Polk Commissioners Approve FEMA-Funded Cleanup at Historic Park and More at April Meeting

The Polk County Board of Commissioners approved disaster recovery contracts and handled routine business on Monday while hearing public concerns about a proposed YMCA project and county property rules.

The board — Chairman Myron Yoder, Vice Chairman David Moore, and commissioners Paul Beiler, Tommy Melton and Jennifer Hargett — met on April 20 and unanimously approved contracts for debris removal and monitoring tied to the Alexander Ford park cleanup project, damaged during Hurricane Helene. It is unclear why it took nearly 19 months for the county to approve the debris removal. 

Helene, the deadliest storm in state history, struck western NC on Sept. 27, 2024. More than 100 people died in NC, including one in Polk County, according to state data. Patricia Carey died from injuries sustained from a debris flow at her home on U.S. 176 in Saluda. Her husband, who was in another room, survived. Landslides caused 31 of the state's Helene deaths. 

Carey was not mentioned at the April meeting, but it is important historical context as officials approve recovery work. She was recovered by her husband, a former general, with help from National Guard troops, not local officials, according to reports.

County officials said the recent work is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and is expected to be fully reimbursed, with costs projected to reach up to $2 million. Commissioners also authorized County Manager Marche Pittman to execute contracts and submit documentation required for reimbursement.

During public comment, a resident raised concerns about the county’s planned investment in a YMCA facility, questioning the use of local tax dollars. Pittman said the county would own the facility and noted private fundraising is underway.

Business owners also spoke about required address changes for properties with multiple structures. County officials said the changes are tied to emergency response standards and indicated they would work with property owners, but that property owners must follow the county's ordinances.

In other business, commissioners approved the county’s fiscal year 2026 audit contract, issued proclamations recognizing volunteers and public safety personnel, and made several board appointments. The board also received an update that broadband expansion in the county is nearing completion.

The meeting included a lighter moment as commissioners recognized Melton’s 82nd birthday, thanking him for his years of service before adjourning