Debris Removal Updates - OCT 23, 2024 - County Briefing

Debris Removal Update: What You Need to Know Following Recent Storms

On October 23, 2024, the County Briefing provided an update on Asheville’s ongoing efforts to remove debris resulting from recent storm events. Led by Jess Foster, City of Asheville Public Works Sanitation Division Manager, the briefing outlined current operations, regulations, and how residents can best participate in expediting the cleanup process. This recap summarizes key takeaways from the meeting, ensuring residents are informed about the progress and what to expect.

The primary focus of the briefing was detailing the city's strategy for managing the massive volume of debris – estimated at approximately 3 million cubic yards, equivalent to covering 140 football fields stacked ten feet high. To handle this immense task, the city has activated three temporary debris management sites: Inca Commerce Park (currently operational), 65 Ford Street, and the front nine of the municipal golf course. The Inca Commerce Park site is actively receiving debris, with construction and demolition materials being processed for removal within two weeks. The city is also actively pursuing permits with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) for additional sites in the River Arts District, recognizing that expanding these locations is crucial to efficient removal. The city has authority under the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to designate these temporary sites during emergency situations.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the debris removal process itself, emphasizing accountability and safety. Contractors (SDR) are responsible for collection, while Debritech monitors their work to ensure compliance with FEMA regulations. Residents play a vital role in this process by sorting debris into categories: construction/demolition materials, appliances, electronics, vegetative debris, and household hazardous waste (like cleaners, pesticides, and paint). Importantly, the city stressed that hazardous waste is handled separately by the Asheville Fire Department Hazmat Response Team or state contractors. During the meeting, questions were raised regarding zoning of temporary sites, which was addressed by referencing the UDO.

The meeting concluded with a clear outline of next steps and guidance for residents. The city will continue pursuing NCDEQ permits for additional sites, particularly in the River Arts District. SDR and Debritech will continue their respective roles in debris removal and FEMA compliance monitoring. Perhaps most importantly, the city is committed to ongoing community education, providing residents with information on proper debris sorting and collection procedures. Residents are asked to place sorted debris near the curb, avoiding blocking roadways or obstructing utilities. Contractors will make multiple passes for collection, so residents don’t need to move everything at once. Mud and sediment (without contamination) can be placed at the curb for disposal, while contaminated mud from businesses should be handled through the Division of Waste Management Inactive Hazardous Sites Branch.

This debris removal effort is a significant undertaking, and the city’s commitment to community safety was repeatedly emphasized by officials. As stated during the meeting, "These decisions are not easy and every decision will be made with community safety in mind." The expansion of temporary sites, as highlighted by the comment "The more sites that we have around the city, the quicker and more safely we can remove this debris from our community," will be key to a swift and effective cleanup. Residents seeking more detailed information can visit the City’s Helene Response and Recovery website: ashevillenc.gov/helene.