Local News

“Southwestern Community College graduates looking to advance their education will find a welcoming home at UNC Asheville, and we’ve made it our mission to make that transition as smooth as possible,” said UNC Asheville Chancellor Kimberly van Noort.

Commissioners received updates on the current budget year and projections for the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget, which runs from July 1, 2026-June 30, 2027. Commissioners have yet to set a property tax rate, and official actions will not be taken until the budget is adopted in June.

“We are proud to celebrate these graduates and welcome many of them to Mission Health,” said Ruth Kain, Chief Nursing Officer at Mission Health. “Our partnership with Galen College of Nursing is an important part of building a strong pipeline of skilled, compassionate nurses who are committed to caring for patients in our region.” 

“I’m thrilled to be the recipient of this fellowship in honor of this pioneering writer,” said Attenberg. “And I’m excited to connect with the writing community in Asheville.” 

“Oscar Wong believed deeply in the power of education and community,” said UNC Asheville Chancellor Kimberly van Noort. “His support of UNC Asheville reflected his commitment to opportunity. This garden will serve as a lasting tribute to his generosity, vision, and belief in what our students can achieve.” 

“Secretary Mullin is delivering on the promises he made to the people of Western North Carolina,” said Senator Budd. “I’m grateful that he and his team have worked with me and my Congressional colleagues to direct needed relief to WNC that ensures funds move through the FEMA review process without unnecessary bureaucratic delay. Our efforts will continue as new projects are completed every single week. My focus remains on ensuring the federal government continues to do its part and make sure funding reaches our Appalachian communities as quickly as possible, and Secretary Mullin has been an excellent partner in delivering results.”

Opening day for Tourist brings in revenue for Asheville 

High rating protects County’s long term financial health 

“Financial resources tend to become entangled in a web of spending when disaster strikes, which is why our office is working to bring transparency to how hurricane relief funds are spent,” said State Auditor Dave Boliek. “By keeping lawmakers, stakeholders, and the public informed on hurricane relief spending, we can continue to improve how North Carolina responds to natural disasters.” 

The Nature Center is fully accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums – the gold standard for animal care and welfare.  

A significant share of the more than 822,000 acres of damaged timber left behind after Hurricane Helene belongs to private landowners, the majority stakeholder of forest resources in this state,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “While we know TLRP funding will not make these landowners financially whole, we are hopeful it will help with recovery from what was an unprecedented storm.”

The program follows national CERT standards while incorporating Asheville-specific needs and hazards, including flooding, severe weather, wildfire, and community support operations.

In 2025, Mission Health says that colleagues contributed over 10,500 volunteer hours, along with $518,000 in colleague charitable giving and company match, and $750,000 in direct contributions to charitable organizations.  

Transylvania, Jackson, and Swain Counties have new representation at the General Assembly

Over 472 projects completed

11 park recovery projects approved

Event brought together leaders to highlight work underway to help the region recover

Recovery 

Visit highlights the billions approved for recovery efforts  

Helene recovery ahead of pace for Matthew and Florence

Program provides academic credit through UNC Asheville

Over a 150 additional beds needed in Western North Carolina

First and only facility in Henderson County  

Role oversees large projects for the city 

Over $5.3 billion has been provided to North Carolina including nearly $564 million in grants directly to survivors  

Strong financial positions increase confidence in institution of higher learning  

Celebrations happening on April 11th

Appeal deadline is May 5^th  

City says fee increase is designed to limit property tax hikes

As the weather warms, outdoor activities happen

Increased risk of fire