Bonita Springs Utilities Inc. will maintain current water and wastewater rates for 2026, the organization announced in a press release.
“Each year, our board takes a close look at what is required to operate and maintain our system,” said Andy Koebel, executive director of BSU. “For 2026, we are in a position to hold rates steady while continuing to deliver the level of service our members expect.”
The decision was approved by the BSU board of directors as part of its ongoing commitment to reliable service and responsible financial management for its members.
As a member-owned utility, BSU evaluates its rates annually based on system needs, operating costs and long-term sustainability, the org says.
For more information, visit BSU.us.
Naples Lamp Shop lights up Bonita Springs
Naples Lamp Shop is set to open its second showroom this month in Bonita Springs.
Located at 25987 S. Tamiami Trail, Suites 97-99, in Bonita Commons, the new 4,400-square-foot space “will bring the same hands-on expertise and carefully curated collections that Naples-area clients have relied on for decades.”
The expansion is a direct response to growing demand from clients in Bonita Springs, Estero, Fort Myers and Sanibel who have made the trip to the company’s Naples showroom.
“Relationships have always been at the heart of our business,” said Jeanne Buchanan, co-owner of Naples Lamp Shop. “Opening in Bonita Springs allows us to be even closer to many of the clients and design professionals we’ve worked with for years, while also opening our doors to new clients we look forward to building lasting relationships with.”
The Bonita Springs showroom will carry the core product lines available in Naples, light fixtures, lamps, home decor, fine furnishings, artwork and accessories, along with exclusive selections unique to the new location
“Lighting shapes how a space feels from the moment you walk in,” said Craig Buchanan, co-owner. “Knowing how to get that right, for each room, each client, each project, is what we do. We can’t wait to bring that to Bonita.”
For more information, visit napleslampshop.com or stop by either showroom. The Naples location is open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For Bonita Springs showroom hours, call 239-262-1524.
John & Carol Walter Nature Experience
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida officially broke ground on the John & Carol Walter Nature Experience on April 18 during the Earth Day Festival.
The new experience was made possible by a $25 million grant from the John & Carol Walter Family Foundation in 2025. So far, it’s the largest philanthropic commitment in the organization’s history.
The project will feature new spaces; will have new program offerings and will be continuously evolving with new interactive exhibits.
“I sincerely believe that this groundbreaking … is an opportunity to change this part of our world – our beloved home – Southwest Florida,” said Rob Moher, CEO and president of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. “There has never been a more compelling time than right now for engaging the public in our efforts to preserve our paradise as we are experiencing record growth.”
The experience will feature a new nearly 7,000-square-foot welcome center. Guests can explore a new half-mile trail through the Christopher B. Smith Upland Scrub Preserve, with a shaded picnic area and food truck space at the trailhead.
“My family has become deeply connected to the natural beauty and the quality of life that makes Southwest Florida so special,” said John Walter. “As a family, we feel a great responsibility and are committed to doing our part to ensure a sustainable way of life for generations to come.”
The Nature Center closed May 1 to begin construction. During this time, free public and member events will be offered in Collier and Lee County. The von Arx Wildlife Hospital will remain open throughout construction.
To learn more, visit Conservancy.org/NatureExperience.
Burrowing owl photo contest returns
Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife has announced the return of its annual Burrowing Owl Photo Contest, inviting amateur photographers to participate now through May 17.
The contest encourages nature lovers and photography enthusiasts of all ages to capture images of Cape Coral’s official bird — the burrowing owl — in its natural habitat. The contest highlights both artistic talent and the importance of local wildlife conservation.
Participants may enter in one of two categories: Youth (ages 7–17) and adult (18 and up).
The grand prize-winning photograph will be featured on the official T-shirt for the 2027 Burrowing Owl Festival, which will mark the 25th anniversary of the event and takes place on Feb. 27.
“Events like this inspire people to connect with the unique wildlife that makes our community so special,” said Judy Mitchell, president of Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife. “We look forward to seeing the creativity and passion reflected in this year’s submissions.”
Winners will be announced during a special awards ceremony at noon, May 30, at Rotary Park.
Full contest rules, submission guidelines, and entry details are available at ccfriendsofwildlife.org.
The contest is open exclusively to amateur photographers, who must self-certify their eligibility upon entry.
Live, work or play in Bonita Springs, Estero or North Naples? If so and you have something you’d like featured in Now You Know, send your information to news@naplesnews.com.
This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Now You Know: No rate increases at BSU; new business brings the light
Reporting by Will Watts, Special to The Banner / Naples Daily News
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