FEMA inefficiencies prompt calls for disaster aid reform in WNC скачать в хорошем качестве

FEMA inefficiencies prompt calls for disaster aid reform in WNC

When the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred flooded Canton’s town hall and police department in 2021, the town spent more than $1 million on temporary trailers to house them, with FEMA assuring them reimbursement would follow. Four years and another major storm later, the money still hasn’t arrived. On top of that, Canton is also waiting on FEMA’s repayment for more than $300,000 spent clearing debris after Helene. With an economy battered by the closure of the town’s paper mill in 2023 and a budget of $17.5 million, Canton can’t borrow and spend its way into recovery, its mayor Zeb Smathers said. They need federal support, Smathers said, but the system is broken. ✍️ Briah Lumpkins 🎥 Melissa Melvin-Rodriguez