In a recent meeting, the Columbia County Board of Commissioners addressed the growing issue of debris left by contractors following Hurricane Helene. The board highlighted the challenges posed by out-of-town contractors who have left significant amounts of unmanageable debris in county rights of way, with some debris piles measuring up to 17 feet long.

Commissioner Murphy emphasized the financial burden this places on local taxpayers, as the county anticipates that FEMA will assist with debris removal, but ultimately, the costs will fall on residents. To combat this issue, the board proposed an emergency ordinance aimed at holding debris contractors accountable for their actions. The ordinance, which requires a four-fifths vote to pass, was unanimously approved by the board.

The ordinance outlines strict regulations for debris removal during declared states of emergency, mandating that contractors dispose of debris at designated sites rather than leaving it in public rights of way. Violations of this ordinance will result in penalties, including potential misdemeanor charges for contractors who fail to comply.

During the public hearing, residents raised concerns about the impact of these regulations on low-income individuals who may struggle to afford debris removal services. Commissioners reassured the public that assistance programs and volunteer efforts are in place to help those in need, and they encouraged ongoing communication to ensure residents are informed about available resources.

Mr. Kirby, a county official, provided an update on the debris removal process, clarifying that while FEMA does not directly pick up debris, the county will submit claims for reimbursement after local contractors handle the cleanup. He noted that the financial implications for the county could be substantial, with estimates suggesting that local taxpayers may be responsible for a significant portion of the cleanup costs.

The meeting underscored the county's commitment to addressing the debris issue while ensuring that residents are not unfairly burdened by the actions of contractors. The newly adopted ordinance aims to protect taxpayers and streamline the cleanup process in the wake of natural disasters.