Buncombe County Begins Recovery from Hurricane Helene
Asheville, North Carolina – Recovery from the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Helene is finally getting underway, as Buncombe County takes significant steps to restore the community. On November 1, in a special meeting, the county commissioners approved a contract with a disaster recovery consultant to help navigate the challenging aftermath of the storm.
Understanding the Stages of Recovery
With the memory of the hurricane still fresh, Sustainability Officer Jeremiah LeRoy laid out the roadmap for recovery. His overview highlighted three essential stages:
- Immediate Response Activities: This first stage consists of tasks like search and rescue operations, clearing blocked roads, and restoring vital services needed to get life back to normal as quickly as possible.
- Long-Term Recovery: The second stage, which can take weeks or even months, involves more prolonged efforts like debris removal, providing temporary shelters for those displaced, and organizing assistance for the community.
- Rebuilding and Economic Recovery: Finally, the most extensive part of recovery focuses on infrastructural repairs and economic rebuilding, which can extend over several years.
Choosing the Right Consultant
The county chose Tetra Technology Disaster Recovery from a pool of twenty applicants to assist in the recovery efforts. LeRoy mentioned the firm’s impressive record—over 25 years of experience in disaster recovery and 13 years specifically focusing in North Carolina. They’ve even participated in over 100 presidentially declared disasters worldwide.
Jonathan Burgiel, who will oversee the recovery efforts, expressed a personal commitment to helping Asheville rebuild. Living in the community and witnessing the impact of the hurricane on friends and neighbors has fueled his dedication. According to his background, Burgiel is committed to aiding communities in disaster planning and recovery, determining how to secure maximum federal and state disaster reimbursement.
Focusing on Debris Management and Community Support
A major one of Burgiel’s focuses will be on the crucial task of debris management, particularly addressing the issue of trash collection from private properties. Furthermore, he will work on increasing “staff augmentation” at distribution points where residents can collect essentials like water and other necessities.
Important Dates for Assistance
November 27 has been noted as the deadline for applying for federal hurricane aid. LeRoy urged residents to apply to FEMA for assistance, which could help with lodging, home repairs, and more serious needs like reconstructing private roads, repairing damage to wells and septic systems, covering costs related to displacement, and even supporting funeral expenses.
Even if you haven’t been severely impacted, LeRoy stressed the importance of registering for aid. “We need everyone’s participation to demonstrate the impact of this disaster,” he said, highlighting that numerous registrations can influence the resources allocated for the community’s recovery.
Rethinking Donations and Volunteering
In light of the current situation, it’s essential for community members to understand the proper way to contribute. A notice from Buncombe County highlighted the end of physical donations such as clothes and water due to logistical challenges. Instead, residents are encouraged to make financial contributions to reputable organizations already helping those in need.
Looking Ahead
As the community grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, it’s clear there is a long road ahead. But with expert guidance, dedicated residents, and organized recovery efforts, Asheville and Buncombe County are poised to emerge stronger than ever. The collaborative spirit of the community will be crucial in these upcoming months as everyone comes together to rebuild, rejuvenate, and recover.
