Lucy Robinson
As the winds die down and the clouds begin to part, Palm Coast residents face the daunting task of cleaning up after Hurricane Milton. The city has announced a structured plan for storm debris collection starting on Wednesday, October 16. This initiative is critical for a swift recovery and ensuring that the community can return to normalcy in the aftermath of the hurricane.
Storm Debris Collection Schedule
The City of Palm Coast has set up a detailed collection process. The FCC, which is the city’s regular waste hauler, will manage the collection of bagged and containerized debris. Each household can place up to two cubic yards of these materials for pickup.
Meanwhile, the city’s Storm Debris Contractor will be in charge of gathering unbagged storm debris. These specialized trucks will be equipped with machinery for a more efficient collection.
What to Know About Debris Collection
To ensure an effective collection procedure, residents must follow a few important guidelines:
- Separate Your Debris: It is essential to keep storm debris distinct from regular yard waste. Mixing these materials could jeopardize Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding for removal, potentially leading to delays or denial of service.
- Debris Placement: Residents should place their debris curbside but avoid placing it in the street, gutters, or near mailboxes and utility poles to ensure safe navigation for collection trucks.
- Types of Debris:
– Bagged and containerized yard waste (managed by FCC)
– Unbagged storm debris (managed by the Storm Debris Contractor)
Here are some additional instructions to keep in mind:
- Avoid placing household trash, electronics, or hazardous waste among the storm debris.
- Debris must be accessible and visible for collection, not buried under leaves or other materials.
Assistance and Communication
The City is dedicated to making the cleanup process smooth for its citizens. Residents can seek assistance or clarification by contacting customer service at 386-986-2360. The City has also set up a platform called Palm Coast Connect for submitting service requests or queries.
For continuous updates on storm recovery efforts and other news, residents are encouraged to follow the City of Palm Coast on various social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. This ensures that everyone stays informed about important announcements and shifts in the debris collection timeline.
Follow-Up and Community Support
The city asks for patience and cooperation during this challenging period. By adhering to the outlined guidelines, residents can significantly aid the recovery efforts. The focus is now on restoring Palm Coast to its vibrant state while ensuring safety and organization throughout the cleanup operations.
Preparing for Future Storms
As the community gets back on its feet, it’s vital to reflect on the experiences from Hurricane Milton. Proper preparedness for future storms can help minimize impact and streamline recovery processes. Here are several tips for residents:
- Create a Disaster Kit: Make sure to have essential supplies ready, such as food, water, flashlights, and batteries.
- Stay Informed: Sign up for alerts from the local government to receive real-time updates during adverse weather situations.
- Assess Home Safety: After major storms, inspect homes for damage to avoid future hazards.
Resilience is crucial in any community, especially one faced with natural disasters. By preparing for the future and supporting each other through the recovery, Palm Coast residents can strengthen their ties and build a safer environment for all.
As the storm debris collection begins, the city stands firm in its commitment to the Palm Coast community. Working together, residents will navigate through this recovery phase, restoring their beloved city while learning and adapting for what lies ahead
