As usual, we are writing our articles a month or so in advance of publication to allow time for submission, formatting and distribution. Even so, it has already been GREAT to see a steady increase in residents returning to Grandezza for the season. In addition to seeing more people, we also look around at the trash containers on Tuesdays to see who is back. Welcome to those of you that are here. To those who haven’t arrived yet – come on down!
We had a full agenda for the September board meeting, our first since May. We caught up on several matters and spent time reviewing and approving the 2027 budget. Many thanks to our Treasurer, Mickey Wheeler, who spends countless hours reviewing bank statements, financial statements and accounts and then preparing spreadsheets with numerous projections and scenarios. Thanks also to the board members who manage the larger components of the budget and are always looking for ways to continue making improvements while carefully managing costs.
The 2027 budget was approved unanimously. As we projected last year, we were able to keep the quarterly master assessment amount paid by each community the same as what was assessed throughout 2026. The 2027 budget reflects a 4% increase compared to projected 2026 totals. This is due to contractual annual increases in our largest contracts, as well as overall inflation. We were able to keep the quarterly assessment the same primarily because of the savings from the early re-negotiation of the Xfinity/Comcast Agreement. As of the end of September, we continue to project that actual income and expenses for 2026 will be in line with the current budget.
At the September board meeting, we also had an update on the GoAccess transition which took place September 1. Thanks again to Peter Dersley, Mike Patricelli, Kevin Ryan, Mickey Wheeler and Cheryl McFarland for all their efforts. And a big thank you to all of you as well, for making the switch!
You may have noticed the progress on the new Aldi across the street from us on Corkscrew. It is expected to open by the end of this year. Construction is also underway on the Chick-fil-A at the Shoppes at Grande Oak. It is expected to open in 2027. Terry Flanagan submitted a written update from Engage Estero and also noted that the village tax rate will be unchanged for the Estero 26-27 budget and remains the lowest village tax rate in Florida.
I’m including a picture of the bobcat that stopped by my lanai early one morning this week. Although it isn’t the best picture, he lingered for several minutes before heading back into the preserve. It’s a good reminder not to leave food out or on your lanai, as many different animals wander through our neighborhoods at night and in the early morning hours.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and safe travels to those of you heading elsewhere for the holiday.
