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Council outlines steps for FEMA help, debris removal after Hurricane Helene
Summary
Mayor Bowen said the city must file a Resolution of Intent for residents to be eligible for FEMA flood assistance; council discussed debris removal, insurer (GIRMA) assessment pending, and private contractors available to clear damaged areas.
The Santa Claus City Council discussed post-Hurricane Helene recovery needs, debris removal logistics and how residents could access FEMA flood assistance.
Mayor Donita Bowen and Toombs County Manager John Jones met with Chad Bowman of FEMA Floodplain on Nov. 13; according to the minutes, Bowman outlined the steps the city must take to make residents eligible for FEMA assistance. Emily Wingo (EPD) helped submit required documents. The mayor told council that the city must sign a Resolution of Intent for residents to receive FEMA assistance at no cost to the city; if the city does not file that resolution, residents would be ineligible for FEMA assistance.
Council discussed debris removal from public properties and damage assessments following the Sept. 27 hurricane. Landscaper Luis Nino removed downed trees from city property to his private property; the council said they hope debris-removal trucks will collect those piles. John Morris inspected the fence at the lift station, which was destroyed by the storm. ER Assist Services told the council it can clear additional areas, including private woods, if property owners agree. GIRMA has completed an inspection of damages and the city is awaiting the final assessment report.
Republic Services informed the city of a 4.8% trash-collection rate increase effective Jan. 1, 2025; council discussed that and other recovery costs as they relate to budget planning. Council noted a possible easement under the park where a fallen oak ruptured a main water line and reduced water pressure; clearing that easement is part of repair planning.
The council set a debris-removal deadline (Jan. 6, 2025) tied to a planned road-resurfacing schedule and arranged follow-up on FEMA-process steps. No vote on the Resolution of Intent was recorded in the minutes.
