City Encourages Property Owners to Keep Moving Forward After Hurricane Helene

The one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene and its devastating impact on Douglas and Coffee County is approaching, and the city is intensifying its focus on the progress of long-term recovery efforts for community restoration. The effects of the storm were profoundly felt throughout the community, and many continue to face challenges with cleanup, repairs, and insurance delays.

However, it is imperative that movement begins on properties that remain severely damaged, abandoned, or untouched since the storm. These sites not only present safety hazards but also contribute to the ongoing blight that affects the overall well-being, property values, and future development of our community. At this stage in recovery, it is critical that property owners begin making measurable progress toward the rebuilding phase, even if work cannot yet be fully completed.

The city understands that many property owners and residents are facing challenging circumstances. To help curtail any misinformation and to help the city work with property owners, the city is asking property owners to submit a general plan and an expected timeline for cleanup, repair, or demolition activities for the property no later than November 15, 2025.

If a property owner is encountering difficulties beyond their control, please enter information in the provided Google sheet located here, https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc2l9G1CIuaC2pvJHdAHMZopmCXJqP-kDh55W4_XLimY9XtxQ/viewform , or contact City Hall by calling (912) 383-0277 or (912) 384-3302. While all extenuating factors will be considered, it's important to note that if there's a lack of clear intent or effort to start restoration, the city may have to consider enforcement actions, such as warnings, citations, or nuisance abatement procedures, as outlined in city ordinances.

The City is committed to supporting our residents through this process while also ensuring a clean, safe, and resilient community for everyone. For any questions or to a specific situation, please contact the Code Enforcement Office at (912) 383-0277, (912) 384-3302, or via email at [email protected] .