Duval Times

Today, Senator Rick Scott visited Anna Maria Island in Manatee County to assess the damage caused by Hurricane Helene and receive updates from Sheriff Rick Wells and local emergency management officials on recovery efforts. Senator Scott has been in constant contact with federal officials, local leaders, sheriffs, and emergency management officials across the state affected by Hurricane Helene to ensure they have the necessary resources while responding to the storm and helping Floridians recover.

Senator Rick Scott stated: “I just visited Manatee County to assess the damage and receive updates from Sheriff Rick Wells, Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth, and Holmes Beach Police Chief William Tokajer on the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene. My heart goes out to those affected by this monstrous storm. Anna Maria Island and most coastal communities in Manatee County were devastated by this storm, and it is heartbreaking to see so many homes and businesses damaged. I am grateful for the sheriffs, National Guard, emergency management officials, and first responders for their work.

“Florida is resilient, and although many families face unimaginable losses, I will stand by them every step of the way as they recover and fight for all federal resources needed to achieve that. Make sure to follow local authorities' instructions and stay safe as the storm surge continues to recede while they work to reopen roads, restore power, and allow families back into their homes. I have nine offices across the state, and my team and I are ready to help. If you or someone you know needs assistance with a federal agency like FEMA or SBA or any other federal issue while recovering from Hurricane Helene, contact us HERE. If there’s one thing I know, it’s that Floridians can overcome anything when we come together; our state's determination will ensure we rebuild stronger than before.”

This week, Senator Scott has had daily calls with the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and has been in contact with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for updates on Hurricane Helene. Before Helene made landfall, Senator Scott received briefings from sheriffs and emergency management in Bay County, Franklin County, Taylor County, and Levy County. Yesterday he was in Pasco County, Pinellas County, and Hernando County for recovery updates. This morning he visited Cedar Key in Levy County along with Sheriff Bobby McCallum and Cedar Key Mayor Sue Colson.

On Monday Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio sent a letter urging President Joe Biden to approve Florida's request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration for counties likely impacted by the storm. Following this letter's receipt on Tuesday afternoon President Biden approved an emergency declaration for Florida.

Senator Scott encourages all Floridians to visit his website at www.rickscott.senate.gov/hurricane-season-resources for information on hurricane recovery or visit Florida Division of Emergency Management at floridadisaster.org or @FLSERT.

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