Episode #182: Audra Curts – Hurricane Preparedness and Recovery in Small Cities
In this episode, Crystal River City Manager Audra Curts shares her deep experience in hurricane preparedness and disaster recovery, with a special focus on the unique challenges small cities face. Audra reflects on being hit by Hurricane Helene just two days into the job, followed by Hurricane Milton a week later, and the flooding of City Hall from Hurricane Idalia before her arrival.Audra draws from her past roles in city and school district leadership, including her time as CFO for Polk County schools during the 2004 hurricanes. She explains how storm recovery often requires cities to front costs long before FEMA or insurance funds arrive, making financial reserves and intergovernmental cooperation essential.From managing recovery for over 160 school sites to navigating citywide disaster impacts, Audra encourages proactive planning, strong departmental coordination, and the importance of having flexible funding options ready. Her insights offer a valuable blueprint for local governments preparing for and responding to major storms.
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52:37
Episode #181: Craig Fugate – Practical Guidance from the Former FEMA Administrator
In this episode, host Steve Vancore talks with Craig Fugate, former FEMA Administrator and Florida Emergency Management Director, about his career journey from firefighter to national crisis leader. Craig explains how leadership in emergency management hinges more on trust and competence than politics, and why pragmatism is essential for navigating changing administrations.Craig shares practical guidance for city and county administrators, outlining three core responsibilities in any emergency: issuing public warnings, coordinating evacuations, and providing shelter. He stresses the importance of clear communication about evacuation zones and building strong coordination among city, county, and agency partners. His advice: treat your entire workforce as part of the emergency team, and routinely test and update your plans to stay ready when disaster strikes.
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42:25
Episode #180: Frances Robustelli – Communicating Through Crisis
In this episode, host Steve Vancore speaks with St. Pete Beach City Manager Frances Robustelli about thethe vital role of communications in public safety, especially during storm season. They explore how leveraging multiple platforms—from social media to trustedcommunity leaders—can build public trust and ensure that timely, accurate information reaches residents when it's needed most.Frances shares her real-world experience managing storm recovery, including the importance of clearmessaging, documenting conditions, and proactive coordination with contractors, particularly for debris removal. She also underscores the value of strong vendor relationships and around-the-clock communication to accelerate recoveryefforts.Frances highlights the need for emotional support, space for residents to share their experiences, and transparent town hall discussions. Together, she and Steve reflect on how effective communication strategies are essential not just for safety, but for community resilience.
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42:42
Episode #179: Ed Cook - Rebuilding Cities After Disasters
In this episode, Steve Vancore and guest Ed Cook, City Manager for the City of Callaway, discuss the intricacies of rebuilding cities after disasters, with a particular focus on securing grants and managing city finances. Ed outlines his proactive approach to grant writing, leveraging his deep understanding of the city's needs and forming strong relationships with state officials and legislators to streamline the process. He shares how personal connections and expert collaboration enhance the effectiveness of their grant applications.The conversation also touches on the importance of financial reserves and transparency, which Ed credits for his city’s ability to quickly repay loans and sustain public trust post-disaster. They explore the strategic use of reserves and the benefits of clear financial planning.
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Re-Release Episode #154: Ken Parker – Insights from a FCCMA Senior Advisor
Ken Parker, a longtime FCCMA Senior Advisor who has been retired for 10 years, joins us for a live interview at the FCCMA 2024 Annual Conference. Ken moved from Arkansas to Port Orange in Volusia County and discusses his experience in buying 10,000 acres for Port Orange to support the municipality’s growth. Additionally, Ken shares the unique experience of having an alien eradication specialist on his staff and provides fascinating insights into his diverse career.
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