Chatham County Reviews Emergency Response to Tropical Depression Chantal Damage

The Chatham County Board of Commissioners meeting on August 18, 2025, focused on two significant topics: the ongoing recovery efforts from Tropical Depression Chantal and the county's growing need for community services due to population increases.

During the meeting, Emergency Management Director Steve Newton provided a detailed report on the impact of Tropical Depression Chantal, which resulted in substantial flooding and damage across the county. Newton highlighted that the storm caused between 6 to 11.5 inches of rain in certain areas, leading to numerous road closures and emergency responses. The county's 911 system received nearly 1,700 calls during the storm, double the volume from the previous week. Unfortunately, the storm also resulted in three fatalities, underscoring the dangers associated with flooding.

Newton reported that the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) estimated damages at approximately $1.6 million, while local government facilities in Pittsburgh reported around $200,000 in damages. The county's parks also suffered from flooding, with several requiring repairs. Despite the extensive damage, the county did not open emergency shelters, as local organizations like the Salvation Army provided support to affected families.

In addition to the storm recovery discussion, commissioners addressed the increasing demand for community services as the county's population continues to grow. One commissioner emphasized the importance of having dedicated personnel to assist residents in navigating available services, particularly in rural areas where access can be challenging. The discussion highlighted the need for better coordination among service providers to ensure that residents receive the necessary support.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing recovery efforts and a focus on enhancing community services to meet the needs of Chatham County's expanding population. The board plans to continue monitoring the situation and will reconvene next month to discuss further developments.