Property Tax Payment Deadline
Today, Jan. 6, is the final day to pay property taxes before they become delinquent. State law does not allow for property tax waivers due to natural disasters, including Hurricane Helene. For assistance, contact the Tax Department at 828-250-4910 or visit 94 Coxe Ave. Property owners with damage should report it using the online form. Additional tax information is available on the at buncombecounty.org/tax.
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
State representatives are now available at the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Asheville Mall to help residents apply for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. This voluntary program provides funding for projects like home elevation, reconstruction, and acquisition to reduce risks from natural hazards.
- Dates: Jan. 6-10 and Jan. 13-17.
- Hours: Mondays, 1–6 p.m.; Tuesday–Friday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
FEMA and Disaster Unemployment Assistance Deadlines
Survivors of Hurricane Helene have until Feb. 6, 2025, to apply for FEMA assistance, including rental aid and disaster-related expenses. Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov or visit the FEMA center at Asheville Mall.
Disaster Unemployment Assistance is also available for those who lost employment due to the storm. Business owners may also qualify. Applications can be filed at des.nc.gov.
Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP)
The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program providing a one-time vendor payment to help eligible households pay their heating bills is now open to all households that meet criteria including income eligibility. To apply please visit epass.nc.gov.
Storm Debris Removal Update
As of today, 664,105 cubic yards of storm debris have been removed from public areas in Buncombe County, Black Mountain, and Asheville. Right-of-way pickup continues, with 32 trucks collecting debris and 19 trucks handling mud and soil removal.
Residents needing help with private property debris can apply for the Private Property Debris Removal program. Intake centers are located at Black Mountain Library, Barnardsville Fire Department, Swannanoa Fire and Rescue (Bee Tree Substation), and Fairview Library.
Community Care Stations
Community Care Stations remain open, providing showers, laundry, bottled water, and other resources daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Locations include Bethel United Methodist, Fairview Ingles, Owen Pool, and Morgan Hill Baptist Church.
Solid Waste Service Updates
FCC Environmental is addressing delays in waste collection and working to resolve missed pickups. Contact FCC at 828-820-7022 for assistance. Waste Pro cart removal is ongoing, and questions can be directed to Waste Pro at 828-585-5074.
The next Buncombe County Community Briefing will be on Thursday, Jan. 9 at 11 a.m.