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Hurricane Milton Community Information – Sandbags and Shelter Locations

A list of locations for sandbags and shelters by county, as of Tuesday, October 8, 10:00 a.m.

 

 

SUMTER COUNTY

 

SANDBAGS

Available Tuesday for Sumter County residents October 8 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

 

  • Lake Panasoffkee Regional Recreation Park, 1589 CR 459, Lake Panasoffkee, FL, on Tuesday, October 8, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Sandbag operations will be available during this time according to weather conditions.

 

To obtain the sand and sandbags, residents will need to provide proof of residence within Sumter County and should bring a shovel if they have one. Residents pick up sandbags, fill them, and place them in their vehicles. There is a 10-sandbag limit per vehicle. Sandbags should be used to restrict floodwaters from entering houses via doorways, garages, and entryways. They are not to be used to provide a barricade around homes or property.

 

SHELTERS

General Population Shelter:

  • Sumter County Fairgrounds: 7620 SR 471, Webster, FL 33597 – Opening Wednesday 10/9/2024 @ 6:00 a.m.
  • South Sumter High School: 706 N Main Street (State Road 475), Bushnell, FL 33513 – on standby to open if active shelters reach 60% capacity
  • Webster Elementary School: 349 S Market Boulevard (State Road 471), Webster, FL 33597 – on standby to open if active shelters reach 60% capacity

Special Needs Shelters:

  • Wildwood Community Center: 6500 Powell Road, Wildwood, FL 34785 – Opening Wednesday 10/9/2024 @ 6:00 a.m.

Private Shelter:

  • Oxford Assembly of God: 12114 US-301, Oxford, FL 34484 – Opening Wednesday 10/9/2024 @ 6:00 a.m.

 

 

 

MARION COUNTY

 

SANDBAGS

These locations are self-serve, bags are provided, and a limited number of shovels will be available at the sites. However, citizens are encouraged to bring their own. Officials request that each person limit their use to 10 bags per vehicle. 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday.

 

  • Tuscawilla Park (Reilly Arts Center): 800 NE Sanchez Ave, Ocala, FL
  • ED Croskey Recreation Center: 1510 NW Fourth St, Ocala, FL
  • Jervey Gantt Park: 2200 SE 36th Ave, Ocala, FL
  • Dunnellon Public Works: 11924 Bostick St., Dunnellon, Florida
  • Wrigley Field: 405 County Rd East 316, Citra, FL
  • John Van Fleet Sports Complex: 14445 NE 14th Street Road, Ocala, FL
  • Belleview Sports Complex: 6501 SE 107th St, Belleview FL
  • Martel Recycling Center: 296 SW 67th Ave Rd, Ocala, FL
  • Marion Oaks: 294 Marion Oaks Lane, Ocala, FL (Behind the Community Center)

 

SHELTERS

The following locations will open at 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 8, 2024, as emergency shelters in preparation for Hurricane Milton. Those seeking shelter should bring their own medications, food, and other essentials. Pet owners seeking shelter for animals should bring their own pet supplies, including crates.

 

General Population Shelters:

  • Belleview Middle School, 10500 SE 36th Avenue, Belleview, FL
  • Forest High School, 5000 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala, FL
  • Fort McCoy School, 16160 NE Highway 315, Fort McCoy, FL
  • Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks, 365 Marion Oaks Drive, Ocala, FL
  • Liberty Middle School, 4773 SW 95th Street, Ocala, FL
  • Madison Street Academy, 401 NW Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, Ocala, FL
  • North Marion Middle School, 2085 W Highway 329, Citra, FL

 

Special Needs Shelters:

  • West Port High School, 3733 SW 80th Avenue, Ocala, FL (pets of special needs residents allowed)

 

Pet-Friendly Shelter:

  • Lake Weir High School, 10351 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala, FL
  • Vanguard High School, 7 NW 28th Street, Ocala, FL

 

 

 

CITRUS COUNTY

 

SANDBAGS

Self Service 24/7 – STAFF ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

 

  • Citronelle Park: 7826 W Dunklin Rd, Dunnellon
  • The Homosassa Recreation Park: 4210 S Grandmarch Ave, Homosassa
  • Bicentennial Park: 501 N Baseball Point, Crystal River
  • Floral Park: 9530 S Parkside Ave, Floral City
  • Old Hernando Elementary School: 2435 N Florida Ave, Hernando

 

These Sites Are Now CLOSED

  • Area 1 – 4508 S Grandmarch Ave in Homosassa
  • Area 5 – 7490 W Gulf to Lake Hwy in Crystal River

 

Please visit the Citrus County government Facebook page for additional updates. Contact Citrus County Road Maintenance Division with any questions: (352) 527-7610.

 

 

 

LEVY COUNTY

 

SANDBAGS

 

  • Bronson: Bronson Town Hall, 650 Oak St.
  • Cedar Key: City Hall, 809 6th
  • Inglis: Inglis Municipal Building, 31 Risher Ave.
  • Williston: Empty lot across the street from the Williston Police Department, 5 SW 1st
  • Yankeetown: Yankeetown Water Plant, 6241, Harmony Lane

 

SHELTERS

Opening Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at 8:00 a.m.

 

General Population Shelters:

  • Bronson Middle High School: 351 Ishie Avenue

Pet-Friendly Shelter:

  • Bronson Middle High School (Bring a crate, food, one gallon of water per animal, medications, Rabies vaccine certificate, and proof of distemper parvo/feline distemper vaccine. Animal Services will provide vaccines for an additional $10.00 per vaccine.

Special Needs Shelter:

  • Bronson Elementary School: 400 Ishie Ave

 

For Transportation to the shelter on Tuesday please call 352-486-3485. Transportation must be reserved no later than 5:00 p.m. Tuesday October 8, 2024.

 

 

 

LAKE COUNTY

 

SANDBAGS

County sandbag locations are open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. There is a limit of 10 bags per day per household. Sand and bags will be available on-site – residents should bring their own shovels and will need to fill their own bags. Assistance will be onsite at two locations for those who need help filling and loading their bags.

**Please Note: The sandbag location at Station 112 is closed. It has been moved to nearby St. Faustina Catholic Church**

 

  • East Lake Sports and Community Complex:
24809 Wallick Road, Sorrento
  • North Lake Regional Park:
40730 Roger Giles Road, Umatilla
  • Astor Fire Station 10:
23023 State Road 40, Astor
  • Minneola Athletic Complex (ASSISTANCE ONSITE): 1300 Fosgate Road (13930 Education Ave), Minneola
  • PEAR Gateway Park: Front Entrance (ASSISTANCE ONSITE)
26701 US Hwy 27, Leesburg
  • Faustia Catholic Church: 15551 N Boggy Marsh Rd., Clermont
  • Hickory Point Recreation Complex:
27315 SR 19, Tavares
  • Tavares OLD Fire Station:
424 East Alfred Street, Tavares;
Open 24 hours
  • Former Public Services Facilities:
400 12th Street, Clermont;
 6: open 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Oct. 7: open 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Lady Lake:
Hermosa Street and Gibson Street,
Oct. 7; open 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  • Groveland: Lot next to 310 Crittenden Street;
 7 and Oct. 8: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
15 bag limit per vehicle, self-service bring shovel
  • Susan Street Athletic Complex:
940 Susan Street, Leesburg;
 7 and Oct. 8: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Fire Station 22:
100 W Norton Avenue, Eustis
  • Frank Brown Sports Complex:
1245 E Pine Ave, Mt Dora

 

SHELTERS

These shelters will open Tuesday, Oct. 08, at 12:00 p.m. Residents are encouraged to bring necessary supplies such as medication, bedding, and a pet carrier or crate.

 

Pet-Friendly Shelters:

  • Round Lake Elementary: 31333 Round Lake Road, Mt. Dora
  • Spring Creek Elementary: 44440 Spring Creek Road, Paisley
  • Treadway Elementary: 10619 Treadway School Road, Leesburg

Pet-Friendly and Special-Needs Shelters:

  • Astatula Elementary: 13925 Florida Ave., Astatula
  • Villages Elementary: 695 Rolling Acres Rd., Lady Lake

 

 

 

HERNANDO COUNTY

 

SANDBAGS

Hernando County Government has opened Sandbag Stations beginning Sunday, October 6, 2024, and will run daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., weather permitting.

 

  • Linda Pedersen Park:
6300 Shoal Line Blvd.,
Spring Hill, FL 34609
  • Anderson Snow Park:
1360 Anderson Snow Rd.,
Spring Hill, FL 34609
(Enter through the service road between the park and the gymnastics place; the sand is located
at the end)
  • Ridge Manor Community Center:
34240 Cortez Blvd.
Ridge Manor, FL 33523
  • Spring Lake Methodist Church:
4191 Spring Lake Hwy.,
Brooksville, FL 34601

 

SHELTERS

Opening 10/8/2024 @ 8:00 a.m.

 

  • West Hernando Middle School Shelter: 14325 Ken Austin Pkwy., Brooksville, FL 34614

General Population, Special Needs, and Pet Friendly

  • Challenger: 13400 Elgin Boulevard Spring Hill, FL 34609
  • The Enrichment Center – Currently Open (800 John Gary Grubbs Blvd, Brooksville, FL 34601

 

 

PASCO COUNTY

 

SANDBAGS

Pasco County has two sandbag stations open 24/7 to help protect your property from potential flooding:

 

  • Magnolia Valley Golf Course: 7223 Massachusetts Avenue., NPR
  • Pasco Public Works C-Barn: 30908 Warder Road., San Antonio

Due to the potential for coastal and inland flooding, the county is also opening additional locations. These sandbag sites will be open from sunrise to sunset, until further notice:

 

  • Ben Harrill Recreation Complex: 2830 Gulf Trace Boulevard, Land O’ Lakes
  • Mitchell Park: 4825 Little Road., New Port Richey
  • Veterans Memorial Park: 14333 Hicks Road, Hudson
  • Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center: 3032 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes
  • Pasco Fire Rescue Station #29: 6907 Dairy Road., Zephyrhills

 

Dade City is also providing sand to city residents:

  • Former Dade City Police Department building: 38042 Pasco Avenue, Dade City

SECO Energy Prepping for Hurricane Milton

Hurricane Milton October 7, 2024 10 a.m. CDT
Hurricane Milton October 7, 2024 10 a.m. CDT

SECO Energy is closely monitoring the path of Hurricane Milton and preparing to respond swiftly and safely to any potential power outages that may arise from the hurricane’s impact. 

 

Hurricane Milton is strengthening in the Gulf of Mexico and traveling toward the Florida Peninsula. Afternoon reports indicate that Milton has strengthened into a Category 5 hurricane. According to the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall as a major hurricane Wednesday evening into Thursday morning near Tampa Bay.  

 

SECO Energy crews have returned from providing mutual aid to other cooperatives in Florida and Georgia affected by Hurricane Helene and are preparing for Hurricane Milton. Crews are fueling trucks and prepping with essential supplies and materials to prepare for possible outages. SECO Energy has a dedicated team assigned to monitor the power system and weather on a daily, 24-hour basis. All other departments, including SECO Energy’s Member Services Center, are on high alert and ready to respond to the needs of our members. 

 

SECO Energy urges members to TAKE ACTION NOW to make the necessary preparations to remain safe and comfortable in the event of an extended outage.  

 

YOU CAN PREPARE: 

  • Assemble an emergency kit. It should include at least a three-day supply of water, non-perishable food, medication, first aid supplies, a flashlight, a weather radio, and extra batteries. Include a list of emergency contacts. 
  • Charge your cell phone and have external backup power sources charged.  
  • Develop an evacuation plan in case it’s needed. Communicate the plan to your family. Include pets or livestock in your plan.  
  • Secure outdoor items. Safely store lawn furniture, decorations, toys, garbage cans, and other items that can be brought indoors.  
  • Close windows and doors. 
  • Fuel up. Fill up your vehicles before the storm, as a loss of power could affect gas stations. 
  • Consider having supplies handy for your propane or charcoal grill. Be sure to grill outdoors in well-ventilated areas for safety.  
  • If you or a loved one depend on electric-powered medical equipment and do not have a power backup system, consider relocating. 
  • If you operate a standby generator after a storm, follow the owner’s manual instructions and safety recommendations carefully. 

 

StormCenter is SECO Energy’s outage and communications platform for members to view the outage map, report outages, check the status of an existing outage, report an area light malfunction, and enroll in outage communications and alerts via email, text, voice, or all three. Bookmark on your smartphone or tablet to report outages quickly and easily by going to SECOEnergy.com> StormCenter. 

 

As a reminder, if heavy rains and strong winds lead to downed lines, stay away! Contact with downed lines can be dangerous, even deadly. Report downed power lines to SECO Energy at (800) 732-6141 or call 911 immediately.  

 

SECO Energy’s Hurricane Handbook includes generator safety tips and guidance on what to do before, during, and after a storm. It can be found by visiting SECO Energy.com> Safety> Hurricane Handbook. 

SECO Energy Completes Restoration from Hurricane Helene and Sends Aid

In the early morning hours on Saturday, September 28, SECO Energy completed electric service restoration for all accounts affected by Hurricane Helene’s impact. After a short rest for SECO Energy’s crews, a group of employees volunteered to join the restoration effort at other cooperatives.

 

The wind damage in SECO Energy’s service area was moderate, disrupting service to roughly 43,000 accounts. In response, SECO Energy employees and hundreds of mutual aid line and tree crews began a comprehensive storm recovery process, which involved damage assessments, restoration prioritization, and working around the clock to restore electric service. Crews and contractors worked tirelessly to replace broken utility poles, remove fallen trees, and restore downed power lines, ensuring the safety and comfort of our members.

 

“I am extremely proud of our dedicated employees and mutual aid crews that worked tirelessly until every member had power restored,” says SECO Energy’s Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn. “Storm recovery is difficult, dangerous work, but our crews are experienced, highly trained, and dedicated to protecting the communities we serve.”

 

A 13-person restoration module left SECO Energy early Sunday afternoon, traveling to Clay Electric Cooperative, Inc., headquartered in Keystone Heights, to assist in outage restoration. Clay Electric’s service area has been significantly damaged, with over 26,000 accounts currently without electric service as of Sunday afternoon. This underscores the urgency of the situation. Two SECO warehouse support employees have stepped in to provide needed warehouse and supply chain services at Central Florida Electric Cooperative (CFEC). Their assistance is crucial in helping CFEC employees continue the restoration effort in their region.

 

Wynn continued, “I want to thank each employee who volunteered to help others. We are proud to answer the call to help a sister cooperative. Cooperation Among Cooperatives is essential; when we work together, we can bring normalcy back to the lives of thousands of our neighbors. North Florida and western North Carolina sustained some of the worst damage from Helene, these communities are in our thoughts as they work to rebuild their homes and lives.”

 

SECO Energy’s contracted line and tree crews also left to aid in restoration. Five Pike overhead line crews and 24 Link Energy contractors left for Suwannee Valley Electric Cooperative (SVEC) on Saturday. Four Pike overhead line crews joined Clay Electric on Sunday. Additionally, five Wright Tree Service crews are traveling to other damaged areas in the southeast.

 

SECO Energy is grateful to members affected by this storm for their patience and understanding as crews worked to replace broken utility poles, remove tree fallen trees, and restore downed power lines. The cooperative also extends its gratitude to the various cooperatives, businesses, and organizations that provided valuable support and assistance during the recovery efforts.

 

 

Storm Restoration Photos:

 

For more information about SECO Energy and our storm recovery efforts, visit our online Newsroom at SECOEnergy.com. 

 

SECO Energy Restoring Power in the Wake of Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Panhandle Thursday evening as a Category 4 storm, causing damage to SECO Energy’s electric system and leaving many members without power. SECO crews and mutual aid line and tree crews worked throughout the night to restore electric service to members’ homes.  

 

As of 10 a.m. Friday morning, roughly 3,276 members are without electricity due to fallen wires, damaged poles, and severe flooding. Approximately 34,000 accounts have experienced service disruption from Helene, with 22,000 accounts at its peak. 

 

Hundreds of workers from multiple states have lined up to assist SECO in power restoration. SECO Energy’s electric system sustained moderate damage that affected many of the communities SECO Energy serves. Crews continued the restoration process this morning.   

 

“As we work to restore power in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, I want to assure our members that SECO Energy is committed to getting the lights back on as quickly and safely as possible and will not stop until service has been restored to every member,” said Curtis Wynn, SECO Energy’s Chief Executive Officer.  

 

Wynn continued, “Crews never stopped working overnight. They worked through rain and wind gusts that reached 70 mph in our northern areas; making significant progress in the restoration effort that continues this morning. We are thankful for their assistance and are thinking of our neighbors in north Florida whose homes and properties are severely damaged.” 

 

SECO Energy urges members to stay safe in the wake of the storm, as conditions remain hazardous in many areas. Members are encouraged to follow the following safety tips:  

 

  • Stay away from downed wires. Always assume they are energized. Call 911 if you see a downed line.
     
  • Avoid flooded areas. Flooding is a major threat from Hurricane Helene. Flash flooding can occur suddenly due to intense rainfall. Long-term flooding along rivers and streams can persist for days following a storm. When approaching water on a roadway, remember: Don’t Drown. Turn Around.
     
  • Avoid crews working in the street. This will keep you and the crews safe and allow them to work on restoring your power.
     
  • If you plan to use a portable generator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use only when necessary. Don’t overload it. Be sure to turn it off at night when you’re asleep or if you leave your home.
     
  • To avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, place portable generators outside in a well-ventilated area, more than 20 feet away from your home, doors, and windows. Never run a generator inside, not even in your garage. Do not connect the generator directly into your home’s main fuse box or circuit panel.
     
  • Protect food and refrigerated medicine with ice in an insulated cooler. If you are without power for more than two hours, refrigerated foods should be placed in a cooler. Foods will stay frozen for 36 to 48 hours in a fully loaded freezer if the door remains closed, and a half-full freezer will generally keep frozen foods for up to 24 hours. Check foodsafety.gov to learn more about when to throw out or keep food after a power outage.
     
  • Tune in to local news broadcasts for the latest weather and emergency information. 

 

For more storm safety tips, visit Ready.gov or download the American Red Cross’s Emergency Severe Weather App by texting “GETEMERGENCY” to 90999. 

SECO Energy Prepares for Potential Impacts of Helene

Helene is forecasted to be a Category 3 Hurricane. SECO Energy is closely monitoring the path and potential impacts of the impending storm system as it develops, preparing to respond quickly and safely should outages occur. 

 

Crews are fueling up and prepping trucks with all necessary supplies and materials for any outages that may occur as a result of the hurricane. SECO Energy has dedicated staff assigned to monitor the power system and weather on a daily, 24-hour basis. All other employees, including SECO Energy’s Member Services Center, are on high alert and ready to respond to member needs.

 

SECO Energy urges members to act now to make preparations to remain safe and comfortable in the event of an outage.  

 

How You Can Prepare:

  • Assemble an emergency kit. It should include at least a three-day supply of water, non-perishable food, medication, first aid supplies, a flashlight, a weather radio, and extra batteries. Include a list of emergency contacts. 
  • Charge your cell phone and have external backup power sources charged.  
  • Develop an evacuation plan in case it’s needed. Communicate the plan to your family. Include pets or livestock in your plan.  
  • Secure outdoor items. Safely store lawn furniture, decorations, toys, garbage cans, and other items that can be brought indoors.  
  • Close windows and doors in the event of high winds. 
  • Fuel up. Fill up your vehicles before the storm, as a loss of power could affect gas stations. 
  • Consider having supplies handy for your propane or charcoal grill. Be sure to grill outdoors in well-ventilated areas for safety.  
  • If you operate a standby generator after a storm, be sure to follow the owner’s manual instructions and safety recommendations. 

 

 

Helene’s current location on September 25, 2024. Graphic courtesy of the National Hurricane Center.

StormCenter  is SECO Energy’s outage and communications platform for members to view the outage map, report outages, check the status of an existing outage, report an area light malfunction, and enroll in outage communications and alerts via email, text, voice, or all three. Bookmark on your smartphone or tablet to report outages quickly and easily by going to SECOEnergy.com > StormCenter. 

 

As a reminder, if heavy rains and strong winds lead to downed lines, stay away! Contact with downed lines can be dangerous, even deadly. Report downed power lines to SECO Energy at (800) 732-6141 or call 911 immediately.

 

SECO Energy’s Hurricane Handbook includes generator safety tips and guidance on how to prepare before, during, and after a storm. It can be found by going to SECO Energy.com > Safety > Hurricane Handbook. 

SECO Energy Crews Work Overnight Through Hurricane Debby 

SECO Energy experienced widespread outages overnight, leaving over 10,000 accounts without power across Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter counties as Hurricane Debby moved through the Gulf of Mexico. SECO Energy is calling in outside contractors and fellow cooperative personnel to assist in restoration from Hurricane Debby.

 

SECO Energy crews worked overnight Sunday to restore electric service to homes and businesses that lost power but were forced to temporarily delay restoration efforts due to high winds as formerly Tropical Storm Debby strengthened to hurricane status. It is unsafe to raise truck buckets in winds higher than 35 mph. Fortunately, restoration work has now resumed with subsiding winds. 

 

The eyewall of Hurricane Debby made landfall early this morning in the Big Bend area near Steinhatchee as a Category 1 storm. As of 5 a.m. Monday, Hurricane Debby had maximum sustained winds of 80 mph and is moving north-northeast at 10 mph. SECO crews are still battling tropical wind conditions, flooding, and high-water areas. The NHC forecast indicates rain and gusty winds will continue in SECO’s service area for most of Monday and into Tuesday. The possibility of tornadoes and flash floods continues. The current National Hurricane Center (NHC) forecast predicts Debby will rapidly weaken as it moves inland across northern Florida and southeastern Georgia later today through Tuesday.

 

CEO Curtis Wynn encourages members to practice safety as Hurricane Debby linger. Wynn stated, “During storms and power outages, it’s crucial to exercise extreme caution around downed power lines and trees in our area. Always treat any fallen line as if it’s energized and dangerous. To keep your family safe, ensure children stay indoors and away from potential hazards. If you’re without power and decide to use a generator, follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines. If you experience a medical emergency or other life-threatening hazard, call 911 right away.” 

 

 

SECO’s Emergency Restoration Plan determines the system’s restoration priority for each affected feeder. Essential services such as hospitals, shelters, schools, and government agencies are the highest priority. Line repairs that will restore power to large groups of members are next, feeders that serve large commercial services and then individual electric services in less populated areas. 

 

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a State of Emergency for 54 Florida counties on Thursday, August 1, and added seven additional counties on Friday, August 2. County Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) in Central Florida are monitoring Hurricane Debby’s impact. For a list of shelters, including general, pet-friendly, and special needs, visit FloridaDisaster.org. SECO members who require continuous electric service to power life-sustaining medical equipment should have a backup power source or relocate to a shelter. Special needs shelters are open in every county SECO serves.   

 

StormCenter is SECO Energy’s outage and communications platform for members to report outages, check the status of an existing outage, and enroll in outage communications and alerts via email, text, voice, or all three. Visit StormCenter today and bookmark it on your smartphone or tablet to report outages quickly and easily. 

 

Major weather events can cause extended power outages. SECO Energy reminds members to follow safety protocols when using a generator during a power outage. Generators emit deadly carbon monoxide (CO) that is odorless and colorless. Thousands of people die each year from CO poisoning. Never operate a generator in an enclosed space, including a garage. Always place the generator at least 15 to 20 feet away from your home and never near open windows. 

  

Before operating a generator, thoroughly read and review the owner’s manual. Never plug a generator directly into an electrical outlet. This current flow is deadly for utility personnel. Keep children away from an operating generator and store fuel in approved containers. Do not smoke while fueling a generator. Always operate a generator in a dry space. If it is raining, use a canopy or cover. SECO Energy’s Hurricane Handbook includes generator safety tips and instructions on preparing before, during, and after a storm. 

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on X for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see when SECO Energy crews/contractors are working in your area, visit our new System Improvement map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit SECOEnergy.com>Your Co-op>About. 

Officials and Key Community Leaders Attend Storm Preparation Meeting at SECO Energy

Representative Yvonne Hinson (Florida House of Representatives) asking questions during SECO Energy’s Storm Preparedness and Readiness meeting.

SECO Energy hosted a Storm Preparedness and Readiness meeting as Atlantic hurricane season begins. The meeting focused on engaging with officials and key community leaders to discuss detailed strategies for hurricane season. The meeting was an essential part of the cooperative’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and resilience of the communities we serve.

 

Attendees included several notable figures such as Representative Yvonne Hinson; staff from the offices of Representative Ryan Chamberlin, Congresswoman Kat Cammack, and Congressman Daniel Webster; Citrus County Fire Chief Craig Stevens; and various emergency management officials from Marion, Citrus, and Sumter counties. 

 

The meeting was opened with a warm welcome from SECO Energy’s CEO, Curtis Wynn, and followed up by a presentation led by John LaSelva, Chief Operating Officer, focusing on the cooperative’s storm readiness process involving extensive pre-storm preparation that includes system hardening, vegetation management, and the development of an emergency response plan with FEMA contracts in place. Also mentioned were meticulously planned pre-storm logistics, such as securing hotel accommodations for assisting crews, fuel, and staging personnel and equipment.

 

SECO Energy Storm Preparedness and Readiness Meeting held at SECO Energy headquarters on Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Following a storm, SECO conducts thorough damage assessments and restores service in the priority order mandated by the State – shelters, hospitals, feeders with the highest member count, then individual services and area lights. All reports and invoices are compiled and submitted for FEMA reimbursement to ensure financial accountability and recovery. SECO Energy’s Vice President of Financial & Administrative Services, Anh Reynolds, discussed FEMA reimbursement requirements and how the cooperative plans and prepares for the potential financial aftermath of a storm.  

 

Kathy Judkins, Manager of Community and Economic Development and Government Relations for SECO Energy, provided information on Emergency Operation Center preparations and post-storm activities. She also shared SECO Energy’s role in providing timely and accurate information to officials and key community leaders, which helps them offer information when their constituents call on them. 

 

Joint group discussion networking with Chris Evan, Director of Emergency Management for Citrus County; David Casto, Director of Emergency Management for Sumter County; Anh Reynolds, SECO Energy’s VP of Financial & Administrative Services; and Ben Dawson, SECO Energy’s VP of Growth, Smart Grid & Operational Technology

SECO Energy places a strong emphasis on communication internally and externally. Amanda Richardson, Manager of Corporate Communications for SECO Energy, concluded the presentation by highlighting the cooperative’s strategic storm communication efforts. She discussed the cooperative’s strategic storm communications plan, implemented to ensure that all the employees, members, and communities served have the information and support they need to weather the storm. This includes updates on the storm’s track and intensity, restoration progress, and essential community alerts.

 

The meeting was an essential step in reinforcing the community’s resilience and readiness for the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which spans from June 1 to November 30. The collaborative efforts and shared insights will significantly contribute to a coordinated and effective response to future storm events. 

 

CEO Curtis Wynn emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts and the role of community leaders in ensuring an effective and swift response to storm impacts. “Our preparedness and readiness are crucial to the safety and well-being of the communities we serve,” said Mr. Wynn. “The collaborative efforts of our leaders and emergency management teams are vital in ensuring a quick and effective response. At SECO Energy, we are committed to leveraging all our resources and expertise to protect our members and maintain service reliability during the hurricane season.” 

 

For more information about SECO Energy’s storm preparedness and response efforts, visit SECOEnergy.com. 

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on Twitter for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see when SECO Energy crews/contractors are working in your area, visit our new System Improvement Map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit About SECO Energy.   

SECO Energy Foundation $50,000 Grant Supports Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter

The SECO Energy Foundation awarded a $50,000 grant to Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter. The SECO Energy Foundation presented the grant funds to the organization to assist with funding the Veteran’s Housing Preservation & Repair Program.

 

The mission of Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter is to bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Since 1989, Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter (HFHLS) has been the bridge to affordable and stable homeownership for families. The organization strives to provide innovative, affordable housing solutions in Lake and Sumter Counties. In 2015, the organization established the Preservation & Repair Program to address the growing need of individuals and families who owned their homes and may have lived in their homes for generations, but for various reasons, were unable to maintain the health, safety, and/or improve the accessibility of their homes for their aging or health needs.

 

SECO Energy Foundation grant to Habitat for Humanity Lake-SumterLacie Himes, Development Director of Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter is thankful for the SECO Energy Foundation’s support. Himes stated, “Through the Preservation & Repair Program, the repairs performed by Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter include modifications for accessibility, such as ramps and grab bars, ADA compliant bathrooms and doorways; installation or extension of plumbing and electrical systems; HVAC; repair of structural components, and roofing repairs or replacement.”

 

SECO Foundation Board Director Matt Roudabush was enthusiastic about the grant’s impact, stating, “Our Board of Directors agreed that these veterans, who have selflessly served our nation, deserve our help when they are in need. The critical home repairs Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter will complete, including interior or exterior work to improve health, life, safety, or accessibility issues, are true examples of how these heroes will not be forgotten.”

 

The grant was one of five grants approved by the SECO Energy Foundation Board at their first quarterly meeting in 2024 and it falls under the “Veterans Initiatives” category of funding programs.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a charitable organization operating as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation aims to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy, which include the Central Florida counties of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter. SECO serves over 240,000 homes and businesses in Central Florida’s Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties. To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOFoundation.org.

SECO Energy Celebrates 2024 Scholarship Awardees

SECO Energy has announced its 2024 SECO Energy Scholarship Awardees. Each of the twelve scholarship awardees will receive $3,000 to advance their education. SECO Energy’s scholarship program targets local students who will attend a Florida college, university, or trade school. 

 

The applicants were judged on their scholastic record (weighted GPS), school/community activities, and financial need. Consideration was given to applicants whose stated major was a degree in technology, business, engineering, or mathematics, especially as they relate to the energy sector. Relevant majors include, but are not limited to, computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical, nuclear, environmental, civil, agricultural/biological, industrial, materials science, and various branches of mathematics. 

 

SECO Energy Scholarships are awarded to high school seniors graduating in May or June of the current year who live in a home served by SECO Energy. The awardee must enroll as a full-time student in an accredited Florida college, university, or trade school before the end of 2024.

 

 

2024 SECO Energy Scholarship Winners

Name High School Resides In
Garrett Harrison The Villages Charter High School Fruitland Park
Presley S. Stanton Florida Virtual School Clermont
Armand Grable Wildwood Middle-High School Wildwood
Charles Anthony Tavares High School Astatula
Fabian DeJesus-Colon West Port High School Ocala
Delbie Zayas Rosado Wildwood Middle-High School Groveland
Ramiya Blackwell Wildwood Middle-High School Ocala
Jubilette Huff Wildwood Middle-High School Wildwood
Eden Thomas West Port High School Ocala
Faith Long South Sumter High School Webster
Michael A. Viel, Jr. Eustis High School Eustis
Jacob R. Davis Leesburg High School Lady Lake

 

2024 SECO Energy Scholarship Awardees Congratulated

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn congratulated the 2024 SECO Energy Scholarship recipients. Wynn stated, “I want to congratulate our 2024 Scholarship awardees, it is uplifting to see students investing in themselves by pursuing an advanced education. Their efforts in the next few years could launch a fruitful career that opens the door to personal achievements that impact entire communities and beyond. The energy industry is growing, and the technology we rely on is advancing quickly. We will need an ongoing supply of ambitious talent in many capacities to carry SECO Energy forward. By awarding these scholarships, SECO is investing in students who have demonstrated their readiness to work hard and build a bright future for themselves.” 

 

Wynn continued, “We hope these twelve awardees continue to set high goals and work to achieve them. When they look to begin their professional career, we hope they will consider joining SECO Energy. We are growing rapidly and will be a leading employer in our region for years to come. Our compensation and benefits package, which includes comprehensive medical and dental insurance, generous paid time off, 401k with company matching contributions, a retirement pension plan, an employee-referral program, and student loan reimbursement are competitive in any market. So, when it’s time to get to work, make SECO Energy your first call.” 

 

SECO Energy is hiring! To view open positions, set up job alerts, and apply online, visit: SECOEnergy.com > Your Co-op > Careers. 

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on X/Twitter for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see when SECO Energy crews/contractors are working in your area, visit our new System Improvement Map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit About SECO Energy.

SECO Energy Foundation $10,000 Grant Supports United Way of Citrus County

The SECO Energy Foundation awarded the United Way of Citrus County a $10,000 community grant. The United Way of Citrus County has earmarked the grant funds to support The Grow Initiative: Financial Literacy; participants learn about financial literacy through classes that teach clients how to budget, manage and build credit, create a résumé, interview for jobs, and other skills to prepare them for financial success.

 

The GROW Initiative provides an opportunity to improve lives by teaching skills essential to long-term stability, which is an unknown concept to many people. The SECO Energy Foundation grant, with contributions from other community partners, will enable the organization to improve lives, create sustainable change, and assist Citrus County residents.

 

United Way of Citrus County CEO, George Schmalstig, described how the funding from SECO Energy Foundation would extend beyond supporting just the courses. Schmalstig stated, “This community grant from the SECO Energy Foundation will also be used to provide emergency assistance to participants attending the financial literacy courses. We want to be sure each person has the support to complete the training, so we will step in if needs arise.”

 

SECO Energy Foundation Board member, Mary Pericht, endorsed the approval of the grant’s potential impact, saying, “We respect the history of the United Way of Citrus County and their past achievements. Supporting this program made sense from the standpoint of its potential to radically improve the lives of Citrus County residents.”

 

Examples of emergency assistance could be eviction mitigation, rent/mortgage assistance, utility assistance, and car repairs, to name a few.

 

SECO Energy Foundation Executive Director, Mariah Delgado was confident the initiative would result in a positive outcome, stating, “I am so happy our Board chose to approve this grant, and I believe this team at United Way of Citrus County can execute The GROW Initiative successfully.”

 

The grant was one of five grants approved by the SECO Energy Foundation Board at their first quarterly meeting in 2024. The funded grants will be used to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy. SECO serves over 240,000 homes and businesses in Central Florida’s Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a charitable organization operating as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation aims to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy, which include the Central Florida counties of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter. To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOFoundation.org.