Asheville City Council approves hazard mitigation grant program partnership with Buncombe County

In the heart of Asheville's city hall, council members gathered on March 20, 2025, to address pressing issues that resonate deeply with the community. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as discussions unfolded around the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, a federally funded initiative aimed at helping local residents and business owners recover from recent disasters.

Bridget Herring, the recovery coordinator, took center stage to explain the program's intricacies. "This is a partnership with our county counterparts, as well as city staff," she emphasized, highlighting the collaborative effort required to navigate the complexities of disaster recovery. The program, which allocates approximately $1.5 billion to North Carolina, offers private property owners the chance to voluntarily apply for assistance to elevate, reconstruct, or acquire their properties, thereby mitigating future risks.

As the council members listened intently, Herring outlined the need for an interlocal agreement with Buncombe County to facilitate the acquisition of properties within city limits. This agreement, set to be voted on in the upcoming council meeting, is crucial for ensuring that any properties acquired through the program remain under city ownership in perpetuity. "We can lease it to other people, but we can never sell or dispose of this," Herring clarified, underscoring the long-term commitment to community safety and resilience.

The discussions also touched on the challenges of timely communication with constituents, as council members expressed concerns about the community's desire for quicker action. "We know there are lots of folks asking you all questions," one member noted, acknowledging the pressure on council members to provide answers. Herring reassured them that the city staff is working diligently to keep everyone informed, despite the complexities involved.

As the meeting progressed, the council members recognized the importance of outreach to affected property owners. There was a consensus that more proactive measures are needed to ensure that residents are aware of the available resources. "We need to step up more than relying on the county to advertise," one member urged, emphasizing the need for tailored communication strategies that resonate with the unique challenges faced by Asheville's commercial property owners.

The meeting concluded with a sense of determination. The council is poised to take significant steps toward recovery, with the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program serving as a beacon of hope for many in the community. As they prepare for the upcoming vote, the council members remain committed to fostering resilience and ensuring that Asheville emerges stronger from its challenges. The path ahead may be fraught with obstacles, but the collective resolve of the city council and its staff shines brightly, promising a brighter future for Asheville's residents and businesses.