COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MARKET
Financial Review
Read about lessons learned and get timely tax tips in this annual financial review-and-update edition.
Taking a look at Lee County tourism, post-Ian
Submitted by Karen P. Moore, Publisher Special to SWFBT
I recently heard Pamela Johnson, Lee County Visitors & Convention Bureau Deputy Director, and Jeff Mielke, Lee County Sports Development executive director, give their take on how the county’s tourism industry is faring.
Johnson began: “Let’s start with Fiscal Year 2019: I would like to call that ‘normal.’ FY20 we had the pan-
demic; FY21—Florida open, rest of the world closed! FY22—a very good year for Florida as it continued to be open—until Ian hit late September, followed by FY23 recovery. The result of Hurricane Ian—$36 million in Tourist Development Tax (TDT) revenue in 2023, a 45% drop from 2022. The TDT is used to maintain beaches, support public services, and fund cultural and conservation projects.
She noted, however, that at the close of FY23, Lee County was up to $44.3
million in TDT, which exceeded the county’s last normal year, 2019.
“In Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel,” Johnson stated, “we are really seeing some good news stories, but obviously they are not back to where they were. Including some hotels that recently reopened, we’re standing at about 15,000 hotel rooms: this really is not also taking into account vacation rentals, however, which is a huge portion of our available rooms.”
Commercial Real Estate
A specially focused monthly feature exploring the SWFL commercial real estate marketplace.
Naples area jobs up 2,100 jobs over the year in November
FloridaCommerce announced the Naples metro area private sector employment increased by 2,100 jobs, up 1.3%, over the year in November. The industry sector gaining the most jobs over the year was leisure and hospitality, increasing by 600 jobs. The Fort Myers metro area private sector employment increased by 2,300 jobs, or 0.9%, over the year in November. The industry sector gaining the most jobs over the year
CIAL REAL ESTATE
Alico announced it will not spend further capital on citrus operations after the current crop is harvested in 2025 and will seek
different use of land located across eight Florida counties.
Alico to shift from citrus to other land uses
Alico. announced a strategic transformation to become a diversified land company with each of its properties now expected to create profitable agricultural revenue opportunities that are not citrus-related until the highest and best use for these acres can be realized.
The Fort Myers-based business owns approximately 53,371 acres of land across eight counties in Florida, as well as approximately 48,700 acres of oil, gas and mineral rights in the state. Alico Citrus, the company’s citrus production operations, faced increasing financial challenges from citrus greening disease and environmental factors for many seasons. The company decided to not spend further capital on citrus operations after the current crop is harvested in 2025. It will focus its resources on creating new opportunities for profitable growth while also acting prudently on behalf of shareholders.
Alico expects to maintain its commitment to the Florida agriculture industry through diversified farming operations on nearly all its land holdings following this citrus produc-
IN THE NEWS
was also leisure and hospitality, increasing by 1,200 jobs.
The Naples area’s unemployment rate was 3.5% in November, a 0.6 percentage point increase from the November 2023 rate of 2.9%. The Naples area labor force was down 1.5%, or 2,960 jobs, over the year. The Fort Myers area’s unemployment rate was 3.7% in November, a 0.5 percentage point increase from the November 2023 rate of 3.2%. The Fort Myers area labor force was down 1.4%, or 5,269 jobs.
tion transition. Alico also expects to entitle certain parcels of its land for commercial and residential development. The company believes these strategic decisions improve its ability to provide investors with a greater return on capital that includes the benefits and stability of a conventional agriculture investment, with the optionality that comes with active land management.
BUSINESS UPDATES
FINCEN BOI reporting YO-YO
On Dec. 3, a U.S. District Court issued a nationwide injunction to stop enforcement of the Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting rules.
Three weeks later, on Dec. 23, an Appeals court lifted the injunction to reinstate the reporting obligations while the government’s appeal was considered. The revised deadline was Jan. 13 instead of Jan. 1.
Three days later on Dec. 26, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals nulli-
fied the earlier motions panel’s ruling and reinstated the original injunction. The Department of Justice will start its appeal on March 25, so the outcome of the requirement to file is unclear until then.
Hurricane assistance updates
For the most current hurricane recovery news and information, updated throughout the business day, go to SWFBT’s Storm Impact Business Bulletin at swfloridabusinesstoday. com/storm-impact-business-bulletin.
out
ALICO See page 13
For over 20 years, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank has pledged to support our customers, team members and community with the same passion and dedication we’ve had since the day we opened our doors. We may have grown to eight locations throughout Lee County with 125+ employees, but we're still that small, neighborhood island bank at heart.
You can bank on it.
… deliver smart banking and lending solutions right for you and your business?
… recognize the value of establishing relationships with their customers?
… continuously support and contribute to local organizations ($5+ million donated since 2003)?
… average 1,000 volunteer hours annually?
Lee County doles out Ian block grants
Submitted by Jacob Ogles, Editor Special to SWFBT
Lee County Commissioners budgeted more than $12 million in federal block grants to continue rebuilding efforts in the wake of Hurricane Ian’s destruction.
That funding includes $4 million for the Habitat for Humanity project, almost $846,000 for installing power generators at Lee Health Sports Complex and Tortuga Elementary School, about $1.18 million for replacing bridges in Harlem Heights and San Carlos Park, and funds for electrical infrastructure in Cherry Estates.
Commissioners approved the latest spending in a special meeting on Jan. 7. The federal funding is part of more than $1.1 billion budgeted to Lee County after Hurricane Ian, a Category 5 storm, made landfall in September of 2022.
Before approving the funding, a number of advocates for other housing and infrastructure projects made their case to commissioners. But officials said even with the large amount of block grant funding given to Lee County, it can only go to a finite number of efforts.
“I know this is tough,” said County Commissioner Mike Greenwell. “We’ve had so many projects come in front of us, and it’s very tough to make decisions on which ones can move forward and which ones not, so obviously there are a few that pique our interests.”
A majority of commissioners said they would like other projects to receive some of the limited dollars still available in the future, including a proposal from
Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida for a hurricane-safe campus. County staff members were directed to work on an appropriate ask for public funding to support a portion of the $66 million project. County officials said as much as $18 million could eventually be considered for that project alone.
County Commissioner Kevin Ruane said even years later, he would like to see the federal government award more money to the area.
“It’s great to be the recipient of $1.1 billion and I never want to seem ungrateful,” he said. “However, we did submit when we were told verbally you have to go through a process of submitting what your unmet need is, our unmet need submitted was $9.4 billion.”
He said the greatest needs are in affordable housing and senior housing.
But County Commissioner David Mulicka stressed the region also has infrastructure needs that are critical to people working in the area. A father of a special needs child, he also said he wants the county to consider more than $5 million for a LARC shelter, and county officials said they will work to refine a request to meet federal requirements.
In terms of projects approved at the January meeting, $4 million was given for a Habitat for Humanity community in Cape Coral where 14 single-family homes will be built.
The funding for bridges will go to reconstruction for bridges at Hagie Drive and at Constitution Circle, which will both allow clear access in Harlem Heights and San Carlos Park and will improve canal drainage.
Walgreens and Visory Health ink deal
Estero-based Visory Health, a patient-first health tech prescription platform transforming the way veterans, families and caregivers access affordable healthcare through its prescription discount card, announced Walgreens as one of its featured pharmacies, providing consumers with better pricing on prescriptions at Walgreens.
Millions of customers now have access to Visory Health’s discounted prescriptions. Unlike other prescription cards, Visory Health offers a simple experience for pharmacies and patients through accurate pricing information, easy access to savings and true transparency.
“We’re pleased to name Walgreens as a featured pharmacy to expand accessible and affordable medication across the country. With a Walgreens store being located within five miles of nearly 78% of all Americans, customers can now easily use their Visory card at any of Walgreens’ 8,500 locations,” said Alexandra Robertson, Visory Health Senior Vice President of Growth.
Customers can receive up to 80% off of their medication costs by downloading the Visory Health App in the App Store or Google Play Store and then adding the digital prescription card to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. For those who don’t have a digital wallet, the card is also available for download on the “Rx Savings Card” page on Visory Health’s website.
HBK acquires Acuity Human Resources
HBK announced the acquisition of Acuity Human Resources, a provider of human resources consulting services. The move enhances HBK’s infrastructure and aligns with the firm’s strategy to expand service offerings and deliver increased value to its clients and target markets.
“Acuity is a perfect complement to our existing capabilities,” said HBK CEO and Managing Principal Thomas M. Angelo. “Their expertise broadens the scope of services we provide, enabling us to better serve our clients. Beyond their professional credentials, Robert Floreak and his team are a cultural match for our firm and embody our brand values.”
Founded in 2005, Acuity Human Resources is a trusted partner in human resources outsourcing, staffed by professionals with expertise across diverse industries and business sizes. The firm specializes in guiding and supporting strategic business, organizational and HR functions. Acuity creates customized, client-focused solutions to seamlessly align with organizations’ goals, culture and needs.
Robert Floreak, president of Acuity, emphasized the significance of human resources as a cornerstone of successful business operations: “Every company, regardless of size, deserves access to world-class HR expertise. Having worked in cross-functional roles at Fortune 500 organizations, I’ve seen firsthand how exceptional HR practices drive productivity, efficiency and effectiveness, ultimately helping organizations achieve both financial and non-financial objectives.
“Running a business is challenging,” Floreak continued. “It’s not just about managing operations but linking organizational design with strategic objectives. Human resources is often underestimated as a business function, but the world’s most successful companies understand that HR is
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critical to profitability and growth. Leveraging the power of people is key to long-term success.”
Jeremy Hartzell, COO of HBK and the driving force behind the merger, offered insights on the evolving role of human resources: “HR is inherently complex because its primary focus is people, and now more than ever, processes and technologies. Over the past decade, we’ve seen the HR function become more strategic and data-driven. A highperforming HR function is essential to addressing modern workforce challenges. Companies are navigating remote work, work-life balance, flexible scheduling and employee wellbeing as part of a broader, employee-centric approach. This acquisition enables us to offer a vital, high-quality service that aligns with the evolving needs of today’s mid-market business owner-operators.
“This strategic expansion reaffirms HBK’s commitment to providing comprehensive solutions that help organizations thrive,” Hartzell said. “The addition of Acuity Human Resources adds to our powerful combination of expertise and innovation that is helping clients navigate the complexities of modern business.”
HBK provides small to mid-market businesses and their owners and operators a wide range of financial solutions, including accounting, tax, and audit services; wealth management; business valuation; transaction advisory services; forensic accounting; litigation support services; and business consulting, including broad expertise in a number of major industries. The CPA firm dates back to 1949 and added its wealth management practice in 2001.
HBK CPAs & Consultants and HBKS Wealth Advisors serve clients locally out of Florida offices in Fort Myers, Naples, Stuart, Sarasota and Boca Raton.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Suncoast Credit Union Foundation gives $15,000 to Junior Achievement SWFL
Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida announced a charitable gift of $15,000 from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation. Funds will support the JA Inspire program, a career expo aimed at introducing students to diverse job opportunities for the future. This initiative is designed to provide middle and high school students with hands-on learning experiences across various career paths in Southwest Florida.
“We are deeply grateful for the support of the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation and this grant,” said Angela Fisher, Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida president and CEO. “This is more than just funding; it is an investment in the future of our youth and a testament to the power of our community. With this funding, JA can continue to help students explore their potential careers and set them up for future success.”
Suncoast Credit Union, Florida’s largest credit union, founded the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation to promote the education, health and emotional well-being of children in the community. Each time a Suncoast member uses a debit or credit card, the credit union donates two cents to the Foundation to fund local initiatives. Since its inception in 1990, the Foundation has raised and donated over $45 million.
“Preparing the next generation for the future workforce is essential for the growth and sustainability of our communities,” said Bob Hyde, Vice President of Community Impact, Suncoast Credit Union. “Through our support of Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida and the JA Inspire program, we aim to empower students with the tools, insights and hands-on experiences they need to make informed career choices.”
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Record keeping is your business’ new best friend
Let’s be honest, running a small business is a whirlwind. You’re the CEO, the marketer, the customer service rep – you wear every hat imaginable. And somewhere in that chaotic mix, bookkeeping often gets shoved to the bottom of the to-do list.
BY MICHAEL CONTICELLI Guest Columnist
But here’s the deal: your records are the lifeblood of your business. They’re not just for taxes (though those are important!). They tell you if you’re actually making money, where your money is going and where you can cut costs or find new opportunities.
Think of it this way: would you drive a car without knowing how much gas you have? Of course not. Your financial records are your business’s gas gauge.
The tax man is getting serious. They’re investing in technology, and they’re catching more businesses slipping up. But here’s the good news: the tax code actually favors businesses. There are tons of deductions and credits you can claim to save serious cash.
You need to prove it all. Receipts, invoices, bank statements – the IRS wants to see the receipts. If you can’t document it, it didn’t happen.
You don’t need to hire a full-time bookkeeper right away. But you do need a system.
Here’s the approach:
1. Make a commitment: Treat recordkeeping like any other essential business task. Schedule it in your calendar – even if it’s just 30 minutes a week.
2. Choose the right tools: For spreadsheet software, if you’re tech-savvy, Excel or Google Sheets can work. For accounting software, there are tons of user-friendly options like Wave and Xero, many with free plans for small businesses.
3. Keep it simple: Don’t overcomplicate things. Focus on the essentials: Track income and expenses. Reconcile your bank accounts. Organize receipts.
4. Don’t procrastinate: The longer you wait, the harder it gets.
The rewards?
1. Reduced Stress: Knowing your numbers gives you peace of mind.
2. Improved Cash Flow: You’ll spot spending leaks and identify areas for growth.
3. Lower Taxes: Maximize deductions and minimize your tax burden.
Bottom Line
Record-keeping is an investment in your business’s future. It may seem tedious, but it’s crucial for success. Treat it like the essential task it is, and watch your business thrive.
Michael Conticelli, CFS, CDFA is an experienced wealth manager with over 30 years of experience in financial planning, asset management, and small business consulting. He is passionate about helping clients achieve their financial goals. Contact (239) 565-3404 or Michael@ solutionsmoneymanagement.com. Visit SolutionsMoneyManagement.com.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Protect your business from online scams this tax season
The new year brings new opportunities. Not just for you, but also the scammers, identity thieves, cyber criminals and other nefarious characters. Start the year off right by declaring this as the year you reclaim your privacy. This may appear to be an overwhelming task, but have no fear, we’re here to guide you with another step on your journey of reclaiming your privacy.
The ringing in of the new year also ushers in a new tax season. Soon you will be receiving 1099’s, W-2’s, K-1’s or more depending on your sources of income. You’re not the only one waiting on these forms, so too are the criminals. While tax return identity theft, when someone files a tax return using your identity, is not as prevalent as in years past, it’s still a viable threat. However, there are a few steps you can take to minimize your risk and protect your privacy.
Protect your mail
As mentioned earlier, tax related documents will soon hit mailboxes nationwide. But you are not the only ones waiting for your documents. During the first quarter of the year, we typically see an increase in mail theft and mail forwarding and/or change of address fraud. Good news, there’s an easy solution to minimize these threats. What is it? Creating a free online account with the United States Postal Service and activating Informed Delivery.
By signing up for the USPS online account, if someone were to change your address or initiate mail forwarding, you’d receive an email from the USPS. Without an account, USPS would notify you, in writing, by mail. It could take up to a month or more before you’d receive the notice. Yikes! Informed Delivery is a free service from the USPS, that sends you a daily email with images of the first-class mail you’ll receive that day. It’s a fantastic way to monitor physical mail theft. If you’re
BY CARRIE KERSKIE Guest Columnist
supposed to receive five pieces of mail and only receive four, wait a day or two. If after the third day you’ve still have not received it, log in to your USPS.com account and report it as missing. Informed Delivery stores mail images online for seven days.
Because the service is based on the person (name) and not just the mailing address, I recommend anyone that receives mail in your household to set up a free online account. If not, the person not registered wouldn’t receive email notification of change of address or mail forwarding in their name.
IRS IP PIN
Informed Delivery minimizes the risk of someone stealing the tax documents you will receive by mail, but it does nothing to prevent tax return identity theft. Fortunately, there is something that will prevent it - an IRS IP (Identity Protection) PIN. By registering for the IP PIN program, you’ll be assigned a new IP PIN every tax year. You’ll put that IP PIN on your return to verify that it is your return. If someone else should submit a return under your name without the IP PIN, the IRS will automatically reject it.
The IP PIN is NOT the same as the PIN used to track the status of your return or refund. That is a separate PIN. An IP PIN is another PIN and has its own space on the return form, whether submitting it electronically or by mail. If you use a CPA or tax preparer, just give them your IP PIN for that tax year. Retrieving your IP PIN is easy and can be done online. However, you must first activate it and create your online account. As of this writing, any US taxpayer is eligible to request an IP PIN.
Golden Boat Lifts announces patent-pending aluminum drill-less multi-directional adjustable bunk system.
Golden Boat Lifts introduces aluminum drill-less bunk system
Golden Boat Lifts has introduced its patent-pending Aluminum Drillless Multi-Directional Adjustable Bunk System, an innovative development aimed at improving efficiency and reliability for marinas, marine contractors and boat trailer manufacturers.
This new system addresses a common challenge in the marine and trailer industries: the time-consuming and often damaging process of drilling holes to install and adjust bunks. By eliminating the need for drilling, the system streamlines installation and reconfiguration, saving time and preserving the structural integrity of materials. Its slotted aluminum design, secured with carriage bolts, enables precise adjustments to accommodate a wide variety of vessels without permanent alterations.
“This is the most innovative improvement to the boating industry in
many years,” said Bill Golden, owner and CEO of Golden Boat Lifts & Marine Systems. The system has broad applications for marinas managing diverse fleets and for boat trailer manufacturers seeking adaptable and durable bunk systems. Its aluminum construction ensures longevity while preventing material degradation common with traditional methods. The drill-free design not only reduces installation time but also provides a clean, professional appearance, free of unnecessary holes or damage.
Golden Boat Lifts’ Aluminum Drill-less Multi-Directional Adjustable Bunk System is the first of its kind in the industry. By addressing long-standing inefficiencies in bunk installation and adjustment, it highlights the company’s commitment to advancing practical solutions for realworld challenges.
Sending Sensitive Information
One more item to add is correspondence with sensitive information, like an SSN. Remember emails are unsecure, unless you’re using an end-to-end encrypted email service. One example is ProtonMail. Gmail and other free email services are not secure. If you’re sending sensitive information by either typing it in the body of the email or as an attachment, there’s a chance it could be intercepted. Ask your accountant or the organization requesting your sensitive information if they have a method of sending your sensitive information securely. If not, call them and provide it verbally. Depending on your proximity to the location, you could also drop off the documents in person. When in doubt, error on the side of caution. Your privacy will thank you.
Tax Related Scams
Finally, be on the lookout for tax related scams. These could be phishing emails, calls or text messages. Many may claim to be from the IRS, but they are not. The IRS will not call you. They typically start by sending you something in writing, by mail. When in doubt, call the IRS at 800-829-1040. Yes, you’ll have to wait on hold, but it’s time well spent as opposed to mitigating a scam after the fact.
Now it’s time for you to act. Which of these tax season prevention measures will you implement to begin your journey of reclaiming your privacy this year?
Carrie Kerskie, a nationally recognized identity theft and privacy expert located in Southwest Florida, founded the Kerskie Group in 2001, a private investigation agency dedicated to helping identity theft victims to recover effectively and efficiently. She is also the author of “Your Public Identity: Because Nothing is Private Anymore.” Contact her at ck@ kerskie.com .
IBA ProteusONE arrives at Southwest Florida Proton
Southwest Florida Proton has received delivery of its IBA ProteusONE, a state-of-the-art proton therapy machine that is bringing a superior form of cancer treatment to the region.
The technology arrived on a convoy of 10 semitrucks over 10 days, representing the last phase of a cross-Atlantic journey that started at IBA’s manufacturing facility in Belgium. Assembly, testing and calibration is expected to take nine to 12 months.
“IBA’s ProteusONE is considered the best-inclass technology of the proton world, the leading cancer-fighting technology available anywhere on Earth,” said Dr. Arie Dosoretz, a radiation oncologist and managing partner of Southwest Florida Proton. “This machine is a game-changer for cancer care in the region and will eliminate the need for Southwest Floridians to travel across the state or beyond to receive the care they deserve.”
Once the ProteusONE is fully operational next fall, Southwest Florida Proton will become the first proton therapy center on Florida’s west coast. There are only 46 proton therapy centers in the U.S.
According to the National Association for Proton Therapy, proton therapy is an effective treatment option for cancers of the brain and spine, breast, esophagus, head and neck, liver, lung, eye, pancreas and prostate, as well as lymphomas and soft tissue sarcomas.
Studies indicate proton therapy can be a safe option for patients that have undergone prior radiation treatment and can reduce the long-term risks of radiation in pediatric cancer patients.
Proton therapy is an advanced form of radiation therapy that uses charged proton particles to destroy cancer cells. Protons have the unique ability to travel into a target, but not beyond it, potentially reducing side effects and complications that patients can experience during and after cancer treatments.
“Traditional radiation therapy is highly effective and the recommended course of action for many types of cancers, but proton therapy is quickly be-
coming a favored alternative because it offers extra protection for vital organs and nearby tissue while reducing side effects,” said Dr. Todd Pezzi, a radiation oncologist and one of the medical directors at Southwest Florida Proton. “Proton therapy represents the future of radiation, and it’s exciting that we’ll soon be able to offer it here in Southwest Florida.”
Located on Estero Oaks Drive in Estero, Southwest Florida Proton will be housed inside a 42,000-square-foot, three-story facility that also is home to Advocate Radiation Oncology, which pro
vides traditional radiation therapy services, and Lee Health, which operates a diagnostic imaging cen
ter with Positron Emission Tomography, Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging capabilities.
STARability Foundation launches Home Collection store
STARability Foundation is thrilled to announce the launch of its Home Collection, a new upscale resale store located on 9th Street in Naples. The new store opened to the public on Nov. 8.
STARability recently relocated its popular resale store to an expanded location, allowing the organization to showcase a wider range of stunning products across a variety of price points. Curated by top designers, the new Home Collection features an array of products from furniture to statement décor. Every purchase supports the STARability Foundation and its programs to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“We are excited to share our new Home Collection with the community,” said Karen Govern, chief executive officer at STARability Foundation. “Thanks to the expertise of designer Monica Lukas of Monica Lukas Design, we’ve created a warm, welcoming space filled with stylish, high-quality furniture and décor to enhance any home. In addition to offering beautiful design, the Home Collection provides valuable vocational training and employment opportunities for our STAR participants. It has been inspiring to see their hard work and joy as they helped prepare the store for opening.”
Equipment Leasing Specialist
“You’ve Tried The Rest, Now Go With The Best”
Two well-known local professionals put their stamp on the store – interior designer Lisa Kahn of Lisa Kahn Designs and luxury retailer Anne Fleming, formerly of Waterside Shops.
The new store not only features an incredible selection of previously loved designs carefully curated for their style and craftmanship, but will also showcase unique and exclusive creations from artists across the country.
STARability’s Home Collection is located on U.S. 41 and offers ample parking. For information about upcoming events or STARability’s social enterprise programs, visit STARability.org. To make a donation to the Home Collection, contact homecollection@starability.org.
For four decades, STARability Foundation has been shining a light on abilities. Formed by a small community of caring parents, STARability has become one of Southwest Florida’s leading nonprofits. Today, the organization is opening a world of possibilities for hundreds of individuals ages 14 and older by offering a variety of inclusive programs focused on vocational training, continuing education, teamwork, social engagement and community involvement.
JOBS PAGE 1
FloridaCommerce announced Florida job creators added 60,100 private sector jobs in November, surpassing pre-hurricane levels and demonstrating the state’s resilience in recovering from the impacts of Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton. Florida’s statewide unemployment rate has remained lower than the national unemployment rate for 49 consecutive months.
As of November, Florida’s private sector employment was 25,100 jobs higher than in September, prior to Hurricanes Helene and Milton making landfall.
Over the past three months, the state averaged an increase of 8,733 private sector jobs per month—a faster pace than the three months leading up to Hurricane Milton. Florida job creators added jobs in 51 of the past 55 months since May 2020.
Notably, November 2024 marks the first time Florida’s total nonagricultural employment has exceeded 10 million jobs.
“Under Governor DeSantis’ decisive leadership, Florida’s quick bounce-back is evidence of Florida’s commitment to recovery,” said Florida Commerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly. “This effort— from opening roads and bridges, to getting utilities back on and schools back open along with putting resources and opportunities into communities immediately after the storms—helped keep Florida’s businesses open and employees on payroll.”
The leisure and hospitality sector gained the most jobs over the month of November, up 30,500 jobs or 2.3%. This industry gained back 12,900 more jobs than were lost in October. Florida’s statewide unemployment rate in November 2024 is 3.4%, up 0.1 percentage point from the previous month’s rate and 0.8 percentage point below the national average rate of 4.2%.
Teams of technicians guide the cyclotron into position through a custom hatch in the roof.
Construction crews install the marquee sign at Southwest Florida Proton.
GUEST COMMENTARY
Looking back at 2024 tourism in Collier County
With 2024 wrapped, we’re excited to share some highlights of our visitation statistics for the year. Between Oct. 1, 2023, and Sept. 30, 2024, Collier County welcomed 2,759,700 visitors – a 4.6% increase compared to last year.
These visitors brought $2.85 billion in direct spending to our local businesses, creating an overall economic impact of nearly $4 billion ($3,952,236,800) for our region. The Tourist Development Tax (TDT), paid by visitors through overnight stays, continues to be an economic driver for our community.
It helps fund essential projects like beach renourishment, maintenance for our recreational parks, and programming at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex. It also supports our county museums, which offer free admission to both residents and visitors year-round. And here’s a fun fact: TDT collections save every Collier County household an estimated $1,694 annually.
Where did these visitors come from?
• Florida: 643,900 overnight visits
• Out-of-state: 2,115,800 stays. Our strongest markets remain the Midwest and Northeast, with the latter showing strong year-over-year growth. We’ve also seen
international visitation make a strong comeback, though it hasn’t quite hit 2019’s record numbers just yet. Key international markets include Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany. New air services into RSW, like flights from Canada (Porter Airlinexs, Lynx Air) and Frankfurt (Discover Airlines), have played a big role in this growth.
Tourism’s Local Impact
The travel and tourism industry remains a major economic driver, supporting over 32,250 jobs this year and generating $1.41 billion in wages for our hardworking industry professionals. But tourism isn’t just about the numbers. It enriches our lifestyle, fuels cultural and recreational opportunities, and ensures the Florida Paradise Coast remains a truly special place for generations.
Big Wins and Accolades
Last year was packed with recognition for our region and partners! Here are a few highlights:
• Naples was named the #1 Best Place to Live in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report.
• Marco Island earned a spot among the Top U.S. Islands by Condé Nast Traveler.
How do you build rapport with your customer?
Question: Although I research my customers and prepare my presentations in advance, I find it difficult to close the sale. What am I doing wrong?
Answer: Trust is the basis of any meaningful and lasting relationship. It doesn’t matter how good your presentation may be, if the person you are trying to convince doesn’t trust you, then you won’t sell them anything. However, if you do have their trust, you can realistically expect a positive response more often than not. There are four basic steps a good sales person should follow to build rapport and, hopefully, ensure a favorable outcome:
Step 1: Mirror their body language
You must be a chameleon and adapt to your environment. Take note of your prospect’s posture, gestures, facial expressions, speech patterns and accent. If he or she talks fast, then so should you. People feel comfortable when they are around someone who looks, acts and sounds like them. You don’t want to appear to be mocking them, so be careful not to overdo it. This is a practiced art and the more you do it, the more natural it will become for you.
Step 2: Ask a question
Begin the process by asking a question that requires more than a yes or no answer. The goal is to get the prospect talking. You must engage in a conversation before you get down to business.
You want them to come to know you as a person. Once you hear some trigger words, use them as leverage to continue a conversation purely about their interests. An example would be if you hear that they like sports, get into a conversation about sports.
Step 3: Introduce whatever you are selling
At the appropriate time, discreetly bring up what-
BY GRAY POEHLER Guest Columnist
ever it is you’re selling, intertwined with your conversation. Learn how to make proper transitions and be careful with the way you reference it as you don’t want to set off their “salesman alarm.”
Your goal is to get them involved and to ask you questions about your product or service. If you have done your homework and understand the client’s needs, it shouldn’t be difficult to steer the conversation to how you may have the answers and solutions.
Step 4: The close “Ask for the Sale”
If you have followed steps 1 through 3 precisely, then by the time you are at step 4, you and the prospect should be having a productive conversation. One of the most common mistakes someone in sales can make is failure to ask for the sale. In most cases it stems from a fear of rejection. You must learn to overcome this fear or begin to look for another line of work.
Every customer experience has value. If you fail to close the sale, ask yourself several questions. Did I talk too much and listen too little? What didn’t I say that could have made a difference? Learn from your mistakes and resolve to not make the same mistakes again.
Gray Poehler is a volunteer with the Naples Chapter of SCORE, Counselors to America’s Small Business. To ask a question or request free and confidential business counseling, call (239) 430-0081 or log on to score.org/naples/local-mentors.
• Several of our accommodation partners shined in Convention South’s Annual Reader’s Choice Awards, including Inn on Fifth, JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, and our own Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades CVB.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Naples was recognized for its Presidential Suite as one of Elite Traveler’s Top 50 Family Suites and landed on Travel + Leisure’s 2024 “It List”.
• FishingBooker ranked Naples the #8 fishing town in Florida and named six local fishing guides among the best in the world.
• Rising Tide Explorers in Everglades City was recognized as the #3 Best Tour in the U.S. in USA Today’s Ten Best Awards.
• Dr. Beach ranked Delnor-Wiggins Pass among the Top 10 Beaches in the Country.
• OpenTable highlighted Sails as one of the Best Restaurants in the U.S.
We want to say thank you for continued partnership and support. We couldn’t do this without you!
Naples Marco Island Everglades Convention and Visitors Bureau can be reached at (239) 252-6292.
SanCap Chamber reports year-end increases, successes
SanCap Chamber membership numbers grew from 121 active members in 2023 to 452 in 2024, John Lai, chamber president and chief executive officer, reported to the board of directors.
“This growth is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our board and staff, the support of our business community, and the value the chamber continues to provide,” Lai said. “The demand for our services continues to trend upwards, evident in the increase we’ve seen in web visits, Wander map downloads, and foot traffic in our visitor center.”
He underscored the success of the Preserving Paradise leadership program, which has received positive feedback from participants, collaborators, legislators and all supporting organizations. Other triumphs in 2024 include 46 ribbon-cuttings, the return of the chamber annual meeting and awards, partnering with the city in planning Sanibel’s 50th anniversary, the first State of the Islands event and the robust return of Luminary Stroll.
Looking ahead to 2025, Lai expressed optimism for continued impressive hurricane recovery efforts. “With more than 42 percent of our hotel room inventory expected to be available by February 2025 and 65 percent by December 2025, we are confident that our community will rebound stronger than ever,” he said.
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DR. MLK DOWNTOWN
HM Restaurant Group buys Bonita Bill’s restaurant
HM Restaurant Group, owner and operator of Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille and Dixie Fish Company, announced the acquisition of Bonita Bill’s Waterfront Restaurant & Bar. The Fort Myers Beach establishment will soon be reimagined as Bonita Fish Company, a fresh take on a local favorite that pays homage to its rich history and waterfront charm.
Originally built in 1926 as Bonita Fish House, the restaurant holds a storied past as a gathering place for the Fort Myers Beach community. Its name and history echo the neighboring Dixie Fish Company, which has stood as an original fish house since 1937. Together, these establishments represent a significant chapter in the coastal heritage of Fort Myers Beach, one that HM Restaurant Group is proud to carry forward.
“We’re excited to embrace the tradition and history of this exceptional property and its reputation of fresh fish and seafood, great food and drinks and unbeatable views,” said Joe Harrity,
partner with HM Restaurant Group.
“So many people have fond memories of Bonita Bill’s and one of our goals with Bonita Fish Company is to preserve that, and continue to be a go-to place for tourists and locals alike.”
Bonita Bill’s has long been a popular place for community gatherings, featuring waterfront dining, live music and an inviting atmosphere that captured the essence of Fort Myers Beach.
HM Restaurant Group will honor this legacy through thoughtful renovations that retain the rustic charm and character locals and visitors have come to love.
Bonita Fish Company will complement the neighboring Dixie Fish Company by offering a fresh, coastal-inspired menu, featuring local seafood, creative dishes and a continuation of the warm hospitality for which the
group is known.
Renovations are set to begin immediately, with the restaurant temporarily closing during this transformation. Bonita Fish Company is expected to open its doors in early to mid-2025.
“Our goal is to create a place that pays tribute to the cherished memories made at Bonita Bill’s and also invites new generations to create their own,” Harrity said. “Bonita Fish Company will feature the same gracious hospitality and exceptional food Doc Ford’s and Dixie Fish Company are known for.”
Bonita Fish Company is located on Fishermans Wharf in Fort Myers Beach.
HM Restaurant Group is a familyoriented hospitality leader with Florida roots and a people-first culture. Established in 2003 with the opening of Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille on Sanibel, HM Restaurant owns and operates four Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille locations in Southwest Florida and St. Petersburg and Dixie Fish Company on Fort Myers Beach.
Stevens Construction named 2024 Best Contractor to work for by Best Companies Group
Stevens Construction has been recognized as one of the 2024 Best Contractors to work for in Construction by Best Companies Group, announced Daniel Adams, executive vice president of Stevens Construction. Best Companies Group conducted an assessment
to evaluate Stevens Construction, with 25% based on policy excellence and 75% on employee satisfaction. Team members provided anonymous feedback measuring corporate culture, training and development opportunities, salary, benefits and overall employee satisfaction.
Stevens Construction earned six best workplace awards in 2024 from various organizations including Fortune, Florida Trend, Gulfshore Business, and Great Place to Work.
With headquarters in Fort Myers and an office in Orlando, Stevens Construction has 64 team members.
Feb. 13, 2025 | 7:30am - 12:30pm
Topics and speakers to include:
• CPA, NAR Director of Tax Policy - Evan Liddiard
• 2025 Commercial Insurance Update - Brian Chapman
• Office & Medical Expansion - Adam Palmer, CCIM
• Future of Alico Airport Corridor - Jerry Messonnier, SIOR
• FGCU /CCIM University Alliance - Dr. H Shelton Weeks
• CoStar Group - Michelle Rumore
• FL Dept of Transportation - Wayne Gaither
• Barrier Islands Update - Stan Stouder, CCIM
• CCIM Global President - Steve Rich, CCIM
• SWFL Multi County EDO Reports
HM Restaurant Group announced the acquisition of Bonita Bill’s Waterfront Restaurant & Bar. The Fort Myers Beach establishment will soon be reimagined as Bonita Fish Company.
Renowned chronic pain specialist to open Integrated Pain Solutions
Dr. Curt Draeger, a leading chronic pain specialist known for treating Olympic and professional athletes, will bring his drug-free pain management approach to Southwest Florida. Integrated Pain Solutions officially opened its doors on Jan. 6 on Riverview Center Boulevard in Bonita Springs.
After decades of successful practice in Wisconsin, Draeger said he is excited to relocate and expand his mission of delivering advanced pain relief therapies to those who suffer from chronic
pain conditions.
“Our goal at Integrated Pain Solutions is to provide patients with non-invasive treatments that focus on addressing the root cause of pain to help them heal and reclaim their quality of life,” Draeger said.
The Bonita Springs clinic will offer comprehensive treatment for a variety of chronic pain conditions, including:
PJK Neighborhood Chinese restaurant opens its second location at Coconut Point
PJK Neighborhood Chinese, part of the Naples-based Paul Fleming Restaurant Group, announced it is bringing its elevated Chinese-inspired cuisine Estero with the opening of its second location in Coconut Point.
Opened on Dec. 19, the new PJK location features more than 6,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor seating, with expansive dining spaces, private dining areas and an open kitchen where guests can observe the culinary craftsmanship.
“We are thrilled to mark an exciting new chapter for the growing PJK brand,” said Jody Goodenough-Fleming, founder of PJK Neighborhood Chinese. “This second location is a reflection of my personal passion, brought to life through every menu item and design choice. PJK is driven by our team’s hard work and the community’s love for exceptional dining. What started as a single restaurant location has grown into a thriving brand, and I am excited to see PJK become a key part of the Paul Fleming Restaurant Group.”
The new PJK location combines a modern design with creative touches, resulting in an inviting and dynamic dining experience.
While offering many of the same beloved favorites as the original restaurant in the heart of Old Naples, such as hand-crafted dumplings, classic wok-tossed specialties and Chef’s exclusive dishes, PJK also introduced a lunch menu.
Each of the dishes at PJK Neighborhood Chinese is designed to be complimented by a curated collection of wines personally selected by Paul Fleming, sakes or a variety of hand-crafted cocktails.
PJK Coconut Point occupies a formerly vacant space next to Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Its transformation to PJK Neighborhood Chinese is being managed by DeAngelis Diamond, an local construction management firm.
Babcock Ranch recognized as a Top 10 master-planned community
Babcock Ranch was recognized as the 10th best-selling master-planned community by John Burns Research and Consulting. The rankings are based on the town’s 797 homes sales in 2024.
“Babcock Ranch had another phenomenal year,” said Syd Kitson, chairman and CEO of developer Kitson & Partners. “We welcomed over 1,000 new families to a better way of life, completed five parks in The PKWY and opened the new 23-acre William & Mary Ann Smith Sports Complex which hosted Babcock High School’s first home football game.”
Fully furnished villa, townhome and single-family model homes highlight the dozens of one- and two-story floor plans by regional and national homebuilders Christopher Alan Homes, DiVosta, D.R. Horton, Florida Lifestyle Homes, Lennar, Meritage Homes, Park Square Homes, Pulte Homes, Toll Brothers and William Ryan Homes. Newly introduced rental neighborhoods, including single-family homes for rent at The Flatwoods, provide more options for living at Babcock Ranch.
Created by Kitson & Partners with the philosophy that smart growth and sustainability work hand-in-hand, half of Babcock Ranch’s town’s footprint is set aside as greenways, parks and expansive lakes, providing recreation and scenic backdrops for homes and businesses. A top 10 best-selling master-planned community for three consecutive years, the town is planned for 19,500 residences and approximately 6 million square feet of commercial space.
Built to Florida Green Building Coalition standards, homes emphasize energy and water conservation and have a full gig of fiber-optic connectivity. Prices range from the upper-$200,000s to $4 million.
back and neck pain; shoulder and joint injuries; knee and leg pain; failed back and joint surgeries; and athletic injuries
Integrated Pain Solutions brings therapies once reserved for elite athletes to the general public, making cutting-edge pain relief accessible to everyone. The clinic’s non-invasive approach fosters true healing at the source of a person’s pain without the need for medications, invasive procedures, or risky side effects.
Central to Draeger’s process is High Intensity Laser Therapy, an
FDA-cleared treatment that delivers healing light energy deep into bones, soft tissues, and muscles. Proven to deliver exceptional results, HILT has helped countless patients regain mobility and significantly reduce chronic pain symptoms.
Draeger is a pioneer in laser therapy and co-developed the Class 4 High Intensity Lasers used at Integrated Pain Solutions clinics. His life’s work is dedicated to helping patients overcome chronic pain and live more active and fulfilling lives.
LSI brokers motel in Downtown Fort Myers
LSI Companies brokered a 26-unit Motel in Fort Myers for $1.2 million. The property was acquired by E & E Home Builder from Zally & Charlie. The property is located on First Street in Fort Myers. The seller was represented by Alex Henderson, Max Molloy and Sawyer Gregory of LSI Companies, and the buyer was represented by Omar Alonso of RT Commercial Real Estate.
LSI Companies is Southwest Florida’s leading full-service real estate brokerage and development firm.
The company specializes in all aspects of site development, current market and valuation issues, acquisition and disposition services, due diligence evaluation, zoning and permitting, work-out projects, asset management and appraisals.
Draeger
SanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting celebrates permanent home for island nonprofit
As the staff of Trailways Camp grows and the organization gained nonprofit status in 2022, it was time for the 12-year-old program to establish a permanent home base on Sanibel Island, where it began.
On Jan. 7, the SanCap Chamber helped celebrate the opening of Trailways’ new office on Causeway Road, as the chamber visitor center’s latest neighbors.
“SanCap Gateway Realty offered newly remodeled space and an enabling discounted rental opportunity in 2024,” said Trailways Camp vice chair Sharon Miller. “The Causeway Road location is ideal for ease of access by the Sanibel and off-island located residents with whom the team interacts daily. The location is also next door to the chamber headquarters, which facilitates information flow about the community, and collaboration with the members, businesses, and organizations who are the heart of post-hurricane development.”
“How great to welcome Trailways to the neigh-
borhood,” said John Lai, SanCap Chamber president and chief executive officer. “Sanibel residents Sharon and Jerry Miller and their late son, Benjamin – a well-known figure on the island – have done an incredible job providing camping experiences to special-needs adults. With the help of the Charitable Foundation of the Islands, they’re now able to grow and stabilize.”
Previously, meeting and training operations were conducted from homes, donated spaces, storage units, and “rolling suitcases,” Miller said. Since 2012, Trailways Camp has provided 37 overnight camp sessions that encourage connecting with neighbors, building friendships, and participating in community life. In 2025, Lee County United Way approved Trailways as a partner agency.
“The leadership, training, and developmental guidance of the Charitable Foundation of the Islands has been vital to maintaining excellent core functions of a new nonprofit organization in its home community,” Miller said.
Brook Farm Group completes groundbreaking on 265-unit multifamily project
Brook Farm Group, together with its co-development partner, Rail Gauge Partners, recently broke ground on The Sinclair at Palm Pointe, a 265-unit, Class A multifamily development on Palm Point Court in Fort Myers.
The development team acquired the shovel-ready site with all necessary zoning, parking and infrastructure approvals in place, allowing the team to bring units to the market by early 2026.
“We are excited to begin construction on this unique in-fill multifamily development,” said Peter DiCorpo, chief operating officer of Brook Farm Group. “The Sinclair at Palm Pointe will become an important residential anchor for this established retail corridor and provide a modern, amenity-rich community for renters working in the area’s growing employment corridors.”
The development is on an 8.5-acre infill site in a desirable, established neighborhood along the U.S. 41 corridor. It is located within an existing retail center in a fast-growing section of the Cape Coral – Fort Myers metropolitan area and is within walking distance of restaurants and retail establishments. The community will include two, four-story buildings with elevator service and 467 parking spaces. The units will average 909 square feet.
“This is an incredible opportunity to acquire a well located, in-fill site along the primary retail corridor in the rapidly growing Fort Myers market,” said Eric Hade, Brook Farm’s Chief Investment Officer. “With comparatively fewer construction starts in the Fort Myers area during 2024, we expect limited competition when the property is ready for leasing in 2026.”
Details of the project
• The development offers direct access to downtown Fort Myers as well as Cape Coral and Estero and is a short drive to the Southwest Florida International Airport.
• The city of Fort Myers has experienced 43% population growth since 2010 and is expected to expand further through 2027.
• Renters will have access to nearby retail amenities, such as Starbucks, Dunkin’, Zaxby’s and FedEx. Larger retailers such as Target, Sam’s Club, Trader Joes and Publix are within a few miles of the site.
• The development site also offers proximity to Lee Health, a top-rated healthcare system and the largest employer in Southwest Florida.
On Jan. 7, the SanCap Chamber helped celebrate the opening of Trailways Camp’s new office on Causeway Road on Sanibel Island.
Capital Wealth announces partnership with Bray Capital
Capital Wealth Advisors, a Naples-based provider of personalized wealth management solutions that is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, is pleased to announce that it is partnering with Bray Capital Advisors, also located in Naples.
As part of this strategic partnership, the entire Bray Capital Advisors team, led by Founder and Managing Director Christopher P. Bray, will join Capital Wealth Advisors. This transition aims to provide a continuity of relationships and service while combining the strengths of the two advisory firms. Bray Capital Advisors personnel will begin the process of transitioning to Capital Wealth Advisors over the next several weeks, and existing Bray clients will be given the opportunity to join CWA through new advisory agreements.
Together, the firms will have approximately 55 employees providing an expanded suite of personalized services, including private wealth management, estate planning, and financial planning, tailored to their goal of meeting the unique needs of their clients.
Clients of both firms can look forward to the opportunity of expanded resources and capabilities with continued guidance from the same advisors who
have guided them over the years. Capital Wealth Advisors and Bray Capital Advisors are united in their mission to place client service at the forefront while
ACC Medlink announces expansion to fleet of Mercedes Sprinter Vans
Punta Gorda-based ACC Medlink, a leader in long-distance medical transportation, announced a 20% expansion to its fleet of Mercedes Sprinter vans. This strategic move further cements the company’s position as the go-to provider for patients and families seeking the highest standard of non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) across the United States.
With a reputation for excellence, ACC Medlink continues to set benchmarks for safety, comfort and reliability in the NEMT industry. The new vehicles in the expanded fleet are equipped with cutting-edge technology and medical-grade amenities, ensuring that every client’s journey is conducted with the utmost professionalism and care.
As demand for long-distance medical transportation surges, ACC Medlink officials said the company will rise to meet the challenge. With this expansion, the company further solidifies its dominance, offering capacity to serve patients requiring specialized transportation across state lines.
“No other provider matches the level of care, comfort, and reliability that ACC Medlink delivers,” said Michael Peat, CEO of ACC Medlink.
“This fleet expansion is yet another
demonstration of our commitment to maintaining our leadership and exceeding the expectations of our clients and their families.”
ACC Medlink’s fleet of Mercedes Sprinter vans have become synonymous with luxury and care in the medical transportation industry. The upgraded vehicles boast:
• Advanced Medical Amenities: ACC Medlink made multi-milliondollar investments in building out their Sprinter Transporters, including fully automatic Ferno Stretcher systems, reclining captain’s chairs for accompanying family members and stateof-the-art climate control systems to ensure maximum comfort.
• Unmatched Safety: GPS tracking, advanced braking systems and rigorous safety protocols ensure peace of mind for patients and their loved ones.
• Tailored Configurations: Flexible layouts designed to accommodate various medical needs, including wheelchair accessibility and specialized medical equipment.
ACC Medlink’s growth is driven by a relentless focus on innovation and client satisfaction. The expansion of its fleet is part of a larger vision to redefine the standards for long-distance medical transportation.
leveraging the strengths of both teams in an effort to deliver even greater value.
“We are thrilled to welcome the talented team at Bray Capital Advisors to Capital Wealth Advisors,” said William Beynon, President and CEO of Capital Wealth Advisors.
“This partnership reflects our shared values and vision. By joining forces, we can offer an even broader range of services, particularly in estate and financial planning, while maintaining the personalized attention our clients expect and deserve.”
Christopher Bray, founder of Bray Capital Advisors, added, “We are excited to join Capital Wealth Advisors and bring together two firms that share a dedication to putting clients first. Our combined resources will allow us to offer even more to the individuals and families who we serve, while maintaining the service that has always defined Bray Capital Advisors.”
Both Beynon and Bray noted the partnership of Bray Capital Advisors and Capital Wealth Advisors represents a significant step forward in providing comprehensive wealth management solutions for clients not only in the Naples area but other parts of the United States and beyond.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Lee Clerk’s annual financial report wins national award
The Lee County Clerk’s office was honored with its 39th consecutive award from the Government Finance Officers Association for excellence in financial reporting. The Annual Comprehensive Financial Report was awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence, which is the highest form of recognition in government accounting and financial reporting.
The Clerk’s office produces the 200-plus page report after each fiscal year. The document details Lee County government’s revenue and spending, and it contains audited county financial statements for the Board of County Commissioners, Clerk of the Circuit Court, Property Appraiser, Sheriff, Supervisor of Elections and Tax Collector. It also lists the county’s statements of net assets, balances of funds, investments and debt information.
“I couldn’t be prouder of the Lee Clerk team for producing yet another award-winning annual report,” said Lee Clerk Kevin Karnes. “To be
Mention this ad and receive 20%OFF labor charges on your first mailing.
recognized with this honor for the 39th consecutive year demonstrates our office’s commitment to ensuring transparency of county taxpayer dollars.”
The GFOA award was established in 1945 to encourage state and local governments to increase financial transparency. The reports are judged by accountants and financial experts throughout the country.
As Clerk of the Circuit Court, Karnes serves as Lee County’s comptroller, auditor, recorder and custodian of all county funds. Through the comptroller function of his role, Karnes is responsible for managing and investing more than $2 billion of Lee County’s tax dollars as well as auditing and paying more than $1 billion in county bills annually. Last fiscal year, his office also collected more than $44 million in tourist tax.
For more information about county finances and to download the Lee Clerk’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, visit leeclerk.org/ finances.
Capital Wealth Advisors announced it is partnering with Bray Capital Advisors. Pictured is William Beynon, right, with Christopher Bray.
In Lee and Collier counties, there are three FPL EVolution public fast charging sites where EV drivers can plug in and travel with confidence during their travels.
Use of electric vehicles in Lee, Collier leaps by 30% over course of a year
New data from electric vehicle research group
IHS Markit shows Collier and Lee counties saw a 30% increase in the number of EV registrations compared to a year ago.
Statewide, electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle registrations are currently at nearly 300,000 total vehicles, 244,000 of which are fully battery electric vehicles – which is up by a third in just the past year. In June of 2023 – that number was 225,000 electric and plug-in vehicles, 178,000 of which are fully electric.
Florida Power & Light Company’s EVolution program is making charging along Florida’s busiest highways a breeze, with a growing number of public fast charging stations where EV drivers can plug in and travel with confidence during their travels.
In Lee and Collier counties, there are three FPL EVolution public fast charging sites, which can
power up most electric vehicles in about 30 minutes. Additional fast chargers are expected to come to Fort Myers and Arcadia this year.
Lee County saw the number of fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle registrations jump from 7,095 in 2023 to 9,245 in 2024 as of April – a 30% increase in the number of EV registrations. Collier County saw a 30% increase over that same time frame jumping from 5,956 to 7,742.
“As electric vehicle registrations continue to surge across Florida, FPL is committed to providing comprehensive charging solutions that support EV adoption and create a seamless experience for drivers,” said Crystal Stiles, executive director of development for distributed technologies & mobility for FPL. “Our FPL EVolution public charging network is a valuable boost for Florida’s EV owners who need access to fast, reliable, and convenient charging options.”
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Tax season is scam season
BY SCOTT NELSON Guest Columnist
• Scam sources are typically over the phone, email and even in person!
• The IRS does not initiate contact by email or request personal or financial information in this format.
• The IRS typically initiates contact via mail.
• On rare occasion the IRS will call. When this happens, get the IRS agent’s name and badge number. Then hang up and call the IRS independently (not the phone number they give you). Better still, call your tax professional.
• Email phishing. If you receive a suspicious email do not open it or any links. Do not reply or open attachments. Report it to phishing@irs.gov.
• Phone scams. Do not give personal information to unsolicited phone calls from the IRS. Even if it looks legitimate. Scammers are getting good at spoofing legitimate phone numbers on your caller ID. Report the caller ID and call back number to the IRS using phishing@irs.gov. Put IRS phone scam in the subject line.
• Payment. Only pay the US Treasury directly. Do not pay anyone else, even if they threaten you. No one is allowed to collect money directly from you. Finally, the IRS and Federal Trade Commission have tons of material regarding these thieves and their techniques. Become familiar with them and reach out for help, as a tax professional may be able to help read through the scam.
Scott Nelson is the founder of Nelson CPA. Contact (239) 829-5979 or scott@nelsonas.com
How business owners can monitor AI usage, improve adoption
We’ve discussed how AI can increase productivity and how it’s changing what we measure to prove workers are productive. But how can you tell that your staff are using the AI tools you’ve invested in and encourage adoption?
Most workers want AI to streamline low-level tasks and simplify projects, but some may not see the benefits. Getting these stragglers on board starts with showing how many people are actually using AI and the massive improvements it can make to their daily workflow.
How people are using AI at work
The majority of knowledge workers are using AIpowered tools at work; most studies in 2024 put the number at around 75%. However, roughly the same number of people are confused about using AI at work. This is where managers come in. Ensure your people know which tools are most effective and how best to use them. Also, provide adequate training to fully utilize them and build confidence in their ability to help rather than waste time.
In an internal Prodoscore study, we found the AI adopters use tools such as CoPilot, ChatGPT or Gemini at least once, with half of them using AI tools more than five times daily. When people know what AI can do, they tend to make it a part of their daily work routine. The same study shows on average, AI users are 21% more productive than nonusers, making it a no-brainer to upgrade everyone in your organization to being an AI user.
The study identified three usage groups:
• Toe-dippers - Averaged one minute and two seconds on one-time usage.
• Foot-waders - Accessed tools two to four times, spending about two minutes and 36 seconds each time.
• Swimmers - Used tools five or more times, averaging five minutes and 53 seconds per use.
Your goal as a manager is to upgrade your people from toe-dippers to swimmers. However, it’s essential to do this in a way that makes them confident and
“For over a century, Alico has been proud to be one of Florida’s leading citrus producers and a dedicated steward of its agricultural land, but we must now reluctantly adapt to changing environmental and economic realities,” said John Kiernan, Alico’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our citrus production has declined approximately 73% over the last 10 years, despite significant investments in land, trees and citrus disease treatments, and the current harvest will likely be lower in volume than the previous season. The impact of Hurricanes Irma in 2017, Ian in 2022 and Milton in 2024 on our trees, already weakened from years of citrus greening disease, has led Alico to conclude that growing citrus is no longer economically viable for us in Florida.
“This difficult decision is expected to provide Alico with a more stable future while maintaining our deep roots in agriculture by meaningfully reducing our working capital requirements for annual citrus production, reducing financial volatility and allow-
BY NADINE MALEK SARRAF Guest Columnist
productive, not simply by adding another tool to the tech stack.
How to increase AI adoption
Adoption needs to begin at the highest level to successfully integrate AI tools into a company’s workflow. The C-suite, or top management, must be fully aware of the potential benefits that AI can bring to their organization. This includes understanding the theoretical advantages and actively using the AI tools the company has invested in. By demonstrating their use and proficiency with these tools, top management can set a powerful example for the rest of the company, encouraging wider adoption and fostering a culture of innovation.
Furthermore, leaders who actively utilize AI tools gain firsthand experience of their capabilities and limitations.
This practical knowledge allows them to make informed decisions about future AI investments, ensuring the chosen tools align with the company’s strategic objectives and operational needs. Additionally, their active involvement can help identify potential challenges or areas for improvement in the AI adoption process, enabling the company to address issues proactively and optimize the overall AI implementation strategy.
AI enhances job performance, doesn’t replace workers
Many workers may also be concerned AI will replace them. However, this is only true for mundane and repeatable administrative tasks; most knowledge workers can easily use transferable skills for more complex tasks.
Take, for example, a translator. While machine translation technology is highly advanced, it would be an absolute disaster for a company to rely on
ing the Company to focus on profitable non-citrus agricultural opportunities and entitlement work to achieve the HBU for all properties in our real estate portfolio.”
Alico plans to wind down Alico Citrus’ primary operations, reducing most of its citrus production workforce immediately. Approximately 3,460 citrus acres will be managed by third-party caretakers for another season through 2026.
Kiernan continued, “This strategic transformation is expected to provide Alico with a more stable future while maintaining our deep roots in agriculture. We recognize the personal impact this decision has on our valued employees and the Company is supporting them through this transition. Through these operational changes, Alico will remain a responsible corporate citizen and steward of both our land and communities, just as we have done for more than 125 years. For decades, while maintaining its agriculture leadership, Alico has opportunistically sold land in Florida for responsible purposes that benefit both the local communities and our shareholders, such as the approximately 40,000 acres of the Alico
pure machine translation that isn’t edited by a native speaker or, ideally, a certified translator for that language. Machine translation frequently makes mistakes that need to be corrected. The same is true for any written content managed by communications professionals. AI will confidently generate a document based on incorrect facts, which need to be checked.
In both cases, the person is not losing their job. They gain the ability to complete tasks more quickly with the tools available to help generate content they can edit.
Monitoring Your Company’s AI Uptake
If you want to make sure your people are using AI, Prodoscore can help. We can monitor the use of nearly any AI solution, including ChatGPT, Gemini, and CoPilot. This way, you can see who your AI adopters and AI stragglers are. More importantly, you can see how their productivity improves once they use AI tools and what best practices you can glean from the heavy users.
Similar to showcasing the adoption of other cloud-based tools, Prodoscore surfaces critical insights about how workers work so you can make smarter and better-informed decisions.
Concerns about security and data privacy
Prodoscore prioritizes data security and privacy. When monitoring AI usage, we ensure your data is entirely fire-walled and never used to train models for other clients. This guarantees that your sensitive information remains confidential and protected within your organization.
Do you want to monitor employee productivity and make data-driven decisions about the tools you use?
Nadine Malek Sarraf is the chief marketing officer for Prodoscore, a PSG Equity backed AI-powered data intelligence solution dedicated to making teams more successful. Contact nadine@prodoscore.com.
Ranch sold to the State of Florida since 2017 and the 760 acres of land donated in 1992 to establish Florida Gulf Coast University.”
Under this new strategy, Alico:
• Expects to recognize positive cash flow for the remainder of the current fiscal year once land sales that have already been negotiated close, severance and restructuring costs are realized, and harvesting activities conclude.
• Anticipates cash reserves at the end of the 2025 fiscal year will be sufficient to meet future operating expenses for at least two additional years without any additional land sales being required.
• Estimates approximately 75% of its current land holdings to remain agriculturally focused for the foreseeable future.
• Expects approximately 25% of land holdings have potential for commercial and residential development, with approximately 10% of its acres targeted for development in the next five years.
• Current landholdings could be worth approximately $650 million to $750 million, with 75% of acres valued for agriculture usage.
Warrior Homes of Collier opens first of two new properties in 2025
Three Naples men who served their country with duty and honor are starting the new year in a new home thanks to a local nonprofit that assists veterans in need with housing, mental health support and access to higher education.
With the expansion, Warrior Homes of Collier now operates five residences for local veterans: Alpha House, a short-term, transitional home for those in recovery from substance use disorders; Bravo and Charlie Houses, which serve seniors on fixed incomes who receive rent subsidies (known as supportive housing); Delta House, a supportive housing complex with 10 apartments for up to 20 veterans, both men and women; and the new Echo House, which is also a supportive unit.
“No veteran in need should be left behind,” said Dale Mullin, a Vietnam War veteran and Warrior Homes of Collier president. “With the addition of Echo House, and Foxtrot to soon follow, our goal of ending veteran homelessness in Collier County is one step closer.”
The new residents include Alex Kane, who spent six years in the U.S. Navy and has lived in both Alpha and Delta Houses while recovering from addiction and PTSD. He’s pursuing a master’s degree with plans to become a licensed mental health counselor.
“My life has completely
changed,” he said. “Warrior Homes of Collier saved my life.”
The new properties became available when the Board of County Commissioners unanimously agreed in November to lease the two rental homes to Warrior Homes of Collier. In a 5-0 vote, commissioners approved an initial one-year lease, with subsequent annual options to renew, of the two vacant, county-owned homes in the Bayshore area.
With three available beds in each home, the addition of the two new homes to its residential inventory will now allow Warrior Homes of Collier to provide stable housing to 39 brave men and women in the community.
Beyond providing a roof over their heads, Warrior Homes of Collier also connects veterans with support services such as mental health counseling and peer support, as well as educational opportunities, including college scholarships. Residents pay rent on a sliding scale, but never more than 30% of their income.
The agreement stipulates Warrior Homes of Collier pay the county $1,000 per month, per property, to lease the two rental homes, which the county bought more than 20 years ago for $1.12 million as part of a seven-lot parcel near Bayview Park that it planned to convert into beach and boat access.
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“So,” she pointed out, “development is coming back with many proposed projects. We have a lot to look forward to—I know we’ve been through a lot, but I think what’s coming is going to be very exciting. Will it be different? Yes, it will. I don’t know that we’ll ever have the same number of hotel rooms on Fort Myers Beach anymore, but we’ll definitely have vacation rentals, probably higher-end vacation rentals. We’ll see.”
Mielke shared, “I want you to walk away from this talk with two key words; neither of them is sports. One of them is partnerships; the other is placemaking.”
Mielke defined “placemaking”: “At the Lee County VCB and the EDO, we all work together, moving in the same direction and using sports as a vehicle to not only generate new business in our community, but to make this a really cool place to live, work and play.”
He continued, “Calendar year 2023 was historical for us. We filled 188,000 hotel rooms through amateur sports, not including our spring training-based partnerships with the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins. From January to June 2024, we filled 70,000 hotel rooms. This number last year was 74,000. So, we’re down a little bit. We actually have a few more events than we did last year, but hotel room nights are down—partly because of the economy, inflation. So our hotel rooms have gotten more expensive, and people might be staying one less night during their stay.”
“Spring training is back to normal for us, however,” he added. “As we all know, we’ve had some challenges the past few years. Now we’re back on track.”
“For this year,” Mielke said, “we have landed a North American/South American championship series for a relatively unknown sport in the United States called netball (i.e. essentially basketball without the backboard). We’re welcoming nine countries here to compete in this event.”
Ice hockey events continue to grow down at Hertz Arena and with the stadium.
“And we’ve gone from 3-4 ice hockey tournaments to I think now we’re at over a dozen,” Mielke stated. “We’re thrilled to welcome the return of the
“At the Lee County VCB and the EDO, we all work together, moving in the same direction and using sports as a vehicle to not only generate new business in our community, but to make this a really cool place to live, work and play.”
— Jeff Mielke, Lee County Sports Development
Captiva Triathlon, which disappeared right after COVID. Now it’s come back this last year for the first time.”
He then talked about how critical placemaking is to our destination, because it not only takes tourism, but offering events that make it exciting to live here, which then helps businesses located here to attract talent. He shared, “They can say, ‘There’s some really cool things in our destination too, like spring training, like the Fort Myers Tip Off basketball tournament, like the City of Palms Basketball Classic.’”
“We also hosted the FHSA baseball state finals,” Mielke stated. “We have all seven classes of high schools throughout the state coming into our destination over an eight-day period, crowning eight different state champions. We’ve done that now nine years in a row. We’re about to sign a new threeyear contract. So that again, it’s good for our destination. It’s a placemaking event for us.”
The Fort Myers Tip Off is a nationally-televised college sports event (including men and women) that has grown over the last six years to be one of the top Thanksgiving week basketball tournaments in the nation. Part of that placemaking effort, Mielke explained, is raising the profile of our destination via national television exposure. “We use the television commercials to promote how great it is to live here--using sports as a placemaking tool, as well as a business development tool.”
Then there’s the Savannah Bananas—Mielke pointed out that this organization is one of the hottest sports and entertainment groups right now. “They’re going to be seen by two million fans this year. They have a waiting list of 100,000 people for tickets. And they have chosen JetBlue Park next February to come here for a three-game extravaganza!
“So I hope you understand a little better that sports is so much more than just ball being played on the field. It’s about business, our community, about every business owner and leader in this room—sharing with and showing others why Lee County is such a great place to live, work and play.”
Johnson
Mielke
Innovative Food Holdings buys assets of LoCo Food Distribution
Innovative Food Holdings, a Bonita Beach-based seller of gourmet specialty foods to professional chefs, announced the opportunistic acquisition of 100% of the assets of LoCo Food Distribution, based in Fort Collins, Colorado, via the company’s subsidiary, Golden Organics, for total consideration of $357,699, consisting of an upfront cash payment of $304,269 and a oneyear earnout payment of $53,430, based on hitting revenue and adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) targets. It is anticipated the company will make an initial investment into working capital of approximately $375,000.
LoCo Foods was founded by Elizabeth Mozer in 2011 with a dream and a minivan. Personally committed to eating locally and sustainably, Elizabeth and her husband Ben struggled to find the local products they wished to feed to their family and sell to the customers of their other business, a local movie theater, The Lyric. After years of scouring the greater Rocky Mountain Region to source these products, they started LoCo Foods in the basement of their Fort Collins home. Their goal was to help local Colorado food brands find a thriving market for their goods, and enabling the community to have a fresher, healthier food system, made by people they know and trust. Now more than a decade later, LoCo Foods’ sales reached approximately $4.7 million over the trailing 12 months, and it serves more than 200 customers up and down the front range of the Rocky Mountains, including retailers, hotels, hospitals, schools and restaurants.
The purchase includes approximately $187,000 of net property and equipment, mainly consisting of six refrigerated delivery trucks, warehouse racking, two large coolers and other warehouse equipment. All long-term debt was extinguished as a closing condition. The business operates out of a 9,000-square-foot leased warehouse in Fort Collins. This lease expires in March 2025, at which point LoCo Foods will be moved and consolidated with the operations of the Golden Organics business in Denver. Before factoring in the cost savings outlined above, LoCo has generated positive EBITDA over the trailing 12 months. After
“We’re very enthusiastic about this acquisition, as it helps us launch new categories, enter new markets and access new customers, with simple immediate cost savings opportunities to better leverage the Golden Organics assets we recently purchased.”
— Michael Peat, CEO of ACC Medlink
removal of these expected savings, the implied purchase price represents an expected EBITDA multiple much lower than the Company’s previously stated target of 3-5 times. The company expects the acquisition will be accretive to earnings per share in 2025, despite moving and transitional costs expected to be incurred in the first half of 2025.
LoCo Foods’ growth has been entirely financed with debt. This fact, coupled with the impact of COVID and other issues common in small, fast-growing businesses, led to a worsening working capital situation. Despite maintaining positive adjusted EBITDA, interest expense, principal repayments and asset replacement costs were prioritized over timely vendor payments and inventory purchases. This transaction therefore allows the original mission of LoCo Foods to continue forward, enables vendors to receive payment and continue their growth, and represents an attractive opportunity to IVFH stockholders. Since closing the transaction on Dec. 20, all past due payables have been brought current and inventory investments are being made to support future growth.
LoCo Foods brings a significant incremental customer base and sourcing capabilities to IVFH. Its 200plus Rocky Mountain customers are primarily retailers, with the Denver divisions of three large national retail chains making up approximately 56% of over-
all revenue. The remainder consists of regional grocers, hotels, hospitals, schools and restaurants. LoCo Foods brings more than 500 incremental local Colorado items to IVFH’s catalog, with the largest supplier making up 14% of revenue. LoCo Foods’ incremental customer base, sourcing capabilities and large catalog expansion all increase the long-term profitable growth opportunities for IVFH.
Post integration, cross-selling opportunities to Golden Organics and LoCo Foods customers are significant, as there is minimal overlap. Another opportunity is to sell Golden Organics’ catalog to LoCo Foods’ supplier base of Denver-area food manufacturers. The Company will also consolidate delivery routes, improving delivery economics and return on assets. IVFH expects synergies from back-office consolidation. The Company also intends to expand LoCo Foods’ growth opportunities by providing access to the other sales channels under the IVFH umbrella. These opportunities should further improve the deal’s economics and will be a key focus post-closing.
IVFH Chief Executive Officer Bill Bennett stated, “We’re very enthusiastic about this acquisition, as it helps us launch new categories, enter new markets and access new customers, with simple immediate cost savings opportunities to better leverage the Golden Organics assets we recently purchased. This transaction is consistent with our previous commentary about our acquisition search criteria and far exceeds our rate of return requirements before including the upside from synergies. We believe the financial terms of this transaction are attractive with only factoring in the near term, committed relocation of the business, and before including any cost/revenue synergies or other long-term strategic implications.”
Steptoe & Johnson PLLC acted as legal counsel to IVFH on the transaction. IVFH expects to incur transaction-related costs of approximately $30,000, most of which was incurred during the fourth quarter of 2024. Further details can be found in IVFH’s Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
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