News Summary
Asheville city officials are revising the Helene recovery plan after it was rejected by HUD, primarily due to its focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The updated proposal, emphasizing support for all businesses, aims to access over $225 million in relief funding. This comes in response to community concerns and HUD’s feedback. Mayor Esther Manheimer assures residents that the modifications align with federal requirements, ensuring the city’s funding remains secure. Residents are encouraged to provide input before the April 3 deadline.
Big Changes Ahead for Asheville’s Helene Recovery Plan
Asheville, N.C., is buzzing with updates as city officials scramble to revise the Helene recovery plan following a firm rejection from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The initial proposal aimed to offer relief specifically to minority and women-owned businesses but encountered significant pushback from HUD Secretary Scott Turner.
What Went Wrong?
Turner’s official announcement pushed the city back to the drawing board, declaring the original draft “unacceptable”. The crux of the matter? The focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Turner made it clear that this emphasis does not align with federal policies and is now a non-starter for the agency. He pointed out that the current administration is committed to following specific executive orders set forth by the president.
A Financial Lifeline on the Table
This recovery plan is about much more than just paperwork—it’s tied to over $225 million in relief money aimed at aiding those still reeling from the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene. This substantial funding could offer significant support to local businesses and residents striving to get back on their feet.
Making Adjustments
A Broader Approach to Small Business Support
The revised plan, posted on March 10, outlines a Small Business Support program that now emphasizes assistance for all businesses, regardless of ownership demographics. This includes provisions for businesses that employ low and moderate-income individuals, ensuring that the relief efforts are as inclusive as possible under the new guidelines.
Reassurance from Local Officials
Asheville’s Mayor Esther Manheimer has been proactive in addressing concerns among residents, reassuring the community that these updated actions align with HUD’s requirements, and are now considered satisfactory. Local Representative Chuck Edwards has further assured residents that the city’s funding is safe and that they won’t be at risk of losing any of the much-needed financial support.
Get Involved!
For residents eager to express their thoughts about the revised proposal, now is the time to act! The city has opened up avenues for feedback, allowing residents to provide their input through an online portal and during public meetings. The deadline for feedback is set for April 3, giving everyone a chance to weigh in on an issue that directly affects their community.
Looking Ahead
Officials are committed to making sure that Asheville’s recovery plan meets federal standards while still striving to support local businesses and residents. Regular communication with HUD representatives is ongoing to ensure alignment with the new directives. As the city moves forward, all eyes will be on how these changes will impact the local economy and community resilience in the face of challenges.
Keep an eye out for more updates as Asheville navigates these changes, ensuring that support reaches those who need it the most.
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Asheville Revises Disaster Plan
- WCNC: Asheville’s Helene Recovery Plan Rejection
- HousingWire: HUD Rejects Asheville’s Helene Recovery Plan
- Charlotte Observer: Asheville’s DEI Disaster Recovery Plan Rejected
- Wikipedia: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
