In a recent government meeting, officials provided a detailed account of the extensive damage and ongoing recovery efforts following severe flooding that began on September 27. The storm caused significant disruptions to essential infrastructure, including water, wastewater, and electric services, leading to widespread challenges for the community.

The water system faced critical issues when raw water pumps were submerged, forcing the plant to operate on generator power. Officials reported that the system was stabilized four days later, with a boil water advisory lifted in phases as testing confirmed safety. Temporary pumps were installed to restore service, and the community was able to resume normal water usage.

The wastewater treatment facility also experienced flooding, with influent pumps submerged. Recovery efforts included the installation of bypass pumps and the refurbishment of damaged equipment, allowing the plant to operate at 25% capacity. Crews worked diligently to clear debris and assess damage to ensure that waste could be processed without environmental impact.

The Compass communication system lost service for all 5,000 customers, but restoration efforts have reduced the number of outages to approximately 200. Crews worked around the clock to rebuild the system, including clearing paths for propane deliveries to power generators.

Public works departments prepared for the storm by clearing storm drains, but many streets became impassable. Despite the challenges, sanitation routes were maintained to collect household waste, including items from refrigerators that had spoiled due to power outages.

Parks and recreation facilities suffered extensive damage, with flooded fields and buildings. Officials urged the public to avoid dangerous areas, including closed greenways, while recovery efforts are underway.

Building inspectors have assessed over half of the residential properties affected by flooding, identifying 14 homes with significant damage and 55 businesses that are currently unsafe for public access. However, no properties have been condemned, and all structural damage is repairable. The city has waived permit fees for storm-related repairs to assist residents and businesses in recovery.

Community support has been robust, with volunteers providing meals to city crews and utility workers. The Morganton Community House has served over 4,400 meals since the storm, showcasing the community's resilience and cooperation during this challenging time.

Electric services were severely impacted, with all customers losing power initially. Recovery efforts involved mutual aid from neighboring cities, bringing in over 70 linemen and utility workers to assist in restoring power. The infrastructure damage was extensive, but the collaborative response has been a testament to the community's strength.

As recovery continues, officials emphasized the importance of ongoing support and collaboration among city departments, contractors, and volunteers to restore normalcy to the community.