Buncombe County Board of Commissioners Briefing | June 17, 2025

Buncombe County Commissioners Update: Hurricane Helene Recovery & Community Priorities

On June 17, 2025, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners held a briefing focused primarily on updates and progress related to recovery efforts following the significant impact of Hurricane Helene in 2024. The meeting provided a comprehensive overview of debris removal, housing assistance programs, and the development of a long-term recovery plan for residents. While no formal votes were taken during the open session, discussions highlighted a strong commitment to rebuilding Buncombe County stronger and more resilient.

A major focus of the briefing was on the substantial progress made in debris removal across the county. The clearing of right-of-ways is now complete, with over 1.5 million cubic yards removed. The program for private property debris removal, extended to August 1st, has seen over 5,292 applications processed and nearly 4,000 sites cleaned. Waterway debris removal is also nearing completion (95%), with efforts scheduled to wrap up by the end of June. Residents were reminded that debris should no longer be placed in right-of-ways and directed to the Buncombe County Landfill for proper disposal, where reduced fees are available for hurricane-related materials.

Beyond debris removal, the Board received updates on housing assistance initiatives aimed at helping residents recover and rebuild. The distribution of FEMA-provided manufactured homes continues, with 50 out of 74 currently occupied. Residents have the option to purchase these units, and information regarding requirements and costs is being provided by FEMA. The county is also administering the Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program, providing critical assistance for repairs and rebuilding, with a particular focus on income-qualified households, seniors, families with young children, and individuals with disabilities. A backlog of demolition permit applications is being addressed in coordination with FEMA and the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the development of Buncombe County’s comprehensive recovery plan. The Board reviewed results from the "Envision Buncombe" survey, which gathered valuable community input on priorities for recovery. Key themes emerging from the survey included a strong desire for improvements to infrastructure (roads, bridges, telecommunications), enhanced public safety measures, and a focus on economic revitalization. The Board also discussed the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) pilot program, aimed at addressing landslide risks impacting residential properties. A draft of the Helene Recovery Plan is expected to be presented to the Board in the fall, incorporating this community feedback.

Finally, the briefing touched on important initiatives beyond hurricane recovery. The Board discussed efforts to expand access to medication for opioid use disorder and community education on naloxone, a life-saving overdose reversal drug. The opening of the Southside Healing Space, a peer support living space in the Brown’s Temple CME community, was also highlighted. This new resource, opening June 24th, will provide a safe space for individuals seeking support, resources, and mutual aid.

What’s Next?

• County staff will continue working diligently with FEMA, state partners, and contractors to finalize debris removal efforts.
• Demolition permit applications will continue to be processed.
• Residents are encouraged to report any remaining debris concerns to Buncombe County at BuncombeNC.gov or by calling 828-250-6100.
• The Board will review a draft of the Helene Recovery Plan in the fall, providing an opportunity for further community input.

This meeting underscored Buncombe County’s commitment to a thorough and inclusive recovery process, ensuring that residents have the support they need to rebuild their lives and create a more resilient community for the future.