On the first anniversary of Hurricane Helene, local officials gathered at the Elizabethton-Carter County Chamber of Commerce’s Fall Legislative Breakfast to address ongoing recovery efforts and advocate for additional support for storm victims. The event, hosted by Northeast Community Credit Union on October 5, 2023, highlighted the lingering impact of the hurricane and the need for continued assistance for those affected.
Carter County Mayor Patty Woodby and state Senator Rusty Crowe took the opportunity to remind attendees of the challenges faced by residents who lost their homes during the disaster. Many survivors have “fallen through the cracks,” either out of pride or a belief that others require assistance more urgently. Woodby emphasized the importance of community vigilance in checking on those in need, particularly in remote areas like Roan Mountain.
“The window is closed” for obtaining financial aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) disaster relief program, Woodby said. She urged the community to reach out to the mayor’s office if they discover individuals needing help. Woodby reported that a recent disaster grant provided $275,000 to three homeowners who had lost everything and received no prior assistance.
Crowe, who represents Carter, Johnson, and Washington counties, echoed Woodby’s concerns. He spoke directly to representatives from financial institutions, highlighting the extent of loss experienced by some residents. “People don’t realize, some people not just lost their homes, then they realize they lost their land because it’s now part of the river,” Crowe noted. He urged banks to consider waiving mortgage payments for those who have lost everything, recognizing that some financial institutions have already begun to do so.
State Representative Timothy Hill, who serves parts of Carter, Hawkins, and Sullivan counties, shared insights from his role as chair of the House Disaster Relief Committee during a special legislative session in January. Hill stated, “The $460 million that we passed is about a third of what the actual cost of the disaster was.” He reassured the audience that lawmakers remain committed to addressing these needs and will return in the next legislative session to continue their efforts.
Freshman Representative Renea Jones, representing Unicoi County and part of Carter County, emphasized the resilience of the community in the face of adversity. “The flooding that swept through our region left scars, but also revealed the heart of Carter County,” she said. Jones praised the collaboration between state officials and the General Assembly, asserting that their unified approach has led to meaningful support for affected communities.
In addition to legislative updates, Elizabethton Mayor Pro Tem Mike Simerly provided insights on various city projects. He highlighted the acquisition of a $1.8 million Pierce-Custom Enforcer Aerial firefighting vehicle, which features a 107-foot ladder. Simerly also discussed ongoing historic renovations at the Elizabethton-Carter County Public Library and the Bonnie Kate Theater, alongside the city’s paving program.
U.S. Representative Diana Harshbarger and Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty were scheduled to attend the event but were delayed due to the government shutdown. Nick Castle, field representative for Hagerty, stepped in to provide an update on federal legislation.
As the community reflects on the past year since Hurricane Helene, local leaders remain focused on ensuring that no resident is left behind. The call for mortgage relief and continued support underscores the commitment to recovery and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.