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Request to Apply for 2023 and 2024 Storms Infrastructure Repair Program Through Florida Commerce Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Program
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
Florida Commerce released the 2023 and 2024 Storms Infrastructure Repair Program in June 2025. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The funds are to be used only for disaster relief, long-term recovery restoration of infrastructure and housing, economic revitalization and mitigation of risk associated with activities carried out for these purposes in communities affected by the specified disaster (the 2023 and 2024 Storms). During this time, Hernando County had declarations for Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Milton & Helene.
Project 1 - The Waterways Division is requesting funding for the demolition of existing structures on the 4170 Pine Dale Court property, the construction of a new Waterways facility to include an approximately 4,340 sq. ft. elevated office building, seawall addition, dock addition, and boat ramp renovation. All proper infrastructure will be added to the property as well as addressing the required drainage modification to allow for proper flow of stormwater on and through the site.
Total requested grant funds are $7,199,250 included are costs for: design and engineering, environmental services and permitting, fencing, seawall, dock and gangways, general construction, post construction services, and 5% of total project costs for grant administration ($339,250). $75,000 is funded in the department FY26 for site demolition
Project 2 - The Coast Guard Auxiliary Building Project is also located in the Hernando Beach Area of Hernando County at 4340 Calienta Street. Project will include the demolition of existing storm damaged, flood prone structure, the construction of a new facility to include an approximately 30,000 sq. ft. elevated building space, furnishing, retrofitting and permanent generator. All necessary infrastructure will be added to the property as well as addressing the required drainage modification to allow for proper flow of stormwater on and through the site.
Total requested grant funds are $9,857,715 including the demolition, design and engineering, environmental services, permitting, site surveys, asbestos abatement, survey, general construction, equipment, furnishing, and 5% of total project costs for grant administration ($469,415).
A Notice of Public Comment Period and Public Hearing was published in the Hernando Sun on September 12, 2025, in compliance with the program requirements for the public to review and provide written comments.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
None currently. There is no match requirement for this grant; however, the County is leveraging $75,000 budgeted in FY 26 for the demolition of the Waterways Building.
LEGAL NOTE
The Board is authorized to act on this matter pursuant to Chapter 125, Florida Statutes.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board approve and authorize the Chairman’s signature on the attached applications for Project 1 Waterways Building and Project 2 Coast Guard Auxiliary Building for the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Program.