Asheville – As the City of Asheville continues grappling with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, a structured recovery framework is taking shape, aiming to guide the community through the complex process of rebuilding. This operational framework is not just a plan; it’s a living document designed to adapt to the evolving needs of the city and its residents.
Key Elements of the Recovery Framework
The recovery framework has been crafted to identify essential actions for recovery while remaining flexible enough to respond to changing circumstances. “This framework is not a recovery plan but a structure to organize needs and the resources available to meet those needs,” said Bridget Herring, Deputy Recovery Coordinator. The framework will evolve into a comprehensive recovery plan with input from both the City Council and the community.
To ensure that immediate needs are met, subject-specific Recovery Support Groups (RSGs) have been established. These groups, composed of subject matter experts, focus on critical areas such as housing, economic recovery, debris management, and water systems. Regular updates from these groups will help maintain transparency and foster collaboration among stakeholders.
30-60-90 Day Action Plan
The recovery process is divided into a 90-day action plan, with specific goals set for the first 30 days, 60 days, and beyond. In the initial phase, the city aims to launch programs for home repair and rental assistance while reviewing continuity of operations plans. By the end of this period, the city expects to have a clearer picture of damage assessments and begin implementing short-term recovery projects.
As Rachel Wood, Recovery Coordinator, noted, “We are committed to engaging with FEMA on recovery needs assessments and ensuring that we are prepared for future funding opportunities.” This proactive approach is crucial for securing necessary resources to support the community’s recovery.
Housing and Economic Recovery Initiatives
Housing remains a top priority in the recovery efforts. The city is working on temporary use permitting for interim housing solutions, including RVs within city limits. Additionally, partnerships with local organizations are being leveraged to provide rental assistance and home repair funding. The Asheville-Buncombe Rebuilding Together Grant Fund has already opened for applications, signaling a commitment to supporting local businesses as they recover.
Economic recovery initiatives are also underway, with a focus on assisting businesses affected by the storm. The city is actively engaging with stakeholders to understand their needs and track progress in recovery efforts. “Continued outreach and community engagement are vital as we navigate this recovery process,” said Steph Dahl, Economic Recovery Coordinator.
Looking Ahead
As Asheville moves forward in its recovery journey, regular briefings will keep the community informed about progress and challenges. The next council meeting on December 10 will address key action items related to funding allocations and policy discussions.
The road to recovery is undoubtedly challenging, but with a structured framework in place and a commitment to collaboration, Asheville is poised to rebuild stronger than before. As Mayor Esther Manheimer emphasized “We are all in this together, and our collective efforts will shape the future of our community.”