Newsletter From Congressman Chuck Edwards

Floor Speech

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Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record the following newsletter to give an update to my constituents on debris removal after Hurricane Helene.

Dear Friend: There has been an important development regarding debris clean-up efforts from Hurricane Helene. After hearing from residents and stakeholders about improper debris removal, FEMA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) have agreed to improve oversight and precision in debris removal operations.

The action plan moving forward is:

Property owners are encouraged to mark debris areas of concern with a red flag.

Flagged areas will not be disturbed until the property owner, the county, and USACE engage in a consultation.

Counties will then make final decisions based on the need to protect downstream infrastructure while respecting private property.

This agreement will help address the top concerns my team has heard from Western North Carolinians affected by debris removal by:

Preventing the removal of more debris than necessary.

Adequately protecting wildlife habitat.

Ensuring landowners receive due consideration through the process.

I believe this plan will increase the quality of clean-up efforts, and my office will continue to assess the debris removal process and listen to your concerns as we work together to return to normalcy as quickly as possible.

For additional information on debris removal projects, visit my website. You will find maps that note areas where debris removal has been completed (marked in green) and plans for upcoming debris removal projects. With my warmest regards, Chuck Edwards, Member of Congress.

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