Hurricane Helene Community Briefing: Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025

Hurricane Helene Community Briefing Recap: What You Need to Know

On January 15, 2025, Buncombe County held a community briefing to update residents on the ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. The meeting, attended by county officials and media representatives, focused on the storm's financial impact, adjustments to county services, and available assistance programs. This recap summarizes key decisions, discussions, and next steps for residents affected by the hurricane.

A significant portion of the meeting centered on the financial fallout from Hurricane Helene. County Manager Avril Pinder announced a projected revenue shortfall of up to $20 million for the current fiscal year, necessitating a hiring freeze affecting over 80 vacant positions. This measure aims to stabilize the county budget while ensuring essential services continue. Alongside this, adjustments are being made to library operating schedules, with the Swannanoo Library reopening January 25th. Other branches will transition to four- or three-day weeks to maintain core services and qualify for state funding. Library Services Director Jason Hyatt emphasized the commitment to keeping all locations open and prioritizing youth services despite these challenges.

The briefing provided detailed information on various disaster assistance programs available to residents. Residents facing utility bill challenges are encouraged to apply for the Disaster Energy Assistance Program (income limit: $5,247/month for a household of four) through buncombecounty.org or 828-250-5500. The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) is focused on long-term resilience, funding projects like home elevation and reconstruction. State representatives are available at the Asheville Mall Disaster Recovery Center to provide information. Crucially, deadlines for both FEMA assistance (rental aid, utility costs) and Disaster Unemployment Assistance are fast approaching – February 6th. Residents can apply online at disasterassistance.gov or des.nc.gov, respectively, or in person at the Asheville Mall.

Regarding transitional housing, FEMA’s Transitional Shelter Assistance (TSA) program is transitioning individuals from hotel stays as inspections determine homes are habitable. The county, in partnership with organizations like EBLIN, is working to secure permanent housing options for those exiting the program. Finally, residents experiencing issues with the new solid waste provider (FCC) are advised to check schedules at buncombecounty.org/solidwaste, report problems online or by phone (Waste Pro 828-585-5074, FCC 828-820-7022), and exercise patience during the transition.

Looking ahead, the City of Asheville received $225 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) disaster recovery funding. James Shelton, City of Asheville Community Development Manager, outlined a plan to gather resident input through an upcoming survey and town hall meetings in March. The final recovery plan will be submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in April, with funding expected by summer 2025. Finally, a generous donation to the Trust Fund for Buncombe County Public Libraries will provide new phonics readers to all 12 libraries, supporting early literacy efforts.

What’s Next for You:

• If you need assistance: Explore Disaster Energy Assistance, HMGP, FEMA aid, and Disaster Unemployment Assistance before February 6th.
• If you’re in TSA: Stay informed and actively engage with FEMA regarding housing options.
• If you're an FCC customer: Monitor schedules, report issues promptly, and be prepared for some delays.
• Want to shape recovery spending? Participate in the upcoming survey and town hall meetings regarding CDBG funding.

This briefing highlighted both the challenges facing Buncombe County in the wake of Hurricane Helene and the ongoing efforts to support residents. By understanding these updates, residents can access available resources and actively participate in shaping the recovery process.