(By Kyle DeCicco, Sanibel Captiva Bank CEO) Fort Myers Beach is more than just an island community. It’s a symbol of resilience, grit and neighborly spirit. The road to recovery after Hurricane Ian has been long, and it’s far from over. But every day, it becomes more evident that strong, local partnerships are key to rebuilding stronger than before.
In times of crisis or disaster, the presence of community-rooted institutions matter. From securing small business loans to helping families rebuild their homes, community banks play a unique and vital role in recovery. They know the neighborhoods they serve, make decisions locally and reinvest funds right back in the area. All of this helps create a financial ecosystem that supports long-term resilience.
We’ve chosen to expand to Fort Myers Beach because we believe deeply in its future. The island has faced more than its fair share of challenges in recent years. Yet the heart and determination of the people here never wavered. As the only bank on Fort Myers Beach, we take our responsibility seriously. We’ve already begun providing banking services at our temporary location right here on the island, with work well underway for our full-service, permanent branch on Estero Boulevard opening in 2026. We knew the community couldn’t wait – and we couldn’t either.
Since Hurricane Ian, our bank has provided over $793 million in loans to help our neighbors recover and rebuild, including our friends on Fort Myers Beach. Those funds represent our commitment to the people who live and work here. But this isn’t just about one bank. It’s about what happens when financial institutions are embedded in the communities they serve – not just by doing business but doing their part.
For us, being a community bank means more than offering services – it means showing up, pitching in and standing by our community every step of the way. You’ll find our team not just behind desks, but out in the community meeting people where they are and offering support where it’s needed most. That’s the difference when your bank is truly local.
Fort Myers Beach still has a long journey ahead, but it also has strong partners supporting the community. We’re proud to be one of them and stand beside this community as it writes its next chapter. We’re not just here for business. We’re here for the long haul.
Kyle DeCicco is president and CEO of Sanibel Captiva Community Bank