The task force’s primary focus was the presentation by Elizabeth Fontaine from J.R. Evans Engineering regarding a comprehensive wave mitigation wall system. This proposed system aims to reduce wave impacts on upland properties through a combination of bulkheads, seawalls, and dune enhancements. Fontaine described the system’s design as capable of withstanding 100-year storm conditions, emphasizing the integration of pedestrian areas and the need for natural stormwater runoff channels. The task force discussed the project’s potential regulatory hurdles, with members expressing concerns about the system’s elevation and its interaction with existing beach features.

Fontaine assured the task force that their designs included necessary scour protection measures, such as concrete pads to withstand severe weather events. She also addressed concerns about the system’s impact on sand transportation and the environment, emphasizing that the design would not interfere with turtle nesting habitats as it would be positioned landward of the coastal construction setback line.

The conversation then shifted to the broader implications of seawall and erosion control measures along Fort Myers Beach. Members discussed the potential impact of seawalls on properties that do not participate in their construction and the financial burden on the entire town. The task force emphasized the need for a phased approach to prioritize vulnerable areas and explored the possibility of integrating seawalls within critical zones without affecting wildlife areas. The complexities of balancing development and ecological preservation were evident throughout the discussion, highlighting the challenges faced in coastal management.

Lighting standards for new constructions emerged as another significant topic. The task force expressed concerns about the impact of improper lighting on sea turtle hatchlings, with some members noting that not all marketed “turtle-friendly” lights meet Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission standards. The task force discussed ongoing efforts to monitor compliance with lighting codes and considered innovative solutions, such as using curtains to block artificial light. However, skepticism remained about the effectiveness of these measures, with members calling for more enforcement of existing codes.

The meeting also touched on coastal resilience projects, including the high costs associated with beach nourishment and retaining wall installations. Members acknowledged the need for grant funding to support these initiatives, particularly given the property damage incurred during recent storms. The task force discussed the potential benefits of retaining walls, including reduced wave action and improved evacuation routes, while also considering the concerns of property owners regarding privacy and public access.

Updates on wildlife conservation efforts provided further insight into the community’s environmental priorities. The task force reported varying success rates for bird nesting and turtle nesting efforts, with concerns about predation and disorientation among hatchlings due to increased lighting. Members emphasized the need for public education and collaboration to address these challenges.

In addition to these discussions, the task force considered the introduction of a tangible award, the “Murf award,” to recognize contributions to wildlife and environmental conservation. The proposal sparked a light-hearted exchange about the award’s name and origins, with general support for creating a physical keepsake to honor recipients.