Local

Lodging slowly resumes after coronavirus closures

Swain County has hardly been bustling since mid-March when government orders sent people to quarantine at home to prevent a surge of coronavirus cases. This past weekend, many of those restrictions were lifted including a local order that prevented renting rooms at hotels or vacation homes.

Positive case identified at long-term care facility

In a press release issued by Swain County Health Department Thursday evening, the department shared that there has been an individual who was working at a long-term care facility in Swain County who tested positive for COVID-1i.

TDA reviews upcoming budget

Swain County Tourism and Development Authority held its work session virtually on Wednesday, April 29, since rules limiting gatherings and social distancing measures because of coronavirus are still in place. The biggest agenda item was the proposed fiscal budget.

Swain County has its first confirmed cases of COVID-19

Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com   A virus affecting the lungs that was first discovered in humans around a market in Wuhan, China that has proven deadly to some and left others with lasting lung damage has made its way into Swain County, North Carolina at the end of April.

Online learning to continue for remainder of school year

Word that North Carolina’s public schools would remain closed for the rest of the school year were met with disappointment and understanding by Swain County Schools. Gov. Roy Cooper made the announcement in a public briefing on Friday, April 24.

Repair work happening on 74

Repair work now underway on US 74 between the Hyatt Creek exit and Bryson City could be compared to making lasagna or a layer cake. Drivers can see that contractors have dug down into the earth along a large section of the westbound road several feet.

Food resources available in Swain County

Unfortunately, Swain County has traditionally faced the troubling issue of food uncertainty, and the past few weeks have been especially difficult for those families in need. The good news is that there are multiple resources available that you might not be aware of.

Meals for students continue to be funded

Shaun Adams   The Swain County Board of Education held their meeting on Monday, April 20 and accreditation and several policies related to COVID-19 were discussed, along with several budget amendments.

Town board moves forward on budget

Bryson City Board of Aldermen were presented with a pared down draft of the 2020-2021 town budget from Town Manager Regina Mathis during the board’s rescheduled meeting held on Thursday, April 16 the at Swain Administration Building to better meet coronavirus social distancing rules.

Commissioners review upcoming budget needs

County budget talks got pushed back due to the public health crisis, but Swain County commissioners resumed discussion of the budget on Tuesday, April 7. First off, Swain County Manager Kevin King suggested the county plan to adopt an interim budget through Oct.