Flood‑victim says Atlanta permitting delays and lack of FEMA participation hamper rebuilding after Hurricane Helene

A speaker at public comment described extensive permitting delays after Hurricane Helene and asked why the city had not participated in federal rebuilding grants that could help flood victims.

"On September 27, my home was destroyed by hurricane Helene," Nancy Chaney told council members. She said her family was trapped during the storm and that she has since faced long delays and inconsistent guidance in the city’s permitting process.

Chaney said she submitted a permit application on March 24 and learned more than a month later that a variance would be required to elevate the house because it sits in a flood plain; she said the later determination sets back the permitting timeline by months and increases personal cost. She told the council she had been assessed roughly $5,500 in fines for non‑permitted tree work even as she waits on permitting for flood repairs.

Chaney said she has spoken with a contact at Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA) about federal grants available for flood rebuilding and told the council she believes the city is not participating in those programs. She asked: why are codes being selectively enforced, why is there not a rapid process for conflicting rules, why are federal funds not being used, and what is the city doing to help hurricane victims?

A council member offered to put her in touch with planning staff; Chaney said she has been "going round and round in circles" with city offices and sought more direct contact. The council did not take immediate action during the meeting; staff from the planning department were expected later on the agenda and a council member said staff contact information could be provided following the meeting.

Chaney framed her remarks as questions to the committee and requested the city explain permitting timelines, variance triggers and whether the city will enroll in federal recovery grants.