Council Corner: Lisa Gonzalez Moore

Yes, this is going to be another article about the devastating impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. But it is also a story about the upcoming season of gratitude.

Three communities within Ward 4 were severely flooded during Helene, and Milton didn't help an already impacted area. My own home was flooded, and my family lost all of our cars, so I personally understand the hardships my area is facing.

I know how depressing it can be to see your life sitting on the curb waiting for pick-up. I understand the frustration of watching a vegetative debris hauler reach capacity at your neighbor’s pile and drive away without touching yours.

In these moments, I focus on the dedication of those helping us, people who have their own life issues to address. The hard work of our Public Works employees stands out in this regard.

The hours spent preparing sandbags were staggering, and many arrived in the early hours of the days between the hurricanes to remove construction debris in northeast Bradenton, ensuring it wouldn’t become hazardous during Milton. Many times, their work goes unnoticed until we are in difficult circumstances, and I want them to know they are appreciated.

As I write this, I am touched by the service of our veterans honored yesterday, and I am grateful for the hard work of our City’s Public Works staff. I am choosing to view this experience as an opportunity. An opportunity to focus on the people I am grateful for. An opportunity to learn about life in different parts of the city as we work to find short-term rental solutions to housing. An opportunity to reevaluate my thoughts and ideas regarding how best to rebuild parts of Ward 4 and improve transportation, drainage, and water treatment infrastructure in Ward 4 and across the city.

My plans are ambitious and will require time and dedication to secure funding, but hard work and perseverance go hand in hand. We can rebuild our city stronger.