With less than 100 days until the start of the 2025 hurricane season, time is running out to prepare and mitigate potential devastation. In a unified effort, mayors from all Barrier Islands are dispatching two letters this week to President Donald Trump, pressing for immediate assistance, especially with beach re-nourishment projects.

Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector highlighted the urgency, stating, “Hurricane Helene wiped out most of our dunes across Clearwater Beach and the barrier islands to our south. These dunes are critical for safeguarding not only buildings and residents but also wildlife. Replenishing the beaches is essential—and it’s not an inexpensive task.”

In their appeal to President Trump, the mayors emphasize, “Our communities stand on the frontlines of coastal erosion, storm surges, and hurricanes. Yet, Army Corps policies are penalizing those who’ve complied with easement requirements, stalling vital nourishment projects.” They are calling for swift reforms to resolve public easement challenges for residents.

Bellair Beach Mayor Dave Gattis, who also serves as vice president of the Barrier Islands Government Council (BIG-C), expressed frustration: “We’ve been waiting endlessly for the Army Corps to settle this so we can restore our beaches. Their demand for 100% easements along the entire coast is unrealistic—it’s just not going to happen.”

The 11 mayors have also sent copies of their letters to local representatives, who have already championed these concerns in Washington. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna shared an optimistic update: “Just last week, I spoke with our White House congressional liaison, and earlier today, I met with our county commission about beach re-nourishment. We’re hopeful for a lasting solution soon.”

The mayors are banking on support from the nation’s highest office to expedite the construction of essential sand dunes, fortifying coastal towns against the inevitable storms ahead. “I wish we’d secured help for the dunes earlier,” Rector added. “Time’s running out—we’re only three or four months from hurricane season’s start.”

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(Image credit: City of Belleair Beach)

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