RSA Consulting Group Hurricane Relief Update: October 16, 2024, Ongoing Flooding and State Recovery Efforts

Contributed by Edward Briggs, VP of Government Relations & Community Affairs, RSA Consulting Group and Florida Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors  Association lobbyist.

I’m writing to provide a comprehensive update on the latest developments following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, including federal and state responses, relief efforts, and the impact on affected communities.

SBA Disaster Loan Program Exhausted
The Biden Administration announced on Tuesday that the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) loan program for businesses impacted by Hurricanes Helene, Milton, and other disasters has fully exhausted its funding. Without additional congressional approval, the SBA cannot issue new loans, although applications already submitted will continue to be processed. Unfortunately, Congress isn’t scheduled to reconvene until after Election Day, which may delay the approval of new funds. We will monitor any changes closely.

 FEMA Assistance Remains Available
While the SBA’s funds are depleted, FEMA remains operational and is expected to continue providing assistance through Election Day. To date, FEMA has received more than 430,000 applications for individual assistance related to Hurricane Milton and has approved $11.7 million in aid. If any additional funding or extensions are announced, we will keep you informed.

 Ongoing Flooding in Tampa Bay Region
Several rivers in the Tampa Bay area, including the Hillsborough, Anclote, and Withlacoochee rivers, continue to experience flooding as water levels remain high following Hurricane Milton. The Hillsborough River is expected to recede starting Wednesday, but the Withlacoochee River will not crest until later this week, continuing the risk of flooding in Pasco and Hernando counties.

Operation Blue Roof Activated for Homeowners
To assist residents with roof damage caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, CFO Jimmy Patronis has activated “Operation Blue Roof” in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This program provides free fiber-reinforced sheeting to homeowners and rental properties as a temporary roof repair solution. Applications for this service are open through November 5th, and eligible counties include Brevard, Citrus, Charlotte, DeSoto, Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, and many others.

Governor DeSantis Announces Statewide Recovery Efforts
Governor Ron DeSantis has been actively cutting through red tape to expedite recovery efforts. In a recent press conference, the Governor announced $500,000 in funding through the Florida Disaster Fund to support nonprofit organizations providing essential services like muck-and-gut, debris removal, tarping, and temporary home repairs. These funds are being allocated to groups such as Samaritan’s Purse and Rebuilding Tampa Bay.

The Governor also announced a $400,000 award to first responder groups working in storm-affected areas. Organizations like the Florida Firefighters Charities Fund and Florida Sheriffs Association have each received $100,000 to support the ongoing recovery efforts.

 Power Restoration and State Response
As of Tuesday evening, power has been restored to over 4 million Floridians, although 127,954 residents are still without power. The Florida Division of Emergency Management has deployed floodwater pumps to impacted areas, including the Silver Oaks community in Zephyrhills, and has more on the way for additional support.

School Reopening’s in Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties
In terms of school operations, Pinellas County Schools will reopen on Wednesday, with all buildings restored and buses ready to operate. Hillsborough County Schools will bring back staff on Wednesday and students on Thursday, following power restoration to the remaining 35 schools still without electricity.

Flood Recovery: Southwest Florida Water Management District Efforts
To manage floodwaters from Hurricane Milton, the Southwest Florida Water Management District has activated the Tampa Bypass Canal, which is moving over 4 million gallons per minute to protect the cities of Temple Terrace and Tampa from river flooding. The district also deployed pumps to other communities to help mitigate the ongoing flood risks.

 Disaster Assistance for Homeowners and Renters
Florida homeowners and renters in the counties impacted by Hurricane Milton may still be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance. Currently, 40 counties, including Brevard, Citrus, Collier, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, and Polk, are eligible. Applications can be submitted via FEMA’s website or by phone.

 Additional Recovery Resources

• SBA Disaster Assistance Loans: Online at www.SBA.gov or call (800) 659-2955
• USDA Agricultural Assistance: Available for farmers impacted by the storms. More information can be found at www.Farmers.gov/protection-recovery
• Operation Blue Roof: Apply at blueroof.gov or call (888) 766-3258

 Governor DeSantis Secures Federal Disaster Declaration
Governor DeSantis announced that Florida has secured a major disaster declaration from FEMA, including Individual Assistance and Public Assistance for numerous counties. This will provide significant resources for both residents and local governments to expedite recovery.

 Key Contacts for Further Assistance
If you need immediate assistance or have specific questions, please reach out to the following:

• FEMA: (800) 621-3362 or www.DisasterAssistance.gov
• SBA: (800) 659-2955
• Florida State Assistance Hotline: (800) 342-3557 (available 24/7)

We will continue to keep you updated on further developments, including any new funding initiatives or disaster assistance programs. Please feel free to contact me directly if you have any questions or need further clarification on any of the above information.

Sincerely,