Brandon Ruppe, new president and CEO of Burke Development Inc., gave an update to the Drexel Board of Aldermen on Tuesday.Â
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A federal grand jury indicted a Valdese man late last week on charges of defrauding Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) of nearly $21,000 by falsely claiming his property was damaged by Hurricane Helene, when he did not own or live at the property.
When more than 160 pigs were found living in and on the property of a Burke County home three weeks ago, 20 were severely underweight and two had to be put down due to illness or infection — but county officials say no animal neglect charges are warranted.
Even as Burke County Public Schools (BCPS) passed its annual audit with praise for its bookkeeping practices, the numbers underneath highlighted rising expenditures, diminishing reserves, and deficits across multiple funds.
Burke County will receive two separate FEMA awards under Section 428 of the Stafford Act through the Public Assistance Alternative Procedures Debris Removal program.
Burke County homeowners impacted by Hurricane Helene now have until Jan. 31 to apply for Renew NC housing repair assistance. Meanwhile, Attorney General Jeff Jackson won a court case restoring $17 million for statewide emergency preparedness and law enforcement support.
Hurricane Helene left a lasting impact on Burke County, reshaping the community in 2025. Despite the hardships, the community has shown resilience through volunteer efforts, benefit concerts, and a strong rebound in tourism.Â
Burke Long Term Recovery Group received a $300,000 Dogwood Health Trust grant to build capacity, hire support, improve technology, and strengthen its post-Helene operations. The group has formed nine committees and continues coordinating with FEMA, Red Cross, and local partners.
Congressman Tim Moore says FEMA has obligated $4.06 million to rebuild maintenance facilities at Morganton’s Catawba Meadows Park after Hurricane Helene. The city will replace two floodplain buildings with one resilient structure, with bids expected in March.
Following Hurricane Helene in Burke County, the Town of Valdese secured $755,828 in FEMA funds, completing most projects. Challenges like denied requests persist, with ongoing efforts for full recovery.
