Opinion

Paying attention to Buck Creek detour

With emergency road repairs underway on US 64 near Bridal Veil Falls, traffic has been rerouted down Buck Creek Road from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day since March 25.

Mayor on Duty - NC Senate Bill 349 not a good deal

 I’m always on alert while the North Carolina legislature is in session, especially in April when new bills are being proposed.  There is one proposed bill, SB 349/HB401-Increase Housing Opportunities, that really causes me concern.

Spring brings new feel to Highlands

Spring has officially sprung in Highlands. While most years mark the season with daffodils, the renewed sounds of birds chirping and the reemergence of local bears, 2021 feels a little bit different.

Mayor on Duty - Traffic safety highlighted during paving

Anyone driving in Highlands is encountering the extensive road paving. In addition, we should all be concerned about traffic safety as we cruise down newly paved roads while Highlands  opens for the impending post-pandemic season.

Schools need more virtual resources

The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are going to be felt for decades to come in a variety of arenas. From the ripple effect on the economy, to the impact on daily life and social interactions, there is no way to know how the virus will shape the future.

Mayor on Duty – Spring brings showers, road construction

As we move into spring, many activities are underway on the plateau. I know the construction in the downtown area is disruptive, as well as disturbing, for some folks.  The refurbishing of the sidewalk in front of Reeves Hardware is complete.

Job fair a welcome walk in the park

Hiring employees in Highlands can be difficult in the best of conditions. When the labor market is tight, the task of finding the right people to fill the right positions can be downright maddening.

Mayr on Duty - Managing growth responsibly

Ran Shaffner, the archivist emeritus for the Highlands Historical Society, wrote an interesting article in the February/March Plateau Magazine. It is entitled, “Allowing the Soul to Bloom.”  My friend Alice Nelson shared the piece with me.

Mayor on Duty - Board retreat kicks off budget talks

Today is the annual town retreat which consists of staff presentations and board Q&A of budget needs for fiscal year 2021-22.  The town website has the Zoom information so folks can see and hear the staff and board interactions.

Spike in rabies cases causes alarm

Pet owners are cut from a bit of a different cloth. Whether their furry friend is a new pup, an old dog, a precocious kitten or a lazy house cat, the love between a human and their pet is strong.