Cedar Key pushes forward with debris removal and recovery efforts

CEDAR KEY, FL (352today.com) – The quick debris removal project has officially started after getting approval Thursday.

Cedar Key Fire Chief announced Friday morning on the department’s Facebook page that he is set to review and sign the agreement for the project, after which funding will be requested, including a 50% advance payment to get the process underway.

The fire chief noted that the city is still waiting for approval on the waterway debris removal project. He stated that this will be his top priority for follow-up today, with a particular focus on ensuring a careful approach once the project begins. The marina area will be the first target for clearing but concerns about coverage and funding remain. Cedar Key’s city limits do not extend far in some coastal areas, and there is still uncertainty about whether private waterways or canals will be included in the project. The chief emphasized the need for collaboration with local authorities to ensure that funding covers the targeted areas.

In addition to debris removal efforts, the chief reported that the plan for more police on the island has been approved. A large team from Tallahassee, including multiple patrol vehicles and support staff, arrived late Thursday. They are set up at the State Museum and will stay for 7-10 days, offering important security and resources for the community.

Firefighting resources are also receiving reinforcement. A fully staffed Class A Engine is expected to arrive today at the Cedar Key Fire Station, said the chief, with plans to keep the team in place for up to 10 days. This addition will give local firefighters, many of whom have been personally impacted by the recent events, a chance to rest. The chief shared that firefighters have been displaced from their homes, and another two sustained damage to the lower levels of their residences.

As part of ongoing recovery efforts, temporary public restrooms and laundry facilities are expected to be set up in various locations around Cedar Key by the end of the day, replacing approximately 25 porta-potties that had been removed, the chief said. A public notice will be issued once they are operational. Additionally, the chief shares that a help desk has been set up at City Hall for residents still in need of cleanup assistance, with volunteers being assigned through a tent on-site over the weekend.

He said that the Red Cross was scheduled to arrive Friday to provide meals at the Baptist Church at noon and again at 6 p.m. Donation sites, which were temporarily paused, should be back in operation, he added.

On the business front, the fire chief is coordinating with the state to establish a 40’ x 40’ multi-purpose tent to aid local businesses and residents. The location is still being finalized, with further announcements expected soon.

The fire chief also stated that he is awaiting further updates from the state regarding additional resources to assist the building department with processing paperwork, conducting inspections, and speeding up the overall recovery process. Efforts are being coordinated with JPI for these tasks.

As the city continues its recovery, the fire chief said that he will also reach out to Cedar Key’s insurance company Friday to get an update on coverage and deductibles, as well as to start compiling uninsured damage for submission to FEMA for reimbursement. A consultant has been brought in to assist with this process, and residents are encouraged to report any damages that may have been overlooked, he added.

On a local level, repairs are slowly being made at the fire station. The chief said that he is troubleshooting issues including door openers and minor electrical problems. Plans to order replacement doors and supplies are also underway, as part of efforts to secure the fire station following damage sustained during recent storms, noted the chief.

“There are many moving parts,” said the chief in the Facebook post.  “This is just a few.”