Ashe County officials are taking significant steps to address the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, with two major grant initiatives aimed at repairing and revitalizing damaged structures. During a recent county commission meeting, discussions highlighted the Department of Commerce's Phase 1 initiative, which has identified 25 contractors to utilize approximately $1 billion for repairs and replacements of existing structures affected by the hurricane.

The initiatives, while running concurrently, will be administered separately. The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) disaster recovery program focuses specifically on hurricane-related damages, while the neighborhood revitalization program is an ongoing annual grant not limited to hurricane impacts. This distinction is crucial as it allows for a broader approach to community recovery.

Commissioners clarified that while both programs aim to repair and replace damaged structures, they will not allow for "double dipping" of funds. Recipients of one grant will not be eligible to receive funds from the other for the same project, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently.

In addition to the grant discussions, the commission approved a budget amendment of $106,112 for a FEMA-approved project to repair water drafting sites damaged during the hurricane. This project will address 22 sites and replace 32 signs and signposts, emphasizing the county's commitment to restoring essential services.

The meeting also included a resolution to designate an applicant's agent for hazard mitigation grants available through FEMA. These grants are intended to fund projects that mitigate future disaster risks, such as property acquisition and installation of generators for critical facilities.

As Ashe County moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on rebuilding and enhancing community resilience against future disasters.