News
$34M federal grant helps fuel Helene recovery
Funding targets workforce development, infrastructure, and long-term economic resilience across western NC.
News
New FEMA funds target WNC recovery gaps
As western North Carolina approaches the 19-month anniversary of Hurricane Helene on April 27, a new infusion of federal disaster funding is highlighting both the progress made and the long road still ahead.
News
Stein presses for $792M in additional Helene recovery funds
The request focuses on economic recovery, housing assistance, infrastructure repair, and wildfire mitigation, while also positioning the state to unlock additional federal aid that requires matching funds.
News
Helene recovery hindered by water funding gap
Officials said repairing drinking water and wastewater systems remains one of the most expensive and complex challenges facing the region.
News
Forest Service, NC Wildlife ink $290M Helene recovery deal
Officials say this agreement marks the largest of its kind in Forest Service history. The deal enables the state-level Wildlife Commission to take a leading role in comprehensive recovery projects over the next decade.
News
$116M in Helene aid coming, as Stein, Budd seek more
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced more than $72 million from the Public Assistance grants and $44.6 million in Hazard Mitigation grants funds for Hurricane Helene recovery projects.
News
Spruce Pine reminds western NC ‘we’re in this together’
Relief funding from the General Assembly has helped to carry some of the burden as towns wait for FEMA reimbursements.
Video
Locke’s Mitch Kokai assesses NC hurricane recovery challenges
Mitch Kokai, John Locke Foundation senior political analyst, discusses North Carolina state government’s response to Hurricane Helene and lingering issues tied to eastern NC hurricanes. Kokai offered these comments during the Jan. 31, 2025, edition of PBS North Carolina’s “State Lines.”
Opinion
Depoliticizing storm recovery with an Independent National Disaster Relief Agency
An independent National Disaster Relief Agency could ensure that funds are distributed based on need rather than political convenience.
Opinion
Disaster recovery: Can Stein succeed where Cooper failed?
NCORR’s failed rebuilding efforts will haunt Cooper’s legacy. Stein has the opportunity now to chart a better path than his predecessor by successfully managing the Helene recovery.
News
NC’s appeal trumps climate concerns, as home insurers struggle to manage risk
While a rising population will put more people in an area affected by a random severe weather event, the number of people affected will not relate to climate change, but to population change.
News
Berger says latest offer from hospitals on CON reform is all show, no substance
A proposal last week by the N.C. Healthcare Association to the North Carolina General Assembly to modify certificate-of-need laws was more of a twig than an olive branch, according to Senate Leader Phil Berger, R- Rockingham.
