Mayor A.J. Holloway today said that he agrees with Governor Haley Barbour’s request that FEMA extend the time frame for temporary trailers, but at the same time, residents need to realize that even if FEMA grants the extension to February 2008, the clock is ticking on how long the trailers will be in place.
“The original agreement with FEMA and MEMA was for the temporary trailers to be in place for 18 to 24 months, and we’ll be reaching the 18-month point in February 2007,” Holloway said, noting that about 2,500 permits have been issued for temporary trailers in Biloxi.
“By requesting an extension from FEMA that would go to February 2008, I think the governor is being realistic,” Holloway said. “I think the important thing here for people to know is this: These trailers are temporary and transitional housing, and people who are able to need to start making the transition.
“People have now had 16 months since the storm to get their affairs in order. Some people would say we’re past the time to move forward. The bottom line is that we don’t want these temporary trailers in our city for the next three to five years.
“Those people who are still thinking about whether or not they want to rebuild need to get past this phase of their lives and move forward. I also appreciate that people have a number of reasons – whether it’s insurance or waiting on a homeowners grant. That’s why the extension is important, but these trailers have wheels for a reason. They are temporary.”
City to celebrate Christmas at Beck Park
The City of Biloxi’s Parks and Recreation Department will host “Celebrate Christmas at Beck Park” on Tuesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
The celebration at the Division Street park will include decorating a Christmas tree, hot chocolate and cookies, and a visit by Santa Claus, who will hand out treats.
To print a flier about the event, click here.
For more information, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 228-435-6185 or cdobbs@biloxi.ms.us.
Parks & Recreation to host pre-teen Christmas dance
The City of Biloxi’s Parks and Recreation Department will host a Christmas dance on Friday, December 15 from
6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Donal Snyder Community Center, 2520 Pass Road.
The dance is open to children ages 6 to 12 years old and their parents. Admission is a canned good item, which will be donated to the Salvation Army. Security will be provided during the dance and refreshments will be available for a nominal fee. Children must be picked up from the center by 8 p.m.
To print a flier about the dance, click here.
