Semi-trucks still a hazard on Highlands Road

More signage and stricter law enforcement could be the solution to keeping tractor trailers off Highlands Road.

Macon County completes 2019 revaluation

Macon County commissioners may be looking at a possible higher tax rate next year after hearing a presentation on the 2019 property revaluation process. 

Franklin board split on future of ABC board

A couple of Franklin Town Councilmembers want to explore future changes to the ABC store and ABC board while other members think the alcoholic beverage operation is fine the way it is.

Wintry weather tests regional response to those seeking shelter from the storm

As many residents of Southern Appalachia stocked up on necessaries in advance of a powerful winter storm that ended up leaving thousands without power, governments and nonprofits across the region scrambled to open shelters and warming stations that wound up being, for some, more of a necessity than milk and bread. 

State releases annual economic tier rankings

Macon and Jackson counties will be considered less economically distressed in 2019, according to the North Carolina Department of Commerce. 

Drake takes Macon airport under its wing

Drake Enterprises is spreading its wings further into the community as it takes over management of the Macon County Airport. 

Under the new subsidiary Macon Air LLC, Drake assumed responsibility for airport operations as of Oct. 1 after its former management entity — Franklin Aviation, led by Neil Hoppe and Peggy Milton — decided to retire. Hoppe and Milton had managed the airport for 20 years under a contract with the county. 

Macon wants out of flat fee defense program

While the North Carolina Legislature included Macon County in a pilot program to change the way court-appointed lawyers are paid, Chief District Court Judge Richard Walker requested to opt out of the program. 

New business coming to Macon County

The Macon County Industrial Park will be getting a new tenant after county commissioners approved a lease for TECO Inc. Solid State Lighting, a Tennessee corporation.

Macon to analyze county space needs

Now that the election is over and three incumbents have reclaimed their seats on the Macon County Board of Commissioners, one of the board’s top priorities will be to continue analyzing the county’s infrastructure needs and create a long-range capital improvement plan. 

Majority of Macon schools meet growth goals

Eight of the 11 schools in Macon County either met or exceeded their academic growth expectations for the 2017-18 school year. 

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