News

Apparently, things got heated last month when commissioners discussed the animal control shelter and staffing during a closed session. The shell of the building went up last week.

Apparently, things got heated last month when commissioners discussed the animal control shelter and staffing during a closed session. The shell of the building went up last week.

Commissioners want a code of conduct

Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com   There were no votes taken at the Swain County Board of Commissioners’ work session meeting held Tuesday, July 2, but Chairman Kevin Seagle made an announcement after meeting in closed session for personnel that lasted about an hour and 10 minutes.
From left, Amy, Dell and Henry Hawk, of Lexington, S.C., enjoy a cooling treat of soft serve while decked out in their Independence Day best at Freedom Fest in downtown Bryson City. See more photos on 7A.

From left, Amy, Dell and Henry Hawk, of Lexington, S.C., enjoy a cooling treat of soft serve while decked out in their Independence Day best at Freedom Fest in downtown Bryson City. See more photos on 7A.

Business booms for Independence Day

Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com   Bryson City is a hub for all things summer— from tubing to ice cream cones and antique shopping. This year’s July 4thholiday that fell on a Thursday and the following weekend business proved a positive one for business.
Tammy Williams and Ginger Frady with United Community Bank in Bryson City, speak at Swain Senior Center conducting a program on senior fraud

Tammy Williams and Ginger Frady with United Community Bank in Bryson City, speak at Swain Senior Center conducting a program on senior fraud

UCB visits Senior Center to discuss protection against fraud

Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com   We all know the saying it’s as easy as stealing candy from a baby, but it’s often older adults who are the target when it comes to fraud.

Turner to lead Swain’s new alternative high school

Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com   Speaking to Michael Turner, recently named principal for Swain County’s new Secondary Learning Academy, an alternative high school, and two words come up frequently “opportunity” and “goal.
NCDOT Construction on Everett Street is set to resume mid-July, with grass going into the median and new traffic signals on the corners at the Depot Street intersection.

NCDOT Construction on Everett Street is set to resume mid-July, with grass going into the median and new traffic signals on the corners at the Depot Street intersection.

DOT work on Everett to resume mid-July

Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com   This spring, contractors made quick work of installing a new bus drop off area before the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad depot and installing a median on Everett Street between Depot and Mitchell intersections, but activity stalled.

Town adopts budget with tax increase

Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com   Bryson City Town Board of Aldermen unanimously adopted the 2024-2025 fiscal budget during its regular meeting Tuesday, June 18. The general fund totals $3,138,481, and the water and sewer fund totals $3,667,563.

Swain County budget approved with tax increase

Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com   In a 3-2 vote, Swain County Board of Commissioners approved the 2024-2025 fiscal year budget that includes a property tax increase. The ad valorem tax rate went up from 0.36 previously to 0.41 per $100 valuation in the next fiscal year.
The pieces of the fiberglass slide that will be installed next to the county pool are pictured.

The pieces of the fiberglass slide that will be installed next to the county pool are pictured.

Slide installation slippery subject with commissioners

Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com   This summer at the Deep Creek Water Park, there are plenty of cannonballs and underwater flips happening, but there is no big splash at the end of a thrilling water slide.