Full Notification

McDowell EOC and Helene Hotline to Remain Open on Veterans Day for Community Support

In observance of Veterans Day, McDowell County Offices will be closed on Monday, November 11, 2024. This closure allows us to honor and reflect on the sacrifices made by our veterans in service to our country. However, the McDowell County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will remain open to support ongoing recovery efforts and ensure essential services are available. The Helene Hotline, 828-652-3241, continues to operate 24/7 and is ready to assist residents with any needs related to Hurricane Helene recovery and other critical concerns.

McDowell County Expands Debris Removal Efforts with Ongoing Collection and New Private Property Program

McDowell County is set to launch a Private Property Debris Removal Program in partnership with FEMA, aimed at extending storm debris collection to Right-Of-Ways (ROWs) along private roadways and within residential developments. This initiative will allow contractors to support recovery efforts more widely, helping residents in privately maintained areas safely and efficiently clear storm-related debris. The McDowell County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will share additional program details as they become available from North Carolina Emergency Management (NCEM) and FEMA. AshBritt and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) continue daily operations across McDowell County, focusing on the removal of storm-related debris. As of the end of the day on November 8, AshBritt has collected approximately 8,586 cubic yards of debris—that’s enough to fill about 700 standard dump trucks. This week, collection efforts have concentrated on the Right-Of-Way (ROW) in Old Fort, Marion, Woodlawn, and North Cove. Contractors will continue making passes in these areas, allowing residents time to bring additional storm debris to the ROW for pickup. If residents have any questions regarding debris pickup, they are encouraged to contact the Helene Hotline at 828-652-3241.

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