State Rep. Renea Jones, R-Unicoi, has secured $20 million in state funding for the Erwin Utilities Authority to replace its wastewater treatment plant.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Renea Jones, R-Unicoi, has secured $20 million in state funding for the Erwin Utilities Authority to replace its wastewater treatment plant.
The wastewater treatment plant was severely damaged when storms from Hurricane Helene swept through Northeast Tennessee causing catastrophic flooding throughout the region. This funding was earmarked from the Governor’s Relief and Recovery Fund which was approved by the General Assembly in January to provide immediate state assistance following disasters.
“I’m beyond thankful for the unwavering support from my colleagues in the General Assembly and state agencies as we work to help local communities recover from the devastation left by Hurricane Helene,” Jones said. “These match funds bring Erwin Utilities closer to restoring the plant and rebuilding our community.”
The General Assembly approved a total of $597 million in this year’s state budget for disaster relief initiatives, including $240 million for Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) Disaster Relief Grants, bolstering Tennessee’s existing disaster relief fund and reducing the local cost-share burden for Helene-impacted communities.
Applications are now open for local governments, nonprofit organizations, business owners and farmers to apply for assistance from the Governor’s Response and Recovery Fund. Eligible counties include Carter, Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hancock, Hawkins, Jefferson, Johnson, Sevier, Sullivan, Unicoi and Washington.
The General Assembly also approved property tax relief for owners whose property was destroyed or damaged by Helene. Applications are open now, and must be completed by June 30, 2025, to receive financial assistance.
Renea Jones represents House District 4, which includes Unicoi and part of Carter Counties. She also serves on the Education Committee, Insurance Committee, Higher Education Subcommittee and Insurance Subcommittee.
###