Storm Impact Business News
State provides hurricane update report
Key Messages More than 1,100 FEMA staff are on the ground in Florida to help survivors recover from Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby. FEMA will continue to process applications, receive and manage appeals, conduct inspections and assist applicants and local officials with questions and information about recovery programs. FEMA may call Floridians who applied for…
Read MoreFloridaCommerce awards more than $10 million for Hurricane Ian recovery
FloridaCommerce awarded more than $10 million for long-term Hurricane Ian recovery through the Rebuild Florida Hurricane Ian Hazard Mitigation Grant Match Program (HMGMP). These awards will assist local governments eligible for the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) which requires a 25 percent local match. Three communities will receive funds to help construct, rehabilitate and…
Read MoreLee County Commissioners approve HUD Action Plan and launch LeeCares individual housing assistance
Lee County Government today took two steps toward continued recovery from Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton: The LeeCares individual housing assistance portal opened for pre-applications, and the Board of County Commissioners submitted its Action Plan to the federal government for review and approval. LeeCares Program Launch The pre-application portal for the LeeCares Hurricane Housing Recovery…
Read MoreSanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting celebrates A Little Adventure
When Joshua and Audrey Stewart first opened their kid-oriented shop, A Little Adventure, on  April 1, 2022, they weren’t expecting quite the adventure that Hurricane Ian brought five months later. On April 1, 2025, however, they celebrated their third anniversary at the restored, remodeled store, which officially reopened  in November. The SanCap Chamber was there…
Read MoreFEMA mitigation experts offer rebuilding advice in Lee County
As Floridians rebuild, survivors of Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby can get free advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms. FEMA mitigation specialists will be available to answer questions and offer free home improvement tips and proven methods to lessen damage from future disasters. This information is geared for do-it-yourself work and…
Read MoreSanCap Chamber cuts the ribbon at Sandalfoot Condominium
With a SanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting at Sandalfoot Beachfront Condominium, 671 E. Gulf Drive on Sanibel Island March 27, the islands’ post-hurricane recovery experienced yet another boost. The condominium complex reopened in late December to start welcoming holiday guests. Of its 60 units, about 50 have reopened, with the rest expected soon. All amenities have returned,…
Read MoreMitigation experts offer rebuilding advice in Charlotte County
As Floridians rebuild, survivors of Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby can get free advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms. FEMA mitigation specialists will be available to answer questions and offer free home improvement tips and proven methods to lessen damage from future disasters. This information is geared for do-it-yourself work and…
Read MoreDon’t get scammed, be aware of fake FEMA inspectors and contractors
While disaster recovery continues throughout Florida, disaster survivors are encouraged to protect themselves from fraudulent inspectors and contractors claiming to work for FEMA. FEMA inspectors are still in communities performing home inspections. Be aware, fake or unlicensed inspectors may try to take advantage of this situation to scam residents affected by Hurricanes Debbie, Helene or Milton. Keep…
Read MoreFloridaCommerce encourages homeowners apply for Hurricane Ian repair program
FloridaCommerce reminds homeowners that the application deadline for the Hurricane Ian Housing Repair and Replacement Program is Monday, March 31, 2025. Residents who experienced damage from Hurricane Ian—or whose homes suffered further impact from Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Helene or Milton—are encouraged to apply before the deadline. Funding is available to low-to-moderate-income households in 20 counties:…
Read MoreMayor Allers and town staff meet with FEMA and state representatives
Mayor Dan Allers, Town Manager Andrew Hyatt, Deputy Town Clerk/Legislative Liaison Jason Freeman, and Town Attorney Nancy Stuparich went to Washington D.C. to discuss the National Flood Insurance Program and revocation of the Community Rating System. These topics were discussed with FEMA, Senator Ashley Moody, Congressman Byron Donalds, and a Representative from Senator Rick Scott’s…
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