Burke County approves $908,909 state aid package for Hurricane Helene recovery

The Burke County Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted Budget Amendment No. 8 on Jan. 7, 2025, recognizing $908,909 in State Disaster Assistance payments tied to Hurricane Helene recovery. Commissioner Randy Burns moved the measure; the vote was recorded as unanimous in favor.

DSS Director Korey Fisher-Wellman presented the request, saying the funds are state emergency assistance to be disbursed through county programs. The amendment designates $73,294 as passthrough funding for an Emergency Rental Assistance Program, $441,848 for Emergency Energy Assistance (including energy payments and propane purchases), $131,444 for essential services for adult welfare clients, and $262,323 for essential services for child welfare clients.

County Manager Brian Epley asked that the amendment be placed on the regular meeting agenda for final consideration; the board adopted it during the pre-agenda session. The amendment document states the revenue account as “State Disaster Assistance Payments” and shows offsetting expense lines for each program category.

Vice Chairman Phil Smith subsequently moved to accept the DSS monthly operational report, which included discussion of staffing and foster-care supports; that motion also passed unanimously.

The board’s action recognizes and appropriates the state funds so the county can begin distributing assistance to households and clients affected by Hurricane Helene. The amendment was adopted on Jan. 7, 2025; implementation and disbursement will follow county administrative procedures and program eligibility requirements.