Johnson City Lawmaker Advocates for Rainy Day Fund to Aid Flood Recovery
In the scenic hills of Johnson City, an East Tennessee senator is stepping up to champion the needs of counties reeling from catastrophic flooding. Republican Senator Rusty Crowe is pushing for state grants from the hefty $2.15 billion rainy day fund, instead of relying solely on a loan program designed for emergency aid. Crowe has his sights set on providing long-term assistance to the 13 counties hit hardest by the powerful Hurricane Helene.
A Different Approach to Recovery
With so much to repair following the devastating floods, Crowe believes that loans are just a temporary fix. The governor’s cabinet is planning to use up to $100 million in TennCare loans to help counties clear debris and restore essential services like water and sewer systems. However, Crowe argues that this is just the beginning of what’s needed. “That’s only the tip of the iceberg,” he told local reporters, revealing that some counties, like Carter County, are facing extreme costs – up to $9 million for immediate debris cleanup alone, and an eye-popping $180 million in total damages!
The Cost of Recovery
With a paltry rainy day fund of $20 million, it’s clear that Carter County and others are staring at a daunting recovery ahead. Crowe expressed concern over the situation, saying, “I do think we have had a disastrous rainy day event … we are going to have to help these counties as the cost is beyond their capabilities.” His message is clear: immediate action is necessary to prevent these counties from drowning in debt.
Seeking Legislative Support
To tap into the rainy day fund, Crowe will need to catch the ears of fellow lawmakers when the 114th General Assembly convenes in January. A potential special session might also be on the table, depending on how quickly things progress. However, Governor Bill Lee remains conservative in his approach, expressing skepticism about accessing the rainy day fund. While he listened to ideas like Crowe’s, he emphasized his desire to ensure that counties are made whole, without committing to additional funding. “Most importantly, I want to make sure the counties are made whole,” he stated.
Time is of the Essence
As time ticks away, counties have a deadline this week to apply for the emergency loans through the newly enacted program. This initiative is derived from a shared-savings program between the state and federal government within TennCare, which is designed to tide them over until FEMA funds are approved. “We’ve already committed nearly $70 million of the $100 million available,” Lee announced, indicating that relief is on the way, albeit in the form of loans.
Other Assistance Measures
Meanwhile, there are several creative assistance measures being rolled out for affected residents. The Department of Human Services is navigating through complexities to provide food assistance even to those who don’t usually qualify, and there’s also a plan for unemployment payments for flood victims. Additionally, the Department of Revenue is offering up to $2,500 in sales tax rebates for lost appliances.
A Community in Need
As Johnson City and its close neighbors grapple with the aftermath of the floods, the conversation around financial support becomes increasingly urgent. Crowe insists that more comprehensive measures, including a property tax rebate for homes lost or damaged in the flooding, are essential for helping residents regenerate in the coming years.
For now, the community remains hopeful that their leaders will respond to the pressing needs of their fellow Tennesseans. In the face of devastation, we must remember – sometimes it takes a little rain to make the greenest of pastures thrive once again.
