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From the City of Punta Gorda ...

The National Hurricane Center has issued a Hurricane Warning for our area. Therefore, cross-tying of boats (i.e., securing of boats in the middle of the channels) is permitted in the Punta Gorda canal systems. As such, you may not be able to navigate your vessel through the canals if you want to remove your vessel from the water to a trailer for storage or move it to another location.

Refer to Hurricane Preparedness for Boat Owners for information on how to protect your boat.

Posted 10/07/2024

Source: Alert Punta Gorda email dated Mon 10/7/2024 @ 5:10 PM and the City of Punta Gorda website

From the City of Punta Gorda ...

Charlotte County Orders Evacuation of Red, Orange Zones

Read the Charlotte County News Release HERE.

Posted 10/07/2024

Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 10/07/2024

Potential Sewer System Impacts During Heavy Rains and Storm Surge

As we brace for heavy rain and the possibility of a hurricane impacting the area, the Utilities Department is reminding residents to be aware of the potential effects of excessive rainfall and storm surge on the City’s sanitary sewer system.

While the City's sanitary sewer system is designed to handle wastewater efficiently, extreme weather conditions, such as those experienced during Hurricane Helene, can overwhelm the system. This may result in temporary backups and overflows. Such conditions are largely driven by the volume of rain and storm surge, which can lead to standing water, property damage, and potential health risks.

Residents are advised to be aware of the following potential effects:

• Sewer Backups: In rare instances, excessive rainfall can lead to      infiltration of the sewer system, which may cause temporary backups in      homes or businesses.
• Contaminated Water: Sewer overflows can introduce contaminants into standing water and nearby bodies of water, creating a possible public health risk.
• Property Damage: Flooding during heavy rain and storm surge can result in property damage.

Read the entire Media Advisory HERE.

Posted 10/06/2024

Source: City of Punta Media Advisory dated 10/05/2024

Regular Sanitation Services Suspended

In response to the recent impact of Hurricane Helene, the City of Punta Gorda is temporarily suspending regular sanitation services, effective immediately. This decision allows the City’s sanitation crews to prioritize the collection of debris caused by the storm.

What You Need to Know:

• Sanitation Service Suspension: Regular trash services will be paused until further notice.
• Focus on Debris Collection: Areas with the greatest flood impacts.
• Timeline: We anticipate resuming regular sanitation services after the incoming storm.
• Residents’ Role: We ask residents to avoid placing regular trash and recycling at the curb during this period. Please pile hurricane debris separately for pick-up.

Contact: City of Punta Gorda Public Works (941) 575-5050.

Posted 10/06/2024

Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 10/06/2024 

From Charlotte County ...

For storm information, call the Charlotte County Emergency Operations Center at 941-833-4000 from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. daily.

Follow Charlotte County Emergency Management for important emergency information at www.charlottecountyfl.gov/em, www.facebook.com/oemcharlottecounty, and www.x.com/ccoem.

Check for Charlotte County news HERE.

Storm and Recovery information may be found HERE. 

Posted 10/06/2024

Source: Charlotte County website

From the City of Punta Gorda ...

Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) 50% Rule (Substantial Damage/Improvement) is  crucial in rebuilding efforts after disasters. This is also a requirement of the 2023 Florida Building Code. Read about the Rule HERE.

Posted 10/01/2024

Source:  City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 10/01/2024 

From the City of Punta Gorda ...

Regular Sanitation Services Suspended

In response to the recent impact of Hurricane Helene, the City of Punta Gorda is temporarily suspending regular sanitation services, effective immediately. This decision allows the City’s sanitation crews to prioritize the collection of debris caused by the storm.

What You Need to Know:

• Sanitation Service Suspension: Regular trash services will be paused until further notice.
• Focus on Debris Collection: Areas with the greatest flood impacts.
• Timeline: We anticipate resuming regular sanitation services after the incoming storm.
• Residents’ Role: We ask residents to avoid placing regular trash and recycling at the curb during this period. Please pile hurricane debris separately for pick-up.

Contact: City of Punta Gorda Public Works (941) 575-5050.

Updated 10/06/2024

Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 10/06/2024 

Seasonal Residents - Please Check on Your Home Following Recent Flooding

Read the City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 09/27/2024

Debris Separation

The  City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 09/29/2024 provides details regarding how to separate the debris being removed from residential properties that were damaged by flooding. As with Hurricane Ian, those materials are not picked up until a majority of residents have had the opportunity to get the materials removed. As soon as this occurs a pickup date will be released.

FEMA Assistance 

If you have been affected by Hurricane Helene, apply for FEMA assistance to take care of your critical needs. FEMA may provide financial help to assist you with home repairs, temporary housing, or property damage (appliances, furniture, vehicle, etc.). You may also qualify for help with childcare, medical, lodging, moving, and funeral expenses.

Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA Helpline 1-800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., 7 days a week. Help is available in many languages.

Don’t wait to apply for FEMA assistance and, if you do have insurance, do not wait to file an insurance claim for damage caused by the disaster.

If you have business losses, including property damage and economic losses, you may qualify for assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Visit the MySBA Loan Portal at lending.sba.gov to learn more and apply.

FEMA Hurricane Helene Web Page

FEMA has launched a web page to respond to rumors and confirm the facts related to Hurricane Helene response and recovery. Read the FEMA News Release dated 10/04/2024 HERE.

Posted 10/05/2024

Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 10/05/2024

Crisis Clean Up

Need help cleaning up after Hurricane Helene? Crisis Cleanup is here to connect you with local volunteers who can assist with storm recovery tasks like mucking out, debris removal, tree clearing, and more. Call 844-965-1386 to request assistance. The hotline is open through Friday, Oct. 11, 2024.

COAD

COAD is a group of Charlotte County community organizations, working together to provide coordination of services to ensure that unmet needs are addressed, provide financial assistance and supplies, and to share knowledge and resources with Charlotte County residents during a disaster. COAD members include faith-based, non-profits, volunteer groups, and government agencies. To get help visit COAD HERE.

Helene Storm Damage Permit Application

The City of Punta Gorda is pleased to announce the completion and availability of the Helene Storm Damage Permit Application. Residents and property owners impacted by recent storm damage can now access the permit application form through the City’s website HERE.

Read the City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 09/30/2024 for information about how to complete and submit the application and processing time.

Updated 09/30/2024

Source: City of Punta Gorda Hurricane Helene emails dated September 27, 29, & 30, 2024 unless otherwise noted

From the City of Punta Gorda ...

Any items containing lithium batteries that were exposed to saltwater or submerged in any way from the storm surge such as Electric Vehicles, E-bikes, E-lawn mowers, E-scooters, etc. should NOT be kept inside your home, garage, or shed after Hurricane Helene.

The effects of salt water from the storm surge on lithium batteries has caused several structure fires already. Salt water acts as a conductor for electricity and can lead to a fire that can rapidly spread inside a structure. If you have electric vehicle mounted chargers in your garage, it is highly recommended to consult with an electrician to ensure there are not concerns with the equipment or the vehicle prior to charging them inside your garage.

Please read below for additional information on lithium batteries and water exposure:

The dangers of lithium batteries and the effects they have when exposed to water can be detrimental. Prolonged exposure to high levels of moisture can lead to irreversible damage as water may penetrate the battery. The combined effects of electrolytes decomposition, lithium salt dissolution, electrode damage, and short circuits mean that lithium cells fail rapidly and cause fire when contaminated with water. Lithium-ion batteries can enter an uncontrollable, self-heating state, this can result in the release of gases, cause fires, and possible explosion. Salt water is a great conductor of electricity, if it penetrates the battery case, the water will create a direct path for the flow of electricity, potentially causing a short circuit this can lead to overheating, leakage, or even fire. Most common items with lithium-ion batteries include but are not limited to are: lawn mowers, edger’s, weed eaters, tools, electric bikes, EV vehicles, scooters, phones, E-cigarettes, vapes, etc.  

Please contact the Punta Gorda Fire Department if you have any questions (941) 575-5529.

Updated 10/05/2024

Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated 10/05/2024

Charlotte County has an online Self-Reporting storm damage system to collect storm damage assessments. To report home or business damage, visit tinyurl.com/selfreportdamage, then enter the address, select the type of damage, and add a photo.  If possible, include high water marks when reporting damage. Reporting damage in this system gets the information to County departments quickly and eliminates the need to call it in. The information will help the County compile an extensive list of damage. Be aware that property owners must still take whatever steps are necessary to report any damage to their insurance company, FEMA, etc.

Updated 09/27/2024

Source: Charlotte County webpage

Recently there has been a significant increase in slow down and animal crossing signs throughout BSI. With that increase there has also been an increase in the number of complaints about the signs.

There are 2 issues with the signs. First, the City of Punta Gorda has code restrictions on signs in the easement. The easement area is approximately 10 feet from the edge of the road. The ONLY signs allowed in that area are for yard treatment signs warning residents that chemicals have been applied.

Additionally, BSI has a deed restriction (#18) that states that no signs shall be erected or displayed on this property or any structure, except that the Grantor may allow a sign to be erected at its discretion. Theses signs have not been approved and the BOD decided that they would not be granting approval.

The BSIA BOD decided that we wanted to notify residents that these signs should be removed before residents start contacting code enforcement seeking compliance. If you have a neighbor who is not a member, please politely let them know that the signs will need to be removed as they are a violation of both city code and our deed restrictions.

Thank you for your assistance!

Source: BSIA 08/06/2024 Tuesday Bulletin

The City of Punta Gorda would like to remind all residents and businesses of the regulations regarding distributing business flyers and handbills. According to Punta Gorda City Code Chapter 15, Section 15-45, the door-to-door distribution of such materials is prohibited within residential areas.

This regulation is in place to ensure the community's safety, maintain public order, and prevent the accumulation of unsolicited materials that could contribute to littering. The City of Punta Gorda is committed to keeping our neighborhoods clean and free from the clutter and potential hazards resulting from unregulated flyer distribution.

Key Points to Remember:

• No Door-to-Door Distribution: Business flyers, door hangers, or handbills may not be distributed directly to residential properties. This includes throwing weighted bags containing flyers into residential driveways.
• Possible Littering Charges: In addition to violating the city code, unauthorized distribution may also result in littering charges.
• Compliance: Businesses and individuals are encouraged to seek alternative, approved methods of promoting their services or events.

We appreciate the cooperation of all residents and businesses in adhering to these regulations. By working together, we can ensure a clean and orderly environment for everyone.

Source: Posted on Facebook by the Punta Gorda Police Department 09/10/2024

According to Punta Gorda's City Manager in the 09/13/2024 Weekly Highlights Report...

The Zenner Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system has 14,172 meters in the AMI system, with 9,143 non-reporting. Repairs of this system are made as parts become available.

We are exploring all options for water meters.

• One option involves replacing the meter's register, encoder, and communications unit with an all-in-one unit. Staff is working towards piloting a trial of an AMI solution utilizing Amazon Sidewalk Network. This pilot seeks to address issues with meter functionality, simplify installation and maintenance processes, eliminate points of failure, and achieve cost savings. It allows us to restore AMI capabilities to residents without interrupting their water service, as the current brass meters are reliable and serviceable. If this type of system is workable, then the bid process would be used to allow qualified vendors to supply the equipment needed.
• A study is also being undertaken to review the existing AMI system, investigate alternatives, assist with the pilot evaluation, and make recommendations. The engineering study will run concurrently with the pilot, allowing real-time review by engineers and stakeholders.

Finally, in addition to the meter readers from Olameter, city staff members are being trained and offered an opportunity to read meters in the evening and on Saturdays to ensure customers receive an actual read rather than estimated billing.

The acting utilities director, Tom Spencer, will update the City Council at the September 18, 2024 meeting of the City Council beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the Military Heritage Museum.

City Manager Greg Murray may be reached at citymgr@cityofpuntagordafl.com or by calling the main office line at 941-575-3302. 

Election Day for the General Election is November 5, 2024.

Know your POLLING LOCATION on Election Day. To find yours, click HERE or call 941-833-5400.

For EARLY VOTING information ... sites, dates (October 21, 2024 – November 3, 2024), and times (7:00 AM – 7:00 PM) ... click HERE.

***UPDATE*** Change in Early Voting Location …

Per Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections, 09/30/2024 email … “Our main office at the Historic Courthouse sustained flood damage, and as a result, Early Voting will no longer take place at this location.” As an alternative to the Punta Gorda Historic Courthouse, voters may go to the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center at 75 Taylor St. in Punta Gorda.

VOTING BY MAIL …

Vote-By-Mail (VBM) ballot requests expired on November 8, 2022. If you have NOT renewed your VBM ballot request, you can do so by the deadline of October 24, 2024. Renew it HERE.

Once your VBM ballot request is renewed, it is valid through December 31, 2024. VBM ballot requests must be renewed after each General Election.

For additional information about VBM ballots click HERE.

VBM ballots are NON-FORWARDABLE, so your CORRECT ADDRESS must be on file with the Supervisor of Elections (SOE) office. If the address you require your VBM ballot to be mailed is not in their system, you must complete the statewide form and return it no later than 5:00 PM on October 24, 2024. Click HERE for the form.

There are three ways to return the form:

1. Email: VBM@SOECharlotteCountyFL.gov
2. Mail: Supervisor of Elections, Attn: VBM, 226 Taylor St, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
3. Fax: 941-833-5434 

VOTER REGISTRATION …

The deadline for NEW VOTER registration applications and to CHANGE PARTY AFFILIATION is October 7, 2024.

Ensuring that your voter registration information (name, address, and signature) is current is crucial for a smooth voting experience. Delve into your registration details now to make any necessary changes. Visit one of the three Charlotte County SOE offices or go ONLINE.

• NOTE: Your signature can change over the years. To avoid any potential problems when you go to vote, you should ensure that the SOE has an up-to-date record of your signature on file. Stop by their office in the Charlotte County Historic Courthouse at 226 Taylor Street in Punta Gorda to update yours during regular business hours. Call the SOE office at 941-833-5400 if you have any questions. Source: Mayor Lynne Matthews 06/21/2024 weekly email

To review your SAMPLE BALLOT for the 2024 General Election , click HERE. 

To review the CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS on your ballot, click HERE.

Questions? Call the SOE office at 941-833-5400 for assistance.

Sources: Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections, 08/30/2024 email (Issue 16 / August 2024) and the SOE website except where otherwise noted.

A VBM BALLOT TRACKING SERVICE is available to follow your ballot from "printed and mailed" to "received and counted" .

BallotTrax is a secure communication system that helps voters track their Vote-By-Mail ballots. The system does not change or update a voter's registration. It uses USPS information to track outgoing and received mail, as well as voter registration that is made available via public record.

BallotTrax can send text, email, and voicemail notifications reporting the status of a voter's ballot during an election. The tracking service will provide the following notifications when the ballot:

• Has been printed and is being mailed soon.
• Has been mailed.
• Has been received and counted.
• Has been received and not counted.
• Has been returned as undeliverable.

Sign up to track your VBM ballots by clicking HERE.

Source: Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections, 06/27/2024 email (Issue 14 / June 2024)

NOTE: Answers to many election questions may be found in the Charlotte County and Florida Voter Guides (click HERE for the guides) or on the Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections website.

Posted 09/10/2024

The BSIA has mailed hard copies of the deed restrictions to ALL BSI property owners, regardless of BSIA membership.

The deed restrictions can always be found on the BSIA website HERE and a downloadable PDF of the most recent copy can be found HERE.

Posted 09/17/2024

The 2024 Sales Tax Holidays have ended.
For information about the 2024 program, click HERE.

Posted 09/08/2024

The City of Punta Gorda would like to inform residents and travelers about roadway work set to take place in the City. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District One will be undertaking major upgrades along two key corridors, S.R. 35 (U.S. 17) and Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41), starting this fall.  Flyer 441552 and 441524 

The upcoming projects are aimed at enhancing road safety and traffic flow. Key improvements will include:

• Construction of a roundabout: To improve traffic management and reduce congestion.
• Milling and resurfacing: To refresh the existing pavement and extend its lifespan.
• Pavement reconstruction and widening: To accommodate increased traffic and enhance road stability.
• Additional features: Installation of new guardrails, drainage systems, signage, pavement markings, traffic signals, and Intelligent Transportation Systems.

Project Details:

• FPID No. 441552-1: S.R. 35 (U.S. 17) from Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) to Bermont Road.
• FPID No. 441524-1: Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) from William Street to Peace River Bridge.

What to expect: Motorists should prepare for intermittent nighttime and overnight lane closures during construction. We urge all drivers to exercise caution, reduce their speed, and stay alert when traveling through the work zones. Please note that the construction schedule may be subject to changes due to weather conditions or other unforeseen factors.

For ongoing updates and the most current project information, please visit the SWFL Roads project website:

• S.R. 35 (U.S. 17) Project Information 
• Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) Project Information

Residents can reach out to FDOT's Communications Team for additional information or inquiries. Contact Bryn Parsons at 239-985-7864 or via email at bryn.parsons@dot.state.fl.us.

Your patience and cooperation is appreciated as these improvements are made to enhance our roadways.

Source: City of Punta Gorda News List posting dated 08/21/2024

***UPDATE to the Tamiami Trail/Carmalita St. roundabout (Project 441524-1)*** Per  Mayor Lynne Matthews 09/14/2024 weekly email ...

This project is entering Phase Two of construction. As of September 12, 2024, the contractor will pave portions of the proposed roundabout that will be constructed at the intersection of Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) and Carmalita Street.

Motorists should expect daytime left lane closures northbound from William Street to Carmalita Street and southbound from Cross Street to William Street. 

During the process of Phase Two construction, motorists should follow the posted detour.

• Cross Street will be closed for the duration of Phase Two construction.
• Motorists attempting to access Carmalita Street from Cross Street will have to use the posted detour. They will turn left on West Charlotte Avenue, then right on Taylor Street, and continue until they reach Carmalita Street.

Motorists are asked to exercise caution and reduce their speed while driving through the work zone.

The construction schedule may change due to weather or other unexpected conditions.

Due to the excessive afternoon heat, the City of Punta Gorda has temporarily adjusted the recycling, trash, and yard waste collection pickup times. Beginning on July 30 and until further notice, residents are asked to set their containers curbside by 5:00 a.m. or the evening before the scheduled collection day. This allows staff to begin collecting one hour earlier than normal to avoid the afternoon heat.

Source: Mayor Lynne Matthews 08/10/2024 weekly email

HyperFiber is a provider of high-speed internet and will be installing a citywide fiber optic internet network within the City right-of-way. For information about HyperFiber click HERE.

Pricing: No contracts. Monthly $65 for 250 Mbps, $75 for 500 Mbps, and $85 for 1,000 Mbps (1 gigabit).

Installation began in PGI on July 10, 2023. Plans for the BSI installation have been submitted to the City. Communications will come to the residents via direct mail and door hangers about 30 days prior to installation starting. BSI will likely be installed in four sectors. Door hangers will not be left behind on homes with shutters or posted for sale signs.

Initially you will see utility markings within the City right-of-way, followed by the directional drilling of the fiber optic conduit. Fiber optic boxes will be installed in the right-of-way or easement at the edge of your property. They will do everything possible to avoid damaging any other underground utilities. If they do damage something, they will get it repaired as quickly as possible. Please use extra caution while driving through the project area due to construction personnel and equipment.

Once the installation of the underground and service points has been completed for the entire sector, crews will then return to individual locations for the restoration of sod. This will take place at the end of construction in each sector. Please be patient and allow time for sod restoration.

The City Engineering Department will be performing spot inspections during construction as well as a final inspection when the restoration is complete to ensure the contractor’s restoration meets the City’s requirements.

Watch for future updates in the BSIA Tuesday Bulletin.

***UPDATE*** Per the 07/16/2024 BSIA Tuesday Bulletin …

We have received the schedule for the HyperFiber installation. They have had some turnover and although the installation has progressed, the communication has not. Refer to the map in the 07/16/2024 Tuesday Bulletin to find your sector and its timing. Installation has already started in BSI and will continue through the week of August 25, conditions permitting. HyperFiber will be mailing both a letter and postcard immediately to the addresses on file.

***UPDATE*** Per the 08/02/2024 BOD meeting with HyperFiber ...

If residents have questions or concerns about the project and installation, please contact HyperFiber’s Rick Kayel, Residential Educator, at 941-777-5001 or rkayel@hyperfiber.com.

***UPDATE *** Per Mayor Lynne Matthews 08/10/2024 weekly email ...

HyperFiber has provided a telephone number to call if citizens have questions or concerns about the project and installation - call HyperFiber's Lori Haight at 501-844-6340.

***UPDATE*** Per the 09/17/2024 BSIA Tuesday Bulletin …

Schedule a meeting with your HyperFiber Residential Educator to customize a home internet solution that’s perfect for you and your family.

With HyperFiber Internet, you get hyper-fast speeds and the connection reliability that cable simply can’t match. Our 100% fiber optic networks are purpose-built for the way you and your family use the internet. If you’re ready to learn more, simply sign up to meet with your HyperFiber Residential Educator.

In just 15-30 minutes you’ll have a customized HyperFiber home internet solution that delivers the ultimate in internet experience.

Contact HyperFiber through their website or call (888) 725-8091.

The City of Punta Gorda Code Compliance wishes to remind the community of the hazards and violations associated to overgrown vegetation as we approach the rainy season. Property owners are required to maintain all landscape areas, trees, and shrubs in a neat and healthy condition free of diseased, dead, or bare areas and free of debris and weeds (Chapter 26, Section 8.11(e)). Areas that are overgrown and creating a visual blight or dangerous condition by the potential blockage of public right-of-way, sidewalks, etc., are subject to the code violation process (Chapter 9, Section 9-2(g)). Any questions or concerns on the matter may be forwarded to the Code Compliance team at code@cityofpuntagordafl.com.

Source: Mayor Lynne Matthews 05/10/2024 weekly email

Starting in July 2024, the My Safe Florida Home program started taking applications again. The program was created to strengthen Florida homes against hurricanes and save Florida homeowners money. The My Safe Florida program information is available by clicking HERE.

Source: Mayor Lynne Matthews 05/10/2024 weekly email