With FloridaCommerce support, CFRPC worked with Hardee County to develop a Local Mitigation Strategy (LMS), pinpointing top hazards and prioritizing real-world projects that protect people, property, and critical infrastructure while keeping the County eligible for future federal funding.
At its core, the LMS strengthens community safety by identifying the hazards most likely to affect Hardee County such as flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, and pandemics and outlines practical, local strategies to reduce risk before disaster strikes. Hazard mitigation saves lives and protects property, often resulting in substantial long-term savings by reducing damage and supporting faster recovery after an event.
A major component of the LMS is its prioritized project list, which helps turn planning into action. These projects can include drainage and stormwater improvements, protections for roads and other critical infrastructure, and upgrades that strengthen essential facilities and make neighborhoods more resilient. By investing in solutions ahead of time, the LMS helps Hardee County reduce future impacts, minimize disruption, and rebound more quickly when emergencies occur.