In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing recovery efforts along the beaches following the impacts of hurricanes Helene and Milton. The phased recovery approach is currently underway, focusing on debris removal and the redevelopment of affected areas. Local companies are being engaged for this work, with an emphasis on retaining displaced employees.

A significant topic of discussion was the management of sand on private properties, as community members expressed concerns about protecting this vital resource. Officials highlighted the importance of safeguarding the environment, which is considered one of the region's greatest assets.

Kelly Hammer Levy, the Public Works Director for Pinellas County, provided an update on the recovery efforts, including a recent meeting with the Army Corps of Engineers. She shared insights into the current state of the beaches and the ongoing projects aimed at restoring them. Levy noted that some areas have already shown signs of recovery, with natural processes bringing sand back to the shore.

The meeting also touched on marketing efforts for smaller beach properties, with suggestions for creating media kits to promote these areas as attractive destinations for visitors. The collaborative spirit among local officials and community members was evident, as they worked together to navigate the challenges posed by the recent storms and enhance the appeal of their coastal region.