TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. — The Bilmar Beach Resort suffered extensive damage to many of its downstairs units and is working to fully reopen year. During a time like this, management thought it was only appropriate to give back to others in the same boat as them.
The hotel said it’s sold out mostly with local residents who said it’s been a long process to get back on their feet.
The destructive storm surge from Hurricane Helene made its way onshore to the Bilmar Beach Resort.
“We lost 27 guestrooms, our ballroom, lobby, all the commercial space, kitchens, things like that,” Smith said.
With Hurricane Milton right behind it, Clyde Smith said things are moving along slowly, but surely.
“It wasn’t until Oct. 16 that we were able to open our doors and have since been able to bring in 85 rooms of individuals affected and not able to be in their homes with FEMA,” Smith said.
“I’m walking distance from here which is nice. It’s a lot when you lose everything you have. You’re just kind of lost, but it’s a very admirable place here,” Val Wolford, who is staying at the resort, said.
Many guests said they’re experiencing the same problem when it comes to repairs.
“They’ve extended our stay, FEMA, through January here which is really nice,” Val Wolford said.
Dr. Corey Evans and his wife Mary Lou said there’s a big roadblock in recovery.
“Permits have been a headache. Really,” Dr. Evans said.
Residents have been hounding the city for weeks about the permit process. Recently, the city made changes allowing homeowners to sign a hold harmless document letting people obtain a permit before having a substantial damage assessment.
“We got a new Mayor [John] Doctor and I’m hoping he will come through. He wants everyone to get back in their homes too. Alright, Mayor Doctor, let it happen, please,” Evans said.
So, they continue to wait.
“The county actually did the inspection and then they’re supposed to send it to the city, but the city says they haven’t gotten it yet,” Dr. Evans said.
Meanwhile, they're enjoying the sunset.
“We feel this is just a little piece of what’s left,” Wolford said.
The city of Treasure Island said it received more than 600 permit applications, and more than 50 have been issued. To help move things along quicker, the city said in-person assistance will only be available on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so staff can focus on processing during the other days of the week.