TO: Honorable Mayor & Members of the North Port Commission
FROM: A. Jerome Fletcher II, ICMA-CM, MPA, City Manager
TITLE: Approve Memorandum of Understanding Between the Florida Division of Emergency Management and the City of North Port, Florida, for the Coordination of Debris Removal Efforts.
Recommended Action
Approve Memorandum of Understanding Between the Florida Division of Emergency Management and the City of North Port, Florida, for the coordination of debris removal efforts.
Background Information
Following two state-declared emergencies for Hurricanes Helene and Milton in the fall 2024, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) and the City of North Port have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to coordinate debris removal efforts. The Governor’s Executive Orders and FDEM’s emergency authority support rapid mobilization of resources for recovery operations. This MOU outlines mutual responsibilities to ensure effective debris management in accordance with State Statutes and Emergency Orders.
Under the Agreement, FDEM can procure and fund debris hauling services for the City and will be liable for damages caused by the vendor while operating within an approved scope of work. The City of North Port must define this scope, monitor vendor performance, and provide daily reports and system access to FDEM. The City is also responsible for staging and final debris disposal, as well as collecting and submitting all documentation required for FEMA reimbursement. Failure to provide adequate monitoring could result in unreimbursed costs being passed on to the City.
Staff is presenting this post-Hurricanes Helene and Milton in response to FDEM’s ongoing requirement for documentation to support appropriate reimbursement to the state for debris removal efforts. This document was provided to the City’s Road and Drainage District in November 2024 and has been in process since that date.
The MOU includes legal and administrative provisions, such as liability limitations under Florida law, procedures for amendment, and communication protocols. It affirms that each party is responsible for its own agents and employees and does not waive sovereign immunity. This formal agreement enables coordinated disaster recovery operations and clarifies roles to ensure accountability, funding eligibility, and operational efficiency during emergency debris cleanup.
The Memorandum of Understanding Between the Florida Division of Emergency Management and the City of North Port, Florida, for the coordination of debris removal efforts has been reviewed by the Interim City Attorney and is legally correct as to form.
Strategic Plan
Disaster Response & Recovery Management
Financial Impact
Not applicable.
Procurement
Not applicable.
Attachments:
1. Memorandum of Understanding
Prepared by: Garrett Woods, Senior Business Manager
Department Director: Chuck Speake, Public Works Director