City braces for Hurricane Milton as emergency plans unfold

City officials convened a meeting to discuss preparations for Hurricane Milton, which is expected to impact the area with winds reaching up to 180 miles per hour. The emergency operations center will open tomorrow, and city officials anticipate that city services may be suspended on Wednesday and Thursday due to the storm.

Mayor and commissioners expressed gratitude for the hard work of city staff in preparing for the hurricane, including sandbag distribution and community outreach. Commissioner McCool emphasized the importance of unity and kindness during this challenging time, encouraging residents to reach out to officials if they need assistance.

Concerns were raised regarding ongoing developments in the area, particularly the Teresa Basin study and proposed construction of new apartments behind local businesses. Commissioner Caldwell requested updates on these projects, highlighting potential flooding risks associated with changes to water flow.

Vice Mayor Joe Deavey addressed the need for improved communication with residents, suggesting that officials refrain from engaging in disputes during public comments. He also praised the city's HR efforts, noting significant savings achieved through effective management.

As the storm approaches, officials reminded residents to prepare emergency kits and stay informed about evacuation routes. The city has coordinated with local and federal representatives, including the Red Cross, to ensure support and resources are available for residents during the storm.

In closing, officials urged the community to take the hurricane seriously and to have a clear evacuation plan in place. They also discussed future workshops to address various community concerns, including the use of local facilities by the U.S. Coast Guard and discussions regarding veteran properties.