Seminole in the final stages of hurricane cleanup, city officials say

Seminole city officials are in the final stages of hurricane cleanup, with City Manager Ann Toney-Deal announcing significant progress in debris removal, totaling over 41,072 cubic yards since the storms. The last day for residents to place debris at the curb was November 11, and cleanup crews have begun their final rounds through the city. Residents have expressed ongoing concerns about recovery, particularly regarding drainage issues in specific neighborhoods and requests to waive city fees due to prolonged power outages, with one resident detailing a seven-week wait for power restoration. Toney-Deal highlighted the anticipated FEMA reimbursements but acknowledged the potential delays based on past events. She stressed the necessity of maintaining a contingency fund to manage immediate costs during recovery.

The city council is also moving forward with budget amendments, including contributions to firefighter pension funds. This situation underscores the challenges faced by cities in the aftermath of natural disasters and the importance of community engagement in recovery efforts. Overall, the article captures the urgency and complexity of Seminole's post-hurricane recovery.