Punta Gorda council adopts ordinance letting owners of historic homes request 'substantial damage' letters to access flood-mitigation funds

Punta Gorda City Council on Dec. 3 adopted an ordinance (item 3a) that adds procedures to the city's floodplain rules allowing owners of historic structures to request a "substantial damage" determination that can unlock state and federal mitigation funding.

City building staff said the change does not force owners to alter a building's historic status but creates a pathway for owners who want grant dollars to raise or rehabilitate damaged structures. "This ordinance is not a mandate. This ordinance is a tool for owners to come in and discuss their opportunities," the building official told council during the public hearing.

Council heard from residents and legal staff about practical consequences. Attorney Leskovich confirmed he had reviewed the proposal and staff said the determination would run with the property and could pose obligations for future owners. Councilmembers asked whether the provision might create a more burdensome obligation for subsequent buyers; building staff said similar concerns arise already when properties are gutted rather than repaired.

Supporters described the ordinance as a way to let historic-property owners access grants, including ICC (increased cost of construction) and FEMA funding, while maintaining historic-review steps. Opponents and several councilmembers noted that the city must follow state and federal flood rules and that any owner who applies and signs the requisite permit is agreeing to meet flood requirements.

Council closed the public hearing and voted to approve the ordinance with the record showing the motion carried.