In a recent government meeting, Oldsmar officials provided a comprehensive update on the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which struck the city on September 26th, causing significant damage to over 540 homes due to a storm surge of nearly 7 feet. Mayor and city staff expressed gratitude for the community's resilience and the hard work of city employees who worked tirelessly during the storm.

Mayor highlighted the importance of evacuation and community support, urging residents to assist one another in the recovery process. He acknowledged the emotional toll the storm has taken on families, particularly children, and encouraged them to stay focused on their education amidst the chaos.

City Manager Felicia Donnie detailed the extensive preparations and emergency responses undertaken by city staff, including the distribution of over 45,000 sandbags and the establishment of a casualty collection point for evacuees. She reported that 539 structures were affected, with 302 experiencing severe flooding. The city has initiated the Oldsmar Support Services Alliance to coordinate recovery efforts and provide assistance to those impacted.

Donnie also addressed the complexities of debris removal, noting that approximately 20,000 homes in Pinellas County were damaged. Due to contamination, regular waste services cannot handle hurricane debris, prompting the city to hire an outside contractor for cleanup. Residents are encouraged to separate debris to facilitate efficient collection.

The meeting underscored the community's strength and commitment to recovery, with officials emphasizing the importance of staying informed through Alert Pinellas and other communication channels. The city remains focused on rebuilding and supporting its residents in the wake of this unprecedented disaster.