Cape Coral City Council Approves Emergency Disaster Response and Rescue Grant Accord

CAPE CORAL, FL — The Cape Coral City Council voted unanimously to execute an intergovernmental grant contract with the Florida Commission on Community Service (Volunteer Florida), securing $1.2 million in direct funding to expand municipal disaster rescue operations ahead of peak hurricane season.

Strengthening High-Water Rescue and Volunteer Emergency Response

The grant agreement funds the acquisition of four heavy-duty amphibious high-water rescue transport trucks, portable emergency satellite communication terminals, and emergency medical trauma gear for the Cape Coral Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The equipment enables first responders to navigate flooded coastal canals and barrier island bridges during category 4 and 5 hurricane storm surges in Lee County.

Mayor John Gunter and council members stated that strengthening localized emergency rescue capabilities ensures Cape Coral can safeguard 220,000 residents without waiting for external state resources.

First Responders and Neighborhood Association Support

Cape Coral Fire Department leadership praised the addition of amphibious rescue units for navigating canal washouts.

Civic neighborhood federations organized community CPR and disaster preparedness training sessions across local community centers.

Equipment Delivery Timeline

High-water rescue vehicles and satellite communication gear will deploy to municipal fire stations by September 15, 2026.