Ashe County officials gathered on August 18 for a crucial meeting that highlighted community support and development initiatives aimed at improving local living conditions. A key focus was the appreciation for mutual aid responders who assisted during recent emergencies. County representatives expressed a desire to formally thank these organizations for their invaluable contributions, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity in times of need.

The meeting also featured a public hearing led by Judson Blevins from the High Country Council of Government, discussing the 2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for neighborhood revitalization. Ashe County plans to apply for this grant, which has a total budget of $12.28 million, with a maximum award of $5 million available for eligible projects. These funds are intended to assist low to moderate-income residents through various housing rehabilitation efforts, including urgent repairs and new construction. Blevins encouraged community members to participate in the application process, noting that the deadline for submission is October 29, 2025.

During the hearing, a resident raised concerns about safety improvements for seniors, such as installing grab rails to prevent falls. Blevins acknowledged the importance of such safety measures and indicated that while they may not fall under the typical grant criteria, there are existing programs through the High Country Council of Governments that address fall prevention.

Additionally, the meeting included discussions about applying for an Economic Development Administration disaster supplemental grant. This federal program aims to support projects related to disaster recovery, with Ashe County planning to use the funds for permitting and engineering costs associated with new industrial park developments. The county will need to provide a 20% local match, estimated at $66,700.

Overall, the meeting underscored Ashe County's commitment to enhancing community welfare through collaborative efforts and strategic funding applications, ensuring that residents' needs are prioritized in future development plans.