FEMA housing and recovery policies
Key Questions
What total funding has been allocated for Hillsborough County recovery efforts?
FEMA has provided $97 million alongside $920 million in CDBG-DR funds for Hillsborough County. An additional $89 million was announced on June 15, including $12 million for Elevate Florida and $40.8 million for debris cleanup.
What is the status of the $813 million grant in Pinellas County?
Pinellas County is under investigation for potential mismanagement of the $813 million federal grant supporting recovery from Hurricanes Idalia, Helene, and Milton. Local reporting has raised concerns about oversight of the program.
How is Sarasota County addressing storm recovery funding shortfalls?
Sarasota County approved a $91.8 million budget amendment for hurricane recovery. The county has spent $152.4 million with only partial federal reimbursements received so far, amid concerns over funding freezes and workforce reductions.
What waterway repair projects are funded in Pinellas County?
Pinellas County received confirmation of a new $29 million federal grant to repair severe erosion in five waterways. Officials have also allocated $29.4 million overall for these waterway repairs.
What local assistance programs are available for residents in affected counties?
Manatee County’s Lasting Manatee Home Recovery Program is accepting applications until June 30. Residents can also contact the United Way 211 hotline or participate in the Jackery 'Power the Rescuers' program for additional support.
FEMA $97M + CDBG-DR $920M/Hillsborough; additional $89M on June 15 (including $12M for Elevate Florida, $40.8M for debris cleanup). Pinellas County investigation into $813M grant suggests potential mismanagement. St. Pete local groups seek common ground on $600M for storm surge and injection wells. Pasco County housing program expansion; Pinellas $29.4M for waterway repairs (new $29M federal grant confirmed); Manatee County Lasting Manatee Home Recovery Program (apps due June 30). United Way 211 hotline; Jackery 'Power the Rescuers' program. Sarasota County approved $91.8M for storm recovery as reimbursements lag, with $152.4M spent and only partial reimbursement; federal funding freeze and workforce cuts add systemic risk.