FEMA Blue Tarp program skips Orlando

Sept. 19--The four-county Orlando area was not included in a free federal program offering roofing assistance to homeowners suffering Hurricane Irma damage in 16 Florida counties.

Operation Blue Tarp launched Saturday in Collier County with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers installing temporary roofs to prevent further damage at the houses.

FEMA announced counties where the service would be offered but no one at the Federal Emergency Management Agency responded with details about why Metro Orlando was not included in the free aid.

Orange, Seminole, Lake and Osceola counties were among 16 Florida counties with the highest level of insurance claims, according to a preliminary report released Monday by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation. Each of those counties had more than 10,000 preliminary claims, according to the state agency.

The federal roofing service targeted homeowners with shingled roofs in Broward, Charlotte, DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Palm Beach, Pinellas, Polk and Sarasota counties.

"The first temporary roof installation is a significant milestone for people impacted by Hurricane Irma," said U.S. Army Corps Col. Jason Kirk, district commander. "The blue covers are a tangible sign to the community that ensuring their safety, security, and peace of mind is our top priority."

mshanklin@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5538

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