Port Orange sends 400 warning letters to mobile home parks amid FEMA aid concerns

The City Council of Port Orange held a regular meeting on January 21, 2025, where significant concerns regarding flood damage and FEMA aid were raised by residents. The meeting highlighted ongoing issues related to the city's handling of flood-related property assessments and communication with affected homeowners.

One resident, Frank, expressed frustration over warning letters sent by the city to mobile home parks, indicating that the city was attempting to shift responsibility for the flood damage onto the residents. He criticized the city for undervaluing his home, stating that the city assessed it at $24,200, while flood insurance valued it at $87,400. Frank's comments underscored a broader concern among residents about the accuracy of property assessments and the implications for their insurance claims.

Another resident, Kathleen Tarnow, also addressed the council, reiterating concerns from previous meetings about the impact of flooding on homeowners in the Sugar Forest area. Her remarks reflected a growing anxiety among residents regarding the city's response to the flooding crisis and the adequacy of support from FEMA.

The discussions during the meeting revealed a pressing need for the city to clarify its communication with residents and to address the concerns surrounding property valuations and flood damage assessments. As the city navigates these challenges, the implications for FEMA aid and local homeowners remain critical issues for the community. The council's next steps will likely involve further discussions on how to better support affected residents and ensure accurate assessments moving forward.