Briefing of the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners on December 2, 2024

Buncombe County Commissioners Briefing Recap: Helene Recovery and Long-Term Planning (December 2, 2024)

On December 2, 2024, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners held a briefing focused on the ongoing recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Helene, which impacted our community in late September. This meeting provided an update on the progress made and outlined the shift towards long-term recovery planning, moving beyond immediate emergency response. While no formal votes were taken during this briefing, the discussion provided valuable insight into the current state of recovery and future steps.

A significant portion of the meeting centered on debris removal, a massive undertaking following the storm. Buncombe County estimates that approximately 10 million cubic yards of debris were generated, with over 3 million in unincorporated areas. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has already removed 340,000 cubic yards, and progress varies across different zones. Zones A, B, and C are showing the most headway, while efforts continue in other areas. The County is also working to address vehicle debris and waterway cleanup, a longer-term process that will require ongoing attention.

Beyond debris removal, the briefing highlighted crucial support provided to residents through Points of Distribution (PODs) and Community Care Stations. These stations offered essential services like showers, laundry facilities, and vaccinations, providing a vital lifeline for many. While most PODs have closed, four locations will remain open to continue providing these services: Morgan Hill Baptist Church, Bethel United Methodist, Owen Poole, and Fairview Ingalls. The County is also working with FEMA to secure direct housing assistance for 172 households and assessing the needs of approximately 1,600 families currently staying in hotels. To address temporary housing needs, the Board previously approved a text amendment allowing for solutions like travel trailers and manufactured homes, and commercial parks with vacant pads are being utilized to accommodate FEMA-provided mobile homes.

The briefing also covered damage assessments, with approximately 54% of community and public properties evaluated so far. County-owned property assessments are about 60% complete, revealing an estimated $7 million in repair costs. Looking ahead, the County is promoting the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which assists property owners with elevating structures or reinforcing buildings. Another in-person application opportunity is planned for January, and residents are encouraged to explore this option to mitigate future storm damage.

A key focus moving forward is the development of “Recovery Support Functions” (RSFs). These eight functions – Debris Management, Economic Revitalization, Education, Health and Human Services, Housing, Infrastructure & Access, Natural/Cultural Resources, and a Foundation Group – will guide the County’s long-term recovery efforts. Each RSF team will develop task forces, identify immediate needs, and create short-term work plans. The Community Navigator Program continues to engage with residents through outreach efforts, providing information and assistance related to debris removal and other recovery resources.

What this means for you: The County is committed to a thorough and sustained recovery from Tropical Storm Helene. Residents can expect ongoing debris removal efforts, continued support for those displaced by the storm, and a focus on long-term resilience through programs like the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

Stay Informed: For more detailed information and resources, please visit BuncombeReady.org or call the Buncombe County hotline at 828-250-6100.

This recap aims to provide a clear understanding of the key topics discussed and actions planned as Buncombe County continues its recovery from Tropical Storm Helene.