Community Briefing | May 7, 2025

Buncombe County Community Briefing Recap: Storm Recovery, Revitalization Plan & Community Updates (May 7, 2025)

On May 7, 2025, the Buncombe County Community Briefing provided residents with a comprehensive update on ongoing recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Helene, the state’s revitalization plan, and several upcoming community initiatives. The meeting featured presentations from county officials, the North Carolina Department of Commerce, and the City of Asheville, emphasizing collaboration and community engagement throughout these processes.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on recovery from Tropical Storm Helene. Residents impacted by the storm were informed about a crucial decision made by the Board of Commissioners: a 50% reduction in permit fees for residential repair and renovation projects, effective from June 1st to December 31st, 2025. This aims to ease the financial burden on homeowners as they work to repair storm damage. Beyond immediate relief, officials stressed the importance of long-term planning and resilience through the "Envision Buncombe" survey, encouraging residents to share their vision for a stronger future. A series of town hall meetings, beginning May 22nd, will further provide opportunities for residents to voice their priorities and receive updates directly from county commissioners. Updates were also provided on the progress of debris removal, with over two million cubic yards already cleared, and reminders were given regarding deadlines for private property debris removal paperwork (May 15th) and Small Business Administration loan applications (June 26th).

Beyond storm recovery, the briefing included a significant update on North Carolina’s $1.4 billion revitalization plan approved by HUD. Deputy Secretary Stephanie McGara detailed how these funds will be strategically allocated to support owner-occupied housing, multifamily construction, workforce housing initiatives, community infrastructure improvements, and commercial district revitalization. The state is actively working through procurement processes to secure vendors for single-family housing reconstruction, signifying a substantial investment in Western North Carolina’s future. The meeting also highlighted the Swannanoa Small Area Plan, emphasizing community input and resilience planning as key components of its development.

The meeting wasn't solely focused on recovery; it also included important community updates and announcements. Residents were pleased to hear that all five Buncombe County pools will be opening for Memorial Day weekend, and Deborah Campbell, City Manager of Asheville, provided updates on debris removal within city limits, the partial reopening of Riverside Cemetery on Mother’s Day (May 11th), and ongoing infrastructure projects. The City of Asheville is also launching new council committees to improve transparency and guide recovery efforts, demonstrating a commitment to open communication with residents.

What does this mean for you? Here's what comes next:

• If you were impacted by Tropical Storm Helene: Take advantage of the reduced permit fees, complete the "Envision Buncombe" survey (engage.buncombecounty.org/envisionbuncombe), attend a town hall meeting, and be mindful of deadlines for debris removal paperwork and SBA loan applications.
• Residents with damaged private roads or bridges: Fill out the interest form at bunkumready.org.
• Interested in learning more about Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) opportunities: Visit buncomerady.org to find the intake form or call 919-873-5888.

The next Community Briefing is scheduled for June 4th at 11 a.m., providing another opportunity to stay informed and engaged in the ongoing recovery and revitalization efforts shaping our community. For more detailed information, residents are encouraged to visit commerce.nc.gov/recovery and asheville nc.gov forward slash projects.