League appoints Disaster Recovery Field Reps
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the League has been diligent in looking for the best ways to respond to the needs of Western North Carolina. In order to support these towns, we have named two Disaster Recovery Field Representatives who will be available to assist towns in their recovery efforts.
Regina Mathis and Desmond Worrell are both Western North Carolina natives who desire to work within those communities as they rebuild from the effects of this storm.
Regina was born-and-raised in Jackson County, N.C., but now calls Bryson City her home of the past 22 years. She was previously the Town Manager in Bryson City and has experience working with FEMA during that time. She has been with the League for two years as a part of the American Rescue Plan and Municipal Accounting Services teams.
Desmond is originally from Canton, N.C. and has been with the League since the summer of 2023. He has previously worked on our American Rescue Plan team and in our Government Affairs department.
Regina & Desmond will be visiting towns in order to help identify needs, and to be a resource and a point of contact for towns. They are available to answer immediate questions, consult with towns on working through FEMA paperwork, and connect towns with other departments, representatives, or resources.
The League wants to emphasize its hope and confidence in the ability to rebuild together. Time and again, N.C. cities and towns have shown the strength of local government, and it is inspiring to see the municipal workers from across the state who have come together to assist in the aftermath of this storm. This spirit of unity reflects our state’s commitment to supporting one another, even in the face of strained resources.
“Western North Carolina is so resilient. The mountains and the terrain can keep them separated from a lot of resources, but they have learned how to rely on each other and themselves to make things work,” Regina said “When this happened, it was amazing how they pulled together. They're a tight knit place and they do want to help each other.”
You can contact Regina Mathis at rmathis@nclm.org and Desmond Worrell at dworrell@nclm.org.
About the author
Stephanie Hughes
Communications & Multimedia Strategist - ARP
Supports the League’s communication strategies as to improving awareness of the American Rescue Plan.