Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
October 8, 2017 6:54 p.m.
Due to the magnitude of damages and debris from recent hurricanes, debris removal contractors have been overwhelmed and unable to deploy the needed resources to various communities they serve throughout the state. DRC, Fernandina Beach’s debris removal contractor, has been unable to supply sufficient resources to handle the City’s debris. Via one-on-one telephone calls, City commissioners authorized City Manager Dale Martin to make an emergency purchase of an F750 truck with a grapple to be used by City staff to help clear the City debris from Hurricane Irma.
At their October 3, 2017 Regular Meeting, the FBCC voted their formal approval unanimously. The city purchased the vehicle for $113,895 with funds transferred from the Capital Improvement Fund’s Reserve account.
The City will apply to FEMA for reimbursement of this emergency purchase.
Editor’s Note: Suanne Z. Thamm is a native of Chautauqua County, NY, who moved to Fernandina Beach from Alexandria,VA, in 1994. As a long time city resident and city watcher, she provides interesting insight into the many issues that impact our city. We are grateful for Suanne’s many contributions to the Fernandina Observer.