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CRA board approves disaster-relief measures, reallocates $100,000 to East Tampa tree-trimming
Summary
The board moved on a post-disaster grant relief policy that includes permit-waiver authority and approved reallocating $100,000 to replenish the East Tampa tree-trimming program ahead of hurricane season.
The Tampa CRA board on May 8 approved a package of measures intended to speed post-disaster recovery and accepted a $100,000 reallocation to replenish the East Tampa tree-trimming program.
Director Cedric McCray said the post-disaster item is designed to reduce barriers for businesses and residents after storm damage. One example he gave: a West Tampa business with roof damage that would be penalized under the current grant rules if it pulled a repair permit before formal grant approval. The proposed relief allows limited permit waivers so repairs can proceed without jeopardizing later grant eligibility.
McCray also described expanding tree-trimming assistance in emergencies. The East Tampa tree-trimming program had exhausted its funds; board member Hertek moved to reallocate $100,000 from neighborhood infrastructure and improvements in the East Tampa CRA to replenish the program and to prioritize tree-trimming ahead of hurricane season. The motion was seconded and passed by voice vote.
Board members framed the tree-trimming investment as both preventive and cost-effective: trimming hazardous limbs prevents more expensive roof and property damage after storms and lowers household risk. "Tree trimming is cheap, fixing a roof more expensive," Council member Hertek said while moving the allocation.
The board also directed staff to examine whether similar emergency tree services could be shared across other CRA districts and to improve public outreach when funds run low. McCray said the CRA has provided about $1.3 million in tree-trimming spending over recent years and that demand can outstrip available funding.
Separately, the board approved moving the post-disaster grant relief item forward; staff will return with implementation details and any required policy language. Board members requested clearer community notifications and an administrative process to issue the limited waivers without bypassing procurement or public-interest safeguards.
