Opinion

Mayor on Duty - Thursday's meeting features public hearing

The May meeting of the Highlands Town Board will be held tonight at 7 p.m. by way of Zoom. The information for accessing the meeting is on the town website. As always the meeting will begin with public comment.

Memorial Day a new way

During a normal spring, Memorial Day is a big deal in Macon County. In Franklin, there is a remembrance at the Veteran’s Park and a wreath-laying ceremony. Elected officials, veterans, and community leaders take a moment to address the crowd and reflect on what the holiday really means.

Make time to fill out 2020 census

 The United States census takes place every 10 years, with the goal being to count how many people are residing nationwide and in what locations.

Mayor on Duty - Thankful for Harrell's service

Tuesday before last I was at home eating a sandwich for lunch. Chief Harrell called me and said he needed to meet with me and the town manager at my office as soon as possible. I finished my sandwich and drove back to the office.

Mayor on Duty - A week full of meetings

I am hopeful that Governor’s Cooper’s Phase one plan will be on track to go into effect tomorrow at 5 p.m. I know our merchants will be glad to open their stores, albeit on a limited basis. I have received multiple inquiries as to why the town has not required wearing face coverings.

Reopening not a sign of normalcy

Life as it was in December of 2019 isn’t close to coming back. What the “new normal” will look like is still unknown.  But a light at the end of the state of emergency tunnel is in sight. On Friday, the Highlands Board of Commissioners hosted a called meeting online via Zoom.

Back-to-back days of recognition

There is an official day for everything. A quick internet search will lead curious minds through what each day on the yearly calendar is known for. This particular opinion piece is being written on “National Prime Rib Day,” which doesn’t have to share April 27 with other such remarkable occasions.

Mayor on Duty - When to reopen Highlands?

To open or not to open the town, that is the question. Should we continue strict COVID-19 measures, or relax them in an effort to return to some kind of normalcy?  I know these questions are on the minds of many, including the town board and myself. I receive feedback from both perspectives.

Strange times for public information

It seems like all facets of life are operating under strange circumstances. The Highlands Board of Commissioners meeting on Thursday night was no exception. The meeting was the first ever held via the Zoom online meeting platform.

Mayor on Duty - Thank you to volunteers

Yesterday was Earth Day. In the past, the Highlands Plateau Cleanup took place on the Saturday closest to Earth Day.  The sponsor of the event, the Highlands Chamber of Commerce, cancelled this year’s Saturday cleanup due to COVID-19.  That was bad news. Nevertheless, there is good news.