Story originally published in The Sylva Herald, Aug. 26 edition The Jackson County Board of Education voted Tuesday, Aug. 25, to bring in an engineering consultant to evaluate the artificial turf at Smoky Mountain High School and determine whether it needs to be replaced. The board voted unanimously to authorize Superintendent Dr. Dana Ayers to negotiate an agreement with Fit […]
State board of elections approves Cullowhee voting plan, bringing back 2 polling locations
August 21, 2026 by
Republished by Deanna Sipe, WLOS The North Carolina State Board of Elections has made its decision on the controversial discussion on where an early voting site should be in Cullowhee. The board unanimously agreed on the majority plan for the Health and Human Services building, while also asking that the Jackson County Board of Elections […]
What the FLOCK?
August 7, 2026 by
A version of this story was published in The Sylva Herald At the Board of Commissioners work session Tuesday night, Jackson County Sheriff Doug Farmer gave a presentation on the JCSO’s use of Flock cameras, aiming to answer residents’ questions and address what he called misconceptions. During the meeting, Farmer discussed what Flock cameras are […]
Flock, other ALPRs face rising concerns over misuse, privacy
August 7, 2026 by
A version of this was published in The Sylva Herald Jackson County has used Flock cameras since 2024, but the technology has faced growing scrutiny nationwide over concerns about accuracy, misuse and privacy. In Charlotte, accuracy concerns surrounding Automated License Plate Reader systems were highlighted by the wrongful detention of teacher Jasmine Horne in 2021. […]
U.S. Rep. Edwards dropped out of congressional race: What does it mean for voters?
August 5, 2026 by
Republished by Lilly Knoepp, NCLocalAugust 5, 2026 Following misconduct allegations and a censure recommendation by the U.S. House Ethics Committee, Rep. Chuck Edwards announced his departure from the Western North Carolina congressional race. “After much prayer and reflection, I’ve decided to withdraw from my re-election campaign. I will complete my current term,” Edwards wrote on […]
‘Don’t let them have a vote’: Text messages about WCU polling site from auditor’s office staff to Jackson County Board of Elections chair
July 5, 2026 by
Republished by Lilly Knoepp, NCLocalJuly 2, 2026 Messages obtained by NC Local from an auditor’s office staff member to the Jackson County Board of Elections chair show a directive to halt the local board’s June 2nd vote on whether to move a polling location on Western Carolina University’s campus. Dallas Woodhouse, who serves as auditor’s […]
