Hurricane Helene Community Briefing: Monday, Dec. 2, 2024

Hurricane Helene Community Briefing Recap: Key Updates and Resources for Buncombe County Residents

On December 2, 2024, the Buncombe County Government held a Community Briefing to update residents on ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. The meeting, attended by County Manager Avril Pender, City Manager Deborah Campbell, and other key officials, focused on addressing immediate needs, outlining available assistance programs, and providing crucial information for residents navigating the aftermath of the storm. No formal votes were taken during the meeting, but several key decisions regarding service closures and program implementation were announced.

A significant portion of the briefing addressed financial assistance and ongoing support for vulnerable populations. County Manager Pender clarified that, despite the hurricane’s impact, property tax deadlines remain in place (January 6th), although assistance with payment plans is available through the Buncombe County Tax Office. Addressing concerns about those experiencing homelessness, officials highlighted the ongoing “Code Purple” initiative, providing emergency overflow shelter at ABCCM (for men) and PCCM Transformation Village (for women and children), identified by purple lighting. The deadline for Disaster Unemployment Assistance was December 2nd, with officials directing residents to des.nc.gov or hotline resources for application assistance.

Beyond immediate relief, the meeting detailed several programs aimed at long-term recovery. The "Stronger Together Community Resource Fair" on December 4th at AB Tech will connect residents with a range of services, including application assistance, donation resources, and employment support. The Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) program continues to assist homeowners with debris cleanup, and residents are encouraged to apply through application centers or the bunkumready.org website. A crucial distinction was made: PPDR covers debris on private property, while regular collection focuses on public rights-of-way. For residents facing erosion or infrastructure damage, the Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP) requires submission of documentation through a county property damage form.

The briefing also included vital updates on utility services and waste management. The City of Asheville is waiving water consumption charges for the impacted period, while residents are being informed about the transition to FCC Environmental as the waste and recycling hauler starting January 2nd, requiring residents to sign up for service. Solid Waste Director Peterson detailed the impressive debris collection efforts already underway (347,000 cubic yards collected). Finally, most Community Care Stations and water distribution sites are closing due to reduced demand, with four locations remaining open in the hardest-hit areas: Morgan Hill Baptist Church, Bethel United Methodist, Owen Pool, and Fairview Ingalls.

What This Means for You:

This briefing provided a comprehensive overview of available resources and ongoing efforts to support Buncombe County residents in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Residents are encouraged to take note of deadlines and application processes for programs like Disaster Unemployment Assistance, PPDR, LIAP, and the upcoming Community Resource Fair. The transition to FCC Environmental for waste management requires proactive sign-up, and residents should utilize the remaining open Community Care Stations if needed. The County Government’s commitment to supporting residents through this challenging time was evident, and the meeting served as a valuable platform for disseminating crucial information.

Key Action Items & Resources:

• Property Tax Assistance: Buncombe County Tax Office (828-250-4910) or 94 Cox Avenue.
• Homelessness Support: Code Purple shelters (ABCCM, PCCM Transformation Village).
• Job Loss Assistance: des.nc.gov or hotlines for Disaster Unemployment Assistance.
• Property Damage Reporting: County’s property damage form (available on the county website).
• Debris Removal: Application centers or bunkumready.org.
• Energy Assistance: epass.nc.gov, phone (828-250-5500), or in-person.
• Community Resource Fair: December 4th at AB Tech.
• Waste Management Transition: Sign up with FCC Environmental (starting January 2nd).