EDITOR’S NOTE: The Sanibel Planning Commission recently considered whether to allow “miniature golf” as a conditional use in the General Commercial District. This discussion, held at the May 26, 2026 meeting, was prompted by a request from the owners of the Island Cow, who wish to develop a miniature golf course for Sanibel residents and visitors. Community response has been divided, with eight citizens writing in support of the change and seven expressing opposition. The following opinion letters reflect a sample of these perspectives.
I am writing to express my concerns regarding several recent and proposed development initiatives on the island, which I believe may significantly impact the character and integrity of our community. Most notably, the construction of high-density “affordable” housing near established residential areas has raised considerable concern for my family. My husband and I worked diligently for many years to achieve the goal of purchasing a home in what we understood to be a quiet, safe, and nature-focused environment. Throughout that time, l dedicated long hours in the emergency department at our local hospital to make this possible. As such, we placed great value not only in our home, but in the unique qualities that define this island.
While I understand the importance of workforce housing, I am concerned about the scale, density, and placement of these developments, particularly when they appear inconsistent with the island’s longstanding character and aesthetic. I also question how these housing initiatives will be managed and whether they will remain aligned with their intended purpose of supporting local employees.
Additionally, I am troubled by the proposed roundabout that may encroach upon the Apple Pond sanctuary. Preserving our wildlife habitats is essential to maintaining the ecological balance and natural beauty that make this island so distinctive. Any development that risks compromising these protected areas warrants careful reconsideration. Furthermore, from a practical standpoint, traffic flow in that location – especially during peak season – raises questions about the feasibility and effectiveness of such an infrastructure change.
Other proposals, such as the addition of a mini golf course, also seem at odds with the island’s identity as a tranquil, nature-oriented community. Collectively, these initiatives give the impression of a shift away from the values that have long defined Sanibel as a unique and preserved environment, distinct from more commercialized coastal areas.
I respectfully urge decision-makers to carefully consider the long-term impact of these developments and to prioritize preserving the character, environmental integrity, and sense of sanctuary that residents and visitors alike cherish. We need to keep that Old Florida vibe that makes our island special. Thank you for your time and consideration.
– Bridgette Stephenson
I read recently that the city is considering giving a conditional use variance to allow a developer to build a mini golf facility on Periwinkle. If this project is approved, it will begin the slippery slope to make Sanibel like every other tourist trap in Florida. What’s next – water parks, batting cages, go-cart tracks? Once this type of tacky development is approved, it will set the precedent for developers to force acceptance of other tourist trap attractions.
What makes Sanibel unique is that it does not have any of these types of attractions. This is why people come here and live here. The authors of the Sanibel Plan understood that. It appears, however, that we are on the verge of losing our way, all for the enrichment of a single developer. Once Sanibel goes down this path, there will be no turning back. This project should not even warrant consideration, let alone see the light of day. This should be a “hard no” from the city.
– Gary Bach
I am writing to express my support for the proposed redevelopment of the Island Cow site, including the thoughtfully designed mini golf component. The Island Cow has long been a cherished part of Sanibel’s community – a place where families, residents, and visitors gathered and connected. Its loss following Hurricane Ian was deeply felt, not just as the destruction of a restaurant, but as the temporary loss of a shared community space that reflected the spirit of the island.
Seeing creativity and investment directed toward restoring and reimagining this location is both encouraging and meaningful. What distinguishes this proposal is that it builds upon the Island Cow’s role in the community rather than replacing it. A mini golf experience designed to wrap around the restaurant offers a unique, low-impact, and family-friendly activity that encourages people to linger, gather, and enjoy Sanibel at a relaxed, intentional pace consistent with the island’s character.
I greatly respect Sanibel’s history of careful, deliberate development and its commitment to environmental stewardship and preserving local character. In that context, this proposal feels less like commercial expansion and more like a thoughtful recovery effort—one that honors a beloved local institution while adding a modest amenity that complements existing businesses. Following the challenges brought by Hurricane Ian, projects that balance resilience, community identity, and economic vitality are especially important.
With appropriate oversight and adherence to Sanibel’s standards, I believe this endeavor has the potential to contribute positively to the island’s recovery and long-term well-being. Thank you for your time, consideration, and continued dedication to the stewardship of Sanibel.
– Erica Nelson
I am emailing in regards to the new mini golf venue being planned by the Island Cow owners. I am a 50 yr old Indiana resident who owns a home on Sanibel island. We were just in Sanibel for 2 1/2 weeks with our 9 children and 4 grandchildren and the island is coming back so beautifully! We bought our home there just before Ian hit and even honeymooned there 30 yrs ago, so we’ve seen a lot of changes.
After being there with the varied age groups I feel that the island would greatly benefit from a mini golf course if it maintained the natural Sanibel island vibe. While my husband and I love biking and beaching the younger ones itch for something more to do. My community in Indiana is not touristy but we have a couple miniature golf courses as amenities to the community. I look at them as amenities not tourist attractions. It doesn’t need a giant gorilla out front like in Ft Myers to draw attention, but the simple Sanibel vibe would go a long way in providing another family friendly activity that parents AND grandparents can enjoy with the kids and grandkids.
– Elizabeth Colvin
Sanibel has a lovely ambiance of nature, wildlife protection and conservation. Sanibel different than all other communities with its controlled commercialism. Its a lovely and unique difference that has attracted both tourists and property owners for decades. Why change what’s working? Sanibel does not need a mini golf venue, and if allowed will likely lead to more similar entertainment venues. So, no to mini golf and yes to maintaining Sanibel’s ambiance.
I am concerned about the proposed changes to our island. As a resident for 46 years, I think these changes will impact our island negatively. A mini golf will make island more of a tourist trap. Below market housing can be built elsewhere. The island is now favoring tourists with hundreds of bicycles cloggingp bike paths and roads. Residents can’t use either without taking their life in their hands. Realtors and Businesses now rule the island. Any changes should be put up for a vote.