October 16, 2024

Message from Vice Chairman Andria Herr

Dear Seminole County Residents,

As we continue to recover from Hurricane Milton, I want to take a moment to express how thankful we are for the overwhelming support we’ve received. Thanks to the efforts of Congressman Cory Mills and legendary actor Chuck Norris, we’ve been able to secure much-needed resources to assist in our recovery. Their generosity, along with the patience, kindness and resilience of our community, has been truly inspiring.

In times of hardship, it’s easy to see the strength of our community. The camaraderie among neighbors, local businesses, and volunteers stepping up to help one another has been nothing short of remarkable. Whether it's assisting in debris removal, offering shelter, or simply checking in on those in need, Seminole County has come together as a united force.

We have much to be thankful for, and together, we will emerge from this stronger than ever.

Warm regards,

Andria Herr
Vice Chair, Seminole County Board of County Commissioners

Debris Pickup Underway Across Seminole County

Seminole County has launched disaster debris collection in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, with crews working throughout the community to clear storm-related debris. The County began right-of-way collection efforts on Monday, October 14, focusing on areas most impacted by the storm.

One of the priority locations for debris removal was along Oakland Road, where crews ensured a safe path for children heading to Lake Orienta Elementary School. As of Tuesday, collection efforts expanded to some of the hardest-hit areas in the western part of the County, including the Sabal Point community. More trucks and hauling units are expected to join the effort, allowing the County to begin debris removal on the east side in the coming days.

To manage the volume of storm debris, two collection sites have been activated—Seminole County Landfill, available to both haulers and residents, and Yankee Lake, available for haulers only. These sites are equipped to handle the current debris levels, with continuous monitoring to ensure efficiency.

Residents are reminded that regular solid waste collection has resumed and are encouraged to follow guidelines to help expedite the process. 

For the latest updates on debris collection and storm recovery efforts, visit PrepareSeminole.org.

Residents Encouraged to Follow Debris Collection Guidelines

Contracted haulers are beginning to collect storm debris from neighborhoods across the County. Per federal requirements for debris collection reimbursement, Seminole County does not publish disaster debris collection, zones or schedules. 
With the estimated amount of storm debris across the County, collection may take months. Neighborhoods can help expedite collection by following these guidelines. 

• Large, combined piles of vegetative debris are more efficient for haulers to collect than many small, individual piles. 

• Vegetative debris should be separated from building materials or large items.

• Do not block storm drains, mailboxes, or other structures with debris piles.

• Do not place debris under trees, power lines, or poles.

• Do not place debris on streets or sidewalks.

For up-to-date storm information, visit PrepareSeminole.org.

How to Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance

In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, Seminole County residents affected by the storm may be eligible for financial assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program is designed to help individuals and families recover by providing support for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses.
If your home or property was damaged by the storm, follow these steps to apply for FEMA assistance:

1. Visit the FEMA Website:
The fastest way to apply is online. Go to disasterassistance.gov to start your application. You can also use the FEMA mobile app.
2. Call the FEMA Helpline:
If you prefer to apply over the phone or have questions about your application, call FEMA’s helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). For TTY services, dial 1-800-462-7585.

3. Gather Necessary Documents:
To apply, you’ll need to provide:

• Your Social Security number

• Insurance policy information (if applicable)

• A description of storm-related damage and losses

• Financial information, including total annual household income

• Your current contact information and address of the damaged property

4. Complete the Damage Assessment:
After you submit your application, a FEMA inspector may visit your home to assess the damage. Be sure to schedule a time when someone can be present during the inspection.
5. Check Your Application Status:
You can monitor the status of your application online at disasterassistance.gov or by calling the FEMA helpline. Make sure to keep your registration number handy for any follow-up communication.

Kicking Milton to the Curb: Congressman Mills and Chuck Norris Deliver Relief

This week, the Seminole County Office of Emergency Management received a generous delivery of water to the Geneva community, thanks to a partnership between U.S. Representative Cory Mills and legendary actor Chuck Norris. The semi-truck, filled with 24 pallets of CForce water from Norris’ ranch in Texas, is being distributed to residents affected by Hurricane Milton.

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