Fletcher County approves single asphalt bid for flood‑repair projects; FEMA coverage unclear

On Aug. 7, 2025, the Fletcher County Fiscal Court voted to approve proceeding with a single asphalt bid to complete delayed paving projects after flood damage, though county staff said FEMA reimbursement for the work had not been confirmed. County staff reported they received only one bid for the asphalt work and that the contractor identified in the discussion was higher than the county’s existing contract price. Staff said the current contract prices being paid were $122 per ton for base and $135 per ton for asphalt services; the newly discussed bid was higher than those rates. The court approved moving forward so projects that have been delayed since 2023 can be completed, and members emphasized the need to avoid ending up “upside down” financially on projects. Brent (county staff, ERCS) told the court the county had put the work out for bid and that they had not secured multiple bidders. Court members asked whether FEMA would cover the costs; Brent said he had not asked FEMA yet and the county would verify reimbursement eligibility before starting work. Members expressed frustration that Mountain Enterprise — the contractor previously used — has been busy and that the delay was holding up project closeouts. The discussion included concern about whether all flood‑damaged roads had been identified for repair; members asked staff to confirm the damage lists and to ensure projects eligible for federal reimbursement are documented. The court’s action authorizes staff to proceed with contracting under the single bid but instructs staff to confirm reimbursement and cost‑recovery details before completing work. The court did not specify a final dollar amount for the accepted bid in the discussion, and staff said they are still soliciting basement contractors for separate related repair work. The court moved on to other agenda items after recording the vote to proceed.