Survey will be used to help measure the potential impacts of flooding, sea level rise, storm surge, and other natural hazards in local communities

Hillsborough County, Fla. (June 4, 2024) - Hillsborough County is asking for the public's input to update its Local Mitigation Strategy and Community Vulnerability Assessment, which help measure and prepare for potential impacts from flooding, sea level rise, storm surge, and other natural hazards.

The County invites the public - including residents from Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City - to attend its meeting on the Local Mitigation Strategy and Community Vulnerability Assessment from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, at the Riverview Public Library, 9951 Balm Riverview Rd., Riverview, FL 33569.

A Community Vulnerability Assessment can help experts measure the potential impacts of flooding and sea level rise, and it identifies structures, infrastructure, people, and natural resources that may be affected. Participation from people who live, work, and spend time in Hillsborough County will provide insight into areas most at risk of flooding and other hazards. This effort will help direct mitigation efforts to keep the community safe and assure a speedy recovery in times of crisis.

Members of the public who can't attend the public meeting at the Riverview Public Library can participate in the meeting virtually on Teams. Also, the Local Mitigation Strategy and Community Vulnerability Assessment surveys can be completed by visiting HCFL.gov/HCEngage. 

The information gathered through the public meetings and the virtual public engagement will allow experts to identify at-risk areas and determine what adaptative strategies could be implemented. A plan will also be developed at the County level to help reduce the risks associated with natural and human-caused disasters.

A presentation based on the information gathered will be held later this summer. Hillsborough County will announce the presentation and post information about it on the project website

Who: Hillsborough County and the Florida Center for Community Design + Research

What: Public Meeting to Discuss Updating Hillsborough County's Local Mitigation Strategy and Community Vulnerability Assessment

When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 11

Where: Riverview Public Library, 9951 Balm Riverview Rd., Riverview, FL 33569  

*Virtual participation opportunities and surveys are on the project website or HCFL.gov/HCEngage.