Seminole finishes storm cleanup and reduces permit fees for residents

The city of Seminole has concluded its storm debris cleanup efforts following the devastation caused by hurricanes Helene and Milton, as reported by City Manager Ann Toney-Deal. During a City Council meeting, she expressed confidence that the Federal Emergency Management Agency would reimburse the city for its cleanup expenses in approximately four years. To facilitate recovery for residents, the city council approved a reduction in permit fees, with the goal of encouraging residents to apply for necessary permits before the December 31 deadline. Toney-Deal stressed the importance of compliance, stating that repairs conducted without permits would incur fines. The city is actively tracking damaged structures through its cleanup records to ensure proper oversight.

Assistant City Manager Vince Tenaglia confirmed that plan review fees would be waived, and the base fee for building permits would be discounted by $50. Vice Mayor Chris Burke highlighted the severe damage in the Harbor Lights Club Mobile Homes Park, where many homes along the seawall were destroyed. The aftermath of the storms continues to affect the community, emphasizing the importance of recovery efforts.