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 […]
Scams and fraud on the rise
May 8, 2026 by
Story co-written with Becki Veach Have you ever been called by a supposedly trusted source like a bank or a courthouse and the conversation just doesn’t feel right? For example, they try to pressure you into sending money or ask personal questions like your address or credit card information. Well, you’re not alone because you […]
Climate Change: How does it affect us?
May 8, 2026 by
People fleeing from their homes in Georgia because a wildfire is within sight-distance is now a reality. No rain for a month, wind and low humidity can take a cigarette thrown from a car window and turn it into a raging inferno devouring everything in its path. It’s more evidence that the warming planet is […]
