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Hurricane Helene Resources

We are here for you. Have a question or need support? Email us at [email protected].

Please email us with all inquiries, requests, concerns, feedback, and reports related to Hurricane Helene to [email protected]. This dedicated email address will be constantly monitored and available to collect all related Hurricane Helene information that will be channeled to the appropriate response contact. Thank you for your help in the county recovery process.

At NCACC, we are committed to supporting counties through this critical recovery period. We are currently offering a range of technical assistance services, including navigating federal and state recovery programs (such as FEMA, CDBG-DR, and the Helene Recovery Cashflow Loan program), as well as providing crisis communications support to help you reach hard-to-contact populations and manage misinformation effectively. You can find a more comprehensive list of these services here.

To request a consultation or more information about these services, you can simply reply to this email or reach out to us directly at [email protected]. We’re here to support you in any way we can. In addition to these efforts, we are working closely with state agencies to improve communication and streamline coordination for disaster recovery. 

Important Resources for Affected Counties
How You Can Help
More News and Information
Technical Assistance Team

Impacted Resources for Affected Counties

Resource Needs

  • WebEOC | Emergency Management and Daily Operations | Juvare
    • Counties are encouraged to log request needs such as staffing, supplies, and more in WebEOC.
      • Supply needs include, but are not limited to, generators, radios, food, and water.
      • If your county is unable to log requests into WebEOC due to internet connectivity issues, you are encouraged to coordinate through your county emergency management department. Local departments can work with NCEM regional coordinating offices to get request needs processed.  

Helplines

  • 988 Lifeline | 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
  • NCDHHS | Hope4NC Helpline for First Responders and Volunteers
    • NCDHHS has launched the Hope4NC Helpline (1-855-587-3463) to provide mental health support for first responders and volunteers working on our Hurricane Helene disaster response. It is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
  • NC Farm Help Line | For Mental Health and Farm Stress Needs
    • Call the NC Farm Help Line at (844) 325-3276.
  • SAMHSA | National Disaster Distress Helpline
    • The Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) is the first national hotline dedicated to providing year-round disaster crisis counseling. This toll-free, multilingual, crisis support service is available 24/7 to all residents in the U.S. and its territories who are experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters.
    • Call or text 1-800-985-5990.
    • Español: Llama o envía un mensaje de texto 1-800-985-5990 presiona “2.”
    • For Deaf and Hard of Hearing ASL Callers: Please text or call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 using your preferred Relay provider.
  • Victim Advocacy Center

How You Can Help

Private Sector Donations

At this time, NCEM does not advise individuals or other organizations not coordinated through NCVOAD to collect unsolicited donations. To find the latest information on road closures, visit drivenc.gov. 

More News and Information

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Register Today for Brand New 100 Counties Prepared Training

New year, new format, new content! NCACC’s 100 Counties Prepared Training has been refreshed to address today’s statewide challenges and better equip county leaders to respond confidently to any emergency. This spring, join us for one of three identical in-person regional trainings focused on crisis communications — countering misinformation, navigating real-world disaster scenarios, and understanding legal authorities during emergencies — along with a high-level Emergency Management 101 overview and operational best practices for counties. Register today and make sure your county is prepared.

Next Training Session (dates/locations):

Additional Information and Resources

NCACC

  • Click here to access the NCACC PowerPoint slides about CDBG-DR, which discusses the program’s eligibility, funding, state priorities, application preparation, and available NCACC support.
  • Click here to access the NCACC policy brief on County Reappraisals of Real Property, which discusses the process of updating the assessed value of all real property within a county to reflect the fair market value.
  • Click here to access the NCACC policy brief on Property Tax Considerations After Hurricane Helene, which explains the impact of the disaster and estimated reductions in property tax revenue in both the current and future tax years.

Other Partners

  • NC Launches State Private Road and Bridge Repair Program: The North Carolina Private Road and Bridge Program (NC-PRB) was established to provide assistance for repairs to private roads, culverts, pipes, or bridges that were damaged or destroyed following Tropical Storm Helene. Click here to access a one-pager on the program. More information on the program is available here, and interested participants may fill out an intake form here.
  • The State of North Carolina is offering a Shelter Trailer Program for up to six months to eligible survivors whose homes cannot be occupied. Click here to access the flyer. Visit www.ncdop.gov/helene/dcm; or call 844-746-2326 for more information.
  • Governor Stein Submits HUD Action Plan, Urges Swift Approval to Accelerate Rebuilding in Western North Carolina. Click here to read the press release. Click here to read the Final Plan, which includes NCACC comments regarding alternative payment distribution methods for local governments, the use of existing disaster resource centers as part of the intake process, and enhanced communication strategies for remote areas.
  • State Treasurer launches webpage with accountability metrics for the Helene Cashflow Loan Program with statistics as of March 21, 2025 provided. Click here to access the Disaster Services and Rural Economic Development Division 2025 Accountability Metrics. 
  • Jeff Poley Named Interim Division Head to Oversee State and Local Government Finance Division. With Poley taking on this new role, the Helene Cashflow Loan program will be overseen by Chief of Staff Eric Naisbitt. Click here to read the press release.

Running Report of NCACC WNC Managers’ Calls

  • January 2026
    • January 28, 2026
      • We look forward to seeing you THURSDAY from 8:30 to 9:30am for our weekly virtual meeting for Helene-impacted counties, featuring Joe Stanton, Assistant Director – Recovery, NC Emergency Management. This recurring meeting provides a forum for updates from the State Recovery Office, and an opportunity for County Managers to discuss their unmet recovery needs and barriers to recovery. NCACC will also provide updates and information on disaster recovery programs and services. 
      • This week, counties may also raise questions about the damage assessment process for the winter storm and Don Campbell, Chief of Staff, NC Emergency Management will provide a mitigation update. *Feel free to invite your county emergency manager to tomorrow’s meeting and see attached document dated 1/25/26, which provides winter weather response information.
      • We will also hear from Andy Miller, Deputy Secretary for Infrastructure and Environmental Assistance, NC Department of Environmental Quality. He will discuss the Helene Recovery Recycling Infrastructure Grant Program, which  provides grants to local governments in Western North Carolina to improve recycling infrastructure impacted by Hurricane Helene. NCDEQ is currently accepting viable, well-planned proposals for projects that will expand, rebuild, or improve waste reduction, composting, and recycling programs to improve the resiliency of the region’s waste reduction infrastructure. Applicants can request any amount up to $5 million per proposal and the deadlineto apply is February 20, 2025.
      • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 1/28/26 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
      • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held January 22, which featured Maggie Battaglin, Single Family Housing Director, Division of Community Revitalization (DCR), NC Commerce.She provided updates on programs funded through North Carolina’s $1.4 billion federal allocation of Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) allocation, which will address unmet hurricane recovery needs in western North Carolina, including housing, infrastructure, and economic revitalization.  As part of these programs, DCR is currently accepting applications for the Renew NC Single Family Housing (deadline is January 31, 2026) and the Small Rental Rehabilitation Program.
    • January 21, 2026
      • We look forward to seeing you THURSDAY from 8:30 to 9:30am for our weekly virtual meeting for Helene-impacted counties, featuring Joe Stanton, Assistant Director – Recovery, NC Emergency Management. This recurring meeting provides a forum for updates from the State Recovery Office, and an opportunity for County Managers to discuss their unmet recovery needs and barriers to recovery. NCACC will also provide updates and information on disaster recovery programs and services. 
      • This week, we will also hear from Maggie Battaglin, Single Family Housing Director, Division of Community Revitalization (DCR), NC Commerce.She will provide updates on programs funded through North Carolina’s $1.4 billion federal allocation of Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) allocation, which will address unmet hurricane recovery needs in western North Carolina, including housing, infrastructure, and economic revitalization.  As part of these programs, DCR is currently accepting applications for the Renew NC Single Family Housing and the Small Rental Rehabilitation Program.
      • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 1/21/26 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
      • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held January 15, which featured DuWayne Tewes, Federal Coordinating Officer for NC Disasters, who discussed FEMA staffing and working through unresolved public assistance projects.
    • January 14, 2026
      • We look forward to seeing you THURSDAY from 8:30 to 9:30am for our weekly virtual meeting for Helene-impacted counties, featuring Joe Stanton, Assistant Director – Recovery, NC Emergency Management. This recurring meeting provides a forum for updates from the State Recovery Office, and an opportunity for County Managers to discuss their unmet recovery needs and barriers to recovery. NCACC will also provide updates and information on disaster recovery programs and services. 
      • This week, we will also hear from DuWayne Tewes, Federal Coordinating Officer for NC Disasters, who will discuss FEMA staffing, working through unresolved public assistance projects, and the process for submitting requests for extensions.
      • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 1/14/26 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
      • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held January 8, which featured Greg Hicks, NC Forest Service Assistant Commissioner, State Forester, and Robbie Perry, Fire Chief, NC Forest Service, who discussed the state’s plans for fire response and mitigation in western North Carolina. See the slide presentations from the meeting attached and click here to read the NC Forest Service legislative report on wildfires for FY25.
    • January 6, 2026
      • We look forward to seeing you THURSDAY, January 8 from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. for our weekly virtual meeting for Helene-impacted counties, featuring Joe Stanton, Assistant Director – Recovery, NC Emergency Management. This recurring meeting provides a forum for updates from the State Recovery Office, and an opportunity for County Managers to discuss their unmet recovery needs and barriers to recovery. NCACC will also provide updates and information on disaster recovery programs and services.
      • This week, we will also hear from Greg Hicks, NC Forest Service Assistant Commissioner, State Forester, who will discuss the state’s plans for fire response and mitigation in western North Carolina.
      • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 12/31/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
      • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held December 11, which featured Carl Manning, Executive Director of Kingdom Community Development Corporation, a nonprofit organization with a long history of providing HUD-approved housing counseling, foreclosure-prevention assistance, and affordable-housing development in underserved communities. This organization is partnering with the Red Cross to provide foreclosure-prevention counseling to families impacted by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. Mr. Manning shared information on these available resources as he seeks to expand the reach of these much-needed services.
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  • 2025
    • December 2025
      • December 16, 2025
        • This week, NCACC will CANCEL the WNC Virtual Manager meeting scheduled for December 18 to accommodate those traveling for manager lunches in Caldwell County and Henderson County. We originally planned for Brett Mattson, Legislative Director, Justice & Public Safety, National Association of Counties to serve as our guest speaker to provide an overview of the final meeting of the FEMA Review Council Meeting; however, that meeting was cancelled unexpectedly without prior notification. We will share any forthcoming information about next steps for the FEMA Review Council as we receive it.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 12/10/25showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held December 11, which featured Carl Manning, Executive Director of Kingdom Community Development Corporation, a nonprofit organization with a long history of providing HUD-approved housing counseling, foreclosure-prevention assistance, and affordable-housing development in underserved communities. This organization is partnering with the Red Cross to provide foreclosure-prevention counseling to families impacted by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. Mr. Manning shared information on these available resources as he seeks to expand the reach of these much-needed services.
      • December 10, 2025
        • We look forward to seeing you THURSDAY from 8:30 to 9:30am for our weekly meeting for Helene-impacted counties, featuring Joe Stanton, Assistant Director – Recovery, NC Emergency Management. This recurring meeting provides a forum for updates from the State Recovery Office and opportunity for County Managers to share needs and information. NCACC will also provide updates and information on disaster recovery programs and services.
        • This week, we will hear from Carl Manning, Executive Director of Kingdom Community Development Corporation, a nonprofit organization with a long history of providing HUD-approved housing counseling, foreclosure-prevention assistance, and affordable-housing development in underserved communities. This organization is partnering with the Red Cross to provide foreclosure-prevention counseling to families impacted by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. Mr. Manning will be sharing information on these available resources as he seeks to expand the reach of these much-needed services.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 12/3/25showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held December 4, which featured Steve McGugan, Assistant Director/HM Section Chief State Hazard Mitigation Officer, NC Emergency Management and Don Campbell, Chief of Staff, NC Department of Public Safety, NC Division of Emergency Management, who discussed the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP).
      • December 3, 2025
        • We look forward to seeing you THURSDAY from 8:30 to 9:30am for our weekly meeting for Helene-impacted counties, featuring Joe Stanton, Assistant Director – Recovery, NC Emergency Management. This recurring meeting provides a forum for updates from the State Recovery Office and opportunity for County Managers to share needs and information. NCACC will also provide updates and information on disaster recovery programs and services.
        • This week, we will hear from Steve McGugan, Assistant Director/HM Section Chief State Hazard Mitigation Officer, NC Emergency Management and Don Campbell, Chief of Staff, NC Department of Public Safety, NC Division of Emergency Management, who will discuss the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 11/26/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held November 20, which featured David Clawson, Disaster Recovery Finance Associate, NCACC, who discussed 2025 audit issues for Helene-impacted counties. *Please note that as of 11/25, the 2025 Federal Compliance Supplements for June 30, 2025 single audits were released and are accessible here. Also, for units with a June 30, 2025, fiscal year end that are subject to Single Audit requirements, FY 2025 audited financial statements will be considered timely if submitted within 6 months plus 43 days from fiscal year end (February 12, 2026). Click here to access a blog on this topic published by the NC Treasurer.
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    • November 2025
      • November 19, 2025
        • We look forward to seeing you THURSDAY from 8:30 to 9:30amfor our weekly meeting for Helene-impacted counties, featuring Joe Stanton, Assistant Director – Recovery, NC Emergency Management. This recurring meeting provides a forum for updates from the State Recovery Office and opportunity for County Managers to share needs and information. NCACC will also provide updates and information on disaster recovery programs and services.
        • This week, we will hear from David Clawson, Disaster Recovery Finance Associate, NCACC, who will discuss 2025 audit issues for Helene-impacted counties. *Please feel free to invite your finance officer to this meeting.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 11/19/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held November 13, which featured Norma Houston, Disaster Recovery Advisor, NCACC and Jim Wrenn, Partner, Smith Anderson, who led a discussion on liability issues related to the county acquiring property at risk of landslide damage through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Fund acquisition (buy-out) program.
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    • October 2025
      • October 22, 2025
        • We look forward to seeing you THURSDAY from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. for our weekly meeting for Helene-impacted counties, featuring Joe Stanton, Assistant Director – Recovery, NC Emergency Management. This recurring meeting provides a forum for updates from the State Recovery Office and opportunity for County Managers to share needs and information. NCACC will also provide updates and information on disaster recovery programs and services. This week, we will hear from Kevin Leonard, Executive Director, NCACC, who will discuss NCACC’s engagement with state and federal partners, and efforts to convey unmet county recovery needs.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 10/22/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held October 16, which featured Hillary Sherman, North Carolina & South Carolina Economic Development Representative for the Economic Development Administration, and Desiree Kennedy, Program Officer, Governor’s Recovery Office for Western North Carolina. They discussed the application process for EDA’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Disaster Supplemental Grant Program and resources to help NC counties prepare a competitive proposal.
      • October 14, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Hillary Sherman, North Carolina & South Carolina Economic Development Representative for the Economic Development Administration, and Desiree Kennedy, Program Officer, Governor’s Recovery Office for Western North Carolina. They will discuss the application process for EDA’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Disaster Supplemental Grant Program and resources to help NC counties prepare a competitive proposal. 
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 9/29/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held October 9, which featured Kyle Leopard, Managing Director & Government Affairs Advisor, Strategics Consulting. He discussed developments regarding the federal government shutdown.
      • October 8, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Kyle Leopard, Managing Director & Government Affairs Advisor, Strategics Consulting. He will discuss the latest developments regarding the federal government shutdown.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 9/29/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held October 2, which featured Cole Jordan, Grants Manager, Office of State Budget and Management who discussed a new state program, the Helene Local Government Capital Grants. The program is designed to assist local governments and federally recognized tribes with projects to repair, renovate or replace infrastructure damaged by Helene. The grant program is open to units of local government and federally recognized tribes with capital improvement needs created by Hurricane Helene. Eligible projects must be in FEMA-designated areas for Hurricane Helene and must have been denied FEMA Public Assistance (PA) reimbursement. Grant award amounts will be based on statutory caps per recipient and county. The legislation requires the project to have been “denied” FEMA PA reimbursement.  However, partial FEMA PA funding is considered a “denial”:  If a project is only partially funded by PA, OSBM will consider the component of the project that is not covered by PA will be eligible for consideration for the Helene Local Government Capital Grants program. The applicant will need to provide clear documentation of FEMA’s determination (even if only preliminary) of partial funding. Also, NFIP program reductions are covered (i.e., if a project is reduced because the applicant didn’t have flood coverage, the applicant can include this cost reduction in their application to OSBM).
          • Click here for more information and to register for an informational webinar offered on various dates from 11am-12pm on October 15, 22, and 29.
          • Send questions about the Helene Local Government Capital Grants program via email to: [email protected].
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    • September 2025
      • September 29, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Cole Jordan, Grants Manager, Office of State Budget and Managementwill discuss a new state program, Helene Local Government Capital Grants to repair, renovate or replace infrastructure damaged by Helene. The grant program is open to units of local government and federally recognized tribes with capital improvement needs created by Hurricane Helene. Eligible projects must be in FEMA-designated areas for Hurricane Helene and must have been denied FEMA Public Assistance (PA) reimbursement. Grant award amounts will be based on statutory caps per recipient and county.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 9/29/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held September 25, which featured Cherry Jochum, Philanthropy Advisor, Interagency Recovery Coordination, Recovery Directorate, FEMA and Garrett Ellison, Disaster Resource Library Lead Coordinator, Data and Technology Branch, Interagency Coordination Division, FEMA. They discussed a cooperative and supporting role with GROWNC and provide a demonstration of the FEMA Disaster Resource Library which is accessible nationwide. This tool can help counties find funding sources to fulfill gap recovery needs. For questions about how to access the disaster resource library or to request a customized listing of funding opportunities, email [email protected]. Email [email protected] to schedule a training to use the tool.
      • September 25, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Cherry Jochum, Philanthropy Advisor, Interagency Recovery Coordination, Recovery Directorate, FEMA and Garrett Ellison, Disaster Resource Library Lead Coordinator, Data and Technology Branch, Interagency Coordination Division, FEMA. They will discuss a cooperative and supporting role with GROWNC and provide a demonstration of the FEMA Disaster Resource Library which is accessible nationwide. This tool can help counties find funding sources to fulfill gap recovery needs.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 9/22/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held September 17, which featured Brett Mattson, Legislative Director, Justice & Public Safety, National Association of Counties (NACo). He discussed major federal legislation, H.R. 4669, Fixing Emergency Management for Americans (FEMA) Act,which establishes FEMA as a Cabinet-Level Agency and sets minimum qualification standards for the role of the FEMA Administrator. It also makes significant reforms to public assistance, individual assistance, and mitigation programs and strengthens transparency measures. NACo supports H.R. 4669 and provides a full analysis of the bill here.
        • Keep GROW NC posted about your team’s plans to publish local stories or other content. Find and share published stories: https://www.wncrecovery.nc.gov/recovery-stories 
      • September 17, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Brett Mattson, Legislative Director, Justice & Public Safety, National Association of Counties (NACo), who will discuss major federal legislation, H.R. 4669, Fixing Emergency Management for Americans (FEMA) Act, which establishes FEMA as a Cabinet-Level Agency and sets minimum qualification standards for the role of the FEMA Administrator. It also makes significant reforms to public assistance, individual assistance, and mitigation programs and strengthens transparency measures. Last week, this bipartisan bill passed the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee overwhelmingly (57-3) and now heads to the full House for a vote. NACo supports H.R. 4669 and provides a full analysis of the bill here. 
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 9/15/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held September 11, which featured Jenine Stevenson, Public Assistance Branch Manager, who discussed the timelines for disbursing FEMA reimbursements to counties and details on a new, compliance process, which the state must complete after the Department of Homeland Security releases FEMA funds. The initiative, Defend the Spend, involves an additional layer of approval by the Department of Government Efficiency.
        • NEW! NCACC Provides One-Pager to Explain Why FEMA Delays Hurt NC Counties. Click here to access the document.
      • September 10, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Brett Matteson, Legislative Director, Justice & Public Safety, National Association of Counties (NACo), who will discuss major federal legislation, H.R. 4669, Fixing Emergency Management for Americans (FEMA) Act, which establishes FEMA as a Cabinet-Level Agency and sets minimum qualification standards for the role of the FEMA Administrator. It also makes significant reforms to public assistance, individual assistance, and mitigation programs and strengthens transparency measures. Last week, this bipartisan bill passed the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee overwhelmingly (57-3) and now heads to the full House for a vote. NACo supports H.R. 4669 and provides a full analysis of the bill here.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 9/8/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held September 4, which featured Kevin Leonard, Executive Director, NCACC, who discussed efforts to gather county-specific data and coordinate federal engagement efforts across the Helene-impacted area. We also heard from Chris Baucom, Director of NCACC’s 100 Strong Productions about screening opportunities for the documentary Rising Above Helene: Western North Carolina’s Journey to Recovery. Through heartfelt interviews, sweeping visuals, and on-the-ground storytelling, the film captures the quiet determination of neighbors who came together to rebuild what was broken. View the Official Trailer here: Rising Above Helene – Official Trailer on Vimeo.
      • September 3, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Kevin Leonard, Executive Director, NCACC, who will discuss efforts to gather county-specific data and coordinate advocacy efforts across the Helene-impacted area. We will also hear from Chris Baucom, Director of NCACC’s 100 Strong Productions and Brielle Barozzini, Production Coordinator about screening opportunities for the documentary Rising Above Helene: Western North Carolina’s Journey to Recovery. Through heartfelt interviews, sweeping visuals, and on-the-ground storytelling, the film captures the quiet determination of neighbors who came together to rebuild what was broken. View the Official Trailer here: Rising Above Helene – Official Trailer on Vimeo
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 8/28/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held August 28, which featured Samantha Graham, Director of Outreach, Division of Community Revitalization, NC Department of Commerce, who provided an update on the Renew NC Single Family Housing program and discuss application preparation and training opportunities for local governments interested in participating in the CDBG-DR program.
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    • August 2025
      • August 27, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Samantha Graham, Director of Outreach and Misty Herget, Multi-Family Housing Director, Division of Community Revitalization, NCDepartment of Commerce, who will provide an update on the Renew NC Single Family Housing program and discuss application preparation and training opportunities for local governments interested in participating in the CDBG-DR program.
          • NC Commerce’s Division of Community Revitalization recently launched a public dashboard for the CDBG-DR Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program:  Single-Family Housing Program | DCR.  This dashboard shows program statistics including number of applications, including county breakdowns, and application status.  The dashboard is updated daily.
          • Please fill out the local government needs assessment here. If you’d like to schedule a meeting to walk through the assessment with a DCR staff member, please fill out this form.
          • Registration is open for the 3rd CDBG-DR Training on Sept. 16th.  Participants can attend in-person or virtually.  Click here to register: here.
            • The slides for Training #2 are here and Training #1 are here. The recording will be available on  YouTubesoon and we will share the link once it’s live.
          • To schedule a 1:1 CDBG-DR consultation with Dee Taylor, NCACC Community Development Associate, email [email protected].
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 8/25/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held August 14, which featured Jeff Poley, Director of Disaster Services and Rural Economic Development, who will discuss Round 3 of the Helene Recovery Cashflow Loan program, which is being provided by the NC Department of State Treasurer.Click here to read the memo on announcing Round 3.
      • August 21, 2025
        • Please note that we will NOT MEET on Thursday August 21, due to NCACC’s 2025 Annual Conference.
      • August 12, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Jeff Poley, Director of Disaster Services and Rural Economic Development, who will discuss Round 3 of the Helene Recovery Cashflow Loan program, which is being provided by the NC Department of State Treasurer.Local governments have until August 15 to submit an interest form to indicate their intent to participate in this round. Click hereto read the memo on announcing Round 3. Please feel free invite your finance officers as this topic may be of interest!
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 8/11/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held August 7, which featured Emily Garland from the Global Empowerment Mission’s (GEM), which is actively seeking applicants for two active recovery programs in North Carolina: The Small Business and Artisan Grant and the Rental Assistance Program. You may refer those affected by Helene to either program by directing them to submit an inquiry here, or by reaching out directly to [email protected] 
          • Click here to learn more about the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM).
          • Click here to access flyer on GEM’s Small Business and Artisan Grant Program. 
          • Click here to access a flyer on GEM’s Rental Assistance Program.
      • August 6, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Emily Garland and Kevin Mills from the Global Empowerment Mission’s (GEM), which is actively seeking applicants for two active recovery programs in North Carolina: The Small Business and Artisan Grant and the Rental Assistance Program. You may refer those affected by Helene to either program by directing them to submit an inquiry here, or by reaching out directly to [email protected] 
        • Click here to learn more about the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM).
        • Click here to access flyer on GEM’s Small Business and Artisan Grant Program. 
        • Click here to access a flyer on GEM’s Rental Assistance Program
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 7/21/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held July 31, which featured Gary Thompson, Deputy Hazard Mitigation Chief, NC Geodetic Survey Chief, NC Department of Public Safety, who shared the latest updates on the state’s mapping efforts in the Helene-impacted area. *This topic may be of particular interest to Emergency Managers.
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    • July 2025
      • July 30, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Gary Thompson, Deputy Hazard Mitigation Chief, NC Geodetic Survey Chief, NC Department of Public Safety, who will share the latest updates on the state’s mapping efforts in the Helene-impacted area. *This topic may be of particular interest to Emergency Managers.
          • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 7/21/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
          • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held July 24, which featured Reginald Speight, Assistant Secretary of Rural Economic Development, NC Department of Commerce and  Hazel Edmond, Director, Rural Engagement & Investment Program, Rural Economic Development Division, NC Department of Commerce. They discussed the components of the state’s new Small Business Infrastructure Grants (SmBIZ) program, which was funded with $55 million through HB47/Session Law 2025-2. Local governments in North Carolina located in areas impacted by Hurricane Helene can now apply for grants from this program to rebuild the damaged infrastructure that small businesses rely on to operate and thrive. Click here for more information.
      • July 22, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Hazel Edmond, Director, Rural Engagement & Investment Program, Rural Economic Development Division, NC Department of Commerce. She will discuss the components of the state’s new Small Business Infrastructure Grants (SmBIZ) program, which was funded with $55 million through HB47/Session Law 2025-2. Local governments in North Carolina located in areas impacted by Hurricane Helene can now apply for grants from this program to rebuild the damaged infrastructure that small businesses rely on to operate and thrive. Click here for more information.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 7/21/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held July 17, which featured Joy Hicks, NCACC Director of Advocacy and Policy and Andrew Blackburn, NCACC Government Relations Manager. They discussed the components of House Bill 1012: Disaster Recovery Act of 2025, which Governor Stein signed into law on June 27. We also heard from Tracy Miles, NCACC Strategic Member Services Cohort Manager, who discussed NCACC’s Strategic Project Coordinator Program, which offers capacity assistance provided by recent MPA graduates at no cost to the county.
        • NEW! The Global Empowerment Mission’s (GEM) is actively seeking applicants for two active recovery programs in North Carolina: The Small Business and Artisan Grant and the Rental Assistance Program. You may refer those affected by Helene to either program by directing them to submit an inquiry here, or by reaching out directly to [email protected].
      • July 16, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Joy Hicks, NCACC Director of Advocacy and Policy and Andrew Blackburn, NCACC Government Relations Manager. They will discuss the components of House Bill 1012: Disaster Recovery Act of 2025, which Governor Stein signed into law on June 27. We will also hear from Tracy Miles, NCACC Strategic Member Services Cohort Manager, who will discuss NCACC’s Strategic Project Coordinator Program, which offers capacity assistance provided by recent MPA graduates at no cost to the county.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 7/14/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Click here to access a recording from the manager’s meeting held July 10, which featured James “Bob” Barker, Deputy Chief of Recovery, Division of Emergency Management, NC Department of Public Safety. He discussed the importance of submitting timely FEMA Public Assistance Projects, particularly as Permanent Work gets underway. 
        • Click  here to access a one-pager on FEMA Public Assistance deadlines (the one-pager is also attached).
      • July 9, 2025
        • This week, James “Bob” Barker, Deputy Chief of Recovery, Division of Emergency Management, NC Department of Public Safety will discuss the importance of submitting timely FEMA Public Assistance Projects, particularly as Permanent Work gets underway. Timely submission reduces the risk of de-obligation and helps communities recover faster.  *Please feel free to invite your Finance Officer, Emergency Manager, and/or Grants Manager to this week’s meeting!
          • Click ​docx icon here to access a one-pager on FEMA Public Assistance deadlines (the one-pager is also attached).
        • Click here to access the recording from the manager’s meeting held June 26, which featured Hillary Sherman, North Carolina & South Carolina Economic Development Representative for EDA discussed the Economic Development Administration Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for $1.5 billion for disaster recovery to assist communities impacted by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024, including Tropical Storm Helene. National webinars on this funding opportunity and more technical assistance training will be forthcoming.
        • Click here for more information about the NOFO. 
        • Click here for EDA’s disaster supplemental fact sheet.
        • Click here to access a document, developed by EDA, which provides several examples of past projects funded in NC.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 7/7/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
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    • June 2025
      • June 30, 2025
        • This week, James “Bob” Barker, Deputy Chief of Recovery, Division of Emergency Management, NC Department of Public Safety will discuss the importance of submitting timely FEMA Public Assistance Projects, particularly as Permanent Work gets underway. Timely submission reduces the risk of de-obligation and helps communities recover faster.  *Please feel free to invite your Finance Officer, Emergency Manager, and/or Grants Manager to this week’s meeting!
        • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held June 19, which featured Hillary Sherman, North Carolina & South Carolina Economic Development Representative for EDA discussed the Economic Development Administration Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for $1.5 billion for disaster recovery to assist communities impacted by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024, including Tropical Storm Helene. National webinars on this funding opportunity and more technical assistance training will be forthcoming.
          • Click here for more information about the NOFO. 
          • Click here for EDA’s disaster supplemental fact sheet.
          • Click here to access a document, developed by EDA, which provides several examples of past projects funded in NC.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 6/26/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • NEW! Friday, June 27, Governor Stein signs House Bill 1012: Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 – Part II into law at Chimney Rock State Park reopening.
      • June 25, 2025
        • This week, Hillary Sherman, North Carolina & South Carolina Economic Development Representative for EDA will discuss the Economic Development Administration Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for $1.5 billion for disaster recovery to assist communities impacted by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024, including Tropical Storm Helene. 
        • Click here for more information about the NOFO. 
        • Click here to access a document, developed by EDA, which provides several examples of past projects funded in NC.
        •  *Please feel free to invite your Finance Officer, Economic Development staff, and/or Grants Manager to this week’s meeting!
        • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held on 6/19, which featured , Jenine Stevenson, Public Assistance Central Branch Supervisor NC Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management, who discussed FEMA Public Assistance, Category Z. Cat Z provides financial assistance to local governments to cover the costs associated with managing eligible public assistance projects. FEMA’s Public Assistance program may be able to provide local governments up to 5% of a total project award amount for management costs, specifically under Category Z Project Worksheets. 
          • Click here to access the PowerPoint on FEMA Public Assistance Category Z (Cat Z), management costs.
          • Click  here to access the excel template (the spreadsheet is also attached) for tracking Cat Z management costs.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 6/20/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • NEW! Governor Stein Announces Western North Carolina Homeowners Can Apply for Single Family Housing Recovery Program at http://Renewnc.orgClick here to read the press release.
      • June 16, 2025
        • This week, Jenine Stevenson, Public Assistance Central Branch Supervisor NC Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management will discuss FEMA Public Assistance, Category Z, which provides financial assistance to local governments to cover the costs associated with managing eligible public assistance projects. FEMA’s Public Assistance program may be able to provide local governments up to 5% of a total project award amount for management costs, specifically under Category Z Project Worksheets. *Please feel free to invite your Finance Officer to this week’s meeting!
        • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held on 6/12, which featured Eric Naisbitt, Chief of Staff, Office of the State Treasurer, who discussed the process for Round 2 of the Helene Cashflow Loan Program. We also received an update on the launch of the state’s new single-family housing program from Maggie Battaglin, Single-Family Housing Director, Division of Community Revitalization, NC Department of Commerce. Additionally, Steve McGugan, State Hazard Mitigation Officer, Assistant Director/Mitigation Section Chief, NC Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Managementdiscussed new FEMA guidance, released June 4, which noted changes to the Benefit Cost Assessment (BCA) tool for HMGP program applications. This change lowers the waiverable amount for elevations, acquisitions, and mitigation-reconstruction projects requiring manual BCA calculations on more properties, which may reduce the number of eligible homes able to use the HMGP program for TS Helene in Western NC.  The NCEM Hazard Mitigation Team is assessing existing applications to determine the impacts this policy change will have and work with FEMA on the implementation of this policy.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 6/12/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • NEW as of TODAY! Governor Stein Announces Western North Carolina Homeowners Can Apply for Single Family Housing Recovery Program at http://Renewnc.org Click hereto read the press release. Click here to access the stakeholder toolkit to help inform your residents about the new program.  
        • NEW! NCEM’s Private Road and Bridge Program is now offering virtual hours for counties. Feel free to pop in and get information about the program and discuss needs in your county. The hours are Mondays 2-3pm and Thursdays 10-11 am.  The format is set up for a drop-in/drop-off as needed for individuals. Click here for the Teams Link to PRB Office Hours.
      • June 11, 2025
        • This week, Eric Naisbitt, Chief of Staff, Office of the State Treasurer will join the WNC Manager’s meeting to discuss the process for Round 2 of the Helene Cashflow Loan Program. We will also get an update on the upcoming launch of the state’s new single-family housing program from Maggie Battaglin, Single-Family Housing Director, Division of Community Revitalization, NC Department of Commerce.*Please feel free to invite your Finance Officer to this week’s meeting! 
          • Click here to access the Disaster Services and Rural Economic Development Division 2025 Accountability Metrics, which lists Helene Cashflow Loans as of May 16, 2025. 
          • Click here to read the blog by the School of Government on Budgeting for Disaster Recovery Cashflow Loans with Sample Grant Project Ordinance.
          • Click here to access a memo with Step-by-Step Instructions for Budgeting, Accounting and Reporting Proceeds from the NC Department of State Treasurer’s Cashflow Loan Program and Emergency Funding Loan from DEQ and Federal and State Reimbursements. 
          • For more information about the Helene Cashflow Loan program email [email protected].
        • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held on 6/5, which featured Sandra Bowling, Federal Disaster Recovery Officer, DR-4827-NC, Interagency Recovery Coordination, FEMA, and Henry Kaylor, Director, Hosting Services, NC Department of Information Technology, who discussed efforts to promote resilient communications in western NC. 
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Operating Picture (COP) report as of 6/9/25 showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shares is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • Economic Development Administration Releases Notice of Funding Opportunity for$1.5 billion for disaster recovery to assist communities impacted by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024, including Tropical Storm Helene.
      • June 4, 2025
        • This week, Sandra Bowling, Federal Disaster Recovery Officer, DR-4827-NC, Interagency Recovery Coordination, FEMA,Henry Kaylor, Director, Hosting Services, NC Department of Information Technology, and Hilary Sherman, NC and SC Economic Development Representative for the Economic Development Administration, U.S. Department of Commercewill discuss efforts to promote resilient communications in western NC. *Please feel free to invite your emergency management personnel to this meeting.
        • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held on 5/29.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Common Operating Picture (COP) as of 6/2/25 report showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shared is For Official Use Only (FOUO). 
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    • May 2025
      • May 28, 2025
        • This week, Kevin Harvell, Deputy State Forester, NC Forest Servicewill discuss plans for an upcoming full-date summit on wildfire mitigation strategies and community preparedness. We will also hear from Kevin Leonard, NCACC Executive Director and Joy Hicks, NCACC Director of Policy and Advocacy to discuss legislative developments related to Helene recovery.
        • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held on 5/22, which featured Eric Naisbitt, Chief of Staff, NC Department of State Treasurer, who provided an update on the Helene Cashflow Loan program. In addition, Dr. Myra Shird, State Disaster Housing Coordinator, NC Emergency Management and Catherine Kastleman provided an overview of the state’s Disaster Case Management program.
        • Click here to access the PowerPoint presentation on the NC Disaster Case Management Program to guide Tropical Storm Helene survivors through the recovery process.
        • Click here to read the announcement. Email [email protected] to request a free consultation with the NCACC Disaster Recovery Technical Assistance Team.
      • May 21, 2025
        • This week, Eric Naisbitt, Chief of Staff, NC Department of State Treasurer will provide an update on the Helene Cashflow Loan program. We will also hear from Dr. Myra Shird, State Disaster Housing Coordinator, NC Emergency Management and Catherine Kastleman from the state’s Disaster Case Management program, who will provide an overview of the program.
        • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held on 5/15, which featured CDBG-DR updates from Stephanie McGarrah, Deputy Secretary, Division of Community Revitalization, NC Department of Commerce, and an overview of the CDBG-DR program presented by Dee Taylor, Community Development Associate, NCACC. Coming Soon – NCACC CDBG-DR PowerPoint presentation.
        • NEW! Governor Stein Announces Second Budget Proposal for Helene Recovery. Click here to access the full budget proposal. Click here to read the one-pager. 
      • May 14, 2025
        • This week, we will hear CDBG-DR updates from Stephanie McGarrah, Deputy Secretary, Division of Community Revitalization, NC Department of Commerce, and an overview of the CDBG-DR program presented by Dee Taylor, Community Development Associate, NCACC.
        • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held on 5/8, which featured Drew Christy and Harrison Peel from the Governor’s Recovery Office for Western North Carolina (GROW NC), who will discuss Helene recovery activities and progress. See below for GROW NC’s contact list.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Common Operating Picture (COP) as of 5/12/25 report showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shared is For Official Use Only (FOUO). 
        • Click here to access a list of 19 non-profit grants to explore in 2025 – this list was provided by FEMA-NC-Philanthropy on 4/14/25.
      • May 7, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Drew Christy and Harrison Peel from the Governor’s Recovery Office for Western North Carolina (GROW NC), who will discuss Helene recovery activities and progress.
        • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held on 5/1, which featured Steve McGugan, State Hazard Mitigation Officer, Assistant Director/Mitigation Section Chief, NC Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management, who provided an update on the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) and answered questions about the county’s role in the application process.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Common Operating Picture (COP) as of 5/5/25 report showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shared is For Official Use Only (FOUO). 
      • May 1, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Steve McGugan, State Hazard Mitigation Officer, Assistant Director/Mitigation Section Chief, NC Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management, who will provide an update on the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) and answer questions about the county’s role in the application process.
        • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held on 4/24, which featured Kirk Andert, PA Group Supervisor for DR-4827-NC, Landslides Task Force, Supervisory Emergency Management Specialist, PA Recovery Division, Region 8, FEMA, who led a discussion on landslide issues in the Helene-impacted area.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Common Operating Picture (COP) as of 4/24/25report showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shared is For Official Use Only (FOUO).  
        • April 27, 2025, is the deadline to apply for Small Business Administration (SBA) Physical Damage Physical Damage program. Click here to access a fact sheet. Click here for a list of SBA Disaster Assistance customer service centers in NC.
        • May 15, 2025, is the deadline for applications for the 2025 VOAD (Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters) Disaster Recovery Grant Program. Funding for these grants were provided through S.L. 2025-2 (2025 House Bill 47) for repair and reconstruction projects by Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters. Click here for more information and to access the links to join the webinars on April 25 and April 29.
        • NRCS DEADLINE EXTENDED to 5/30/25: Counties may apply as a sponsor for the USDA/Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (USDA-NRCS) Emergency Watershed Program (EWP). EWP is designed to relieve imminent hazards to life and structures/infrastructure caused by natural disasters. Project examples include debris removal from stream channels, road culverts, bridges, streambank restoration, drainage repair, and floodplain easements. The non-federal match has been waived for project sponsors for Helene-impacted projects in NC.
          • Click here for a EWP fact sheet, and here for more information about the EWP program.
          • Click here to access a template letter to request EWP assistance.
          • For questions, contact Jim Kjelaard, Acting Emergency Watershed Protection Program Manager, 919-873-2100 email: [email protected]
        • June 30, 2025, is the deadline to apply for Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury program. Click here to access a fact sheet. Click here for a list of SBA Disaster Assistance customer service centers in NC.
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    • April 2025
      • April 28, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Steve McGugan, State Hazard Mitigation Officer, Assistant Director/Mitigation Section Chief, NC Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management, who will provide an update on the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) and answer questions about the county’s role in the application process.
        • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held on 4/24, which featured Kirk Andert, PA Group Supervisor for DR-4827-NC, Landslides Task Force, Supervisory Emergency Management Specialist, PA Recovery Division, Region 8, FEMA, who led a discussion on landslide issues in the Helene-impacted area.
          • Attached are excerpts from FEMA’s Public Assistance Program and Policy Guide (PAPPG v4) specifically referencing Landslide/Slope Stabilization and Architectural & Engineering (A&E) services, as requested by counties along with highlighted key points of interest within the excerpts. FEMA highly recommends reviewing the full text for a more comprehensive understanding of the policies. 
          • Also attached are the complete edition of PAPPG v4 for reference, and two landslide educational resources from U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) focused on community safety and preparedness. These were developed shortly after tropical storm Helene struck North Carolina. 
          • For questions about these resources or landslide related issues email [email protected]
          • ArcGIS link is forthcoming pending a final review to ensure no Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is included.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Common Operating Picture (COP) as of 4/24/25 report showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shared is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • SAVE the DATE for NC Private Road and Bridge Program Webinar – Friday, May 9 at 8:30, NC Emergency Management (NCEM), in collaboration with NCACC, will host a one-hour informational webinar on the NC Private Road and Bridge Program. The North Carolina Private Road and Bridge Program (NC-PRB) was established to provide assistance for repairs to private roads, culverts, pipes, or bridges that were damaged or destroyed following Tropical Storm Helene. Webinar topics will include program eligibility criteria, instructions for property owners to report damaged private roads and bridges, guidance on participating in the program, program timeline, coordination cadence between counties and NCEM and Q&A. 
        • County representatives from jurisdictions formally designated under the major disaster declaration are strongly encouraged to participate, including the County Manager, County Planner, County Floodplain Administrator, County GIS Representative, County Public Information Officer, and County Emergency Management. *Please coordinate within your county to ensure the webinar invitation is distributed to the appropriate designated representatives who are expected to attend and be on the lookout for the meeting invitation with the Team link to join. 
          • More information on the program is available here, and interested participants may fill out an intake form here.
          • Click here to access a one-pager on the program. 
          • Click here to access the flyer and email any questions to [email protected] . 
        • NCACC, NCLM, and Regional Councils of Governments in Western NC co-hosted the third Helene Recovery Convening on April 11, 2025. Attendees engaged in facilitated breakout sessions to identify critical unmet needs and barriers to recovery. The following five priorities were identified: 1. Reduce Financial Risk and Improve Cash Flow; 2. Adjust Regulatory Requirements to Improve Efficiency; 3. Address Emerging Hazards; 4. Expand Housing Assistance; and 5. Support Small Business Recovery. Click here to access the memo, which details the feedback shared by local governments.
      • April 21, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Kirk Andert, PA Group Supervisor for DR-4827-NC, Landslides Task Force, Supervisory Emergency Management Specialist, PA Recovery Division, Region 8, FEMA, who will lead a discussion on landslide issues in the Helene-impacted area.
          • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held on 4/17, which featured Kristy Kulberg, President, NCVOAD (Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters), who also serves as Executive Director, Coastal Carolina Disaster Resiliency Agency (CCDRA) & New Hope Volunteer Village. She discussed Helene recovery efforts and best practices for coordinating volunteer activities.
          • Click here to access the most recent Combined Common Operating Picture (COP) as of 4/17/25 report showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shared is For Official Use Only (FOUO).
        • NRCS DEADLINE EXTENDED to 5/30/25: Counties may apply as a sponsor for the USDA/Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (USDA-NRCS) Emergency Watershed Program (EWP). EWP is designed to relieve imminent hazards to life and structures/infrastructure caused by natural disasters. Project examples include debris removal from stream channels, road culverts, bridges, streambank restoration, drainage repair, and floodplain easements. The non-federal match has been waived for project sponsors for Helene-impacted projects in NC. 
          • Click here for a EWP fact sheet, and here for more information about the EWP program.
          • Click here to access a template letter to request EWP assistance.
          • For questions, contact Jim Kjelaard, Acting Emergency Watershed Protection Program Manager, 919-873-2100 email: [email protected]
        • May 15, 2025, is the deadline for applications for the 2025 VOAD (Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters) Disaster Recovery Grant Program. Funding for these grants were provided through S.L. 2025-2 (2025 House Bill 47) for repair and reconstruction projects by Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters. 
        • State Revolving Funds Available for Hurricane Helene through the NC Department of Environmental Quality: Local governments affected by TS Helene may apply for State Revolving Funds (SRF) to reduce flood risk and vulnerability, enhance resiliency to rapid hydrologic change or natural disasters at drinking water or wastewater treatment facilities. Click here to access the fact sheet published 4/10/25.
        • Click here to access a list of 19 non-profit grants to explore in 2025 – this list was provided by FEMA-NC-Philanthropy on 4/14/25.
      • April 16, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Kristy Kulberg, President, NCVOAD (Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters), who also serves asExecutive Director, Coastal Carolina Disaster Resiliency Agency (CCDRA) & New Hope Volunteer Village. She will discuss Helene recovery efforts and best practices for coordinating volunteer activities. *Next week, 4/24, our special guest will be Kirk Andert, PA Group Supervisor for DR-4827-NC, Landslides Task Force, Supervisory Emergency Management Specialist, PA Recovery Division, Region 8, FEMA and he will lead a discussion on landslide issues in the Helene-impacted area.
          • Click here to access the recording from last week’s manager’s meeting held on 4/10, which featured David Rittlinger, Division Chief – Codes and Interpretations, from NC Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM), who discussed the implementation of forthcoming building codes updates, a legislative update, and observations about Helene-related recovery.
          • Click here to access a file that includes links to all approved amendments to create the 2024 North Carolina State Building Code, published April 3, 2025. 
          • Click here to access the most recent Combined Common Operating Picture (COP) as of 4/14/25 report showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shared is For Official Use Only (FOUO).  
        • April 27, 2025, is the deadline to apply for Small Business Administration (SBA) Physical Damage Physical Damage program. Click here to access a fact sheet. Click here for a list of SBA Disaster Assistance customer service centers in NC.
        • May 15, 2025, is the deadline for applications for the 2025 VOAD (Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters) Disaster Recovery Grant Program. Funding for these grants were provided through S.L. 2025-2 (2025 House Bill 47) for repair and reconstruction projects by Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters. Click here for more information and to access the links to join the webinars on April 25 and April 29.
        • June 30, 2025, is the deadline to apply for Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury program. Click here to access a fact sheet. Click here for a list of SBA Disaster Assistance customer service centers in NC.
      • April 2, 2025
        • This week, we will hear from Bob Barker and Pamela Baze, from NCEM Recovery, who will discuss FEMA’s Fire Emergency Assistance Grant Program. *We welcome County Emergency Managers and Grants staff.
        • Click here to access the most recent Combined Common Operating Picture (COP) as of 3/31/25 report showing key recovery data, provided by NCEM. Please note that anything that is FEMA or State product that is shared is For Official Use Only (FOUO).  
        • Wildfire Hazard Mitigation: FEMA hazard mitigation assistance is designed to help decrease the risk of damages from wildfires to clearly defined vulnerable residential and non-residential buildings and structures, including public and commercial facilities, located in an Urban Interface, which is where human-made structures and infrastructure are in, or adjacent, to areas prone to wildfire. Click here to access the fire mitigation one-pager.
          • EWP update: USDA/Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (USDA-NRCS) Emergency Watershed Program (EWP) is designed to relieve imminent hazards to life and structures/infrastructure caused by natural disasters. Project examples include debris removal from stream channels, road culverts, bridges, streambank restoration, drainage repair, and floodplain easements. Click here to access information about the EWP program.
          • The non-federal match has been waived for project sponsors for Helene-impacted projects in NC. 
          • Contact Jim Kjelaard, Acting Emergency Watershed Protection Program Manager, 919-873-2100 email: [email protected]
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    • March 2025
      • March 14, 2025
        • NCACC, NCLM, and COG Letter to White House: On March 7, NCACC, North Carolina League of Municipalities (NCLM), and North Carolina Regional Councils of Governments (COGs) in the Helene-impacted area sent a joint letter to the White House Office of Legislative Affairs to express the need for local representation on the president’s council to assess the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which was established on January 24, 2025 through Executive Order 14180. The council is tasked with reviewing FEMA’s capacity to impartially address disasters in the U.S. and to advise the president on recommended changes related to FEMA. The letter also expresses support for exploring new mechanisms to allow FEMA to cover upfront disaster related costs, and provide flexible, direct funding to offset revenue shortfalls caused by the disaster.
      • March 7, 2025
        • Treasurer Briner announced the first round of Helene Cashflow Loans. Local governments that submitted FEMA project worksheets by February 14 were eligible for the first round of Helene Cashflow Loans. There will be another opportunity to submit documentation by April 30 for the second round. If you have any questions, please email NCACC Director of Disaster Recovery and Grant Assistance Lacy Pate at [email protected].   
        • The deadline is extended to April 11 for sponsors (including counties) to sign up for the USDA-NRCS Emergency Watershed Program (EWP). EWP is designed to relieve imminent hazards to life and structures/infrastructure caused by natural disasters. Project examples include debris removal from stream channels, road culverts, bridges, streambank restoration, drainage repair, and floodplain easements. The non-federal match has been waived for project sponsors for Helene-impacted projects in North Carolina. Contact Jim Kjelaard, Acting Emergency Watershed Protection Program Manager, at 919-873-2100 or [email protected]. 
        • NCACC Federal Legislative Request for Helene Recovery: In conjunction with the National Association of Counties (NACo) 2025 Legislative Conference, NCACC sent an open letter to members of North Carolina’s Congressional delegation along with a one-pager to request immediate support for direct, flexible federal relief to help counties in North Carolina recover from Tropical Storm Helene in the form of revenue replacement grants, and cash flow assistance. 
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NCACC Disaster Recovery Technical Assistance Team

Andreu Sutterby

Technical Assistance Program Manager

(919) 719-1103
(919) 719-1103

Andreu Sutterby

Andreu Sutterby is a Technical Assistance Program Manager at NCACC, supporting the continuation and expansion of technical assistance offerings within the Strategic Member Services Department. He provides comprehensive and collaborative outreach, educational programming, and technical assistance in support of North Carolina counties as they implement COVID-19 pandemic and disaster recovery projects.
(919) 719-1103

Dee Taylor

Community Development Associate

Dee Taylor

Dee Taylor is an experienced local government professional with more than 25 years of service. She retired from Cumberland County government in 2024 after serving as director of community development, where she oversaw federally and state-funded initiatives supporting housing and community development. Dee has extensive experience administering and monitoring federal grant programs, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), CDBG–Disaster Recovery, the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and Continuum of Care programs. Dee is a knowledgeable resource on federal housing compliance, affordable housing development, and homelessness policy. In 2025, Dee joined the NCACC to support counties in navigating disaster recovery programs and implementing community development initiatives. She holds a Master of Public Administration from Arkansas State University and a Bachelor of Technology (interdisciplinary studies in business) from the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Norma Houston

Disaster Recovery Advisor

Norma Houston

Norma Houston is a highly respected leader in public law and emergency management with more than 30 years of public service. Houston is widely regarded as a trusted resource for local officials on emergency management authorities, FEMA compliance, and public procurement. She previously served as a lecturer at the UNC School of Government and adjunct professor at the UNC School of Law.

David Clawson

Disaster Recovery Finance Associate

David Clawson

David retired from Dare County in 2025 as CFO and deputy county manager. He was the county’s FEMA–designated agent for over 30 years, in charge of recovery from disasters including Floyd, Isabel, Irene, Florence, Dorian, and Covid-19. David also served as project manager for construction and beach renourishment projects. He is a past president of the North Carolina County Finance Officers Association and served on the GFOA’s Special Review Committee for 16 years, grading and evaluating audit reports for the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report certificate program. He is a CPA (inactive) and a part-time employee of the North Carolina Department of State Treasurer’s Fiscal Management Section.

Michael N. Johnson

Community Development Associate

(919) 715-0289
(919) 715-0289

Michael N. Johnson

Michael N. Johnson is a highly skilled and forward-thinking CDBG-DR subject-matter expert with experience in disaster recovery, environmental and land use planning, and housing policy. His career spans over 25 years at the federal and local levels of government, including service as an environmental planner with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, a city planner with the City of Henderson (NV), and a senior Community Planning & Development representative with the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development. He has led interdisciplinary teams, authored numerous NEPA environmental reviews, and served as a lecturer for the UNC School of Government’s Community Development Academy. 
(919) 715-0289

Sara Scheirer

Long-Term Disaster Recovery Associate

(919) 715-4364
(919) 715-4364

Sara Scheirer

Sara Scheirer serves as a Long-Term Disaster Recovery Associate, supporting counties as they navigate the complex process of rebuilding after disasters. She brings experience from previous county government roles focused on disaster recovery, community development, and federal grant management, as well as experience working for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Her work includes recovery planning, program and project implementation, and coordination across jurisdictions to advance recovery priorities. Sara also works with counties to identify and pursue a wide range of funding and partnership opportunities, including state, federal, nonprofit, philanthropic, and private sector resources that help address unmet recovery needs. She currently serves on the board of directors for her local Long –Term Recovery Group.
(919) 715-4364