ST. PETE BEACH, Fla. — Witnessing a St. Pete Beach landmark in such a chaotic context is truly unsettling for many residents.
Hundreds of distressed individuals gathered in the damaged lobby of TradeWinds Resort, their presence centered not around enjoying the beach or dining out but in search of crucial answers from FEMA officials regarding their uncertain futures in the aftermath of recent disasters.
John Kurzman and his wife, Lisa, tragically lost their home to a destructive fire sparked by the surge caused by Hurricane Helene’s impact on the area.
“I’m calling it a world of hurt. There’s just so many people that have been impacted, and it’s sad,” Lisa expressed, her voice filled with emotion as she reflected on the devastating effects felt in their community.
Now, like countless others in similar predicaments, they are embroiled in the often frustratingly complex rules set by FEMA, desperately seeking clarity on straightforward yet pivotal questions: Can they rebuild their lives and home? If reconstruction is possible, when can it begin? Will they face the requirement to elevate their home to meet new safety standards?
FEMA’s 50-percent rule will ultimately dictate their options moving forward.
Watch the full video of the meeting with FEMA officials
FULL VIDEO | FEMA discussion at St. Pete Beach meeting
If you’re situated in a special flood hazard area, this rule imposes strict limitations, preventing homeowners from making improvements if those enhancements exceed 50% of the property’s overall value. Homeowners facing such a dilemma are left with two unsettling choices: relocate entirely or elevate their properties to comply with new regulations.
“The structure will need to be brought into compliance with the local, current floodplain management regulations,” stated Tamara Hansen, a FEMA representative, highlighting the stringent requirements homeowners must adhere to.
According to Hansen, it is the responsibility of local governments—not FEMA—to conduct inspections of homes to ascertain compliance with the 50-percent rule.
“It sounds like there’s a delay in making those initial damage assessments,” remarked another FEMA staff member, indicating potential setbacks in the recovery process for many impacted residents.
For now, this creates an anxiety-inducing waiting game for John and Lisa Kurzman, along with so many others grappling with the aftermath of the storm.
“It’s extremely anxiety-provoking because you don’t know. Are we going to rebuild? Can we do it? What are the rules? What new rules might apply?” Lisa articulated, capturing the uncertainty that looms large in the minds of affected residents.
When will the water go away?
Two weeks post-Hurricane Milton, many residents in Pasco County are questioning whether the rapid development in the area has contributed to the unprecedented flooding they’ve recently experienced.
Community questions Pasco County’s recovery and development’s role in flooding