HUD Rejects Asheville's Hurricane Helene Recovery Plan Over DEI Program

Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts Halted

• 🌀 Hurricane Helene caused significant damage in Asheville, North Carolina, six months ago, with recovery efforts now stalled.
• 💰 Federal aid from HUD for recovery is on hold due to a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiative in the city's proposed plan.

DEI Program Conflict

• 💡 The city's plan referenced prioritizing assistance for minority and women-owned businesses within its small business support program.
• ⚠️ This initiative conflicts with policies established by President Trump, leading HUD Secretary Scott Turner to state that "DEI is dead."

City's Response and Resubmission

• 💬 Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer stated she was not personally aware of the specific language but acknowledged the need to comply with federal requirements.
• ✅ The city is taking proactive steps to resolve the issues and has resubmitted the plan, aiming to meet federal standards.
• 🗓️ The mayor hopes to receive the necessary funding by summer, which would be an accelerated timeline for HUD.

Impact and Ongoing Recovery

• 🏗️ The DEI program was referenced in relation to contracting for services needed for infrastructure repair, such as roads, bridges, and recreational facilities.
• 📢 While federal aid is pending, other recovery activities like debris removal by FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers are ongoing, and Asheville is largely open for business.