What a wonderful season we have had at Grandezza as we begin to wrap things up. Some of you may have already left, while others will be heading out later this month or in early May. For those who have left or are leaving soon – safe travels and have a great summer. For those of you who are here year-round, I hope to see you out and about and enjoying the great amenities we have throughout the year.
We held our February meeting on Thursday, February 26 at 5:00 p.m. in the Clubhouse. It was a relatively short meeting since we covered so many topics during our January meeting. As of the end of January 2026, we were under budget on total expenses by $9,000, with only one category running over budget. Our cash positions and overall financial situation remain strong, and Treasurer Mickey Wheeler continues to do a great job investing our available funds in interest-bearing accounts whenever possible.
A couple additional items from the meeting:
• An Auto Attendant has now been installed on the Gatehouse landline phone. While the Dwelling Live app remains the best way to register guests, the Auto Attendant is working well for residents who need to call the Gatehouse to register visitors.
• For those of you who volunteer your time on our HOA/COA boards, thank you! Please remember to complete the Florida-required online training, which is available at no charge. The training requirements for 2026 are now in effect.
I thought I’d highlight a few items from the recent East Corkscrew Alliance update which has also been published on the Engage Estero website:
1. RT 951 (Potential Bonita Beach Road to Corkscrew Road connection): Any route through Larry Kiker Preserve is not feasible. The Lee County MPO and county administration are working with Collier County to draft a route further east.
2. Cell Tower Construction: Construction on the new cell tower located on the Bella Terra parcel began on February 9, with expected operation within approximately 90 days.
3. Growth in the East Corkscrew Corridor: Close to 35,000 homes have either been built or are in the planning stages in the East Corkscrew corridor, with an estimated total of 75,000 residents expected within the next 5–10 years. (Not all of these developments have yet been approved.)
In addition, many of you may already be aware of the new Aldi grocery store planned for Corkscrew Road. It is expected to be located east of Stoneybrook Golf Drive near Pinewoods Elementary School (11906 Newbridge Drive).
I always enjoy the many photo opportunities around the golf course and throughout our community. I picked two to share this month. The first was taken between holes #16 and #17 on the golf course, “Bees in the Birdhouse.” It’s a little difficult to see because of the swarm, but the bees built quite a hive inside. (NOTE: The bees have since been relocated.) The second is another alligator photo, but this one was especially close and looking our way. He was near the cart path between holes #8 and #9. Rest assured we did not get too close and took the photo quickly! (Photo credit: Lori S.) Remember to be careful around the lakes!
As always, detailed financial reports and meeting information can be found on grandezzamaster.com. If you have forgotten your login information, please reach out to Cheryl McFarland and she will be happy to assist.
