Federal Red Tape Delays Helene Recovery in Western NC

NC disaster recovery leaders to update lawmakers on Helene funding struggles

North Carolina has requested federal funds that would cover almost half of the estimated damage caused in the state by Hurricane Helene. But less than 10% of that money has been awarded or received -- despite months of public pressure on federal officials to release the money, leaders of the state's recovery efforts in western North Carolina are expected to tell legislators Wednesday during a financial briefing.

Federal red tape delays Helene recovery in western NC

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — One year after Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina, officials say billions of dollars in recovery remain locked behind federal red tape. State officials call Helene the worst natural disaster in North Carolina history, leaving behind an estimated $60 billion in damages. Yet the state has received only $5 billion of the $23 billion requested from Washington, according to the Governor’s Recovery Office for Wes…

Governor Stein reports progress in Hurricane Helene recovery one year later

RALEIGH, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) -- As western North Carolina continues to rebuild, Governor Josh Stein is highlighting ongoing efforts to repair roads and critical infrastructure that Hurricane Helene destroyed or damaged.   “As we approach the one-year milestone of Hurricane Helene, North Carolina’s whole-of-government approach has made encouraging progress to repair roads and other critical infrastructure,” said Governor Josh Stein. “I am grat…

US senator brings Small Business Administration staff to NC to hear frustrations

U.S. Sen. Ted Budd convened a Senate Small Business Committee hearing in Hendersonville on the SBA’s disaster loan response to Hurricane Helene. Local leaders criticized the agency’s convoluted process and funding shortfalls that delayed recovery. SBA officials apologized and pledged reforms, while Gov. Josh Stein pushed Congress for $400M in forgivable loans.

NC lawmakers question leaders on Helene recovery. Three key issues emerged

Lawmakers heard from local and state leaders Wednesday about the biggest obstacles to getting aid out quickly and moving Western North Carolina’s recovery forward one year after Helene.

Governor Stein Announces $50 Million Grant Program to Help Hurricane Helene Recovery Capital Projects

Last Updated on September 23, 2025 10:15 am (RALEIGH) Today Governor Stein announced the launch of a new $50 million state-funded grant program to support local governments in their recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene. The Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM) will administer these Helene Local Government Capital Grants to repair, renovate, or replace infrastructure damaged by the hurricane. “Local governments are on the front lines of…