Suwannee County and partners secure state‑backed CDBG‑DR funds for regional storm shelter

Suwannee County commissioners on Jan. 6 celebrated a major award of CDBG‑DR funding and described next steps to build a regional storm shelter that county leaders say will increase long‑term resiliency across several North Florida counties.

Julie Dennis, CEO of Ovid Solutions, told commissioners the county’s application — prepared with renderings, documentation and a multiagency advocacy effort — met CDBG‑DR priorities for infrastructure and shelter projects tied to the 2023–24 storms. Florida’s Office of Long Term Resiliency and state legislators also joined the presentation. Michelle Posinski, director for the Office of Long Term Resiliency (Florida Commerce), called the award “a major investment into resiliency” and said her office will work closely with the county to remove barriers to completion.

The board and staff said the project is intended to serve residents in multiple counties, including Lafayette, Hamilton and Columbia, and to provide shelter capacity and special‑needs services in future storms. Commissioners and staff recounted a rapid application process that began with regional coordination last June, a Sept. 29 application submission, and follow‑up with state offices. Commissioner comments highlighted the project’s expected regional economic and safety benefits and pledged continued community outreach.

Senator Simon attended and described the award as transformational for rural communities, noting additional federal and state rural health and resiliency funds that local governments can pursue. County staff said the funding package will require coordination among several grant sources and careful documentation during construction and reimbursement phases.

Next steps cited by staff included site work, bid procurement for construction components, and interagency coordination. County leaders urged public engagement as the project moves toward procurement and construction milestones.