Asheville Residents Urged to Prepare for Winter Challenges and Key Community Services

Asheville Prepares for Winter Challenges

As we cozy up to the season in Asheville, it’s important for residents to stay informed about various services and programs that can aid our community during times of need. With the calendar quickly moving toward December, key deadlines and initiatives are popping up that everyone should know about. Let’s dive into what’s happening in our beautiful city!

Property Tax Deadlines Are Approaching

First on the agenda is the property tax payment deadline, which is looming large. Buncombe County encourages you to get your payments sorted out ahead of time. Remember, North Carolina law doesn’t allow for tax waivers or exceptions even in the wake of natural disasters like Hurricane Helene. If you’re feeling confused or need assistance, don’t hesitate to give a shout to the Tax Department at 828-250-4910 or drop by their office at 94 Coxe Ave. And don’t worry—there’s parking just across the street!

Emergency Shelters Ready for Code Purple

With winter chill settling in, the county has declared Code Purple Days to activate emergency shelters for those experiencing homelessness. This coordinated effort between Asheville and Buncombe County means extra shelter options will be available during colder weather. When these days are announced, you’ll notice the lights at the Register of Deeds and the Health and Human Services buildings lighting up in purple!

Jobless Claims? Don’t Miss the Deadline!

Speaking of disaster recovery, if you’ve been affected by Hurricane Helene and are seeking help, today is your last chance to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. You can file your claims online at des.nc.gov or call the Disaster Assistance Hotline at (919) 629-3857. Make sure you don’t miss out on this important support!

Free Flu Vaccines Available

Staying healthy is crucial this winter. The Public Health Mobile Team is offering free flu and other vaccinations this week. Take a proactive step for your well-being and get vaccinated!

Community Support at AB Tech Resource Fair

Looking for resources? Head over to the Stronger Together Community Resource Fair sponsored by AB Tech! It’s happening Wednesday, December 4, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the AB Tech Campus in the Ferguson Auditorium Building. This fair is your chance to connect with services that can assist in your recovery journey and beyond. Expect to meet organizations like FEMA, Manna Food Bank, and NC Works, among others. Whether you need help with hurricane recovery or just general assistance, this is a great opportunity!

Private Property Debris Removal

In other important news, over 400 Buncombe County property owners have taken advantage of the Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) Program, which helps ensure that any disaster debris from Hurricane Helene can be cleared at no cost. If you’ve applied and have questions, call the One Buncombe hotline at 828-250-6100 (option 2) for more information.

Heating Bill Assistance on the Horizon

The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) has begun accepting applications! Low-income households can apply for one-time heating bill assistance. Applications for households that include someone aged 60 or older or who have disabled persons will be accepted from Dec. 1 – 31. Don’t miss out—regular applications open from Jan. 1 – March 31 for other households. Apply at epass.nc.gov or call 828-250-5500 for assistance.

Water Utility Updates for Residents

And here’s a bit of relief for water utility customers: all billing activities had paused during Hurricane Helene, but as things return to normal, you’ll find that the “Water Consumption Charge” on your bills is currently set at $0 for the period from the last bill before the storm until now. The city will not charge any delinquent fees until after March 1, 2025. If you have any concerns, contact Water Customer Services at 828-251-1122.

Continued Storm Debris Cleanup

As of now, more than 347,000 cubic yards of storm debris have been picked up in Buncombe County. Cleanup efforts are ongoing, and every little bit helps us get back to a tidy community!

New Trash Collection Services Coming Soon

Lastly, in January 2025, FCC Environmental Services will take over residential trash and recycling collection in unincorporated Buncombe County. Current Waste Pro customers must sign up with FCC Environmental to continue receiving services in the new year.

Stay warm and stay connected with what’s happening in Asheville—there’s a lot of support available for everyone! Remember, we’re all in this together as the winter months roll in.