Town Update - Friday, December 13, 2024

Vegetative Debris Removal: The Town’s debris removal project continues moving forward. Through yesterday, we have removed over 230,000 yards of debris from the public right of way and processed over 68,000 yards of wood chips. There remains substantial work to be done, and the Town and its contractor are prepared to meet this challenge until all storm debris is removed. For updated FAQs, videos and photos of the removal process, and a new three-minute drone video of the disposal site, please visit the Town’s website at https://www.biltmoreforest.org/projects/hurricane-helene-debris-removal

Utility Cables in Debris Piles: We have received several questions regarding utility cables or other non-vegetative materials within the debris piles. The Town and contractor are aware of this – it will not prevent debris removal. The Town is coordinating a joint discussion with Charter, AT&T, and Duke to discuss the necessary actions they need to take to remove these materials and address any areas in town where cables may be hanging or low.

Tree Ordinance: Please remember the Town’s tree ordinance remains in effect and only storm related vegetative material may be placed on the roadside for pickup by the Town. This helps the entire Town recover as it keeps the contractor removing only allowable and reimbursable vegetation.

Water Billing for December: Water bills will be mailed next week. These bills show NO CHARGE for water consumption during this billing cycle. The Board of Commissioners suspended these charges until potable water returned, which occurred on November 18. Other standard fees, including MSD sewer charges, meter transmitter charges, and meter availability charges, are shown on the forthcoming bill. Regular bills, including water consumption charges, will resume in February.

Town Board Meetings: The Town will resume all regular Board meetings in January. Dates for these meetings, as well as application deadlines, are shown on the Town’s website.

During this holiday season, please accept the sincerest thanks and appreciation from the Town and all employees. We have all, collectively, been through so much over the past 2 ½ months. The support and encouragement shown by Biltmore Forest residents to town employees, fellow citizens, and neighbors has been astounding. Thank you, all, for this support. We continue to move forward and progress each day with your help.