Fletcher prioritizes fencing and bridge repairs at town park; FEMA assistance and debris pickup discussed

Town Manager Mark briefed the council on storm‑related park repairs and the procurement steps the town is taking. He said the town issued a request for qualifications and received a single proposal from McGill Associates, which the town designated to help scope and prioritize work. "They covered everything in there," Mark said of the firm’s proposal.

Mark outlined the priority projects: the fencing around ball fields and courts, repair of the bridge that currently blocks Greenway access, and streambank stabilization near Mills Gap. He said staff intends to bid the fencing and related repairs under the formal procurement threshold that requires three sealed bids; if three responsive bids are not received the town would re‑advertise and proceed accordingly.

On reimbursement, Mark said FEMA review is proceeding and staff have been praised for organization and documentation; he estimated FEMA reimbursements in the "75% range." He urged residents to apply for individual assistance when eligible, noting that application counts help regional funding decisions. "The deadline now has been extended to February 6," Mark said, urging outreach to affected residents.

Council members raised ongoing concerns about debris removal contractors leaving piles in neighborhoods and the complication that homeowners associations currently face in applying as a body for individual assistance. Staff said they would follow up with county contacts and may perform limited town pickups for small piles if contractors fail to complete work.

Mark said the town hopes to complete surface repairs and fencing in time for spring baseball season and will continue to coordinate FEMA documentation and procurement timelines.