In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, St. Petersburg leaders are ramping up efforts to provide residents with essential recovery resources. The city has organized two upcoming events to offer guidance on permitting, financial aid, and strategies for future disaster resilience.
Virtual Info Session on the 49% Rule
The first event, a virtual information session on Friday, Nov. 8, from 12 to 1 p.m., will cover the 49% rule, a regulation affecting permitting for repairs and rebuilding in flood-prone areas. This Zoom session aims to clarify the rule’s requirements and streamline the permitting process for residents. Attendees are encouraged to register in advance and submit questions beforehand. After registering, they’ll receive a link to join. More details on the session and the 49% rule are available at stpete.org/rule49.
Hurricane Recovery and Resource Meeting
For a broader look at hurricane recovery, residents are invited to attend an in-person event on Wednesday, Nov. 13, from 5 to 8 p.m. at The Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N. Doors open at 5 p.m., with the main program starting at 6 p.m. Mayor Kenneth T. Welch, alongside city officials and representatives from FEMA, the Florida Division of Emergency Management, and Pinellas County, will outline available recovery resources, financial assistance options, and updates on the permitting process.
This meeting also offers a forum for residents to voice feedback, highlight areas for improvement, and propose resilience strategies to strengthen the community against future disasters. Insights gathered during this session will help shape ongoing recovery discussions among local organizations, ensuring a unified approach to preparedness.
Resource tables featuring representatives from FEMA, city departments, and community organizations will be available from 5 p.m., providing residents with personalized assistance. The program will conclude with a Q&A session. For more information and pre-registration, visit stpete.org/recovery.
Both sessions underscore St. Petersburg’s commitment to supporting residents as they rebuild and prepare for future challenges.
ADVERTISEMENT
