Elizabethton Lends a Helping Hand to Hurricane Helene Victims
In the heart of Elizabethton, Tennessee, a wave of relief is washing over homeowners who have faced the wrath of Hurricane Helene. This past Wednesday, local leaders made an important announcement that aims to ease the burden on families hoping to rebuild their homes after the devastating storm.
Free Building Permits for Affected Homeowners
If you’re a homeowner in Elizabethton and have been disrupted by the hurricane, there’s some good news! The city has decided to waive the building permit fees for those affected. Yes, you heard that right – you can secure a building permit at absolutely no cost, but there are a few steps to follow. If your home is not located in a flood zone, the first thing you need to do is get in touch with the Elizabethton Planning Office at 423-542-1503 to schedule a damage assessment. This assessment is crucial as it ensures that the city can gauge the extent of the damage and provide proper guidance.
The Process Made Simpler
Once your property has been assessed by city crews, here’s how you can get your building permit for free: you’ll need to head over to the Planning/Building Office, which is located at 136 S Sycamore St. Make sure to visit during regular business hours. The best part? If your property is in a designated flood zone, you might need an elevation certificate to proceed, but don’t worry – the city building department can assist with verifying property information and guiding you through the necessary documentation.
Building and Improvement Guidelines
While it’s certainly exciting to think about rebuilding, city leaders are reminding homeowners to hold off on any construction, demolition, or improvements until the damage assessment has been completed. It’s essential to play it safe to ensure the safety and compliance of your reconstruction efforts.
Support Beyond Elizabethton
Elizabethton isn’t alone in its efforts to support hurricane victims. Earlier this month, the Greene County Commission also took proactive steps by unanimously voting to waive building permit fees for residents whose homes and businesses were adversely affected by Hurricane Helene. This unity among local governments showcases a community that truly cares about its members during tough times.
Your Community Has Your Back
In times of crisis, it can be challenging to find a silver lining, but the actions of city officials and local leaders remind us that support is available. By providing free building permits and advocating for those affected, Elizabethton is showing that it is a community ready to help its residents rebuild and recover.
Take Action!
If you or someone you know is struggling in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, now is the time to take action. Reach out to the necessary offices, schedule those assessments, and get ready to reclaim your home. Remember, recovery doesn’t happen overnight, but with determination and the right support, brighter days are ahead.
Community members are encouraged to stay informed and connected as the city continues to provide updates and resources for those in need. With cooperation and compassion, Elizabethton is poised to emerge stronger together.
