News

Fire season has been busier, more deadly

Hannah Styles news@thesmokymountaintimes.com   With six structure fires just in June alone, it seems that this fire season is busier than ever for local fire departments.

Commissioners make committee appointments

Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com   Swain County Board of Commissioners held a special session and work session on Thursday, June 24 with a big chunk of the meeting time dedicated to appointments to county committees.

Restoration House reopens for walk-ins

Hannah Styles news@thesmokymountaintimes.com   Restoration House has been serving Swain County since 2017, offering services for those in need of a helping hand. Director Amanda Garrett said that they are there for whatever someone might need.

Town adopts 2021-2022 budget

Bryson City Board of Alderman unanimously adopted the 2021-2022 fiscal budget during it workshop meeting Monday, June 21. (Alderwoman Janine Crisp was absent.) The action followed a public hearing with no comments and no discussion on the budget during the meeting itself.

Hungry mouths keep food trucks on a roll through pandemic

Hannah Style news@thesmokymountaintimes.com   Downtown Bryson City is bustling with visitors, and this year seems particularly busy, with everyone stir crazy from quarantine.

Two structure fires last week

Hannah Styles news@thesmokymountaintimes.com   Two residential structure fires occurred in Swain County last week. One was near the Alarka community on Round Hill Road (6/17). One person was home during the start of the fire but was able to escape safely before fire crews arrived.

Commissioners adopt budget, new fee schedule

Swain County Board of Commissioners adopted the 2021-2022 fiscal year budget in a 4-1 decision during the board’s meeting on Thursday, June 10 following a public hearing on the budget with no public speakers.

Beloved Middle School teacher gone before his time

The unexpected death of a relatively young teacher at Swain County Middle School sent a wave of sadness through the Swain County Schools community this past week. Jason Gary Webb, 42, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 9. He lived in the Coopers Creek Community.

County grows with new dollar stores, real estate and more

As the economy rebounds from the pandemic, commercial growth in Swain County is a noticeable addition and the growth isn’t just limited to downtown Bryson City.

Town works toward sewer expansion

What does a commercial building in Jackson Line community have in common with Tennessee Valley Authority? The Bryson City wastewater treatment plant, which is nearing its capacity.