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ALACHUA ‒ The Oct. 7, 2024, Alachua City Commission meeting was more than just a civic gathering — it was a showcase of the profound connection between performing arts and the community. The Santa Fe High School Symphonic Band took center stage, captivating attendees with stirring renditions of the Santa Fe High School Alma Mater and “The Thunderer” march by famed composer John Philip Sousa.

The performance, led by Santa Fe High School band director Jacob Massena, transformed the commission chambers into a vibrant musical setting, reminding everyone of the powerful role the arts play in expressing thoughts and emotions. As the band’s notes filled the room, commissioners, city officials, and community members alike were moved by the students' dedication to their craft.

Music, long considered a universal language, has the unique ability to foster a sense of unity and shared experience, and the Santa Fe High School Symphonic Band exemplified this by bringing the crowd together. Performing live in front of local government leaders, the young musicians highlighted how the performing arts offer a bridge between individual expression and communal identity.

Following the band’s performance, Mayor Gib Coerper and Massena presented certificates to the talented musicians, recognizing their artistic achievement and commitment to excellence.

The inclusion of the Santa Fe High School Symphonic Band in the commission meeting served as a testament to the city’s ongoing support for youth arts programs and the performing arts in general. Events like these provide a platform for students to engage with their community, demonstrating how the arts can enrich public life and strengthen human connection in ways few other mediums can

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HIGH SPRINGS – On Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, the City of High Springs initiated storm debris removal just days before the anticipated arrival of Hurricane Milton. In a brief Special City Commission meeting, commissioners approved a mutual benefit use agreement with AshBritt, Inc., which was tasked with debris removal following Hurricane Helene. Long-time residents and current City Commissioners Tristan Grunder and Byran Williams said Hurricane Helene was the most devastating storm to impact High Springs in recent memory.

City Manager Jeremy Marshall, who negotiated the agreement by utilizing Alachua County's existing contract with AshBritt, expressed urgency for debris removal to begin the following day. The project is estimated to cost the City of High Springs around $165,000, which Marshall assured would come from the city's Contingency Fund. He is optimistic that FEMA will reimburse at least 75 percent of the expense, but is hopeful for full reimbursement given the increasing frequency of hurricanes affecting the region.

With Hurricane Milton bearing down on Florida and expected to impact High Springs, the Commission also unanimously passed Resolution 2024-AA, officially declaring a State of Emergency. The resolution was approved during a roll call vote, ensuring the city can mobilize necessary resources and services ahead of the storm.

Marshall also noted that City of High Springs offices may close early on Wednesday, Oct. 9, and remain closed through Thursday. Residents are encouraged to follow updates from the city on the High Springs Fire Department, Police Department, and official city Facebook pages, as well as sign up for emergency alerts at HSAlerts.com.

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ALACHUA COUNTY ‒ In the wake of destruction caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Alachua County officials are strongly advising residents to hire licensed contractors for all repair and reconstruction work.

Alachua County and communities sustained widespread damage from the storms, making it critical for residents to ensure that repairs are done safely and professionally. Licensed contractors follow local building codes and regulations, ensuring that all repairs meet necessary safety standards, which is essential to help protect homes and residents from future risks.

Why Hire a Licensed Contractor?

• Safety and Compliance: Licensed contractors adhere to local codes, ensuring that all repairs are compliant and safe. This reduces the risk of future hazards in homes affected by the storms.
• Quality Workmanship: With the proper training and experience, licensed contractors can complete complex repairs correctly and efficiently, minimizing the chances of further damage.
• Insurance and Liability: Licensed contractors carry insurance, which shields homeowners from liability in case of accidents or injuries during the repair process.
• Avoiding Scams: After natural disasters, unlicensed and unscrupulous individuals often seek to exploit vulnerable homeowners. Hiring licensed professionals helps prevent such scams.
• Peace of Mind: Working with licensed contractors provides homeowners with confidence that repairs are done correctly, ensuring their home’s safety and security.

How to Verify a Contractor’s License

• Residents can verify a contractor’s license status by visiting the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) website. Additionally, they should request documentation, such as the contractor’s license and insurance certificates, and ask for references from past clients to ensure the contractor's credibility.

If anyone suspects unlicensed contracting activity, they should report it to the DBPR by calling the hotline at 1-866-532-1440 or visiting their website. For more information on post-hurricane recovery and hiring licensed contractors, visit the Alachua County Building Division website or call 352-374-5243.

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ALACHUA – In a one-two punch, residents still reeling from the impacts of deadly Hurricane Helene braced for the anticipated devastating impact of Hurricane Milton.

Forecasted to strike land as a Category 3 hurricane, early in the week Milton intensified in the Gulf of Mexico, threatening coastal regions from Sarasota to the Big Bend area with severe winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges. Officials predicted that Milton would make landfall in the Tampa Bay area.

On Tuesday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued a statement that as of 11 a.m. eastern time, Hurricane Milton was located about 520 miles southwest of Tampa, with maximum sustained winds of 150 mph. Milton will move across the eastern Gulf of Mexico and approach the west coast of Florida through Wednesday. The center is likely to make landfall along the west coast of Florida on Wednesday night and move east northeastward across central Florida through Thursday.

DeSantis expanded the state of emergency to 61 counties, urging evacuations in coastal areas most vulnerable to storm surges, such as the Big Bend and Panhandle regions. Watches and warnings are in effect along the Gulf Coast, as the National Hurricane Center continues to monitor the storm’s northward movement over the Gulf.

Evacuations from coastal areas began on Monda, Oct. 7, 2024. Tolls were suspended on facilities in West Florida and Central Florida as well as Alligator Alley and 595 Express to help facilitate traffic flow as Floridians evacuate.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the Florida Highway Patrol implemented Emergency Shoulder Use (ESU) on eastbound I-4 from Tampa to S.R. 417 in Central Florida and on Northbound I-75 in Tampa from North of I-4 to south of I-10 in Columbia County. This operation allows motorists to use the left shoulder as an extra lane in designated areas as well as keeps travel available in both directions, which helps to get people out and get supplies and resources in. Thousands of evacuees heeding official warnings have passed through Alachua County, both along I-75 and U.S. Highway 441 fleeing the impending catastrophic storm.

Residents should be mindful that after Hurricane Milton passes through, the immediate aftermath can be both dangerous and overwhelming.

Residents should wait for official announcements from local authorities that it is safe to venture outside. Hazardous conditions, such as fallen trees, live power lines, and flooding, can still pose significant dangers.

Flooded streets or yards may seem navigable, but even shallow waters can be dangerous. Water may be contaminated with chemicals, sewage, or hidden debris. Additionally, floodwaters can conceal electrical hazards from downed power lines.

Before re-entering your home, check for visible damage such as structural instability, gas leaks, or electrical hazards. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave immediately and contact emergency services. Avoid using candles or any open flames until you are sure there are no gas leaks.

If you are using a generator, be sure to operate it outdoors and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Never connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring unless a licensed electrician has installed a transfer switch.

Wear protective gear such as gloves, boots, and masks while cleaning up debris. Sharp objects, nails, and hazardous materials may be hidden under rubble. Seek assistance from professionals for significant structural damage. For major repairs, hire only licensed contractors to ensure safety and compliance with local building codes. Be cautious of scammers who often appear after natural disasters offering low-cost repairs.

While the focus is on recovery, it's important to remember that hurricane season is still be ongoing. Once it's safe, begin restocking emergency supplies and updating your hurricane plan. Preparing early can make a significant difference in future storms.

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ALACHUA – In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, residents across the state, including those in Alachua and surrounding counties, are beginning the recovery process. Assistance is being provided by federal, state, and local agencies to help those affected by the storm. Here is a breakdown of the key resources available to residents:

Federal Resources: FEMA Assistance

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has activated its disaster assistance program to provide relief to individuals and businesses affected by Hurricane Milton. Residents can apply for financial assistance for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses.

• How to Apply: Visit the FEMA website at disasterassistance.gov or call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362. You can also apply through the FEMA mobile app.
• Disaster Assistance Centers: FEMA has and will set up Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in affected areas, including Alachua County, where residents can speak directly with FEMA representatives.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans: Low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses are available through the SBA for those needing to rebuild or repair their property. Visit the SBA’s website or call 1-800-659-2955 for more information.

State of Florida Resources

Emergency Relief and Health Services

The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) is coordinating statewide efforts to ensure residents receive the necessary support in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. The state has activated the following resources:

• Florida Disaster Fund: The state’s official private fund provides financial assistance to communities recovering from the storm. Residents can apply for assistance or donate to the fund via VolunteerFlorida.org.
• Temporary Shelters and Housing: The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) is working with local organizations to provide temporary shelters and food assistance. For information on available shelters, visit the DCF website or call 2-1-1 for local resources.
• Early Prescription Refills: Under the state of emergency, Florida residents are eligible for early prescription refills. The Florida Department of Health reminds residents to refill necessary medications, including those for chronic conditions, to ensure adequate supply during recovery.

Alachua County Resources

Local Support and Information

Alachua County and local municipalities have been working to support residents as recovery begins. The county has activated several key services to help the community rebuild:

• 311 Emergency Information Line: Residents can call 311 for non-emergency information, including details on local shelters, recovery services, and debris removal. If 311 is unavailable in your area, call 352-264-6557.
• Debris Removal Services: The county, along with several municipalities, have arranged for debris removal services, with priority given to areas with significant storm damage. Residents are encouraged to separate household debris, vegetation, and hazardous materials. Information on debris collection schedules can be found on the Alachua County website.
• Sandbag Distribution and Cleanup Supplies: Alachua County is continuing to offer self-service sandbag stations for residents dealing with localized flooding, as well as cleanup supplies at designated locations.
• Mental Health Support: For those dealing with the emotional toll of the storm, Alachua County is providing free counseling services in partnership with local mental health organizations. Call 352-374-5600 for access to support services.

Additional Tips

Residents should stay informed through official communication channels such as FEMA alerts, Florida 511 traffic updates, and Alachua County text alerts by texting ALACHUA to 888-777. Additionally, individuals should:

• Keep Records: Document all storm-related damage with photos and receipts, which will be critical for insurance claims and FEMA assistance.
• Beware of Scams: Only work with licensed contractors and avoid fraudulent offers of repairs or services. Verify contractor licenses via the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) website.

Stay Connected

For continued updates on recovery efforts and available resources, residents are urged to monitor local news outlets, social media channels from official agencies, and government websites. Working together with federal, state, and local authorities, residents can take full advantage of the resources available to rebuild and recover after Hurricane Milton.

For more information on disaster relief resources, visit FEMA.gov, FDEM’s website, or the Alachua County Emergency Management page.

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NEWBERRY ‒ The Newberry City Commission, during its Sept. 23, 2024, meeting, approved three small-scale amendments to the city’s Future Land Use Map, alongside several zoning changes. These amendments, which pertain to properties of 50 acres or fewer, were unanimously approved on second reading after earlier annexation into the city.

Small-Scale Land Use Amendments

The first amendment came from a petition by Robert F. Phillips and Gena M. Phillips, Trustees of the Robert F. Phillips and Gena M. Phillips Revocable Living Trust. They requested a change in the land use designation of a 0.24-acre site at 25909 West Newberry Road. The property was reclassified from Residential Low Density to Commercial, and the Commission approved the amendment on second reading.

Another approved amendment involved a 9.85-acre property located at 17406 S.W. 46^th Avenue, Archer, owned by Daniel and Meghan Shore. This change reclassified the land from Alachua County Rural/Agriculture to City of Newberry Agriculture, maintaining the current density of one dwelling unit per five acres.

Similarly, Jamie Nelson, the owner of a 4.76-acre property, requested a land use amendment for his land, reclassifying it from Alachua County Rural/Agriculture to City of Newberry Agriculture. Like the Shore property, this amendment does not alter the allowed density of the land.

Zoning Changes

In addition to the land use amendments, the Commission approved several zoning changes. The first was for the Phillips' 0.24-acre property, which was rezoned from Residential Single-Family (RSF-2) to Commercial Central Business District (C-CBD). Located at the southwest corner of State Road 26 and Pearl Street, the property is currently undeveloped, and any future redevelopment will require a site and development plan.

The second zoning change, also for the Shore property, involved rezoning from Alachua County Agriculture to City of Newberry Agriculture, aligning with the property's recent annexation.

A similar zoning change was approved for Jamie Nelson’s 4.76-acre property, which was also rezoned from Alachua County Agriculture to City of Newberry Agriculture following its annexation into the city.

Finally, a zoning change was approved for a 1.34-acre property located at 311 N.W. 250^th Street. Owned by Thamina Kadery and Mohammed Abul Chowdury, the property’s zoning was changed from Commercial Intensive (CI) to Commercial Central Business District (C-CBD).

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Cont: Zoning changes