As I think ahead to 2024, I can’t help but feel so lucky to live here, in these mountains. 

There is a new director at the head of the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department, after commissioners made their selection official late last month. 

This year, the Sylva Police Department received a grant from the Dogwood Health Foundation to continue the Community Care Program with a paid, full-time community care liaison position for the next three years. 

This year was filled with slights and attacks on the LGBTQ+ community by local elected officials. But despite the environment, Sylva Pride and Sylva Belles Drag have continued to do their work of celebrating, uplifting and bringing together the LGBTQ+ community. 

The N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles’ license plate agency in Jackson County will close at 5 p.m. Dec. 15. 

After canvassing, the vote count is official, with Brad Waldrop, Mark Jones and Blitz Estridge winning seats on the Sylva Town Council, in addition to incoming Mayor Johnny Phillips. 

The Sylva Town Council could have three new members, including a new mayor after vote totals become official later this week. 

After delays due to funding and insufficient bids, Sylva is set to begin work on the Bridge Park Green Infrastructure project after accepting a bid during the Nov. 9 town councilmeeting. 

To save money after bids for the downtown public restroom project came in over budget, Sylva will move forward without installing the intended solar panels. 

A new independent private school is set to open in Sylva by fall of 2025, with a focus on serving gifted and talented students.