Against the backdrop of Tropicana Field, Mayor Kenneth T. Welch, City Council Chair Copley Gerdes, Fire Rescue Chief Keith Watts, and other city leaders gathered to mark one year since Hurricanes Helene and Milton impacted St. Petersburg. The event provided an update on ongoing recovery efforts and recognized community members for their contributions during the aftermath.
“When Hurricanes Helene and Milton impacted our community, at the time, I wasn’t sure what the future of our City would look like, but I knew that we would be committed to the long road to recovery,” said Mayor Kenneth T. Welch. “These hurricanes changed our community forever. I want to thank our City staff for their dedication, tenacity, and perseverance in the last year as we’ve worked to rebuild our community. They’ve accomplished this monumental feat while also balancing their other, everyday responsibilities. We will never forget the lasting impacts these storms had on St. Pete.”
Fire Rescue Chief Keith Watts discussed improvements made since last year’s storms: “One year after Hurricane Helene challenged our community, St. Petersburg Fire Rescue is proud to announce a significant upgrade in our ability to serve our community during future storms. For our residents, this means faster and safer rescues, and a greater peace of mind knowing that your St. Petersburg Fire Rescue is prepared to better serve your needs in any emergency. St. Petersburg Fire Rescue stands ready – stronger, safer, and more capable than ever.”
City Council Chair Copley Gerdes added: “The work is not done, but as I look around I can see the sun rising. I can see things moving forward, and as we carry the lessons we’ve learned into the future, we will continue to shape decisions that make our city safer, stronger, and more resilient.”
The City has received over $54 million in combined reimbursements from FEMA ($40 million) and insurance payments ($13 million) for debris removal and emergency protective services related to Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
St. Petersburg will also receive $159.8 million in Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds from HUD aimed at supporting housing recovery and infrastructure upgrades following recent storms including Idalia and Helene; program launches are expected in early 2026 after finalizing agreements.
To strengthen local infrastructure against future disasters through its Agile Resilience Plan (SPAR), projects have included installing flood barriers at critical facilities such as Lift Station 85 and Northeast Wastewater Reclamation Facility; deploying mobile pumps; elevating equipment at water reclamation sites; launching a rebate program for private laterals; with full details available on www.StPete.org/SPAR.
Post-disaster emergency permits remain active with over 14,500 issued—totaling approximately $299 million in construction value—and nearly $3 million waived in permit fees.
Repairs continue at Tropicana Field where eight new roof panels have been installed so far; roof completion is expected by year-end with further interior work scheduled through April 2026.
In response to high-water rescue needs highlighted by Hurricane Helene’s impact last year,St.Pete Fire Rescue has added three new vehicles equipped for deep water operations—each able to transport over 20 people safely during emergencies—which are strategically deployed based on historical storm data.
Community organizations were recognized for their disaster response:
– ICare St.Pete expanded free health services post-storms.
– Historic Kenwood Neighborhood Association organized volunteer teams aiding hardest-hit areas.
– Radio St.Pete upgraded systems ensuring continuous broadcast capability during power outages.
– Relief Market & Grille evolved from grassroots meal distribution into an established nonprofit focusing on preparedness.
– Show Up Relief Alliance provides hands-on disaster relief assistance without charge.
A recording of the press conference is available via the City’s Facebook page.
