENTURE REALTY & INVESTMENTS

239-980-5922 venturerealty@earthlink.net www.sellsfloridarealestate.com

• • • • • •

RETAIL INDUSTRIAL RETAIL SPECIALTY LAND RESIDENTIAL REDEVELOPMENT

ENN LUTHRINGER, CCIM Lee, Collier & Charlotte Counties A partner with CRE Consultants and 15-year commercial real estate veteran, he specializes in the medical and professional office market.

CRE CONSULTANTS

• COMMERCIAL • OFFICE • INVESTMENT

R. SCOTT CAMERON, CCIM

Collier & Lee Counties Has been in the commercial real estate business since 1977. Through many ups and downs, has always been a proven leader.

239-253-7000 scameron@cresfla.com www.cresfla.com

• • • •

COMMERCIAL INVESTMENT RETAIL OFFICE

Senior Vice President and Senior Credit Officer. More than 30 years of commercial lending experience. CCIM Senior Instructor and 2015-2016 SWFL CCIM District Treasurer.

Why use a CCIM?

There are countless benefits to working with a CCIM. Commercial real estate investment requires the counsel of a qualified professional. A Certified Commercial Investment Member provides clients with the assurance that every decision will be made in the best interest of their investment objectives. When assembling a commercial real estate investment team, start with a CCIM. CCIM is the most prestigious designation commercial real estate professionals can achieve within the industry. Graduate-level education, coupled with industry-leading technology tools, practical proven experience, and indepth knowledge of their local markets, gives CCIMs the ability and the credibility to conduct business confidently and successfully. By partnering with a CCIM, you effectively utilize the top-level, most reliable performers in the industry: with an average of 19 years of experience, 70% of CCIM members hold executive-level positions and 90% of members refer clients to other business services. When you use a CCIM, you choose the most credible professional in the business.

• FINANCING OF COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

CHARLOTTE STATE BANK & TRUST

941-624-1916 mmize@charlottestatebank.com www.charlottestatebankandtrust.com

FRED KERMANI, CCIM, AIA Collier, Lee & Charlotte Counties

Licensed real estate broker and architect in Florida & California with 33 years of real estate and design experience. Specialized in land marketing and investment properties.

CREDIBILITY

CRE CONSULTANTS

239-659-4960 fred.kermani@creconsultants.com www.creconsultants.com/go/fredkermani

Lee, Collier & Charlotte Counties Active Southwest Commercial broker for over 30 years. Specializing in industrial, office and investment properties. Past president SWFL CCIM and REIS.

LEE & ASSOCIATES 239-850-2217 bwhite@lee-associates.com

INTEGRITY

CCIM designees are bound to the strictest ethical guidelines and standards of practice in the industry today. In addition, each CCIM has successfully completed a graduate level program comprised of 160 hours of education. If you ask around the industry, you’ll learn that companies and other real estate professionals are more likely to seek out experts who possess the CCIM designation, as they know CCIM stands for trust, knowledge and reliability. When you use a CCIM, you choose experts with integrity. Overall, CCIM’s global network enables members to close thousands of transactions annually. representing more than $200 billion in value. But closing transactions is only part of what CCIMs can do. In addition to holding deal making occupations in every property sector, CCIMs are also found in’ leasing, asset management, development, lending, financing, property management, site selection and corporate real estate positions. So, whatever assistance your real estate project requires, a CCIM can help you achieve a better result. In fact, only 6 percent of all commercial real estate practitioners hold the elite CCIM designation, which reflects not only the caliber of the program, but why it is one of the most respected designations in the industry. When you use a CCIM, you choose a professional who produces measurable results.

The CCIM designation is conferred by the Chicagobased CCIM Institute, a commercial real estate affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS. Learn more about the value of working with a CCIM.

• LAND • INVESTMENT • GAS STATIONS

BOB WHITE, CCIM

COMMUNITY

MEASUREMENT

239-994-3703 enn.luthringer@creconsultants.com www.creconsultants.com

CAMERON REAL ESTATE SERVICES, INC.

Lee & Charlotte Counties

• • • •

INDUSTRIAL OFFICE LEASE OR SALE INVESTMENT

RANDY KRISE, CCIM Lee, Collier & Charlotte Counties Broker/owner of Krise Commercial Group and 2015 Florida CCIM Chapter President.

KRISE COMMERCIAL GROUP 239-633-8672 randy@krisecg.com www.krisecg.com

• • • • •

COMMERCIAL VACANT LAND INVESTMENT RETAIL INDUSTRIAL

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

APRIL 2016

COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

Plans are set but where have all the tenants gone? Part 1 of 2 The setup: We were riding at about a 90 percent occupancy rate for the better part of a year, during which time we’d been engaged by the owner to engineer the purchase and sale of this unusually desirable multi-building industrial/storage facility. We’re a small commercial brokerage firm considered by many to be as competent as the big guys, given our long experience, highly tuned analytical capabilities, and comfort with real estate law – engineering, banking, permitting and such. The purchaser is in the capable hands of a residential sales associate from a neighboring firm with whom we are pleased to co-broker the deal. A remarkably quick study, she picked up on the most intricate of details as fast as we could provide the tutelage. We had examined the actual rent revenues with a microscope, nailed the operating expenses down to within a few points of perfect, come up with an NOI (net operating income – profit), and had even extracted a prudent amount from the cash flow to establish a reserve fund as a hedge against future repairs. Once we know how much cash a project will “throwoff” after all that, we can do some simple math to determine what the project is actually worth to an investor. If we want, say, a 10 percent return on the total investment, then we figure out the amount of money that the cash throw-off happens to be 10 percent of. The percentage is called a CAP rate (income capitalization rate) and predicts a project’s ability to restore (capitalize) the entire purchase cost to the investor. Specify the desired CAP rate, and we can calculate the dollar value. In this case, we had arrived at a negotiated price (value) acceptable to the seller, which produced a CAP rate acceptable to the purchaser. We always examine a purchase to see if there is an opportunity to achieve positive leverage (use borrowed money – a mortgage – to advantage). We seek to earn a higher rate of

return on one’s cash investment than the cost (interest rate) of the borrowed money. It is not unusual to see a situation where the borrower’s actual cash investment (the borrower’s equity in the project) earns a higher rate of return than even the CAP rate. The figure is known as “cash-on-cash,” or more formally, the “equity dividend rate.” In this case, it worked out quite nicely. A detailed examination of our work by and with one of our commercial banking contacts garnered an enthusiastic response. BY RON Cut to the chase: We had a mortgage WELEBNY in the works. Guest Columnist So there we have it: A well-developed purchase plan that satisfies the seller, meets all of the investor’s objectives and a commercial bank willing to finance the plan as formulated – just like it says here in the directions written on the back of the package. On the same day as we’d negotiated an acceptable mortgage structure, the commercial banking officer decided to go and have a look. She called from the site, reporting that the place appeared “kind of quiet.” Probably just because it’s Friday afternoon – or so we thought. Part 2: “From real estate deal to police raid” will appear in next month’s issue. Ron Welebny is managing director and qualifying broker of Rossman Commercial Realty LLC in Cape Coral. He holds a Florida Real Estate Broker’s license and is also a Florida Licensed Real Estate Instructor. He is serving as 2016 President of Commercial Investment Professionals of Southwest Florida, and as president elect of the Southwest Florida Commercial Alliance.

LandQwest brokers $4 million property

MQ Florida Acquisitions, a Dallas-based acquisition and development firm, has acquired 30.72 acres at 16951 Pine Ridge Road, Fort Myers, for $4 million. John Mounce, founding partner at LandQwest Commercial, represented the buyer in the transaction. Mounce has now been retained to exclusively market the property. “We are pleased to represent MQ throughout the acquisition and development process, and look forward to announcing our retail anchor tenant soon.” Mounce said. The property is situated at the intersection of Summerlin and Pine Ridge Roads, just east of the newly developed Walmart Supercenter. The fully entitled, mixeduse development includes up to 224 multi-family units and four commercial outparcels fronting Summerlin Road. With three offices throughout Florida, LandQwest Commercial is recognized as being at the forefront of the commercial real estate brokerage industry.

CLOSED TRANSACTIONS Sales 5610 Division, LLC purchased a 6,948 SF building on 2.84 acres in Billy Creek Commerce Center at 5590/5610 Division Dr., Ft. Myers from Maples Enterprises of Florida LLC for $915,000. Bob Johnston, SIOR, Jerry Messonnier, SIOR and Derek Bornhorst, CCIM of Lee & Associates|Naples-Ft. Myers represented the buyer and Matt Stephan, CCIM of Premier Commercial represented the seller. Deliziosi LLC purchased a 1,536 SF industrial condominium in Intelliflex at 12801 Commerce Lakes Dr., Unit 14C, Ft. Myers from Intelliflex VH, LLC for $110,000. Bob Johnston, SIOR, Jerry Messonnier, SIOR and Derek Bornhorst, CCIM of Lee & Associates|Naples-Ft. Myers negotiated the transaction.

Leases Clive Daniels Home – Naples, LLC leased a 60,000 SF industrial warehouse on 5.06 acres in Gateway at 10015-10030 Bavaria Rd., Ft. Myers from K.P. Properties of Florida, LLC. Bob Johnston, SIOR, Jerry Messonnier, SIOR and Derek Bornhorst, CCIM of Lee & Associates|Naples-Ft. Myers negotiated the transaction. Galleria 106, LLC leased a 2,578 SF office at 9015 Strada Stell Court, Suite 106, Naples to Procacci Properties, Inc. Andrew DeSalvo, MBA, ALC, and Matt Stepan, CCIM of Premier Commercial Inc., represented the Landlord.

North Port Gymnastics, LLC leased a 17,000 SF industrial space in the North Port Park of Commerce at 2885 Commerce Pkwy., North Port from North Port Commerce Partners, LLC. Bob Johnston, SIOR, Jerry Messonnier, SIOR and Derek Bornhorst, CCIM of Lee & Associates|Naples-Ft. Myers negotiated the transaction. AAPA, LLP leased a 1,400 SF medical office at 9400 Bonita Beach Rd., Suite 203, Bonita Springs, to Atherotech, Inc. Andrew DeSalvo, MBA, ALC and Matt Stepan, CCIM of Premier Commercial, Inc., represented the Landlord. Hamleg Corkscrew, LLC leased a 7,927 SF office to The Village of Estero at 9401 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Estero. The office space will be the home of the Village of Estero’s new Village Hall. Andrew DeSalvo, MBA, ALC and Matt Stepan, CCIM of Premier Commercial, Inc., negotiated the transaction. Windward Island Construction Pool Spa & Water leased a 4,000 SF industrial space plus 0.75 acre parcel of yard at 6901 Alico Rd., Unit 2, Ft. Myers from 6901 Alico Road LLC. Bob Johnston, SIOR, Jerry Messonnier, SIOR and Derek Bornhorst, CCIM of Lee & Associates|Naples-Ft. Myers negotiated the transaction. Fort Myers MM, LLC leased an automotive facility at 3388 Fowler Street, Fort Myers, from M.W.C. Florida, LLC. Andrew DeSalvo, MBA, ALC and Matt Stepan, CCIM of Premier Commercial, Inc., represented the tenant.

Solid Surface Tops of SW Florida, Inc. leased a 12,000 SF freestanding building on 1.03 acres in Benchmark Corporate Park at 1861 Benchmark Ave. from Central Park Office Complex, LLC. Bob Johnston, SIOR, Jerry Messonnier, SIOR and Derek Bornhorst, CCIM of Lee & Associates|Naples-Ft. Myers negotiated the transaction. List Distillery, LLC leased 8,960 SF industrial space at 3680 Evans Ave., Suite A, Ft. Myers from Creative Development Co. Bob White, CCIM of Lee & Associates|Naples-Ft. Myers negotiated the transaction. Coconut Point Properties, LLC leased a 1,321 SF office at 23190 Fashion Drive, Unit P216, Estero, to Kohva, LLC. Andrew DeSalvo, MBA, ALC and Matt Stepan, CCIM of Premier Commercial, Inc., negotiated the transaction. New World Fitness & Defense leased a 5,000 SF space in the JetportInterstate Commerce Park at 13790 Treeline Ave., Unit 4 & 5, Ft. Myers from Capden Land Trust. Bob White, CCIM of Lee & Associates|Naples-Ft. Myers negotiated the transaction. Medical Device Service & Engineering, Inc. leased a 1,523 SF warehouse/storage space in Intelliflex at 12940 Express Ct., Unit B2, Ft. Myers from RCH CO., a Texas Corporation. Bob Johnston, SIOR, Jerry Messonnier, SIOR , Derek Bornhorst, CCIM and Jeff Forsythe of Lee & Associates|Naples-Ft. Myers negotiated the transaction.

Pearl Pool Plastering, LLC leased a 4,864 SF freestanding building in Billy Creek Industrial Park at 5641 Division Dr., Unit 2, Fort Myers from Central Park Office Complex, LLC. Bob Johnston, SIOR, Jerry Messonnier, SIOR and Derek Bornhorst, CCIM of Lee & Associates|Naples-Ft. Myers negotiated the transaction. 2 The Top, Performance Training leased a 3,200 SF office in College Pointe at 9140 West College Pointe, Suite 1, Ft. Myers from GSM at Southpointe Commons. Richard Clarke and Rodney Fidler, CCIM of Lee & Associates|Naples-Ft. Myers negotiated the transaction. Cape Plumbing Inc leased a 2,400 SF warehouse/distribution space in Intelliflex at 12821-6 Commerce Lakes Dr., Ft. Myers from J.K. Larson. Bob Johnston, SIOR, Jerry Messonnier, SIOR, Derek Bornhorst, CCIM and Jeff Forsythe of Lee & Associates|NaplesFt. Myers negotiated the transaction. Capital Solutions Bancorp, LLC leased a 2,000 SF office in World Plaza at 12761 World Plaza Ln., Ste. 1 from Rodolfo A. and Virginia Daher. Jeff Forsythe of Lee & Associates|NaplesFt. Myers negotiated the transaction. Lott’s Property Management leased a 1-acre parcel with a 150 SF office included at 3791 Edison Ave., Unit B, Ft. Myers from Ulmer Property Investments. Bob Johnston, SIOR, Jerry Messonnier, SIOR and Derek Bornhorst, CCIM of Lee & Associates|Naples-Ft. Myers negotiated the transaction.

APRIL 2016

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

Page 11

COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

Concerned about your unemployment insurance costs?

CareerSource Southwest Florida has spent years trying to convince the public that we are not the “unemployment office.” We work with job seekers who are employed, unemployed and under-employed. So after all these years, we would like to introduce you to the organization who administers Florida’s unemployment insurance process, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO). DEO is providing an Unemployment Insurance Workshop to Southwest Florida’s business representatives in order to help you save time and money. In this day of internet-based claims, you will have the opportunity to be face-to-face with unemployment insurance staff and obtain personal contacts within the agency for future inquiries. You will learn how to respond to requests and keep your unemployment insurance rates low by reducing overpayments as well as how to reduce your paper work and how to protect sensi-

tive data and allow for effective prevention of potential fraud. Your questions and discussion will be welcomed. The workshop includes information on the State Information Data Exchange System (SIDES), a nationally recognized program that allows employers from across the country to respond to state unemployment insurance requests for information. Also included will BY PEG be information on CONNECT’s ELMORE Employer Portal, a claim manGuest Columnist agement system that allows employers to manage and respond to correspondence related the Reemployment Assistance Program.

With the end of season looming, the Short-Term Compensation program may be able to provide you with an alternative to large layoffs by allowing you to reduce hours but keep your skilled employees. CareerSource may not be the “unemployment office,” but we are committed to be your workforce resource. You are welcome to join us on May 10 at CareerSource Southwest Florida, 4150 Ford St. Extension, Fort Myers. The seminar will begin at 9 a.m. and will conclude by 12 p.m. To reserve your seat at this no-cost presentation, send an email to bussvc@careersourcesouthwestflorida.com. Peg Elmore is the business services director for CareerSource Southwest Florida and works with local businesses to connect employers with qualified applicants. Contact her at (239) 931.8282 ext. 1801 or email pelmore@careersourcesouthwestflorida.com.

Adam Palmer awarded Top Producer at LandQwest Adam Palmer was recognized by LandQwest Commercial as the 2015 Top Producer across the Central, West Central and Southwest Florida markets. Palmer, managing director of Office and Investment Services, was awarded LandQwest’s highest honor for his achievements in commercial success. “This is LandQwest’s most esteemed award, and we are proud to recognize Adam as its recipient,” said John Mounce, founding partner of

LandQwest Commercial. “It was another banner year of production for LandQwest. Adam’s knowledge, expertise, dedication and diligence were contributing factors to our success.” The Top Producer award acknowledges exceptional values, commitment and accomplishments across all LandQwest markets and services. Palmer was also recognized for completing the company’s largest office transaction at 9299 College Parkway, Fort Myers.

priMe oFFice Space Suited to your needS Featured property

6309 corporate court, South Fort MyerS Locate your office with other professionals in this quiet setting in the middle of the College - Summerlin financial area. Office space from 936 to 2500 sq. ft. available. Build-out allowable! $8 per square foot. Additional Properties • 1601 Lee Street, River District, Fort Myers

Office, 5,887 sq. ft. Can be divided. $12 per foot.

• 16200 San Carlos Blvd. - Retail Store 1,000 sq. ft. - $1,100 per mo.

• 16450 San Carlos Blvd. - Retail Store 450 sq. ft. - $700 per mo.

Sand dollar real eState / BuSineSS depot larry SteinBorn, lic. real eState Broker We Listen, We Care!

6309 Corporate Ct #205 Fort Myers, FL 33919

Phone: 239-433-1343 Email: bizdepot@aol.com

LandQwest continues to expand its commercial footprint across Florida, facilitating 369 total transactions valued at more than $161 million. Julia Sosa, Tom Heer, Bruce Micciche, Michael O’Mara, Ashley Knie, Jonathan Myers and more were also recognized for their achievements across the company’s eight major service lines: Retail, Office, Industrial, Land, Multi-Family, Hospitality, Investment and Property Management.

CCIM Chapter honored as “District of the Year”

The Florida CCIM Chapter recognized the Southwest Florida District as outperforming all seven others in 2015 by honoring it with the “District of the Year Award.” The Chapter’s Southwest District’s leadership was presented the award in late January at the Winter Board of Directors Meetings in Orlando. 2015 District President Bev Larson was credited as “the driving force ensuring that the district met all the criteria for the award,” explained 2016 Southwest Florida District President Ron Struthers. The Florida CCIM “District of the Year Award” is given by the Chapter President to the District which outperformed other Districts by doing two or more of the following within the year: provided the most benefits to its members (meetings, events, etc.); exceeded membership by 20% or more from the previous year; obtained the most sponsorships; and/or turned their District around financially. For more information, contact Bev Larson, CCIM at (239) 281-1290 or Bev1314@aol.com.

Todd Holman receives CoStar Power Award Woodyard & Associates LLC in Fort Myers has announced that Todd Holman has been named a 2015 CoStar Power Broker by CoStar Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CSGP), the leading provider of commercial real estate information, analytics and online marketplaces. This annual industry award recognizes distinguished professionals in commercial real estate brokerage by highlighting the achievements of the firms and individual brokers who closed the highest transaction volumes in commercial property sales or leases in 2015 within their respective markets. Holman qualified as one of the top commercial brokers in the Industrial market based on the total leasing transactions he closed during the year. In order to be selected for this honor, Holman’s overall transaction volumes were evaluated by CoStar against other commercial real estate brokers active in the region, and subsequently ranked among the top brokers in the market. He has received the CoStar Power Broker award every year since 2007. “I’m blessed with great clients and an excellent support team,” Holman said.

Best Commercial Lot Values in Southwest Florida Estero Parkway and Three Oaks Estero 33928

25335 Rampart Blvd Port Charlotte 33983

4214 Duncan Road (Hwy. 17) Punta Gorda 33982

Marion Ave Punta Gorda 33950

Price: $1,195,000 Size: 4.30 AC Description: Partially cleared, no wetlands or endangered species on lot. Medical Office Space. Deep Creek has several ALF communities, private and public, including one Certified Nursing Community, adjacent to this site. Two major hospitals within 10 minutes of site. East border of the property is a large Housing Complex with future zoning of commercial in front. Plans available for 7 buildings, each 5,000 sq. ft.

Price: $995,000 Size: 6.84 AC Description: 2 lots, 1 - 5.3 Acre Parcel and 1 - 1.5 acre parcel, 6.8 Acres, partially cleared, environmentals done. This corner is a future Town Center. Just East of I-75. Many usage possibilities, 6.84 Acres at Washington Loop. Over 150 sq. ft. Road Frontage on Duncan. Phase I reports available, survey also available. Future land use is Commercial Corridor.

Price: $399,000 Size: 2.70 AC Description: Dense pepper hedge, no endangered species or plants, ready to clear. MAKE AN OFFER!!! Zoned Low Intensity Industrial. 2 parcels, one approximately .25 Acres, the other 2.7. Perfect for Warehouse, Storage Facilities, Truck or Auto Terminal Hub, close to Hwy 17 and I-75 exit. Railroad meets rear of property. I-75 Interchange currently projected to cross eastern portion of property, high visibility once completed.

G N I D

N E P

Price: $2,500,000 Size: 230,868 SF Description: 5.3 Acre Lot, partially cleared. Surrounded by 1,500 student housing units. Corner lot at Three Oaks and Estero Parkways, surrounded by future housing. 46,200 Sq. Ft. retail space approved. Additional zoning suggestions: Gas Station, Medical Office, Bank, Restaurant, Storage Facilities, Strip Center. Centered between two Major Shopping Malls and near FGCU, Germain Arena and many High End housing developments.

Contact Jeanette Igoe / Broker - Igoe Realty P.A. / Jigoe5@aol.com / www.JeanetteIgoe.com or 239-572-3269

Page 12

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

APRIL 2016

REIS to review strategies for managing water resources The Real Estate Investment Society (REIS) will look at strategies for managing Southwest Florida’s water resources and the implications for long term economic development of the region. Dan Delisi, AICP, former board member and chief of staff at South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), will provide insight to regulatory policies, management practices and environmental considerations. The presentation will take place at the REIS April luncheon meeting. Delisi’s presentation will include perspective from both public and private sector experience, as well as expertise in community planning. Following his presentation, he will respond to questions of spe-

cific interest to the real estate investment and development industry. Delisi is a principal in Delisi-Fitzgerald Inc., a planning, engineering, and project management firm. He was appointed to the governing board of SFWMD in 2011 and became chief of staff in 2013. He returned to private practice in 2015. Delisi has a comprehensive background in planning, zoning and land development regulations as a consultant for both public and private sector clients. He specializes in project entitlements and community visioning. He recently taught Community Planning Process at Florida Gulf Coast University and currently teaches Land Use Regulation for Nova

Matching wants and needs enhances PEO alignment for the business owner Part 3 of 3

The professional employer organizations (PEO) alignment is a complete human resources administration and operational solution. There are hundreds of PEOs across the country that specialize in certain SIC codes and states. Due to this fact, aligning your businesses wants and needs with the “right” PEO is critical for this co-employment relationship to be a “win-win” for all. Some things to consider as a business owner for the PEO alignment and in understanding your wants/ needs are below: • Does the PEO handle my workers compensation codes in the state that I do business with/in? • What is your payroll cycle (weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly, monthly)? • What form do you want your payroll checks to come in (paper check, direct deposit, pay/debit cards)? • Do you want/need a health care plan to comply with the Affordable Health Care Act? • Do you want/need supplemental plans and other benefits (vision, dental, STD, LTD, Life)? • Do you want/need a retirement plan, 401(k) plan, profit sharing, 403(b) plan, 457(b) plan? • What is your expected annualized payroll by job codes? • Do you want/need pre-drug/physical/background checks done on all new hires? • Do you want/need random drug screens performed? • Do you want/need a customized safety program installed for your business? • Do you want/need a certified payroll and/or do you work with union halls? • Do you have any HR situations that are unique and/or special to your organization? • Do you need any special credit ratings and financial strength rating for your Certificates of Insurance? By putting your wants and needs into the PEO alignment selection process, the PEO will be more

tailored to your business and allow the alignment to become more successful for all. Many clients underutilize the whole spectrum of benefits that the PEO Alignment can bring. PEOs are not just your payroll provider and a Certificate of Insurance for your workers compensation. PEOs offer their clients and worksite employees the services and expertise of a personnel department BY TOM within a large corporation now MARQUARDT within their company. Few, Guest Columnist if any, small businesses can afford a full-time staff consisting of an accountant, human resource professional, lawyer, risk manager, benefits manager and a manager of information services. Professional employer organizations offer this expertise and more to their clients. By providing these services, professional employer organizations enable their clients to concentrate on their business without the challenges and distractions associated with the “business of employment.” As a result, PEOs enhance the profitability of their client companies by reducing the costs related to monitoring of, and compliance with, employment laws. With all of this being said, significant costs for failure to comply with such laws and regulations are not incurred, therefore reducing a client’s HR model expenses more than what savings appear on paper. So I encourage you to utilize all available value driven benefits that a PEO Alignment can bring to your business. Tom Marquardt is co-owner of Platinum PEO Resources in Fort Myers, as well as a nationally renowned small business consultant who authored the widely-acclaimed book “My Little Black Book to Success.” Contact him at (888) 777-6647, or email tomm@paygoworkerscomp.com.

MEETING PAGE 1

PROGRAM PAGE 1

“As the momentum in Bonita Springs and Estero continues to build, we want to invite interested business owners to become engaged,” said Christine Ross, executive director of the BSEEDC. “Join us at our quarterly open meeting to hear about our projects and find out how to be a strong partner in our economic development success story.” Over the past three years the BSEEDC has served as a complementary business concierge to more than 100 clients. The BSEEDC executes a program of work based on industry best practices from streamlined permitting and joint permit review to collaborative public-private economic development systems which have garnered statewide recognition.

Most workshops will be offered to members of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and the Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce at a discounted cost of $49 for the 6 p.m.-8 p.m. sessions – which run from the beginning of April through September – and two recap sessions from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. that cost $249 each. Sessions are presented at the Herald Court Centre, 117 Herald Court, Suite 211, Punta Gorda. For more information, call Nancy Staub at (941) 505-0130 or email at nstaub@fgcu.edu, or visit FGCU.edu/hcc.

Southeastern University. He earned a Bachelor’s degree at Brandeis University and a Master of City Planning, Urban Design Certificate at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The meeting is sponsored by GHD Services Inc. and will begin promptly at 11:45 a.m. on April 12 in the Osprey Room at Pelican Preserve’s Clubhouse on Treeline Avenue at Colonial Boulevard, one mile east of I-75 exit 136 in Fort Myers. Admission is $30 for members and $40 for guests, which includes lunch. Reservations are required by April 6 and may be made online at reis-swfl.org. For further program information, call Karen Miller at (239) 936-4003.

VIOLENCE PAGE 4 • May display outbursts of anger toward their partner and/or others. • Gives their partner threatening or intimidating looks that may result in a victim looking at the abuser before speaking because of being frightened or intimidated. How to help: • Offer to listen without judgment and provide a safe and supportive environment. • Don’t try to rescue your employee. Advising a domestic violence victim to leave may put them (and their children) at risk. Instead encourage them to work with your local certified domestic violence center, Abuse Counseling and Treatment Inc. (ACT), to develop a safety plan. • Follow, or create, workplace violence policies and procedures. If you find that you are unprepared without any existing violence policies and procedures, take the time to put policies in writing. Written policies will help you to respond appropriately, assess risks and take action. • Partner with your local certified domestic violence center for educational presentations to your employees. Abuse Counseling and Treatment Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit social service agency specializing in providing education, protection, and support for victims of domestic violence, rape/sexual assault, and human trafficking in Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties. With services that are safe, free, and confidential, if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, call the crisis hotline at (239) 939-3112 or visit ACTabuse.com for more information.

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APRIL 2016

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

Page 13

What is sustainability and why does it matter?

By Matt Visaggio Guest Columnist

I was asked just today again if we field a lot of questions about what is sustainability. Everyone has an opinion about it and some people use sustainability to dictate their agendas over their neighbors. Because of this some people have understandably become defensive. But do people understand what it is and how it works together and why it’s important? There are a lot of people with a lot of different definitions for sustainability and a lot of reasons why it is important. But when you boil it down, sustainability is all about wisdom and balance. It is about perspective and honesty and putting the best interests of future generations of your family ahead of your own. There is no better example to me of sustainability defined than what our founding fathers put down in the preamble to the United States Constitution. That is sustainable. This democratic republic has lasted a long time and still exists today. We’ve inherited an America with freedom that our founders thought

was sustainable and worth preserving. We’ve reaped these blessings worth passing on to the next generation. There are others who define sustainability as a mantra for the initiated and elite. But I don’t believe that. I believe that people can still think and ought to be given access to things worth thinking about: our people and families, our homes and how we make our livings. This balance is key because the most important document in our country starts out explaining its own reason for being as to “secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity.” So many people in American history have fought, bled and died for this idea, this core concept of sustainability. Our founders felt that a government of, for and by the people was important to secure for future generations. In Southwest Florida we have a university that was planned and developed by men and women who believed in sustainability and, in fact, determined that it must one of its core values. Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) has the Center for Environmental & Sustainability Edu-

cation whose mission is “to elevate the environmental mission of Florida Gulf Coast University and serve the University community, the local community of the Western Everglades and Barrier Islands, and the wider community of scholars.” So when someone asks me what sustainability is, to me it’s more about the people, place and profit. It’s about the American Dream redefined as something worth dreaming about – the preservation of freedom in this experiment in democracy we call the United States. Sustainability is about determining what’s worth it and safeguarding it for the future. It’s all about critical thinking. Our quality of life as Americans depends on it. It’s about talking about ideas, throwing out bad ones, and refusing to pass on this beloved America to our children and their children. This is only a task that the descendants of the Greatest Generation might be afforded to prove ourselves worthy of preserving democracy. Now this is all kind of “pie in the sky,” right? Sustainability, you might say, is about these big ideas and problems and

When do you insure your key employees?

By W. Bradley Cooper Guest Columnist Part 2 of 2

How is a key person’s value to the business determined, and how much insurance should be bought? The amount of insurance coverage should reflect the estimated monetary loss the business would suffer from the death of the key employee. It is difficult to set up a definite formula whereby the value of an employee to his or her company can be easily determined. Varied approaches exist to estimate the monetary loss to the business. In absence of documentation, the method most frequently used by underwriters to determine whether the face amount requested makes sense is based on either a generic multiple of the key employee’s income or a percentage of an existing debt. For key employees, W-2 compensation is often only a portion of their income. Perks such as stay bonuses,

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stock options, and benefits such as nonqualified plans can often be included. When the key employee has an ownership interest in a business, distributions by S corporations and guaranteed payments by partnerships or LLCs may be included. In a new startup business, key employees often take a decrease in income in return for an interest in the business. When this is the case, historical income records may be more reflective of their value. Often, coverage equal to five to ten times income can be justified. If the purpose of the key person coverage is in part to cover a business loan, the amount of the loan is a major factor in determining the amount that will be issued. Another determining factor is whether the key employee has personally guaranteed the debt. Generally, coverage is limited to 60 – 70% of the outstanding debt. Coverage can be justified beyond the normal income multiple or percentage of debt guidelines, but documentation that supports the coverage requested needs to be provided. In this respect, documentation such as tax returns and a detailed bio reflecting experience, education, specific talents, and skills along with a discussion of how the amount requested was determined should be discussed in a cover letter. What are the primary tax considerations? The Internal Revenue Code (IRC) provides that no deduction is allowed for premiums paid on a life insurance policy covering the life of an officer, an employee, or any person financially interested in the business where the business is directly or indirectly a beneficiary of the policy. Since a business is usually the owner and beneficiary of a key person life insurance policy, the premiums paid by the business are generally not deductible. Furthermore, the premiums paid by the business are generally not taxable income to the employee. In general, life insurance proceeds paid by reason of the death of the insured are exempt from income tax under IRC §101(a). However, there are situations where the death proceeds from a key person policy might be subject to income tax. Learn more about W. Bradley Cooper, CPA, at www. wbcoopercpa.com or call (239)275-4511.

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issues. Isn’t sustainability something that the government and environmentalists should worry about? This year the 2016 SWFL Sustainability Summit (SWFLsustainability.com) will focus on “Healthy People, Healthy Place, & Healthy Profit.” We’ll be featuring some folks far better than me who can really teach and explain what sustainability is all about, and how you can get involved and make a difference. You’ll see how the best way to get involved is at the local level in organizations such as the Bonita Springs Chamber Young Professionals and with people who are willing to roll up their sleeves and stay the course for the long haul. Join us at the Summit on April 28. To find out more information, go to www.swflsustainability.com Matt Visaggio, founder of Visaggio & Co. LLC and SWFL Sustainability LLC, serves as an adjunct professor at Florida SouthWestern State College and Southern New Hampshire University, where he teaches courses in public policy and public administration.

FGCU hosts roundtable on vet entrepreneur program In February, Florida Gulf Coast University hosted a roundtable discussion covering the humanitarian and economic impact on the workforce of the local, statewide and national efforts to grow veteran employment. Specifically, the new Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program was discussed, including how it is being implemented and the expected return. Participating in the discussion were veteran John Boland, director of the Lee County Economic Development Office; Dr. Sandra Kauanui, director of the Lutgert College of Business Institute for Entrepreneurship; veteran Dr. Robert Beatty, Dean of the Lutgert College of Business at FGCU; veteran Kevin Boyd, director of American Legion, Post 38 and FGCU Small Business Development (FSBDC) Executive Director Lois Knox. To help translate the skills learned in the military to entrepreneurship, Veterans Florida and the Florida SBDC Network, in participation with five Florida institutions of higher education, have joined forces to offer the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program—a three-phase training program designed to accelerate the entrepreneurial success of qualified veterans. Beatty sees a strong correlation between skills learned in the military and those needed to be successful entrepreneurs: “Veterans bring a high work ethic, high task orientation, high motivation and high commitment to the workplace.” He notes, “They have been trained to do what it takes to get the job done: entrepreneurship requires that same “stick-to-it-tiveness.”

“

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Arthrex expansion to create 350+ jobs Gov. Rick Scott has announced that Arthrex, a global medical device company and leader in new product development and medical education in orthopedics, is expanding in Ave Maria and will be creating more than 350 jobs. The expansion will create 218,000 square feet of manufacturing facility space. Arthrex currently employs more than 2,000 Florida residents. “Arthrex is a growing Florida company and hired 260 new employees in just the past year alone,” Scott said. “We must make sure Florida has a diverse economy by cutting $1 billion in taxes and creating the $250 Enterprise Florida Fund so companies like Arthrex can expand in Florida.” With a corporate mission of helping surgeons treat their patients better, Arthrex has pioneered the field of arthroscopy and developed more than 9,500 innovative products and surgical procedures to advance minimally invasive orthopedics worldwide. Arthrex’s additional locations include Munich, Germany several subsidiaries and distribution centers throughout the world. “Arthrex is pleased to further increase its economic diversification investments in Southwest Florida of over $47 million in 2016 with the continued expansion of Arthrex Medical Education and two new Arthrex Manufacturing East facilities in Ave Maria,” said company founder and President Reinhold Schmieding. “Assisted by Gov. Rick Scott’s dedicated leadership, Arthrex will continue to provide new high-wage, high-tech, non-seasonal career opportunities in Florida as the No. 3 ranked manufacturing and production company to work for in the United States.” “When we invest in businesses’ success, Florida wins, and that’s clear with Arthrex’s continued expansion in Southwest Florida,” said Bill Johnson, president and CEO of Enterprise Florida. “Their creation of an additional 320 new jobs in the medical device industry will allow more Floridians to realize their dreams and further diversify our economy here in Florida. I applaud Arthrex, and look forward to even more success from them in the future.” “Arthrex’s success and recent expansion highlights the great opportunities available to businesses in Florida as a result of the state’s pro-business policies,” said Cissy Proctor, executive director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. “Investment and expansion of a globally connected business like Arthrex boosts job creation and increases the value of our state’s international trade, which helps to diversify Florida’s economy.”

APRIL 2016

Founder Talk to discuss “Inside a Startup” Brandon G. Phillips, founder and president of Global HR Research (GHRR) in Bonita Springs presents at the April 7 Founder Talk event. Hosted by the Tamiami Angel Fund II, the “Inside a Startup” presentation taked place at 5:30 p.m. at the Paragon Pavilion Theater in Naples. Tickets start at $10 and can be purchased at www. Tamiami-e.co. Phillips will share an in-depth perspective on his start up journey and lessons learned along the way. “My personal core philosophies, “grit and perseverance,” were born out of the obstacles and challenges I faced early on in life. I experienced significant poverty growing up and overcame many barriers through hard work that led to the startup of my own company more than 10 years ago,” said Phillips. “I truly believe that if you have a strong commitment to Brandon Phillips your passion, anything is possible.” Phillips developed the concept behind Global HR Research after he recognized the need for enhanced technology and service models for forwardthinking HR professionals within the human capital space. Phillips guided the growth of numerous projects from planning and development to sustainability. He is a recipient of both Gulfshore Business magazine’s and Florida Weekly’s “Top 40 Under 40” for entrepreneurial successes, and been featured in numerous publications on the subject matter of talent screening and selection. He has lead GHRR to its inclusion in Workforce Magazine’s “Hot List” of America’s leading screening providers and top ranking by HRO Today, America’s leading magazine for background screening and assessment providers.

“

I truly believe that if you havea strong commitment to your passion, anything is possible..

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Page 14

– Brandon G. Phillips, Founder and President of GHRR

A graduate of the University of Michigan, Phillips is a frequent guest speaker and has a proven track record of successfully maximizing cutting-edge business concepts in start-up ventures. He has grown GHRR to host a client base that includes Fortune 500 companies, financial institutions, governmental agencies, and health care providers, among others. A philanthropic leader in the Southwest Florida community, Phillips volunteers his time with youth sports and is an active member of multiple chambers and economic development organizations. The Founder Talk series is part of the Tamiami Angel Funds’ e.co initiative, a Southwest Florida communitybased effort to build a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem from Sarasota to Naples. Tamiami Angel Fund I & II LLC are membermanaged funds designed to enable private accredited investors to actively participate in a disciplined investment process. The funds invest in promising early-stage through expansion-stage commercial ventures located in the U.S., with a preference to those in the state of Florida. The Funds are members of the Angel Capital Association and the Florida Venture Forum. For more information, visit www.tamiamiangels.com.

GOODWILL PAGE 1 “There is so much opportunity in the automotive industry for those properly trained and ASE certified,” says Oakes, a fourth-generation auto mechanic. “This is the perfect first step for future Master ASE techs.” The auto industry is expected to grow by 30 percent through 2022. Average pay for service technicians typically starts at $15.00/hour. As part of Goodwill’s mission of helping people overcome barriers to employment and independence, the nonprofit supplies student materials. Goodwill also reimburses students for the cost of the ASE G1 certification test, once passed. Goodwill’s trained Job-Link coordinators then assist students as they develop resumes, practice for job interviews, apply for automotive jobs, and prepare for job interviews. Classroom facilities are provided by the United Way of Collier County. Class participants must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and complete a required orientation session. Students must also pass a level one background screening. For more information or to sign up for classes, contact Dorothy Browning, Goodwill’s community education coordinator, at dorothybrowning@good-

Students are educated and trained to become ASE certified technicians. willswfl.org or 239-995-2106, ext. 2304. Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades Counties. The organization is committed to helping people with disabilities and disadvantages by offering lifechanging opportunities to achieve independence. Goodwill’s programs in Southwest Florida include Job-Link outreach centers, small business training classes, disability-accessible housing, the Goodwill L.I.F.E. Academy charter school, and more. For more information about Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida, visit www.goodwillswfl.org.

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APRIL 2016

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

Page 15

Is your business prepared for changes to Minimum Salary Test? The Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, as amended (FLSA) is the federal law that governs the payment of minimum wage and overtime compensation that is required when a non-exempt employee works more than 40 hours in a workweek. Further, under the FLSA an employee is classified either as exempt from the overtime provisions or non-exempt covered by the overtime provisions. In order to qualify as an exempt employee, the employee must be paid a minimum salary of at least $455 per week (currently) that is not subject to being docked for partial day absences or missed full workdays (subject to limited exceptions) and the duties test for one of the enumerated exempt positions defined under the law, e.g. the executive or supervisor exemption must be satisfied. Both are required. A salary by itself is insufficient. One of the biggest myths that persists in the business community is that paying a salary by itself makes an employee exempt from the overtime provisions. Not true. According to information that the DOL has posted on its website, the current minimum salary for an exempt employee puts an employee below the federal poverty level of $24,008. Like the minimum wage initiatives across the County, the initiative to increase the minimum salary for exempt employees is an effort to boost income for many whose wages keep them at or below the federal poverty

level. (A bill introduced during this year’s legislature by Florida Sen. Dwight Bullard, D-Cutler Bay, to increase the minimum wage to $15 per hour failed. A new bill will probably be introduced next year. Of note, if the federal minimum wage had been indexed for inflation, it would be $10.90 today. An increase to Florida’s minimum wage is coming. It is a matter of BY CHRISTINA HARRIS SCHWINN when, not if. Also note that even though Florida’s miniGuest Columnist mum wage is tied to the CPI, there was no increase this year and $8.05 is well below what the federal minimum wage would be had it been indexed for inflation.) A weekly salary of $455 per week equals $23,660 per year. Many exempt employees earn more than the minimum salary, at least now they do. However, if the United States Department of Labor’s (DOL) proposed rule issued on June 18, 2015 becomes final later this year, the minimum salary could increase to $970 per week, or $50,440 per year. No, this is not a typo. Yes, the increase is significant and will no doubt have a big impact on many Southwest Florida employers. Also note that the proposed rule

currently contains a provision that provide for annual increases to be published by the DOL annually 60 days before the effective date. At this point, whether the final regulation will set a minimum salary for exempt employees at $970 is unknown. The minimum salary could be set at a lesser amount. Business owners should review their pay practices, job classifications and prepare an analysis regarding their entire workforce by pay classification by job in preparation of this looming change. The final rule will contain an effective date. The effective date could be as early as 60 days, January 1, 2017, or there could be a phase-in period. All signals point to the DOL’s final rule being issued in July 2016 before Congress recesses. Will your business be ready when the change comes?

VETERANS PAGE 13

lature funded with a $1 million grant, points out, “A lot of them come from leadership roles in the military. They’re used to working with structure and follow-through. Now, maybe they don’t want to work for somebody else.” Announced earlier this year, the Veteran Entrepreneurship Program is a new entrepreneurial training initiative for veterans in the state seeking to start their own businesses. Anyone categorized as active duty or who has been honorably discharged with an interest in starting a new business is an ideal candidate. Veterans do not need to be enrolled at FGCU to participate.

The initial program began March 15. Over 300 veterans across the state enrolled. For more information about the program offered through the FGCU Institute for Entrepreneurship, contact program coordinator Amy Ridgway at (239) 5907324 or aridgway@fgcu.edu. Kauanui notes, “This program is a great opportunity for veterans to do something they really want to do that’s meaningful and has real impact, not only on their own lives, but when combined with all the veterans who participate in these types of programs, on local, regional and national economic levels as well.”

Knox states, “As part of the program, veterans will work with SBDC business analysts who will educate them to think like entrepreneurs; to think like a 1099 versus a W-2.” After completing the program, the SBDC team will continue to check back with graduates, helping them with access to capital and other challenges of developing an ongoing business. Kauanui, who is crafting the statewide curriculum for the nonprofit program the Florida Legis-

NOTE: This column is not intended to be a substitute for competent legal advice. Competent legal counsel should be consulted if you have questions regarding compliance with the law. Christina Harris Schwinn is a partner and an experienced community association, employment and real estate attorney with the Pavese Law Firm, 1833 Hendry Street, Fort Myers. Contact her at (239) 336-6228 or visit PaveseLaw.com.

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Southwest Southwest Florida Florida BUSINESS BUSINESSTODAY TODAY

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Fort Myers Downtown is burning hot

ment includs a Fort Myers downtown ing a soon to business, I am keenly interbe opened ested in business in the downevent hall. town area. As a longtime observer I Blu, the sushi have seen dramatic changes during restaurant, is my time walking the streets. opening on Ten years in the life of a city can be First Street a real indication of the fabric of that soon. The city and its people. The measure of a River District vibrant city generally is the quality of Alliance and the businesses and the amount of use BY RANDY KRISE Guest Columnist n tdevelown by the citizens. This past decade is a Competent real estate professionals who represent developersDoro w are P r o p e rty microcosm of the general progress opers know that to try to make development decisions past site selection Owners Association are keeping things Fort Myers has experienced during and economic feasibility without their attorney is very dangerous. hopping and people informed. the 2000s. The abandoned buildings that litIn 2000 the leaders of Fort Myers were in the process of spending a lot tered downtown are all renovated of money to create a plan for down- and full. The hotel Indigo is on solid town. Downtown, as the jewel of footing. The Goodwill Boutique on the city, our leaders felt as though an First Street is complimented by the investment in a complete study and new Downtown Library. The Library a subsequent approved plan could is spectacular and Reubenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SmokeCompetent professionals the beland. It is opening guide the areareal to estate renovation and re- house Restaurant will who represent developers or are develpossible that Reubenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Huckleberry CafĂŠ inside newal. opers know that to try to make developthe $200,000.00 The Duany Plan, as it is known, the new downtown library fronting ment decisions past site selection and First Street and the West you side spent to Patio integrates streetscape, parks, parkeconomic feasibility without their atget to this point ing, building design and height which in January. The old Bank of America torney is very dangerous. Why do you added value to with the are some of the facets of planning the Building has been remodeled think a guy like myself who has been the land and plan covers. When the study began ODZ ÂżUP RI +DKQ /R]LHU DQG WKH ROG building projectswas since 1982 awould someone will UHDG\ IRU D the downtown basically gov- EDQNLQJ Ă&#x20AC;RRU LV DOPRVW voice that opinion? One would expect pay you a preernment center with little draw for or- new tenant. There is an old fashioned that after multiple projects, the process General Store on the east mium. you sideIfwhere dinary people to come there. At night would be ingrained into the experience are continuing they could have closed the roads with the gym used to be located. lobe of the gray matter. Why spend the on with the deThe Sidney and Berne Davis Center a gate and no one would have noticed. money? Because it in ingrained in the BY RANDY KRISE velopment proFormer Councilman and current has under gone extensive renovations gray matter of my mind and I know the cess you must have a rooftop event area Mayor Randy Henderson and former and Guestwill Columnist cost of mistakes. do some very soon. But, the real news is the River Mayor Jim Humphrey andaCouncilLet me take you through real life technical things %DVLQ WKDW ZDV ÂżQLVKHG LQ ZLOO man Michael were situation that weFlanders are working on instrutoday. that really do need a professional Land now serve its real purpose whichoption was mental in the development of theseem plan Use The early steps in the process attorney to use another to allow major development by havand have had the courage over the simple. Included in that list are Site which would be to sell individual lots. ing alast place to put water runoff within years to insist that Evaluation, by and largeMulthe The Selection, Financial option is vertical construction the city. Sheraton Hotels hopes to plan is followed. Many people comtiple Engineering Reports (soil evalu- for sale or lease. break ground on their new 225 room plained and criticized. People with ation, environmental, water and sewer, When you hire the General Contrachotel parking garage in June. little vision that a lot.management, Our leaders tor site plan, landdo use, traffic youand better have your attorney negoThe hotel will incorporate Harborsoldiered on! utility placement and availability are tiate that contract. So many problems side arise. EventThe Center as their some), Zoning and Funding. can project we convention are starting meeting space. Thankfully, along with that good at- next month is a multiple lot industrial David Fry, the exattorney CEO of WCI, has torney you can also hire a great engi- development. Our will need purchase a small First Street lot and neer and architect (but I digress). After to set up a property owners association plans buildmaintenance a seven story youSo, have spent quiteisaitbit thetofuture of building common how exciting toof bemoney part ofon for containing a rooftop penthouse. It sits engineering and feasibility, you make elements. Each lot will need to be surdowntown now? The crowds are in front Senator Lizbeth the final decision to close on the prop- veyed andofindividually platted Benacand rehere day and night. The River District TXLVWRÂśV QHZ RIÂżFH erty and proceed with your project. corded. In our case we are most likely Trolley brings Edisonpiece Ford Estate So, how exciting is it with to bethe partlocal of Now if you havethe a single of land going to have to work visitors downtown for plan lunchwith and dinner downtown now? crowds are to here with a single building no lot DOT because ourThe road is slated be day and night. TheofRiver District splits, pretty much ready at noyou cost.are Retail businesses seem toto widened and part the land willTrolmost ley bringsbethe EdisonforFord visimove towards building plansclubs and perneeded the Estate widening. be making money. The night are certainly tors downtown for lunch and dinner mitting. We want to talk about larger There are so many governmental full. Every time you turn around there at no cost. seem to developments with multiple buildings agencies thatRetail mustbusinesses be appeased before is an event going on in downtown; Car be making money. The Time night is clubs are owned by multiple entities such as an you can break ground. money! Shows, Boat Shows, Art Walk, Music Just full. ask Every you turn around there office or industrial park. Joetime Camarotta down in Estero. Walk, festivals, fun runsmy andattorney more. is anhas event in downtown; Car If I am the developer, He beengoing in theonnews lately because has been by my side since day one. We of private his already Shows, Boatopposition Shows, ArttoWalk, Music â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Randy Krise, and we permitted have to acquire the property development is wastWalk, festivals, fun runswhich and more. CKrisetoCommercial Group needOwner, an attorney make certain all of ingThe time after he has from spent the veryDuany much enhancements the rights to the land are in place i.e. money to made get down to anysopotential Plan have downtown beautieasements, mineral rights, clear title payback. ful that slowly businesses started putchain, and any governmental agree- tingDomoney not gointo forward on a Now minorthe or the area. ments which may be in force and will major projectIRU without attorney by FRPSHWLWLRQ VSDFH your LV ÂżHUFH <RX remain obligation after title In the long run, save have side. to know someone likeyou mewill to even Fast an forward until today. Thepasses. Kearns your There is more to worry about, but big money. Group is working on its 5th downtown think about getting a choice spot, they we have covered the 10,000 foot view. restaurant. It is going to be called The are leased or sold before the general Now we own the property! (Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Randy the owner/ evenKrise, knowsCCIM about is them. Lodge. They have bought an old logeven cab- public talk to me about representation if you broker of Krise Commercial Group, I want to thank Mayor Henderson in and will be using that wood to do the are getting a loan! You need it!) You LLC and can be reached at 2040 for interior. As with their other restaurants, and those who came before him Virhave a few immediate options. If you ginia Ave,work Fortand Myers, Fl 33901 or the hard dedication it took Fordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garage, Firestoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Caponeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bought it right you can just try to sell randy@krisecg.com or 633-8672. or Caboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cantina, it will be well done. to make downtown Fort Myers a 3LQFKHUÂśV &UDE 6KDFN KDV ÂżQLVKHG DQ place to want to be at and be seen. . amazing transformation of the old Royal Â˛ 5DQG\ .ULVH &HUWLÂżHG &RPPHUFLDO Palm Yacht Club and turned it into the Do not go forward on a minor or major project without your attorney by your side. In the Marina at the Edison Ford Estates. Mark ,QYHVWPHQW 0HPEHU &&,0 LV WKH longHarbor run, youHowill save big money. RI .ULVH &RPPHUFLDO %URNHU 2ZQHU Sullivan has made Legacy Randy Krise, *URXS DQG WKH )ORULGD &&,0 tel and Marina into a showplaceâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; with Owner Krise Group &KDSWHU 3UHVLGHQW +H FDQ EH UHDFKHG DW plans to build much more as heofhas beenCommercial acquiring the land around his develop- RU UDQG\#NULVHFJ FRP

Why are attorneys vital to real estate development?

A PROFESSIONAL REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE COMPANY

R A N DY & A RV E Y K R I S E Located in the Krise Commercial Group Building 2040 Virginia Avenue, Fort Myers, FL 33901

(Just off McGregor Boulevard fronting First Street Village)

239.690.4100 W W W. K R I S E C G . C O M

Meet the members of our team

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Randy Krise, CCIM Owner/Broker, Investment Property Specialist randy@krisecg.com

Arvey Krise Owner/Associate Broker, Luxury Home Specialist arvey@krisecg.com

Sue Ellen Spencer Associate Broker sue@krisecg.com

Pam Wittenauer Commercial Realtor, Commercial Leasing Specialist pam@krisecg.com

Jennifer Castriotta Commercial Realtor, Commercial Specialist jennifer@krisecg.com

Gary Crouse Commercial Realtor, Commercial Specialist gary@krisecg.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

2040 Virginia Avenue, Fort Myers, FL 33901

(Just off McGregor Boulevard, fronting First Street Village)

239-690-4100 www.krisecommercialgroup.com

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