Governor Josh Stein has requested $1.07 billion in immediate funding to support urgent rebuilding efforts in western North Carolina. His budget request aims to strengthen the economy, expedite home reconstruction, repair infrastructure, assist farmers, restore private roads and bridges, remove debris, and help school children maintain grade-level performance.
Governor Stein emphasized the hardships faced by the region following Hurricane Helene, urging swift financial support. Speaking at MANNA Food Bank, which collaborates with over 300 nonprofit food assistance agencies across 16 western North Carolina counties, he highlighted the critical role of such organizations in ongoing recovery efforts.
The budget request covers several key areas:
Strengthening the Economy:
- $150 million for business recovery grants.
- $30 million for rebuilding small-town business districts.
- $15 million for tourism promotion through VisitNC.
- $100 million for local government revenue replacement grants.
Providing Housing Support:
- $150 million for the Helene Home Construction and Repair Program.
- $25 million for rental, mortgage, and utility assistance.
- $10 million for the Back@Home homelessness support program.
- $50 million in incentives for affordable housing construction.
- $25 million to cover home repair costs not covered by FEMA.
Infrastructure Repairs:
- $75 million for private road and bridge repairs.
- $25 million for local parks and greenway restoration.
- $12 million for debris removal.
- $10 million for emergency backup power.
- $4 million for septic system repairs.
Support for Farmers:
- $15 million for grants covering uninsured agricultural losses.
- $100 million for land and waterway restoration to mitigate future flooding.
- $19.4 million for wildfire preparedness and risk mitigation.
Educational and Family Assistance:
- $34.2 million for school districts with extended closures to provide summer instruction and support services.
- $20 million for food banks in affected areas.
- $2 million for financial aid to college students at UNC Asheville, Appalachian State University, and Western Carolina University.
Governor Stein emphasized the importance of providing immediate financial support to help affected communities rebuild and recover from the storm’s impact.
