The York County Commissioners held a regular meeting on November 13, 2024, focusing on the ongoing coastal resilience program managed by the Emergency Management Agency (EMA). The meeting highlighted the significant impact of recent storms on the region's coastal infrastructure and the urgent need for protective measures.

EMA representatives provided an update on the coastal resilience initiative, which has been active since January. They reported that the area faced a record-breaking storm earlier this year, resulting in approximately $50 million in public damages. About 200 households received individual assistance, and several businesses were also affected. The EMA has been collaborating with all nine coastal towns in York County, from Old Orchard Beach to Kittery, to address the damages and plan for future resilience.

A key focus of the discussion was the condition of the dunes and beaches, which serve as critical barriers against storm surges. The EMA is currently working on emergency protective measures, categorized under FEMA guidelines, to rebuild and enhance these natural defenses. The estimated cost for these emergency measures is around $29 million, with a federal cost share of 90.1%, leaving local towns responsible for approximately $3 million.

In addition to immediate repairs, the EMA is pursuing longer-term solutions categorized as "Category G," which would provide protection against more severe storms. This initiative requires extensive engineering and documentation, with an estimated cost of $25 million that local municipalities will need to cover upfront.

The meeting underscored the importance of the dunes and beaches, which protect around 175 public roads and numerous homes and businesses in the area. The EMA emphasized the need for urgent action to restore these natural barriers to safeguard the community against future storms.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the EMA and the necessity of continued collaboration with local towns to ensure the resilience of York County's coastal infrastructure.