Story by Steve Traiman
After the havoc caused by the heavy winds and rain from hurricanes Helene and Milton, our resilient barrier islands are busily rebounding and looking ahead to 2025 with ambitious goals for the new year.
The mayors of Madeira Beach and St. Pete Beach shared their forward-looking optimism with our many monthly readers.
Madeira Beach Mayor Ann-Marie Brooks told Paradise News: “As we reflect on the impact of hurricanes Milton and Helene in 2024, it’s clear that our community has faced an extraordinary challenge. The storm left behind immense devastation, affecting countless homes, businesses, and essential infrastructure. Many families experienced unimaginable losses. Yet, even in the face of such hardship, the resilience, unity, and spirit of our town have shone brightly.
“Thanks to the unwavering efforts of our community, we have taken significant steps toward rebuilding. This progress would not have been possible without the dedication and strength of our residents, and for that, I am profoundly grateful.
“Looking ahead to 2025, we are committed to not just restoring Madeira Beach but also reimagining it as a stronger, more sustainable, and more united community. While challenges remain, I am confident that together, we will rise from this adversity with renewed hope and determination.
“To our residents, thank you for being a part of this journey. Together, we will build a brighter future.”St. Pete Beach Mayor Adrian Petrila told Paradise News: “In 2024, the city of St. Pete Beach faced the unprecedented impacts of hurricanes Helene and Milton, which made landfall just two weeks apart. These storms have left an indelible mark on our community, and the complex recovery process will remain a part of our daily lives well into the New Year. The damage we sustained was overwhelming, and with it, a collective loss of the sense of normalcy that once defined our everyday routines.
“Looking ahead to the coming year, we will continue to prioritize key initiatives, including streamlining the permitting process to help residents get back to their homes as quickly and safely as possible. We will pursue funding for critical infrastructure projects including wastewater and road system construction to ensure we are building back in a more resilient way.
“We will also continue to build out a city staff who will proactively support the community in our recovery efforts. For all the important projects on the horizon, we will approach them with the diligence and foresight necessary to ensure they contribute to the long-term sustainability and well-being of our community.
“My commitment to restoring and strengthening our community is unwavering, and every day brings us closer to our goals.”
[Editor’s Note: Special thanks to Madeira Beach Mayor Ann-Marie Brooks and St. Pete Beach Mayor Adrian Pedrila for their excellent insight and comments.]
[Feature writer Steve Traiman offers extensive Business Writing Services. He can be reached at 727-798-4746 or by email to traimancreative copy@gmail.com]