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County updates public on RenewNC dashboard: Buncombe submissions nearly one-third of applicants
Summary
Buncombe County staff reported that nearly 900 RenewNC applications have been submitted by county residents — about 31% of all applications — and reminded residents the program closes Dec. 31. Staff said RenewNC is funded at roughly $807 million and currently prioritizes lowest-income households and vulnerable residents.
Buncombe County provided an update on the state-run RenewNC single-family housing program, which county staff said is funded at about $807 million for owner-occupied Helene-related home repair, rebuilding or replacement.
"Within each phase, the highest priority are our lowest income households," said Commissioner Matt Cable while presenting the briefing. County staff explained eligibility requires storm damage caused by Helene, owner-occupancy at the time of the storm and that applicants be income-qualified.
County data shown on the RenewNC dashboard, which staff said is updated almost daily, indicated roughly 2,900 applications had been submitted statewide with about 898 from Buncombe County residents — roughly 31% of the total. Staff said about 1,000 applications were in progress but not submitted; about 257 applications were listed as ineligible or inactive, largely due to duplication (for example, multiple household members applying).
Staff said RenewNC—s application window opened in June and will close Dec. 31; applications can be filed online, by phone or at the Helene Resource Center. County outreach included a Sept. 18 direct contact to about 9,000 households that had reported damage to FEMA to encourage applications.
Why it matters: RenewNC funds major home repairs and replacement for eligible owner-occupants. County staff noted that the state—s early estimates for per-unit investment rose from about $375,000 to approximately $450,000 as replacement needs and contractor costs became clearer, and staff said the state estimated it could support roughly 2,000–2,400 units based on initial allocations.
What to watch: The county said it is working with the state to access application data and permitting information to measure program impact locally and to identify applicants who may need alternative assistance if determined ineligible for RenewNC.
