Lee County began taking over control of Fort Myers Beach debris removal following discussions with Fort Myers Beach Administrator Roger Hernatatt and Lee County Administrator Roger Dejarres.
Lee County announced Friday that access to Fort Myers Beach will be closed every Monday and Tuesday beginning Monday, October 17. “Essential Responders”.
The decision, according to a statement issued by the Lee County government, “Rapid restoration of critical services and infrastructure”
Residents and their hired contractors will have access to the island Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Lee County said.
Previously, there was a 7 p.m. curfew, but a county statement suggests that has changed.
Required responders include: Electricity companies, water and sewerage companies. Florida DOT and Lee DOT transport crews.
Hernstadt said the county’s management of debris removal will free up town officials to focus on other reconstruction priorities.
“It makes sense to me” Helmstadt said.
“They need to expedite debris removal.” Currently, the town’s roads are piled up with debris, making it difficult to pass. The town has a debris removal contract, but does not receive state or federal assistance for the men or trucks to remove the debris.
Vehicles heading a few miles north on Estero Boulevard are blocked.
“If the trucks don’t move, why do we need more trucks?” Hernstadt asked.
“A truck is blocking the road.”
Hernstadt said the goal is to clear the debris within 60 days, with 100% of the cleanup costs being covered by the federal government. That date may still be extended. Technically, after 60 days, the federal government only covers 87% of him unless an extension is given.
Fort Myers Beach does not yet have running water, electricity or sewers.
Florida Power and Light is in the process of repairing the infrastructure for residents to receive power, but residents should obtain qualified electricians and structural engineers to ensure that their outlets and homes receive power safely. You have to decide that you can.
Hernstadt said the same processes and approvals would be required to resume water service.
