Hurricane Helene Recovery Funding Remains Stalled,Sparks Political Tension in North Carolina
As the Atlantic hurricane season begins,recovery funding for the aftermath of Hurricane Helene remains a point of contention in North Carolina,with a complex interplay of federal and state officials involved. While important federal aid has been allocated, local officials report critical funds approved by Congress remain unreleased, hindering ongoing recovery efforts in Western North Carolina (WNC).
Buncombe County Manager Avril Ponder Manheimer has emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating the delayed funds are vital for managing potential impacts from future storms. ”We’re in hurricane season, we’re vulnerable. We do not want to see our water turbidity elevated and not be able to manage it,” she said. The funds in question involve reimbursements and direct funding awaiting approval, reportedly requiring signatures from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
The Biden administration defended its commitment to North Carolina’s recovery, with White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson highlighting a prolonged period of 100% federal cost share – one of the longest in FEMA history – and a continued 90% federal cost share for debris removal and emergency protective measures, exceeding the standard 75% match. Jackson stated, “President Trump cares deeply about the peopel of North Carolina who were affected by Hurricane Helene.” She directed inquiries regarding unsigned approvals to the Department of Homeland Security and Secretary Noem. Jackson declined to address questions regarding why the White House wouldn’t directly respond to concerns raised by Manheimer about the unspent, Congressionally approved aid.
However, Lucas thomae of Carolina Public Press, a non-profit investigative publication, pointed out that the 100% cost share initially began under the Biden Administration.He characterized the White House’s criticism of Governor Josh Stein as a political maneuver.
Congressman Chuck Edwards acknowledged the need for continued support, stating, “This is not a political issue to me – this is a matter of helping get WNC back on our feet.” He affirmed his collaboration with both President Trump and Governor Stein to secure necessary aid, and plans to meet with Governor Stein again to discuss priorities. “I’m confident that myself, president Trump, and Governor Stein have the best interest of Western North Carolinians in mind, and I’ll continue this fight until our mountain communities are stronger than ever before,” Edwards said.
Governor Stein’s office responded by acknowledging federal support but emphasizing the insufficiency of current funding levels compared to other states impacted by similar disasters. The Governor’s statement read,”The size of Congress’s appropriation to North Carolina to date is simply not enough to get the job done… That’s why the Governor continues to call on Congress to fund a supplemental aid package.” He reiterated his commitment to working with all levels of government to rebuild WNC.
