22-0858
11.B.
Debris Collection Post-Hurricane Ian
Recommended Action:
Based upon the additional debris that has piled up along with the FEMA approval for
debris removal expenses, staff recommends the Board authorize staff to mobilize
CERES, the County’s contracted emergency debris disposal contractor along with
Debris Tech, our emergency debris removal monitoring provider.
County Administrator Jason Brown provided an update on the vegetative debris left
behind after Hurricane Ian, and the County's struggle to clear roadways with existing
resources. Administrator Brown discussed staff's recommendation to mobilize the
County's contracted emergency debris disposal and monitoring contractors. He
informed the County had received Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
approval for 100% reimbursement of the costs to clear public rights-of-way.
Administrator Brown and Vice Chairman Earman entered into discussion regarding
whether private communities could obtain FEMA reimbursement for clearing private
roadways. Administrator Brown voiced concerns which included not meeting the
threshold for the extraordinary steps and justifications FEMA required, delays,
possible non-reimbursement, and standard levels of service.
Commissioner Flescher requested a two-week extension on the waiver of tipping
fees, adopted at the Board's October 4, 2022 meeting. Chairman O'Bryan expressed
hesitation to have the County remove the debris because of the precedent it would set
in the aftermath of future storms.
Under discussion, a motion was made by Vice Chairman Earman, seconded by
Commissioner Flescher, to approve staff's recommendations, as well as an extension
of the tipping fee moratorium, and limiting debris collection to larger piles of
vegetation.
Louise Hubbard, former Executive Director, Treasure Coast Homeless Services
Council, recounted difficulties she experienced obtaining FEMA reimbursement.
Debbie Perez, Government Affairs Manager, Waste Management, reported on the
status of the debris and addressed residences that had been bypassed for
non-payment.
Rich Szpyrka, Public Works Director, cautioned that the requirement to focus on
larger piles of debris would cause a logistical problem for staff, as well as complicating
the FEMA monitoring process. Administrator Brown supported staff's concerns and
commented on the confusion it could cause.
Vice Chairman Earman modified his motion to eliminate the requirement to limit debris
removal to only larger piles, and Commissioner Flescher amended his second.