The Daily Which Towns Are Worth Saving?
Oct 11, 2021
Christopher Flavelle, a climate reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into the heartbreaking dilemmas faced by communities like Fair Bluff and Avon in North Carolina, regularly battered by floods and hurricanes. He explores how towns weigh the emotional toll of displacement against their hope for revitalization. The discussion highlights the stark contrasts in resources between these towns and the urgent need for a plan to navigate climate change. Flavelle brings to light the broader implications of climate inequality as all communities, rich or poor, face the impending crisis.
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Willa Billings and Fair Bluff
- Willa Billings stayed in Fair Bluff despite repeated floods.
- She values the peace, quiet, safety, and community.
Depopulation of Fair Bluff
- Fair Bluff's population declined by half after Hurricane Matthew.
- Government buyouts further reduced the town's tax base, hindering recovery.
Al Leonard's Perspective
- Al Leonard, a town planner, works across five towns due to limited resources.
- He showed Christopher Flavelle the extensive damage, highlighting the town's struggle.