Habitat
Community Development District

The regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors of the Habitat Community Development District was held in the Bella Terra Clubhouse at 20070 Bella Terra Boulevard in Estero, Florida and also via web conference on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 3:30 p.m.

Present and constituting a quorum were:

Larry Roth – Chair
James Meek – Vice Chair
Matthew Elliott – Assistant Secretary
Jenny Licht – Assistant Secretary

Also present:

Mandie Rainwater – District Manager, Premier District Management (PDM)
Chris Pepin – Field Service Manager, Community Field Services
Bill Kurth – Premier Lakes
6 Residents

Attending remotely:

Greg Urbancic – Attorney, Coleman, Yovanovich & Koester, P.A.
John Baker – Engineer, Bowman Engineering
Melissa Gindling – Assistant District Manager, (PDM)
Cal Teague – PDM
Felipe Lemus – FL GIS Solutions (FLGIS)

The following is a summary of the actions taken at the Habitat Community Development District Board of Supervisors Meeting.

The meeting was called to order at 3:30 pm by Chair Roth and District Manager Mandie Rainwater called the roll. In attendance were Supervisors Roth, Meek, Licht, and Elliott. Also in attendance were DM Mandie Rainwater, FSM Pepin, Bill Kurth – Premier Lakes and 6 residents. Online were ADM Melissa Gindling, Cal Teague, PDM, Attorney Greg Urbancic, John Baker, Engineer, and Felipe Lemus, FL GIS Solutions.

There were no audience comments.

A. Items to be Pulled for Discussion

No items were pulled.

B. Motion to Approve Consent items

All consent items were approved.

C. Consideration of Items Pulled for Discussion

D. Consent Items

i. Draft Regular Meeting Minutes for January 20, 2026

ii. Financial Report for January 2026

iii. Project Tracking Logs

A. Irrigation Contractor

i. Breakage Discussion

District Manager Rainwater revisited last month’s discussion regarding irrigation breakage. At that time, the Board considered either proceeding with Insight Irrigation’s proposal or obtaining an additional quote for comparable services.

Bowman Engineering submitted a proposal in the amount of $49,980, compared to Insight Irrigation’s proposal of $30,000.

a. Proposal – Evaluation from Bowman

DM Rainwater continued the discussion stating that there was a conference call with Bowman Engineering attended by DM Rainwater, FSM Pepin, Engineer Baker, and ADM Gindling. Bowman was provided a scope of services similar to Insight Irrigation.

DM Rainwater compared the Insight proposal to the Bowman proposal and concluded they are essentially the same but Bowman is $49,980 whereas Insight is $30,000. Some of the differences is that Bowman can start sooner than Insight. Bowman indicated they could begin sooner. A third contractor, Kapur Landscaping, was consulted but has not yet submitted a proposal. FSM Pepin also contacted Estate Landscaping, which does not perform this type of inspection.

Mr. Urbancic asked whether the project could be completed under the existing Bowman contract. Mr. Baker explained that Bowman prefers a separate contract to create an additional task order but could potentially incorporate it under the general services agreement if desired.

Chair Roth asked about the pricing difference. Mr. Baker stated that Bowman’s proposal reflects long-term system considerations and that the pricing is reasonable given the scope.

Mr. Baker will follow up with Kapur Landscaping regarding their proposal, noting that Bill Fries, former head of the Fort Myers landscaping division and the original landscape architect for the community, is affiliated with Kapur.

The Board also discussed the possibility of converting to a reclaimed water irrigation system.

The Board agreed to table the item pending receipt of Kapur’s proposal and further investigation by the Engineer regarding reclaimed water options.

B. District Manager

i. Budget FY 2027 Timeline

DM Rainwater reviewed the timeline for preparation of the next fiscal year’s budget. Board members were to submit any projects they would like the District to consider. The Board was also advised to evaluate whether an increase in assessments may be necessary.

ii. Election 2026 Information

DM Rainwater reviewed key dates provided by the Board of Elections for the 2026 election and shared the link outlining candidate requirements. She noted that most supervisors file using the Affidavit of Intent (Special District Candidate Application) and submit the $25 filing fee.

Mr. Urbancic reminded the Board that the election must be properly advertised.

Chair Roth provided Affidavits of Intent for Seats 1, 3, and 4, which are up for election.

C. Field Manager

i.  Current Field Report

FSM Pepin reported that all items identified in the non-compliance letter have been addressed, and homeowners have been reminded not to dump materials in the preserves.

The aeration system at Lake 12 has a broken electrical connection at the control box, which will be repaired. The stormwater system is functioning well, and water levels are currently very low. There remains a small line break near Pump 4 that should be repaired soon. Shenandoah General Construction has been onsite excavating around the pumps to determine whether they can be rebuilt, and an update will be provided once they are removed.

Regarding roadway concerns, FSM Pepin evaluated the bumpy patches reported by Supervisor Licht on Bella Terra Blvd and determined they are poor patch repairs that will need to be corrected by the County. He will continue to monitor the area and notify the County if conditions worsen. He is also identifying sidewalk sections that require grinding.

A resident contacted FSM Pepin about leveling the gutter at their driveway to align with the pavers. Upon inspection, it was observed that the gutters have not lifted and neighboring driveways appear similar. The Board believes the issue is related to the paver section, as sand has washed out from beneath the bricks. DM Rainwater will follow up with the resident.

Florida Power & Light (FPL) continues to be slow in responding to service requests. FSM Pepin cleaned the grate at the crosswalk again and discussed the possibility of constructing a small retaining wall around it. The Board agreed to wait until the planned vegetation removal is completed before reevaluating. Vice Chair Meek also noted a strong sewer odor in the community.

FSM Pepin reported on the clock tower, stating that during the recent windstorm the door opened on its own. Inspection revealed there is no closing mechanism, and repairs to the door may help address the issue. The decorative bowl above the door is leaking and causing erosion of the concrete, and the steel ladder inside the tower is rusting. FSM Pepin will obtain a proposal to address the ladder, while the bowls will likely need to be included in a larger overhaul of the tower. The previously approved pressure washing is expected to be completed by the end of the month.

ii. Project Updates

a. Electrofishing Survey Update

Premier Lakes representative Bill Kurth was on hand to review the lake survey report. He explained that there is a significant amount of fishing pressure within the community. The association contracted with a company that conducted an electrofishing (“shock boat”) survey to assess the fish population.

The survey concluded that Lake 4 has an overabundance of Largemouth Bass in the 8- to 12-inch range that are not reaching maturity or growing to desirable size.

One potential solution discussed was introducing additional forage fish to serve as a food source. However, the most effective corrective measure would be to reduce the bass population by harvesting them rather than practicing catch and release. Since the community currently follows a catch and release policy, the Board agreed to table the discussion regarding any changes to fishing allowances.

DM Rainwater was asked to research proper procedures for disposing of any fish that may be harvested. She will investigate options and circulate information for the Board’s review.

b. Serre Drive Utility Driveway Repaving Update

The project was completed and looks good.

D. Attorney

Mr. Urbancic reported that he is monitoring the legislative session.

Mr. Urbancic reminded the Board that their ethics training requirement is due for calendar year 2026 and Form 1 updates will be due soon. Client Services Manager Dudak will send out reminders.

E. Engineer

i. Lake Bank Restoration Planning

Mr. Baker has received the first round of questions from the Village of Estero. DM Rainwater believes that she and FSM Pepin were able to assist in addressing those inquiries.

Examples of the Village’s questions included requests to outline the number of littoral shelves on the property and to detail the treatment methodology being utilized. One treatment option to consider, which comes highly recommended, is shell treatments.

DM Rainwater noted the need for a formal List of Quantities from Bowman, as this would help ensure consistency and equality in the bidding process. Mr. Baker was asked to prepare a document that would allow for clearer and more uniform bid submissions. The bids previously obtained by FSM Pepin vary significantly and will need to be revised and reissued.

DM Rainwater further explained that work can commence once the Village approves the Limited Development Order (LDO).

This item is tabled pending receipt of the LDO from the Village and the Table of Quantities from Bowman. The anticipated project start date is projected for the fall or winter season.

a. Proposal – Talon Construction

b. Proposal – Pristine Lakes

ii. Emergency Exit/Turf Block Update

Mr. Baker is following up with the FDOT representatives to discuss the gap between the landscaping and the location of the pathway. Vice Chair Meek noted that the original agreement between the FDOT project and Habitat was for the pathway to extend up to the landscaping at the edge. Mr. Baker will continue to follow up to determine whether the pavers have been installed

A. SFWMD Non-Compliance Letter Update

DM Rainwater reported that the District received a non-compliance letter. FSM Pepin addressed the CDD portion of the letter. The County subsequently confirmed that the District is back in compliance, with a reminder issued to residents not to use the preserves for waste disposal.

B. Proposal – Multi-Year ROV Stormwater System Inspection

FSM Pepin presented a proposal from FLGIS to conduct an ROV inspection of the entire stormwater management system to gain a full understanding of its current condition. This type of inspection has not been done in some time and includes high-definition video to identify any damage or cracked pipes, while also establishing a baseline for preventative maintenance.

Due to the cost, the proposal divides the community into three phases over three years, allowing expenses to be spread out. Findings from the inspection will be integrated into the GIS system for future reference. The last inspections were visual only, whereas this approach places cameras inside the pipes.

Chair Roth inquired about the deliverables and requested examples. Mr. Lemus from FLGIS said he would gather examples and provide them to staff for the Board. Supervisor Elliott asked about the project timeline and verification process.

DM Rainwater noted that photos and videos are included as deliverables. The project is currently planned in three phases, typically aligned with fiscal years, though the vendor can adjust the phasing if the Board prefers. The item was tabled pending receipt of example deliverables for review by the Board.

C. Proposal – Hardwood Tree Trimming

Estate has sent a proposal to prune the hardwoods along the shorelines of Lakes 3, 4 & 6 for $3,045.00. There are 29 trees. Supervisor Licht will work with Russ from Estate to perform the correct type of pruning of the trees.

D. Proposal – Dry Retention Basin Clean Up

FSM Pepin obtained an estimate to have the soil and old rip rap cleaned up around the discharge basins in the dry-retention ponds for $6,975.00.

E. Proposal – Cordgrass Replacement for Muhly Grass

There is no proposal for warranty work. The vendor is offering to replace the plants at no cost to the District. Supervisor Licht expressed disappointment that the muhly grasses didn’t survive but appreciated Pristine Lakes’ offer to plant cordgrass in their place. The Board approved moving forward with this offer.

F. Proposal – Repair 3 Phase Electrical

West Coast Electrical submitted a proposal to clean up the 3-phase disconnect at the Cecina Drive irrigation pump station, noting that many components inside the panel are corroded. The proposed cost is $3,575. Supervisor Elliott expressed concerns and requested to speak with the vendor for further clarification. The Board agreed to allow Supervisor Elliott to discuss the proposal, and if he is satisfied, Chair Roth can sign it and bring it back for ratification.

G. Proposal – To Resident to Relocate Cabinet

Resident Bob Vaa inquired about moving the aerator system from behind his home to the end of the lake at the pump station. Since there is no available power source at that location, a new electrical setup would be required.

Premier Lakes provided a quote of $4,813 to move the aerator equipment, including three new diffusers; Mr. Vaa’s portion for a new cabinet would be $3,610. West Coast Electrical estimated $4,100 to install a new electrical service at the pump station. The total estimated cost is $7,710.

Mr. Vaa indicated that noise issues began after the new motor was installed and requested that the Board consider cost sharing, having the District pay for the power installation and he pay for the cabinet. FSM Pepin is waiting one other proposal. The item was tabled until the next meeting.

H. Speed Hump Removal Discussion – BTB & Belvedere

Discussion was held concerning speeding and concerns of the height of the hump is to high. The overwhelming opinion was to leave the speed humps in place.

I. Resident Request for Action

A resident at 21583 BTB requested to install a soundproof “zombie box” over the aerator cabinet due to noise concerns. Specifications and costs were provided. Premier also proposed constructing a soundproof box with improved aesthetics. FSM Pepin expressed concern that either option could cause overheating and referenced a three-sided structure he is constructing in another community. Chair Roth requested a quote for a similar structure. No box structures were approved at this time. The item was tabled pending additional proposals.

HOA President Bob Lieberman provided the report. He stated that the cell tower is under construction; however, the contractor required a larger truck to complete drilling to the proper installation depth. Completion is expected soon. The transponder changeover is nearly finished. A new Community Association Manager (CAM) for the sub-associations, Jessica, is expected to start soon. Adnita left the community a few weeks ago. The HOA is also working on a new reserve study and will be evaluating the budget and reserves.

DM Rainwater discussed the guardhouse with President Lieberman, noting the public nature of the roads. It was requested that all new gate attendants be reminded to review the post orders.

Chair Roth reminded the community of the regulations regarding golf cart use. DM Rainwater sent the golf cart graphic, approved by LCSO, to the HOA for redistribution to residents.

Supervisor Licht reported an incident in which a motorcycle or e-bike darted across the street, nearly causing a collision. She noted that some riders do not appear to follow the rules of the road.

There were no audience comments.

The next Regular Meeting: March 17, 2026 at 3:30 p.m.