DARE COUNTY, N.C. (WAVY) — The Dare County Board of Commissioners voted to approve a FEMA Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Grant during a meeting on Monday.

The grant will address storm-related damage and repetitive flood loss on Hatteras Island, specifically in the Rodanthe area.

The project targets approximately 20 insured and repetitive loss properties in Rodanthe that are located close to the ocean and within 300 feet of stable vegetation. The properties are eligible for voluntary acquisition or buyouts, which means FEMA could provide up to $360,000 per property to cover the costs of destruction and other related expenses.

A program development specialist, who was recently hired by the NC Department of Emergency Managment, is already reaching out to eligible homeowners who may be interested in the voluntary program.

The FEMA grant typically takes three to four years from application to award. Any acquisition must occur once the grant is awarded.