Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Haywood County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in public safety with medium priority
Clyde Armory emergency shelter and EMS expansion
The county was asked to spend about $1.36 million on emergency medical transport — three new ambulances and a remount — to keep its EMS fleet reliable.
Justice Center bag prohibition
Starting August 1, you can't bring purses, backpacks or similar bags into the county Justice Center, with exemptions for attorneys, jurors, employees and medical needs.
Tropical Storm Fred Unmet Needs grant appropriation
The board adopted an ordinance to spend the remaining $2.5M of a $3.5M state grant for Fred recovery — with a tight 60-90 day spending window if new public safety projects are approved.
Veterans services grant
A $20,000 state grant will fund community outreach and supplies for the county's veterans office.
Animal cruelty investigation procedures
Longtime animal welfare advocate Evelyn Coltman asked the county to appoint a committee to review and improve its animal cruelty investigation protocols after a recent case involving a dog named Zoe. The county has made major progress since the 1960s, but she says the ordinance and procedures need another look.