LOUISBURG, N.C. WNCN — Franklin County Sheriff Kevin White is urging FEMA to redirect $59 million it has reclaimed from New York City toward relief efforts for Hurricane Helene survivors in western North Carolina.
The late September hurricane caused historic flooding, resulting in over 100 deaths and damaging 74,000 homes in the region.
FEMA recently clawed back more than $80 million from New York City, including a $59 million grant, amid a dispute with the city over funds used for migrant shelters.
According to City Comptroller Brad Lander, the grants, awarded under President Joe Biden’s administration, were rescinded shortly after disbursement.
Sheriff White called for the funds to be redirected to North Carolina residents, stating on social media, “FEMA should IMMEDIATELY direct those funds toward housing U.S. taxpayers in Western North Carolina. These folks have been in dire straits for months.”
The clawback was prompted by concerns over alleged “illegal activities” at a hotel used as a migrant shelter. The claim, highlighted by Trump adviser Elon Musk, suggested that the funds were spent on luxury hotels, though the Associated Press reported that most shelters were budget accommodations for families.
As survivors in western North Carolina struggle to recover, the debate over FEMA’s funding priorities has sparked national attention.