County reminds about forms for hurricane season
Professional property managers and residential homeowners’ association (HOA) presidents can take steps now to protect their community in the event of a hurricane or other declared major disaster.
Lee County reported that FEMA regulations require that private or gated communities have a current Right of Entry and Indemnification form on file with the county before any disaster-debris recovery crews are allowed to enter the community.
There is an easy, online process for communities located within unincorporated Lee — which includes Captiva — to submit the necessary paperwork. Filling out the form has to be done once a year.
Lee County Solid Waste encourages all HOAs and gated communities to take time to complete the form prior to the start of hurricane season, which will begin on June 1 and run through Nov. 30.
The county noted that the Right of Entry will only be used as necessary during the recovery period following a declared state of local emergency.
“It is important to note that waste generated by contractors is not eligible for disaster debris collection,” it added. “Waste and debris generated by contractors and left on public property creates safety hazards for pedestrians, motorists and emergency responders. Any waste left behind by contractors on public property will be considered illegal dumping, and the contractors will be held liable for any associated fines or penalties.”
Contractors are strongly urged to dispose of their waste in a responsible and lawful manner.
To access the form, visit https://leegis.leegov.com/ROE.
For more information or questions, visit www.leegov.com/solidwaste or call 239-533-8000.
In addition, as residents purchase hurricane supplies, they are reminded to properly dispose of batteries to prevent fire hazards. Never place batteries in the recycle cart, especially lithium-ion batteries, because they can spark fires in collection trucks and at waste facilities.
For more information on correctly disposing various types of batteries, visit www.leegov.com/solidwaste/battery-disposal. People can also download the Recycle Coach app and use the app’s guide and information or visit www.leegov.com/solidwaste/recycle-coach.