At the Crystal River event, Richard Wiggins, co‑owner of Bayside Craft Kitchen and several waterfront businesses, gave a personal account of how repeated storms affect workers and small businesses beyond visible debris. Wiggins said owners face tension and stress before storms, and employees confront extended uncertainty about income and job stability even after businesses reopen.

"This is about people. The buildings can be replaced. Anything material can be replaced, but people can't," Wiggins said, urging policymakers and the public to consider multi‑year recovery needs and the emotional toll on families who lack savings to withstand long periods without work.

Wiggins described the logistical and financial strains of reopening after flood damage — insurance, repairs and the lag in customers returning — and said aggressive short‑term pushes to reopen do not always translate into swift financial recovery for staff. He thanked officials for state support and the ability of communities to pull together during recovery efforts.

His remarks followed the governor's award announcements and were highlighted by local applause; no formal policy changes or new local programs were announced in response at the event.