In a recent government meeting, officials addressed the significant challenges posed by derelict vessels following Hurricane Matthew, which exacerbated existing environmental hazards. The coastal director, Jessica Wentworth, reported that the storm had displaced several identified derelict boats, complicating recovery efforts. The county is actively pursuing grant funding from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to facilitate the removal of these vessels, with a proposed funding structure of 75% from the state and 25% from local sources.

Wentworth highlighted that prior to the hurricane, ten vessels had been earmarked for removal, and despite the storm's impact, eight of these have been located, with the remaining two recently found in remote areas. The urgency of the situation was emphasized, as the county aims to begin removal within 60 days of grant approval to mitigate environmental risks and enhance public safety.

Deputy County Manager Donna DePister outlined the procurement process for selecting contractors to handle the vessel removals, noting that bids could range significantly in cost. To expedite the process, the county is seeking permission to waive the formal bidding procedure for contracts exceeding $50,000, allowing for quicker action on the vessel removal.

In addition to vessel recovery, the meeting also touched on the state of local beaches post-hurricane. Wentworth reported that approximately 80% of beach walkovers sustained damage, with 25 requiring complete reconstruction. The county's swift response included inspections and repairs to ensure beach access for the upcoming tourist season, demonstrating a commitment to restoring public spaces while addressing the aftermath of the storm.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's proactive approach to disaster recovery, focusing on environmental safety and community accessibility in the wake of Hurricane Matthew's devastation.