Lake Lure Storm Recovery Updates 2/14/25
Please take a moment to review the Lake Lure Storm Recovery updates and information as of Friday, 2/14/25.
IMPORTANT UPDATE: This week there were several meetings with FEMA, US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and AshBritt Environmental to continue working toward next steps for subsurface debris, silt, sedimentation removal. The recent rain event has brought the Lake up to 989.26 mean sea level (MSL) as of 2/13/25. Town officials, in consultation with USACE and Ashbritt Environmental, have determined that this higher Lake Level is a suitable level for the next phase of debris removal. The higher Lake Level is also providing an opportunity for crews to remove more boats from the Lake.
While the divers are continuing to work on the reservoir drain project, the current plan is to take the Lake up to approximately 990.0 MSL for the next two weeks.
The Lake is currently within the Town's normal operating range but remains closed to everyone except approved contractors for everyone's safety. Significant changes in Lake Levels will be reported here and in Town News.
MEETING THE MARK
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Town officials are working with the National Guard and they are currently assisting the Town with trail restoration and maintenance. They are evaluating additional opportunities where they will be able to assist the Town moving forward.
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Town officials continue to work with Schnabel Engineering and Morgan Corporation regarding the Dam and the reservoir drain project. Staff are working closely with LaBella Associates, Ruby Collin’s and Morgan Corporation regarding the sewer system, lift station, and waste water treatment plant. The NC Department of Environmental Quality is intricately involved in each of these projects.
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EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin Traveled to Western North Carolina to Visit Communities Rebuilding in the Wake of Hurricane Helene, Including Lake Lure. Administrator Zeldin started his morning at the Lake Lure Debris Site with EPA Region 4 Leadership and North Carolina state officials. Following the site visit, he met with local residents impacted by the hurricane. He was pleased with his findings in Lake Lure and had no further recommendations regarding the work that is underway. Here’s a link to the EPA article highlighting the visit to North Carolina: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-administrator-lee-zeldin-travels-western-north-carolina-visit-communities
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Town of Lake Lure Council Members and leaders are meeting regularly with our political representatives and other officials to continue to articulate the needs of our community. Council members have met with the President of the United States, the Governor, and they meet with NC representatives on an ongoing basis. The Town of Lake Lure has provided a comprehensive list of infrastructure needs with cost estimates to all levels of government. Town officials have received positive feedback from representatives regarding the detailed information provided. To continue to expedite funding and support for Lake Lure’s recovery, Council approved Hager Strategic Solutions as the new Lobbyist in January. Mr. Hager is also meeting regularly with political representations to keep Lake Lure in the forefront as financial decisions are made at the state level.
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Helene: Lake Lure, Chimney Rock making progress: https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_fe2e5750-e284-11e...
LAKE STATUS
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Lake Use in 2025: Town Council and Town leadership are keenly aware of the importance of reopening the Lake as soon as it is safe to do so. Given the timing of the work that has been completed thus far and the need for ongoing work moving forward, it is extremely unlikely that the Lake will be able to open for the 2025 summer season. (This includes motorized and non-motorized vessels and swimming.) For those of you who have been following our storm recovery process closely, this news may not be a surprise to you. I thought it was important to share this news with you directly. Please note that Town Council and Town leadership will continue to evaluate options for opening the Lake or portions of the Lake and we will continue to keep you informed with any updates as new information becomes available.
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Water Quality Tests: Town officials are happy to report that the turbidity readings are decreasing. As turbidity decreases, the color of the water will begin to return to normal. Turbidity is the measurement of water clarity (i.e., transparency). The areas with higher turbidity have low total suspended solids (TSS), which measures the weight of the particles suspended in the water. This confirms that the turbidity is being caused by light-weight fine particles suspended in the water. The turbidity readings should continue to decrease, as more fine silt particles settle out of the water. All of the other parameters are within normal range.You may review the updated spreadsheet which illustrates all the water sample data received by the Town of Lake Lure. The latest water quality tests are posted at the following link along with the history of the results. https://www.townoflakelure.com/community/page/lake-lure-water-sample-reports
WHAT’S OPEN IN LAKE LURE
While the Lake remains closed, beauty still surrounds us in Lake Lure. There are a number of attractions and activities available in the area in addition to the Lake. Most hotels, lodges, bed & breakfasts, and restaurants are open for business and offering full amenities at this time. Our local businesses in the area are valued and they will appreciate your patronage! Please visit the area and encourage others to visit as well. Here are some of the areas that are open to the public.
Town crews are beginning the process to beautify Morse Park. They will begin to clean up around the Washburn Marina and Park areas. The Town has received information about a donation for a replacement playground.
CHIMNEY ROCK STATE PARK
The Town of Lake Lure is encouraging state partners to open Chimney Rock State Park as soon as possible. Completing the short gap between Lago Vista Road (behind the 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa) and Chimney Rock State Park Road (within the park itself) is just a quarter of a mile. This road could be completed in a short amount of time so we can open Chimney Rock State Park, until the Chimney Rock Village entrance can be re-established at some point in the future.
Spectrum News recently covered this story: https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nc/charlotte/news/2025/02/06/lake-lure-chimney-rock-state-park-access
DEBRIS REMOVAL UPDATES
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Debris Removal Updates: The USACE, in coordination with AshBritt Environmental and local contractors, continue efforts to remove debris. As of 2/9/25:
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Over 38,688 cubic yards (CY) of debris removed from the right of way (+ 1,647 CY since last week.)
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Over 31,770 tons of sediment and silt removed from Town (+ 299 tons since last week)
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Over 27,144 cubic yards (CY) of debris removed from the Lake, (+ 673 CY since last week).
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It is estimated that they are about 87% complete with surface level debris removal with about 12.9% still remaining. We do not have a timeline of completion.
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USACE surveyed Lake Lure and created a 3D map of 720 acres of the lake bottom that is being used to identify Large debris that is underwater, like docks or boats. This debris will be removed in the next phase of work. The Town of Lake Lure has requested a copy of the survey.
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Lake Debris and Silt/Sedimentation Removal: The USACE will continue work on debris removal through the first part of April, based on their current 160 day contract. The Town has been advised that the vast remaining amount of subsurface debris will require additional time to remove. The next step will be a new/extended contract for this remaining subsurface debris removal, in addition to silt and sedimentation removal from the Lake. (You may think of this as dredging, but the terminology used by USACE is silt/sedimentation removal.) We will post updates as new information becomes available from the USACE on these new task orders and timelines. We are very eager to move to this next phase of storm recovery.
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Shoreline Debris Removal: Contractors are continuing to work to remove debris from the shoreline. They will Remove shoreline debris in the water and up to 5 feet above full pond. Contractors are keenly aware of the shifting debris. Crews are making their way around the Lake and will make additional passes to certain areas to get as much of the debris out as possible. If they have not gotten to your property quite yet, they will get there soon.
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Rutherford County Debris Removal/Free Mulch: Rutherford County has also been removing debris from the roadways. Rutherford County is giving away free double-ground mulch-like product on a first come, first served basis while supplies last beginning January 27, 2025. The mulch is available at the Rutherford County Landfill, 656 Laurel Hill Drive, Rutherfordton. Hours for pickup are Monday-Friday 10:00 am-2:00 pm.
LAKE STRUCTURES
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Damaged Lake Structures: The Community Development Department has created a listing of all damaged lake structures. If you have not already been contacted by Community Development Staff, you may reach them by contacting them at kmartin@townoflakelure.com or 828-625-9983 x 137.
ROADS
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NC DOT Public Meeting: NCDOT has planned a public meeting for Wednesday, February 26 at 4:00 pm at the Lake Lure Classical Academy to show plans for local Hurricane Helene repairs. The public is invited to attend.
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Roadways: The Town of Lake Lure is grateful for the support of the community as so many trucks are up and down the roadways hauling off debris. This phase of the recovery remains challenging but the restoration that is being done is nothing short of amazing. Once the debris is finally cleared, the roadways will be assessed and the Town will work to restore roadways that have been impacted by the traffic from heavy trucks. Public Works crews are working on Town roads and mud slides every week.
- Highway 64/74A Between Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Village: As of February 2025, Highway 64/74A between Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Village is closed as a result of the impacts of Hurricane Helene. The road is only open to residents, property and business owners, and approved construction workers. A checkpoint is in place at The Hickory Nut store just beyond The Geneva Motel. Only those with approved passes are allowed through. For questions please contact Chimney Rock Village.
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NC DOT updates on Highway 64: A temporary road is expected to be open between Chimney Rock and Hendersonville was estimated by February 28, 2025 but has not been extended to March 31, 2025. https://drivenc.gov/?type=incident&id=715074
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Proctor Road: The Town has worked with Morgan Corporation to begin addressing the landslide issue, creating additional space for passage until the problems can be fully resolved. A contractor has assessed what it will take to fully repair the road and this proposal will be presented to Town Council for review.
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Boys Camp Road Permanent Bridge: The temporary bridge on Boys Camp Road is performing well and Town crews shored up the road this week following the rain event. A permanent bridge is being designed but a timeline for this project is uncertain at this time.
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Dam Bridge: In the coming week/s the Lake Lure Dam Bridge will need to be closed temporarily when the reservoir drain valve is tested. This will be posted in Town News and on Facebook in advance.
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Memorial Highway and Charlotte Drive: A storm drain box culvert has been repaired at the corner of Memorial Highway and Charlotte Drive. Concrete was poured on 2/4/25 to repair the storm drainage.
CELL TOWER
The cell tower site shifted 100 feet back to accommodate the change in the topography due to the storm. It will still be 125 feet from property lines and will be fenced in. The tower will be 195 feet tall and will be a sleek design. The tower is currently going through the permitting process. It is estimated that we are looking at a three month timeframe for construction to begin.
FEMA UPDATES
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FEMA has added an event wide notice for 4827DR-NC (4827DR): Demolition of Private Structures - Key Points for Public Assistance (PA) Applicants
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Eligibility for Demolition: Demolition is eligible when a structure is unsafe and poses an immediate threat to public safety.
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If securing the area (e.g., fencing) is enough to prevent danger, demolition is not eligible.
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Structures that are already condemned before the disaster are not eligible.
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Requirements for Applicants:
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Certify Threat: Confirm the structure is unsafe and threatens public health or safety.
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Legal Authority: Provide documentation showing the legal right to demolish unsafe private property.
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Permission: Obtain permission from property owners (rights-of-entry) and confirm that the necessary permits are in place.
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Indemnity: Agree to hold the Federal Government harmless for any claims related to demolition.
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Commercial Property Demolition: Typically, FEMA doesn’t cover demolition of commercial properties (businesses, apartments, etc.) since they should have insurance.
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In exceptional cases, FEMA may make an exception, but the applicant must meet specific requirements.
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Eligible Work: Includes tasks like capping wells, securing utilities, hazardous materials testing, and removing debris. FEMA can fund debris removal if it’s part of overall cleanup efforts.
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Ineligible Work: Work like removing concrete pads, driveways, or slabs unless part of a FEMA-funded buyout program.
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Non-hazardous structures that don’t pose a health or safety risk are also not eligible.
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Insurance: Applicants should help property owners pursue insurance claims and credit FEMA for any insurance proceeds recovered.
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This summary is for those applying for PA funding for private structure demolition following an emergency.
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For full details, applicants must follow the outlined legal and procedural steps.
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There are more complex steps/policies involved, please coordinate with your assigned FEMA PDTFL or Program Delivery Manager (PDMG) if you have questions or requests for demolition related to structures impacted by TS Helene.
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Please click here to be taken to the Grants Portal for more information.
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FEMA Extends Application Deadline for North Carolinians Affected by Tropical Storm Helene: HICKORY, N.C. – At the request of the state of North Carolina, Tropical Storm Helene survivors now have until March 8, 2025, to apply for assistance with FEMA. With the extended deadline, FEMA still strongly urges survivors to apply as soon as possible. After the deadline of March 8, you may still submit documents, update your contact information and stay in contact with FEMA regarding your application, but you must apply before the deadline. FEMA assistance may include funds for temporary housing such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs; funds to support the repair or replacement of a primary home, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges; and funds for disaster-caused expenses, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicles, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, child care and other miscellaneous items. Homeowners and renters in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Cherokee, Clay, Cleveland, Forsyth, Gaston, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Iredell, Jackson, Lee, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Nash, Polk, Rowan, Rutherford, Stanly, Surry, Swain, Transylvania, Union, Watauga, Wilkes, Yadkin and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians with uninsured losses from Tropical Storm Helene may apply for FEMA assistance.
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There are several ways to apply: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc. Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and midnight. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service
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FEMA Resources: Please visit the following link to review the full library of FEMA documents provided in response to Hurricane Helene: https://www.townoflakelure.com/community/page/fema-resources-and-information
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Additional Disaster Resources
- NC Department of Public Safety (DPS) Tropical Storm Helene Resources Page: www.ncdps.gov/our-organization/emergency-management/hurricane-helene.
- North Carolina Office of the Governor: Gov. Josh Stein www.governor.state.nc.us.
- United Way’s NC 211 is a multilingual, confidential service that provides health and human services information and referrals through a free statewide phone number (2-1-1 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from an out-of-state area code) and website www.nc211.org.North Carolina State and Local Level Referrals: www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/disaster-survivors/state-local-referral-lists/north-carolina.
COUNSELING/MENTAL HEALTH
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Crisis Counseling, Mental Health Resources Available for Helene Survivors: The NC Department of Health and Human Services’ Hope4NC Crisis Counseling Program provides immediate support and crisis counseling services for North Carolinians following Helene. Survivors experiencing stress, emotional fatigue, a mental health crisis or just need someone to talk to, can call the Hope4NC Helpline 24/7 at 1-855-587-3463. Services are provided at no cost and are available to anyone residing within the declared 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, regardless of their eligibility for FEMA financial assistance. Additionally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Disaster Distress Helpline is available anytime to provide support. Survivors and responders feeling overwhelmed can call or text 1-800-985-5990 to receive free, confidential support in any language.
SMALL BUSINESS GRANT OPPORTUNITY
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How To Apply for the Western North Carolina Small Business Initiative II: Was your small business harmed by Hurricane Helene? The Western North Carolina Small Business Initiative II is here to help. The initiative is partnering with local Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) to provide relief grants up to $50,000 (up to $25,000 for businesses with revenue $1,000,000 or less) to small businesses across the region that sustained
CONTRACTOR INFORMATION
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ONLY APPROVED CONTRACTORS MAY GO ON THE LAKE! For everyone’s safety, Lake Lure is closed except for approved contractors. The timeline for Lake restoration is uncertain at this time. Please follow this link for additional information on approved contractors. https://www.townoflakelure.com/community/page/important-update-approved-contractors-lake-lures-commercial-model
HARD TRASH – RIGHT OF WAY DEBRIS PICKUP
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Reminder that online requests have resumed for pickup for Hard Trash/Debris Pick Up within the Town of Lake Lure. Hard Trash Pickup will occur on Fridays.
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The is the link for adding an online work order: https://townoflakelure.novokiosk.com/
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For future reference: This link is on the home page of the Town’s website under “Fix It”:
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SEWER SYSTEM UPDATES
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Plans for the sewer system restoration/replacement project are uncertain at this time as the Town is awaiting updates on potential funding.
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In the meantime, the lift station repairs below the dam are going well. Everything is mechanically connected. We are running on portable pumps now.
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The Lift Station will test on March 3rd and come off the temporary pump.
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The Waste Water Treatment Plant is operational and work is being done to fully restore the plant.
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All related work orders are being updated and will be presented in Town Council in February 2025.
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West-end Sewer System: Materials are in and contractors are ready to proceed with the work on the West-end sewer system. The Town has been working hard to obtain easements. The work cannot begin until the easements are obtained from property owners. Town Council took legal steps to expedite the process on 1/14/25.
DAM UPDATES
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The reservoir drain project at the dam is near completion. The drain will allow the Town to lower the lake beyond 12 feet, if needed.
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The target date for reservoir drain testing and project completion is coming up soon.
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The automation system for the Tainter Gates has been installed.
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Fencing is being installed along the abutments for safety.
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Schnabel Engineering has developed the work plan for the geotechnical subsurface investigation to support the design of the replacement dam at Lake Lure.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
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Foothills Regional Commission is resuming the effort to assist the Town in updating the Comprehensive Plan. The tentative plan is to begin work in late spring - early summer. Updates will be provided as this work begins. There will be multiple opportunities for the community to participate in the process so stay tuned for more information in the coming months. The plan is to have this process completed by July 2026.
TOWN HALL AND TOWN STAFF
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Town Hall was flooded and is closed at this time, as is the Welcome Center.
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The Town has applied for funding assistance for damages to Town Hall and future plans for this building cannot be determined until the outcome of this request is known.
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Town Hall is currently operating out of office space in the Arcade Building including the Town Manager, Town Clerk, Administration, and Community Development.
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You may reach staff at their phone online extensions and the staff Directory is located on the Town website at: https://www.townoflakelure.com/contact
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For questions, you may email Communications@townoflakelure.com.
BEYOND FEMA – SUPPORT FOR HURRICANE HELENE SURVIVORS
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Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration: Hurricane Helene has left a very heavy mark on our beloved community. We know this has been a challenging time for everyone in many ways. Some have lost homes, cars, household items, food and many have had major damage to their property. Some have lost jobs because their business has closed, while others aren’t able to get to their jobs due to close/ damaged or missing roads. It has changed our daily lives. If possible, and as funds allow, The Church of the Transfiguration would like to help you get through this difficult time by providing some financial assistance if you have suffered a loss. Online Grant Application for Assistance -https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1hYCdvBkQiwg_hSeuXgzjxAaKLetjs9a5p8ekZcaLw40/viewform?edit_requested=true
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Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach - Local Food Pantry: (828) 625-4683 Monday, Thursday, Friday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. https://hickorynutgorgeoutreach.org/
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Legal Aid NC Helpline: If you wish to contact Legal Aid NC for disaster-related legal issues, call our Helpline: Toll-Free: 1 (866) 219-LANC (5262) 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM, Monday – Friday. Legal Aid of North Carolina is not your typical law firm—they are the nonprofit law firm for the state. They are dedicated to delivering justice and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to legal help and support when it matters most. https://legalaidnc.org/what-we-do/
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NC Department of Insurance (DOI) is coordinating with law enforcement agencies, emergency management, fire departments, rescue squads, charities, churches and civic groups to do everything we can at the state and local level to assist the victims. DOI Consumer Assistance will be on the ground to help with insurance claims and other needs. The following web page is updated with the latest information on the DOI Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. https://www.ncdoi.gov/hurricane-helene-response-and-recovery
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RHI Legacy Foundation: RHI Legacy is committed to impacting health and wellness in Rutherford County by making grants to support organizations and initiatives aligned with the Foundation’s grant focus areas: Chronic disease, Healthy Eating, Active Living. www.rhilegacyfoundation.com
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United Way: https://www.unitedwaync.org/nc-disaster-relief-fund-helene
- United Way of Rutherford County: www.unitedwayofrutherford.org
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The Community Foundation for Western NC (CFWNC) Hurricane Helene Relief and Recovery Effort: (Regional Funders, Donors and Others Coordinating for Hurricane Relief in Western North Carolina). CFWNC activated its Emergency and Disaster Response Fund to accept and disburse funds supporting a regional response and relief efforts in 18 counties of Western North Carolina including the Qualla Boundary on September 29. Funds ensure that nonprofits have the resources they needed for the critical early response and continuing recovery. Administrative fees are waived so that every dollar goes directly to assistance. *To donate by check: make your check payable to The Community Foundation and mail it to 4 Vanderbilt Park Drive, Ste. 300, Asheville, NC 28803; please include EDRF in the memo line. $17,498,653 in 394 Grants Awarded as of 1/1/25. To apply for a grant visit: https://cfwnc.org/initiatives/hurricane-helene-relief-and-recovery
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North Carolina Community Foundation: Bringing together generous people and connect them to causes and organizations they care about. Mission: to inspire North Carolinians to make lasting and meaningful contributions to their communities. The North Carolina Community Foundation’s Disaster Relief Fund aims to provide assistance in the months and years ahead. “Our Disaster Relief Fund is going to be providing help with long-term recovery and unmet needs. It will complement the work already underway in western North Carolina with grants going out to organizations in early 2025,” said NCCF President and CEO Jennifer Tolle Whiteside. More than $10 million has been raised so far for the Disaster Relief Fund, including a $7.5 million gift from Lilly Endowment Inc. Visit the following link to apply for a grant: https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=nccommunityfoundation
MONETARY DONATIONS
Our community, along with many of our neighbors, has been devastated by the catastrophic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. The Town of Lake Lure, NC is deeply grateful for the support our community has received. We have had numerous requests to establish a mechanism for financial donations. Please click on the following link to donate to the Town of Lake Lure Storm Recovery Fund.
https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/WXB6HYYE8Y5PJ
Additional options for monetary donations include the following:
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Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration: https://www.ectransfiguration.org/online-giving
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Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach: https://hickorynutgorgeoutreach.org/one-time-donation/
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RHI Legacy Foundation will match any donation up to $50,000 at www.rhilegacyfoundation.com
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United Way of Rutherford County at www.unitedwayofrutherford.org
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Hurricane Helene – Força Foundation https://forcafoundation.com/hurricane-helene/
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Restore Lake Lure Fundraising Campaign: www.RestoreLakeLure.com "The Restore Lake Lure campaign seeks to bridge the gap between governmental support and personal sacrifice."
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The Foundation For Lake Lure/Chimney Rock Area Businesses: https://foundation4lakelurechimneyrock.com/home
FINANCIAL SUPPORT/APPLICATIONS
The following chart illustrates the financial support the Town of Lake Lure is currently seeking, in addition to Federal and State Funding requests that have been made on behalf of the Town through our political representatives. (disaster management planning experts) and Hager Strategic Solutions (lobbyist). They are assisting the Town with post-disaster federal funding applications and requests to expedite our recovery process.
Organization |
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Funding Request |
Status |
State of NC-DEQ-Water (Loan with potential forgiveness) |
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$3,000,000 |
Application under review |
FEMA-Revenue Replacement (Loan with potential forgiveness) |
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Up to $5,000,000 |
Financial data under review; additional data being provided |
FEMA-Expedited Funding for Emergency Repairs |
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Up to $7,500,000 |
Application under review |
DEQ-ARPA Reimbursement (non-storm related) |
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Up to $3,000,00 |
Submission under review |
Private Donations |
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Up to $20,000 |
Deposited; being held for future disbursement under discretion of Council |
Other Revenues and Payments from Insurance proceeds and claims |
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Up to $5,000,000 |
50% has been approved for release 1/7/25 Update: 50% received. 1/31/25 Update: $1.3 million insurance payment for damage to Town Hall. |
STORM RECOVERY ACCOMPLISHMENTS
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Swift evacuation by first responders saving countless lives 9/27/24.
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Countless rescues first responders during and following Hurricane Helene.
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Coordination with the Rutherford County Emergency Management during and throughout the storm.
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Dam assessment and stabilization immediately following the storm event 9/27/24-9/29/24.
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Communication with the Rutherford County EOC and FEMA for recovery immediately following the storm.
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Coordination with volunteer groups to provide hot meals, shower services, restrooms, and handwashing stations in strategic locations by 10/1/24. Christian Aid Ministries served 8,080 hot meals and assisted 43 homeowners with cleanup of their homes and property. There were 164 volunteers and they spent 2,457 hours assisting our community!
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Creation of donation stations to disseminate supplies throughout town by 10/1/24.
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Cleared Highways and Town roads within days of the storm.
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Restoration of water service throughout Town with water quality testing allowing Boil Advisory lifted 10/14/24 and 10/16/24 respectively.
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Rapid repair of power services throughout Town by Duke Power and REMC.
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Establishment of temporary communications systems through Starlink (10 systems) and Cell on Wheels with AT&T and Verizon 10/16/24.
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Replacement of fiber to re-establish internet and cell service to the area 10/18/24.
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Repair to the left abutment of the Dam by 10/27/24 with 2,494.64 tons of material securing the area.
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Army Corps of Engineers contract signed with AshBritt to oversee lake debris and silt/sedimentation removal during a 160 day period of performance beginning 10/28/24. Debris removal began 11/4/24.
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Emergency repairs to the sewer system completed, allowing "no flush order" to be lifted for most on 10/28/24.
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Reopening of the Dam Bridge on Buffalo Shoals Road on 10/31/24.
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Dittmer Watts Nature Trails and a portion of the Green Space reopened on 11/19/24.
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Pressure Reducing Valve Construction in Lake Lure Town Center successfully completed 11/22/24.
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The Boys Camp Road Temporary Bridge was completed 11/26/24.
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As of 1/23/24, Over 32,782 CY of debris have been removed from the right of way, 27669 tons of sediment and silt have been removed from Town and the parks, 24,558 cubic yards (CY) of debris have been removed from the Lake.
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1/10/25: Burnt Ridge Landslide repair completed.
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1/7/25: 50% of insurance payments received.
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1/22/25: Contracted with lobbyist Hager Strategic Solutions (lobbyist).
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1/22/25: Proclamation to open Chimney Rock State Park as soon as possible to bring in tourism to the area and strengthen the economy.
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The Town is committed to sharing details of the recovery process and as our comprehensive plans are developed, this information will continue to be shared broadly on the website and in Town Meetings.
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1/31/25: Culvert repair on Hummingbird Cove completed.
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1/31/25: $1.3 million insurance payment received for damage to Town Hall.
ONGOING
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Emergency repairs to the sewer system.
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Constant removal hazardous debris from the lake and roadways.
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Removal of boats with emphasis on hazardous vessels first.
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Town officials are working to develop a comprehensive plan for recovery of the lake which will include dredging but the focus at this juncture is removing hazardous debris and silt removal.
QUESTIONS
You may review previous Storm Recovery Updates in Town News at www.townoflakelure.com
For questions, please email Communications@townoflakelure.com