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Mebane pauses construction planning as FEMA revises BRIC funding; engineering phase remains likely funded
Summary
Utilities Director Kyle Smith told the council FEMA has announced cuts to parts of BRIC funding but Mebane has been selected to receive phase 1 (engineering and surveying) for a sewer-rehab project covering about 16,800 feet of clay sanitary sewer lines; the council approved updating the applicant's agent paperwork.
Utilities Director Kyle Smith updated the council on the status of a FEMA BRIC grant the city applied for in 2022 to rehabilitate approximately 16,800 feet of clay sanitary sewer lines using slip-lining and manhole rehabilitation. Smith said the city has been selected for Phase 1 funding (engineering and surveying) but FEMA announced cancellations that could affect later construction funding for BRIC projects that have not yet had funds passed down to the state.
"We have been selected to receive phase 1, which is the engineering and surveying for this project," Smith said, adding that FEMA will provide further guidance in the upcoming weeks. The city has paused work on later phases to avoid incurring unreimbursable costs until FEMA confirms funding distribution.
Council members asked whether the award had been received and Smith said the award is made but funds flow from FEMA to the state before distribution; the city must submit reimbursement requests. Smith noted the project remains on hold for construction decisions but that the phase-1 kickoff meeting with state and FEMA took place in April.
Council approved a resolution to update the designated applicant's agent (to reflect current city officials) so the city can proceed with necessary paperwork related to Phase 1.
What's next: Staff will monitor FEMA guidance, continue required monthly reporting and complete applicant/agent paperwork so engineering work can proceed if funding is finalized.
