Under the warm glow of city hall lights, St. Augustine officials gathered for an important workshop focused on flood mitigation assistance, a pressing issue for many residents. Chief Resilient Officer Jessica took the stage, highlighting the city’s ongoing commitment to tackling flood risks through the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program. This year marks the fifth consecutive year St. Augustine has participated in this initiative, which aims to elevate flood-prone structures and enhance community resilience.

Jessica shared encouraging news about the program's future, noting that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently posted a notice of available funding for the upcoming 2025 cycle. This announcement signals that the program remains intact and funding opportunities are still available. The city has submitted applications in previous years and is currently awaiting updates on funding for those projects.

The workshop, held annually in August, serves as a platform for educating the community about the FMA program and its benefits. Jessica emphasized the importance of these efforts, stating, “There’s always been a lot of interest in it to elevate flood-prone structures.” She also mentioned the collaboration with Quality Engineering and Surveying, a firm experienced in managing such programs, which has been assisting St. Augustine in navigating the complexities of grant applications.

To accommodate various schedules, the city organized multiple sessions, including a live-streamed option for those unable to attend in person. This accessibility reflects the city’s dedication to engaging with residents and ensuring they have the resources needed to participate in the program.

As the workshop progressed, Zach from Quality Engineering took over to discuss this year's specific updates and expectations for the grant cycle. He reiterated the competitive nature of the FMA grant, which invites applications from across the nation, underscoring the significance of St. Augustine's participation in this vital funding opportunity.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism and determination, as city officials and residents alike recognized the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding their community against flooding. With the FMA program continuing to evolve, St. Augustine is poised to enhance its resilience and protect its cherished neighborhoods for years to come.