Declarations

A handful

“It’s not hundreds of things that need to be done. It’s a handful of things.”

Florida Governor Jeb Bush in encouraging homeowners to take advantage of a new $250 million state program that offers free hurricane-preparedness inspections and grants to help cover the cost of improvements. More than 3,500 people applied online within hours after the state began accepting applications. Homeowners can apply for matching funds from the state to make recommended improvements.

Special rights

“This provision, at the very least, gives an appearance of endorsement of these products by the state of North Carolina, which is inaccurate and therefore not acceptable.”

North Carolina Gov. Mike Easley upon vetoing legislation he said would give the largest association representing state workers — State Employees Association of North Carolina — special rights to recruit and consult with employees or sell them insurance policies.

Developers’ interest

“The Commission’s decision defies explanation. We know tougher building codes save lives, reduce property damage, speed post-storm recovery, and protect property values. Moreover, the cost of building homes and commercial properties to meet the higher standards is minimal compared to the enormous value such codes provide…The commission put the interests of developers before consumers.”

William Stander, Property Casualty Insurers Association of America assistant vice president and regional manager, after the Florida Building Code Commission voted against imposing the same windborne debris requirements for the Panhandle that are in place throughout Florida.

Hill of beans

“It didn’t amount to a hill of beans. If you divide $63 into $9,520, I think I have to live in the house for another 151 years.”

Plantation, Fla. homeowner David Frakas criticizing the 3 percent, or $63 a year, discount offered by his insurer for almost $10,000 worth of storm mediation upgrades.

Lott’s nickel

“I’ll be OK if I don’t get a nickel, if I can in some way contribute to all these other people getting recovery.”

U.S. Sen. Trent Lott, R-Miss., who has his own lawsuit pending, criticizing what he said was the slow pace of insurers settling hurricane claims in his state.