Contributed by Edward Briggs, VP of Government Relations & Community Affairs, RSA Consulting Group and Florida Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors Association lobbyist.
I wanted to provide a detailed update on the state’s recovery efforts following Hurricane Milton, reflecting key announcements from Governor DeSantis and various state agencies.
- Major Announcements by Governor DeSantis:
- $9.5 million has been awarded to SeaPort Manatee to support infrastructure repairs due to significant damage caused by Hurricane Milton.
- $500,000 has been allocated from the Florida Disaster Fund to support non-profit organizations that are providing free services like muck-and-gut, debris removal, tarping, and temporary home fixes for residents with damaged homes.
- $400,000 has been designated to support Florida’s first responders, who have been working tirelessly to help rescue and assist impacted residents.
- The Florida Disaster Fund has raised over $12.2 million to aid communities recovering from disasters like Hurricane Milton and Helene. To contribute, visit www.FloridaDisasterFund.org.
- Federal Disaster Relief:
- The Governor has secured a major disaster declaration from FEMA, which includes Individual Assistance for residents and households in 36 counties, and Public Assistance (Category B) for emergency protective measures and infrastructure repairs in 52 counties. This declaration will significantly bolster the state’s recovery capabilities.
- Statewide Power Restoration:
- As of 3 PM, approximately 51,701 Floridians are still without power. The state has successfully restored power to over 4.1 million accounts.
- Fuel and Emergency Supplies:
- Public fuel distribution sites will be open across impacted areas, including locations in St. Petersburg, Tampa, Port Richey, Wesley Chapel, and Largo. Residents can use the code MILTONRELIEF24 for free rides to and from shelters, courtesy of the partnership with Lyft.
- Additionally, Operation Blue Roof, offered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is providing free temporary roof tarping services in over 20 counties.
- Health and Human Services:
- Special needs shelters are operational in Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, and Sarasota counties, providing critical care and housing for those affected.
- Boil Water Notices remain active in 24 counties, including Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas, but over 30 notices have already been rescinded as water safety improves.
- Road and Infrastructure Updates:
- The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has deployed over 2,000 team members to assist with storm recovery, debris pickup, and road repairs. Over 49,000 cubic yards of debris have been cleared so far.
- Bridge inspections have been completed for more than 2,400 bridges across the state, ensuring safe passage as residents return home.
- Support for Businesses and Small Enterprises:
- Governor DeSantis has activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $50 million available to businesses impacted by Hurricane Milton. Small business owners can apply at FloridaJobs.org/EBL. So far, over $3.2 million has been approved for 81 businesses, helping them bridge the gap until insurance funds are received.
- Agricultural and Environmental Impact:
- Commissioner Wilton Simpson has approved an emergency order to suspend movement restrictions for livestock fleeing the storm, while 42 generators were deployed to agricultural facilities to maintain food production.
Additional News Highlights:
- St. Pete Beach has enacted a 60-day emergency code amendment allowing storm-damaged items like air conditioners to be replaced on properties considered non-conforming, ensuring quick recovery of vital infrastructure.
- Flooding continues to affect neighborhoods in Seffner. Residents have reported lingering floodwaters, with some areas still submerged, particularly impacting homes that have been part of the community for decades.
For a full list of available county resources, please visit FloridaDisaster.org/Counties.
We will continue monitoring these developments and working with the Governor’s office and local agencies to provide you with timely updates. If you have any further questions or need specific assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Edward Briggs
Vice President of Government Relations & Community Affairs
(850) 933 5994
Edward@teamrsa.com
www.rsaconsultingllc.com
