State reports SMART debris progress in Haywood; commissioners press for faster EWP disposal funding

Bob Barker, interim assistant director and recovery chief with North Carolina Emergency Management, updated the board on Helen debris removal work under the SMART program. Barker said 71 private‑property assignments had been completed and that 220 of 226 waterway points had been finished, with six remaining sites awaiting FEMA preapproval. He told the board the SMART program was wrapping up and that EWP (Emergency Watershed Protection) may be the next funding avenue for additional debris removal if awards are received.

Commissioners pressed state officials about delays and expressed frustration that disposal funding has not been finalized; county leaders said some debris was still present in waterways and noted risks ahead of hurricane season. State staff said removal funds are likely but that disposal funding remains uncertain; if EWP awards arrive, the county could need 60–90 days to organize consultants and bid packages before physical work could resume.