Sarasota County Seeks Community Input for Disaster Recovery Plans
Sarasota County is launching a public survey to gather input on recovery plans following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, along with Tropical Storm Debby. The county is expected to receive $210,094,000 in recovery funds to address community needs in housing, infrastructure, and economic revitalization. Public meetings will complement the survey efforts, facilitating comprehensive community engagement until February 15.
Sarasota County is conducting a survey to gather community input on recovery strategies following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, as well as Tropical Storm Debby. The county anticipates receiving $210,094,000 in disaster recovery funds, and the feedback from this survey will inform how these funds are allocated. It is essential that responses are submitted by February 15, as these will influence housing, infrastructure restoration, economic revitalization, and disaster mitigation efforts.
Complementing the survey, Sarasota County has organized public meetings as part of its Resilient SRQ program, which was initiated in 2023 to manage recovery from Hurricane Ian. The meetings are scheduled to occur across various locations, including the Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Public Library and the Fruitville Public Library. This combined approach of surveys, public gatherings, and analysis of existing data aims to formulate a comprehensive action plan addressing the community’s unmet needs.
The Resilient SRQ initiative underscores Sarasota County’s commitment to effectively utilizing the federal, state, and local data in crafting recovery strategies. The finalized plan must receive approval from the Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) before the funding can be implemented and programs initiated. Community involvement is vital to ensure that the plans accurately reflect the needs and priorities of residents.
Sarasota County initiated the Resilient SRQ program in 2023 as a response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian and subsequent storms. This program aims to streamline recovery efforts and engage the community in the planning process for future disaster recovery initiatives. The upcoming survey and public meetings are critical components of this strategy, allowing residents to voice their opinions on pressing issues such as housing, infrastructure, and economic resilience.
The Sarasota County survey provides a crucial opportunity for residents to participate in shaping the disaster recovery process following recent hurricanes and storms. By collecting community input and combining it with data analysis, the county aims to create a targeted action plan that addresses significant needs in housing and infrastructure. Public meetings and ongoing updates will further ensure transparency and community involvement in all recovery efforts.
Original Source: www.fox13news.com
