Hurricane Helene Community Briefing: Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024

Hurricane Helene Community Briefing Recap: November 26, 2024

On Tuesday, November 26th, 2024, Buncombe County held a community briefing to provide updates on the ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. The meeting, attended by County Manager Al Abro-Pinder, NCDOT representatives, a FEMA representative, and other key personnel, focused on addressing community concerns, outlining available resources, and clarifying misinformation circulating after the storm. While no formal votes were taken, the briefing provided crucial information for residents navigating the recovery process.

A significant portion of the meeting addressed a concerning trend: misinformation spreading rapidly on social media, particularly false claims about eviction efforts from temporary housing. County Manager Abro-Pinder strongly urged residents to verify information before sharing it, emphasizing that these rumors are distracting from vital recovery work. The briefing began with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the tireless efforts of Buncombe County staff and media partners, recognizing their dedication during and after the storm.

Beyond addressing misinformation, a core focus was on supporting residents' mental health during this challenging time. Resources highlighted included the free, 24/7 Hope 4 NC Crisis Counseling Program helpline (855-587-3463), the Something App offering free mental health services for teens, and the Disaster Distress Helpline (800-985-5990). Information was also shared regarding holiday closures and continued operation of community care centers and water distribution sites throughout the Thanksgiving period. For businesses impacted by the storm, a grant application deadline was announced: for-profit businesses have until November 29th to apply for grants up to $25,000 through the Asheville Buncombe Rebuilding Together Fund (mountainbizworks.org/abgrants).

Updates were also provided on debris removal, with details shared about the Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) program. Residents can apply online at bunkumready.org or visit one of the application centers located at the Asheville Mall, Barnersville Fire Department, Swannanoa Fire on Bee Tree Road, and Fairview Library. Changes to trash and recycling pickup schedules were announced, encouraging residents to sign up for updates at FCCEnvironmental.com/Buncombe-county. Looking ahead, applications for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will open December 2nd for those over 60 or receiving services through the Division of Aging, with general applications opening January 2nd, 2025. Finally, the North Carolina Short-Term Rental Alliance is connecting those needing shelter with available short-term rentals via str-trust.com.

The briefing concluded with a crucial extension of the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program, providing hotel rooms for displaced residents. The TSA program will now continue until December 12th. While there was no formal public comment period, officials emphasized the importance of registering with FEMA (1-800-621-3362 or disasterassistance.gov) for housing assistance and utilizing the resources outlined throughout the briefing. NCDOT Division 13 Engineer Tim Anderson provided updates on road repairs, notably addressing the ongoing closure of I-40 in the Pigeon River Gorge (estimated to reopen with one lane each direction on January 1st).

What This Means for You:

This briefing served as a vital information hub, providing residents with clear guidance and resources to navigate the recovery process. Residents are encouraged to prioritize their mental well-being, utilize available assistance programs for housing and business recovery, and stay informed about debris removal and service schedule changes. The County’s strong emphasis on combating misinformation underscores the importance of verifying information before sharing it, ensuring that recovery efforts remain focused and effective. For those impacted by road closures, checking DriveNC.gov for real-time traffic information is crucial.

This briefing aimed to keep residents informed about the ongoing recovery process and provide access to vital resources during this challenging time.