Leaders from the Barrier Islands have reached out to President Donald Trump for assistance in the wake of two devastating hurricanes: Helene and Milton. They are collectively drafting a letter to support their communities’ recovery efforts.

“It’s been an incredibly tough four months,” said St. Pete Beach Mayor Adrian Petrila.

Mayor Petrila noted that over 2,500 homes were affected, leaving some residents still without homes.

“We’ve added numerous staff members to speed up permit processing,” Petrila explained.

Currently, there are more than 200 permits awaiting review in St. Pete Beach.

“I heard the president talk about cutting through federal red tape for rebuilding efforts when he was in the Carolinas and California,” Petrila mentioned.

Consequently, he, along with Treasure Island Mayor John Doctor, has written to Trump for support.

“I believe he should extend similar aid here in Florida, his home state,” Petrila added.

Leaders from all 11 barrier islands have agreed to send another letter addressing issues like beach renourishment.

“I think this action is overdue,” said Jonathan Hilditch of Hello Sweetie Sweets, where a foot of water caused significant damage.

Hilditch faced not only standard but also complex permit issues post-storm.

“Recently, we’ve had drywall replaced and the place repainted. We’re looking to reopen next week,” Hilditch commented optimistically.

“There’s finally some hope,” he added, though he feels recovery could have been faster.

“The issue isn’t federal; it’s local that we’re not back in our homes,” Hilditch stated.

“We want everything back to how it was before the hurricane hit. We need immediate action now,” Petrila insisted.

Next week, leaders from these 11 communities will gather before sending their letter. Pinellas County is also preparing to contact the White House to discuss the urgent need for beach renourishment projects.

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(Image credit: Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office)