The FEMA money is crucial for many states, including North Carolina, in funding emergency equipment. It also supports the salaries of personnel who step in to assist with natural disasters and other emergencies, including terrorism and threats to public safety.

There are signs of mold all over the Evergreen Ridge Apartments in East Asheville. In one old utility hallway in building D, the walls are crumbling and black in places, pipes are bent. In the main lobby, the ceiling buckles under the weight of water damage. An overpowering musty smell permeates the halls, creeping into tenant apartments.

The funds, which are part of the Dislocated Worker Grant Program, had been delayed amid the federal government shutdown.

What you need to know from the Oct. 21 Buncombe County Board of Commissioners meeting

The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program allows property owners in certain flood-prone areas to sell their home or business to the government. Gov. Stein says no applications have been approved yet.

Warren Wilson College sustained significant damage from Hurricane Helene last year. They were originally left out of the disaster recovery act of 2025 but were then included in the recent passage of House Bill 358.

The majority of hiking trails will be open, with the exception of the “Brown Trail” and some of the creek and stream crossings. The disc golf course will reopen next weekend.

The Buncombe County Board of Adjustment has granted the grocery chain a special use permit for the site which was devastated by Hurricane Helene.

The system, which costs around $6 million per month, will be decommissioned after the end of hurricane season.

The campaign bad-mouthed FEMA while using crowdfunding to donate to evangelical nonprofits.