Although things have changed over the years, Sanibel remains the charming and naturally beautiful place for which it has achieved international renown. In 1963 the causeway was built linking Sanibel and Captiva to the mainland. The resulting explosion in growth led Sanibel Island residents who were afraid of losing the island’s charm and natural beauty to development to turn from Lee County to home rule. In 1974, a referendum was passed which incorporated Sanibel to the City of Sanibel and established a City Council and Mayor system of government to control the island’s destiny. Thus, Sanibel has managed to remain unspoiled with an easy going “Old Florida” pace and natural gulf coast beauty.