The Seminole City Council finalized an ordinance on December 3 to reduce permit and plan review fees for residents impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

City Manager Ann Toney-Deal confirmed that the fee reductions would remain in effect until January 13, 2025. Although an earlier proposal suggested December 31, 2024, as the end date, the council opted for a longer timeframe to accommodate affected residents.

RELATED: City of Seminole Providing Building Permit Discounts for Property Owners

Toney-Deal explained that the city would notify residents about the fee reductions during their application process. “We will simply work with people during their application process to determine if they were affected by Helene or Milton. It’s not something we will necessarily publish,” she said.

RELATED: When Will Lake Seminole Park Reopen?

Assistant City Manager and Chief Financial Officer Vince Tenaglia noted that applicable plan review fees would be waived, and a $50 discount would be applied to building permit base fees. However, Toney-Deal clarified that these discounts are exclusively for storm-related repairs and do not extend to other types of home repairs.

Other Council Actions

In addition to addressing hurricane recovery measures, the council handled several other items:

• Extension of Emergency Proclamations: The council extended emergency proclamations for Hurricanes Helene and Milton until December 10 and December 9, respectively. Toney-Deal said the extensions were necessary to complete documentation for remaining projects, including city hall repairs.
• Franchise Agreement Approval: A 30-year franchise agreement with People’s Gas System was approved on its second and final reading. Under the agreement, the utility will pay the city 6% of its gross monthly revenue for the right to use public rights-of-way.
• Community Policing Report: Deputy Peter Papas reminded residents about upcoming events, including WinterFest, scheduled for December 13 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Recreation Center.
• Acknowledgment of Service: City officials recognized the upcoming retirement of Captain Michael Leiner from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Department on January 10 after 31 years of service. “He has been a wonderful contact. I can’t imagine him retiring,” Toney-Deal said.

The council’s actions reflect ongoing efforts to support storm recovery while managing routine city business.

Want to win a $25 Amazon gift card? 

To enter, simply follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, or X between now and Tuesday, December 24th. (Psst… You can enter up to 4x by following us on all four! But sorry, U.S. residents only.)

(Image credit: Homes.com)