Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Hurricane Relief topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
City outlines storm recovery funds, SHIP program income and plan to use third‑party clearinghouse for Milton relief
Summary
City staff said Jan. 9 the city has $3 million in SHIP program income and additional state and federal disaster funds to distribute for Milton flood recovery, and staff described plans to use a third‑party administrator to coordinate intake and disbursement.
City staff on Jan. 9 described how Tampa will coordinate disaster assistance for residents affected by flooding from Hurricane Milton and explained which city, state and federal funding streams are available.
What staff reported: Abby Feeley, development and economic opportunity administrator, said the city has about $3 million in SHIP program income earmarked for housing assistance and that the state’s SHIP disaster allocation ("SHIP Doctor") would add approximately $213,000 once accepted. She further said the federal government announced $12 billion in disaster funds and that roughly $700 million of the federal allotment would go to Hillsborough County; city and county officials were discussing how to coordinate distribution.
Third‑party administrator: Feeley said the city is negotiating with a third‑party vendor (ICF was named as a likely candidate) to act as a clearinghouse and intake manager for relief funds to avoid duplicative services and to leverage county and city resources efficiently. Any agreement with a third party would be presented to council for approval.
Permit fees and building department response: Feeley and building staff said the city has suspended permit fees for storm‑damage repairs and that procedures are in place to help homeowners obtain required permits. Staff noted that substantial‑damage determinations were mailed to roughly 1,900 properties based on post‑storm inspections; homeowners should contact the city’s dedicated address (floodfocus@tampagov) with questions.
Ending: Staff said they plan to return with an agreement for third‑party administration and to post program details publicly; council members asked for clear online information and a near‑term schedule for opening intake.
