Roundtable held to discuss takeaways from last year's hurricanes and steps forward
Share this @internewscast.com

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla., (WFLA) — Hurricanes Helene and Milton struck Tampa Bay nearly a year ago.

Since then, the community has gained significant insights, and on Monday, Congresswoman Kathy Castor organized a roundtable to deliberate on the critical lessons learned and outline future actions.

Hurricane survivors from Riviera Bay and Shore Acres attended the roundtable to recount their experiences. They expressed that individuals are still finding it challenging to return to their homes, not only due to last year’s hurricanes but also from storms from previous years.

Residents in Pinellas County said they live with the water, and with that comes a lot of damage during hurricane season.

“We haven’t been home since Idalia caused flooding, which affected us severely. Additionally, we experienced 39 inches of flooding during Helene, so we’re eager to return home, but there’s still some work that needs to be done,” Courtney Stein remarked.

“We’ve faced multiple instances of flooding, specifically three times with Ada, Idalia, and Helene, significantly impacting our entire community,” Dr. Meghan Martin explained.

The Martin and Stein families said they showed up to the roundtable to be a voice for their communities, because so many people still need help.

“The community needs better access to affordable financial assistance, such as financing, loans, and grants, and we’re highlighting the necessity for support since the area needs more aid,” Stein added.

Earlier in the year, President Trump proposed the elimination of FEMA, suggesting its duties be transferred to the state level. He mentioned that this transition would occur post-hurricane season and has an interim plan ready.

“We’re going to give out less money,” Trump said. “We’re going to give it out directly,”

Recently, a review council he appointed focused more on reforms rather than entirely doing away with FEMA.

“Each and every person we heard from today made it clear that they need a clear rulebook, a set of guideposts that require reform for FEMA,” Schultz said.

Local hurricane survivors said that flooding and hurricanes are not going away, and that funding needs to be available, along with outside sources coming in to help.

“I’d hate to see us turn FEMA away. They did a lot of good work, it was hard to get funding at times, but to eliminate it altogether seems like a very bad idea,” Brian Martin said.

The local survivors said access to all available resources is necessary for people to rebuild and survive in hurricane-prone areas, so communities don’t have to experience this time and time again.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Snub Finalized: NFL Confirms No Reconsideration

NEW YORK (AP) — The NFL remains steadfast in its decision to…

‘If I Had Legs I’d Kick You’ Delves into a Mother’s Profound Existential Journey

Occasionally, the most compelling movies are those that defy simple explanations, resisting…

Tragic Collision on I-8 in San Diego Claims Lives of Police Officer and Civilian Driver

In a tragic turn of events, all eastbound lanes on a segment…

Israel Confirms Identities of Additional Hostage Victims Amid Vance’s Diplomatic Mission to Meet Netanyahu

TEL AVIV – In a solemn update, Israeli authorities have confirmed the…

Texas Secretary of State Sparks Debate with Viral Post on Voter Fraud Allegations

Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson has reignited discussions about election integrity…

Jack Nicklaus Triumphs: Legendary Golfer Secures $50M Victory in Defamation Battle Against Ex-Business Partners

MIAMI (AP) — Legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus has emerged victorious in a…

Breaking News: DHS Hikes Humanitarian Parole Fees to $1,000—What This Means for Immigrants

HARLINGEN, Texas (Border Report) — The Department of Homeland Security has introduced…

Chicago Mayor Unveils Innovative Tax Proposal Targeting Social Media Companies

CHICAGO (WGN) In an effort to address the city’s significant $1.2 billion…

Tune In at 9:30 p.m.: Florida’s Coast Set for Spectacular SpaceX Rocket Launch

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – On Wednesday, SpaceX is set to embark on…

Decatur Daycare Triumph: Landmark Agreement Prioritizes Children’s Safety and Well-being

For over two years, the Decatur City Council and a daycare facility…

Shocking Incident: Blind Man Forcefully Escorted by Federal Agents into Oregon ICE Facility

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Newly released videos capture a disturbing scene where a…

Join the Fun: Gate City Church Hosts Exciting Fall Festival for Everyone!

This Sunday, the Maranatha Baptist Temple in Gate City, Virginia, is transforming…