Coming down the pipe: EPA mandate could soak local utility customers
A recent update to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead and Copper Rule directs nearly all of the nation’s water systems to conduct an inventory of service lines by October, checking for the presence of lead pipes due to their well-established health risks.
Athletics upgrades on the way at WCU: University to ask legislature for help with $130 million to-do list
Western Carolina University is gearing up to take its first bite out of an estimated $130 million in needed upgrades to its athletic facilities, with the Board of Trustees recently hiring a construction manager to oversee the first chunk of projects, worth at least $30 million.
Mayhem in Macon
In a public meeting that lasted more than five hours, Macon County Commissioners approved premium pay for county employees, 3-2. However, the debate was heated, and Commissioner John Shearl called for County Manager Derek Roland’s resignation.
Tribal Council approves short-term funding for Qualla Enterprises: Long-term plan still in process
Tribal Council has again delayed approving long-term funding for its cannabis enterprise but voted overwhelmingly Thursday, Nov. 2, to loan the company up to $3 million to cover expenses over the next month.
Franklin brownfield cleanup gets grant funding
Mainspring Conservation Trust has received $175,000 to clean up and restore a brownfield site near Nikwasi Mound in Franklin. The money will help Mainspring remediate petroleum-contaminated soils on a vacant gravel lot in downtown Franklin.
Conservation wins big in 2023 budget
To the Editor:
The new 2023 state budget will pump more than $100 million annually into land and water conservation.
Summit Charter School asks county for loan
This year, the North Carolina General Assembly passed legislation that allows charter schools to request capital funding from their local board of commissioners.
Cannabis funding decision expected soon
Cherokee issues first medical ID cards; tribe continues to work on product transport plan
Great Smokies Health Foundation Announces 2023 Grants
The Board of Directors of the Great Smokies Health Foundation has awarded $539,235 to 24 organizations for a variety of health, wellness and prevention initiatives across Graham, Jackson, Macon and Swain counties.
Help available for failing septic systems
Funding is available to help homeowners fix failing septic systems, preventing both financial and environmental hardship.