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Ocala
Friday, March 29, 2024

Marion County Emergency Management provides Hurricane Ian update

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management is currently working to remove debris, clear the roadways, and restore utilities while monitoring any additional impacts from Hurricane Ian.

Emergency Management officials have provided the following updates on Marion County’s response to the storm.

Citizen Information Line:

As of 12 p.m. on Thursday, the Citizen Information Line is no longer taking calls.

Shelter Closures:

All emergency shelter locations began to close at 9 a.m. on Thursday. Citizens who have special needs were assisted, and Emergency Management officials ensured that their homes had functioning utilities and were safe to return to.

Government Office Closures:

(Update: On Thursday afternoon, Ocala/Marion County announced in a social media post that all Marion County government offices will be reopening on Friday, September 30 for normal business hours. The Baseline Landfill will open at 8 a.m. Animal Services will operate by appointment only – appointments can be made by calling 352-671-8700).

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management and local government agencies have announced several closures that may affect some citizens. Residents are encouraged to review the recent closures as some of them have changed.

  • The Marion County Sheriff’s Office closed at noon on Wednesday, September 28 and will reopen on Monday, October 3.
  • All Marion County offices and facilities will be closed on Wednesday, September 28 through Friday, September 30.
  • The Baseline Landfill and all recycling centers closed at 3 p.m. on September 28.
  • The Marion County Tax Collector’s Office closed on Wednesday, September 28 and will reopen on Monday, October 3.
  • Ocala Police Department Headquarters Lobby closed on Wednesday, September 28 and  will remain closed until further notice.
  • The Fifth Circuit Courts will be closed on Wednesday, September 28 through Friday, September 30, and will reopen on Monday, October 3.
  • City of Dunnellon Government offices will be closed on Wednesday, September 28 through Thursday, September 29.
  • Federal Courthouse will be closed on Wednesday, September 28 through Thursday, September 29.
  • Marion County Property Appraiser’s Office will be closed on Wednesday, September 28 through Thursday, September 29.
  • All Villages District Administrative Offices closed at noon on Wednesday, September 28 and will remain closed through Thursday, September 29.
  • City of Ocala business offices closed at noon on Wednesday, September 28, and normal business office hours of operation are expected to resume on Monday, October 3.
  • SunTran bus routes have been suspended, and normal bus operations will resume as soon as the threat of severe weather has passed and buses utilized as emergency relief become available.

Providing Aid to Counties in Southwest Florida:

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is currently assembling personnel, equipment, and supplies to dispatch to the counties in southwest Florida that were severely impacted by Hurricane Ian.

In a media release, MCSO stated, “Our prayers are with those who have lost so much during this difficult time. Further updates about these efforts will be forthcoming as arrangements are finalized.”