The City of St. Petersburg is preparing to implement the second phase of its $160 million disaster recovery plan to assist residents affected by storms over 15 months ago. The program offers reconstruction assistance, down payment help, affordable housing funding, and voluntary property buyouts.

City officials report receiving 466 applications for reconstruction assistance, more than double the anticipated 98 households. Housing administrator Amy Foster told a committee meeting that many homeowners still need urgent help.

“I just really wanted to underscore how many people we have that are hurting, that this assistance coming urgently is important,” Foster said.

The plan includes a $5 million voluntary buyout program that would allow the city to purchase approximately 14 high-risk storm-damaged properties for conversion into open space or flood mitigation areas. Buyouts will be limited to designated disaster-risk reduction zones and prioritize low- to moderate-income neighborhoods under federal guidelines.

However, federal delays may postpone aid distribution. Following the recent federal government shutdown, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is reviewing the city’s grant agreement. Foster indicated homeowners may wait two to three months before receiving funds.

Councilmember Brandi Gabbard expressed concern about potential displacement of residents, stating, “We’re not giving up. We want to adapt. We want to be able to maintain our neighborhoods.” She warned of climate gentrification risks as rebuilding costs increase.

Current maps suggest Shore Acres, one of the city’s most flood-prone neighborhoods, would likely not qualify for buyouts under proposed criteria. The city continues accepting applications through February, with final program details requiring full city council approval.

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