News Flash

Welcome to the Haywood County Online Listing System.

Haywood County has provided this system in order to facilitate the process of submitting Business Personal Property and Individ

Click here to access the link. 

 PUBLIC NOTICE 

The United States Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will be receiving subgrant applications from the State of North Carolina for acquisition and demolition or mitigation reconstruction and/or elevation of residential and commercial properties. Pursuant to Executive Order (EO) 11988 and 44 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 9.12, FEMA hereby gives final notice of the intent to provide statewide funding for these projects under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) as a result of Tropical Storm Helene.

A cumulative Initial Public Notice was published and posted on October 5, 2024, and an amended Initial Public Notice posted on October 17, 2024, for DR-4827-NC located at: https://www.fema.gov/disaster-federal-register-notice/4827-dr-nc-public-notice-amendment-003-0. Comments and other information received were fully evaluated by FEMA along with evaluation of social, economic, environmental, and safety considerations. This serves as a cumulative Final Public Notice for FEMA’s funding action for Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) HMGP expedited activities that may be located within, affect, or be affected by floodplains or wetlands.

The purpose of acquisition projects is to permanently eliminate the risk of future flood or other hazard damages and to prevent health and safety risks for property owners. The proposed scope of work for acquisition and demolition may include the following: On a completely voluntary basis which property owners may opt out of, a County may acquire a property within its jurisdiction. If a property owner opts out of a county acquisition, the property owner may proceed with elevation, or reconstruction and elevation, depending on the extent of damage to the property. Should a County enter into a voluntary agreement with a property owner to acquire a property, all structures on the property will be demolished. Demolition activities include removal of foundations, removal or capping of utilities, removal or filling of septic tanks, and/or removal of ancillary buildings such as barns, garages, fencing, etc. Management and disposal of all associated debris shall adhere to all North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Division of Waste Management requirements and adhere to all North Carolina General Statutes. The property will be converted into open space and deed restricted as set forth in the FEMA program requirements concerning the acquisition of property for open space at 44 CFR 206.434 (e). 

Structure elevation and mitigation reconstruction projects aim to significantly reduce potential future flood damage to structures, enhancing resilience and ensuring the safety of their occupants. The proposed scope of work for mitigation reconstruction projects may include the following. Mitigation reconstruction will entail demolition of the existing primary living structure on the property and rebuilding a new code-compliant structure, possibly on a new foundation, with the first floor elevated to the highest elevation required among local, state, and federal floodplain management and flood risk reduction requirements. Activities may include site preparation, disconnection of utilities, and elevation of electrical and mechanical equipment located outside the structure. Any enclosed space at grade level shall have hydrostatic vents and can only be used for storage or parking. The square footage of the newly constructed and elevated structure shall be no more than ten percent greater than the original square footage. The project shall be designed and constructed in compliance with the North Carolina Building Code, ASCE 24-14 or latest edition, the Federal Flood Risk Management Standards (FFRMS), National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) standards in 44 CFR Part 60, applicable floodplain ordinances, and all other applicable local regulations. Management and disposal of all associated debris shall adhere to all North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Division of Waste Management requirements and adhere to all North Carolina General Statutes. 

Structure elevation projects aim to significantly reduce potential future flood damage to structures, enhancing resilience and ensuring the safety of their occupants. The proposed scope of work for projects that involve only elevation may include the following. Elevate the existing, primary living structure on the property such that the first floor is elevated to the highest elevation required among local, state, and federal floodplain management and flood risk reduction requirements. Activities may include site preparation, disconnection of utilities, and elevation of electrical and mechanical equipment located outside the structure. Any enclosed space at grade level shall have hydrostatic vents and can only be used for storage or parking. The square footage of the newly constructed and elevated structure shall be no more than ten percent greater than the original square footage. The project shall be designed and constructed in compliance with the North Carolina Building Code, ASCE 24-14 or latest edition, the FFRMS, NFIP standards in 44 CFR Part 60, applicable floodplain ordinances, and all other applicable local regulations. Management and disposal of all associated debris shall adhere to all North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Division of Waste Management requirements and adhere to all North Carolina General Statutes. 

Under the National Environmental Policy Act, federal actions must be reviewed and evaluated for feasible alternatives and for social, economic, historic, environmental, legal, and safety considerations. EO 11988 and EO 11990 require FEMA to consider alternatives and provide a public notice of any proposed actions in or affecting floodplains or wetlands. EO 12898 requires FEMA to provide the opportunity for public participation in the planning process and to consider potential impacts to minority and low-income populations. This notice may also fulfill requirements under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

President Biden issued new Executive Orders 13985, 13990 and 14008 in January 2021 to further address the need to achieve environmental justice and equity across the federal government and to tackle the ongoing climate crisis. Additionally, President Biden issued Executive Order (EO) 14096 in April 2023, advance the nation’s implementation and enforcement of environmental justice. The issuance of the new executive orders indicates the administration’s directive to federal agencies to renew their energy, effort, resources and attention to environmental justice and climate change.

Executive Order 14030, Climate-Related Financial Risk (May 20, 2021), reinstated Executive Order 13690, Establishing a Federal Flood Risk Management Standard and a Process for Further Soliciting and Considering Stakeholder Input (January 30, 2015), which established the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS). To implement the FFRMS, FEMA Issued FEMA Policy 206-24-005, effective for federal disaster declarations occurring on or after September 9, 2024. FEMA will determine FFRMS Floodplains and associated design standards using the Climate Informed Science Approach (CISA), Freeboard Value Approach (FVA), and 0.2-Percent-Annual-Chance Flood Approach (0.2PFA) according to the process detailed in the FFRMS Policy.   For all FEMA programs and project types, if a state, local, tribal, or territorial government has its own higher elevation standard, FEMA requires use of the higher standard. FEMA program policies also reference additional consensus codes and standards, such as ASCE-24-14, that incorporate additional elevation requirements beyond the base flood elevation. More information about the FFRMS can be found at: https://www.fema.gov/floodplain-management/intergovernmental/federal-flood-risk-management-standard.

FEMA has determined that the only practicable alternative is to fund these mitigation projects as quickly as possible to provide relief to the socioeconomic challenges property owners are experiencing before, during, and after disasters. The three alternatives proposed; as described above, are deemed practicable based on the variables of the property such as existing conditions of structures, topography, property owners’ decision, and other environmental and socioeconomic factors or constraints. The no action alternative has been quickly dismissed due to the need to be proactive and not reactive to multi-hazard threats to property owners in the State of North Carolina.

For the above stated actions, this will be the final public notice from FEMA. Other activities and those involving facilities that do not meet the criteria described above are required to undergo more detailed review including the study of alternative locations. Subsequent project-specific final public notice(s) regarding such projects will be published, if necessary, as more specific information becomes available.

Comments: Interested persons may submit comments, questions, or request a map of this specific project by writing to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Region 4, 3005 Chamblee-Tucker Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, or by emailing FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov. Comments should be sent in writing or email with the subject line “HELENE NC HMA EXPEDITED” at the above addresses within 15 days of the date of this notice.

Haywood County Animal Services, in coordination with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Animal Welfare Section, recently responded to a concern regarding a private rescue operating in the county. 

Upon initial inspection of a facility known as ‘Barton’s Animal Rescue” located at 88 Harry Rogers Road in Canton, officials found more than 16 dogs and multiple cats on the property. State law requires that any organization housing more than nine animals and adopting them out to the public must be licensed with the state as an official animal shelter, which they are not. Animal Services staff educated the operators on these requirements, the need to maintain proper records, and the importance of ensuring animals receive adequate care and vaccinations.  

Following additional concerns, Animal Services conducted a follow-up visit. At that time, more animals had been taken in, yet the state had not received an application for official shelter licensing. During this visit, officers issued 16 citations for failure to provide rabies vaccinations and 16 citations for neglect, each citation carrying a $50 fine. Documentation and photographs were collected, and the Department of Agriculture was contacted for further guidance. 

With a search warrant, Animal Services returned to the property and took custody of 11 dogs. Six dogs were confirmed to be personal pets and remained with the owners. Animal Services voided 11 of the rabies-related and neglect citations once custody of those animals was successful. Additional penalties may be forthcoming for operating a shelter without a license. 

Animal Services will continue to monitor the situation and conduct a follow-up inspection in approximately one month to ensure the operators have applied for official shelter status with the state of North Carolina. 

“Our top priority is the health and safety of animals, as well as ensuring state and local laws are followed,” said Howard Martin, Director of Haywood County Animal Services. “We remain committed to working with state officials and community members to protect the welfare of animals in our county.” 

We appreciate members of the public who report concerns and help us protect animal in our community. Haywood County Animal Services will continue working with state and local partners to ensure animals in our community receive proper care. If you have information about this case or wish to report animal welfare concerns, please contact Haywood County Animal Services at (828) 456-5338.  

Haywood County, NC Government has been made aware of a video circulating on social media involving a mulch delivery to a location being referred to as the “TBD landfill.” 

This location is not owned or operated by Haywood County Government, Haywood County Solid Waste Management, The Town of Clyde, or Haywood County Solid Waste contractors: Consolidated Waste Services and Republic Services. 

The site referred to as the “TBD landfill” is privately owned.  

Unfortunately, in response to this video, Haywood County Solid Waste facilities, staff, and contractors have received threatening phone calls. We encourage the public to seek accurate information before responding to a situation.  

Sometimes, the sound of a siren can be the most important warning you’ll ever hear. In Haywood County, that warning system is getting stronger. 

The county’s flood warning weather siren project is close to being complete. Once finished, 18 outdoor warning sirens will serve the southern portion of the county, including the Cruso and Lake Logan areas toward Canton, and Clyde. 

The sirens are designed to alert residents of flooding and flash flooding threats. Activation may be triggered by river level data, or manually by the 911 Communications Center. 

“This project represents a critical investment in public safety,” said County Manager Bryant Morehead. “We’ve seen firsthand how quickly conditions can change during severe weather, and these sirens will help ensure people in vulnerable areas get the warning they need to act quickly.” 

This project was made possible through a state grant awarded in response to the impact of Tropical Storm Fred. The siren locations were selected based on flood vulnerability and that storm’s impacts on the community. 

All system components are in the county, and work is actively moving forward. Haywood County is coordinating with the vendor to finalize the installation schedule. Once installed, the system will undergo thorough testing to ensure it operates as intended. The project is expected to be complete in early 2026. 

While the sirens are a powerful tool to enhance public safety, they are not a substitute for personal preparedness. Every household should have an emergency plan, stay informed through official channels, and be ready to act when severe weather threatens. Residents are encouraged to sign up for local Haywood Alerts and review flood safety plans in advance. ReadyHaywood.com is the best place to get started — offering easy-to-follow guidance, preparedness checklists, and critical emergency information tailored to our community. 

In addition, Haywood County Emergency Services is working to educate the public about the new siren system — including how the system will be used, and what to do if a siren sounds in your area. Follow Haywood County Emergency Services on Facebook, Instagram, and X to stay up to date and informed as testing begins and siren coverage expands. 

We are also pursuing additional funding opportunities to expand siren coverage across other areas of the county. 

Haywood County remains committed to building a safer, more prepared community. Stay connected, stay informed, and take time now to make sure you and your family are ready for whatever comes next. 

The Haywood County America 250 NC committee is asking for the communities' support with a unique and meaningful project to commemorate our nation’s founding. Plans are underway to install a suspended display of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights—collectively known as the Founding Documents—inside the Haywood County Justice Center located at 285 North Main Street in Waynesville.  

These documents are the cornerstone of American democracy, enshrining the values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. As we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States, this display will serve as both an educational tribute and a powerful reminder of the ideals upon which our nation was built—principles that still hold true today. 

The display will be visible from both inside and outside the Justice Center. Designed for the public good by local architect Randy Cunningham, the installation will feature panels with a magnesium and gold finish, suspended from the ceiling and framed in vintage barn wood reclaimed from across Haywood County—symbolizing both our national and local heritage. 

The total project cost is estimated at $25,000, with $10,000 already secured through community donations. To help bring this patriotic vision to life, the Hugh Rogers Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is managing and accepting contributions. 

To contribute, please mail a check to: 

Hugh Rogers Chapter DAR Attn: Treasurer 881 Reservation Road Maggie Valley, NC 28751 

Please note “America’s Founding Documents” in the memo line of your check. 

This installation is part of Haywood County’s broader effort to honor America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 and reflect on our shared history. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to celebrating that legacy in a lasting and visible way. 

Haywood County Emergency Management Officer Zack Koonce has been named a 2025 recipient of the “Heroic Hands” Award, presented by the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC). The award recognizes outstanding public servants across the state who exemplify dedication, courage, and commitment to their communities. 

This year’s theme, “Heroic Hands: Celebrating Public Service,” reflects the award’s broader mission to highlight the value of careers in public service, encourage partnerships that support workforce training in local government, and help create a stronger pipeline of qualified professionals to fill county roles across North Carolina. 

Koonce’s selection reflects his steadfast commitment to public safety, emergency preparedness, and community resilience. In his role with Haywood County Emergency Services, he plays a critical part in everything from long-range emergency planning and interagency coordination to community education and crisis response. 

While his service spans many areas, Koonce’s leadership has been especially evident during major emergency events, including Tropical Storm Fred, Hurricane Helene, and the Rattlesnake Branch Wildfire. He plays a key role in coordinating emergency response efforts, organizing resources, and ensuring that residents and first responders have the information and support they need throughout a crisis. 

“I’m truly honored to receive this recognition, but the work we do is never about one person,” said Zack Koonce. “It’s a team effort every single day, and I’m proud to serve alongside such dedicated professionals—not only within Haywood County Emergency Services but also across all departments in Haywood County Government like Facilities and Maintenance, Information Technology, Development Services, the Library, Health and Human Services, and County Administration—who all care deeply about the safety, well-being, and quality of life in our community.” 

“Zack Koonce exemplifies what public service is all about,” said County Manager Bryant Morehead. “His impact can’t be measured by a single event—he is constantly working behind the scenes to make sure Haywood County is safe, prepared, and supported. We are grateful to have him on our team, and I’m proud to see his contributions recognized at the state level.” 

Through his work, Koonce embodies the spirit of Heroic Hands, showing what is possible when passion and public service intersect. His recognition highlights not just his personal efforts, but the vital role that emergency services professionals play in keeping North Carolina communities safe and resilient. 

For more information about the Heroic Hands Award, visit www.ncacc.org. 

Helene reminded us of the importance of protecting our homes from natural disasters. If your property was impacted or is at risk, Haywood County's Hazard Mitigation Program may be able to help you recover and prepare for the future. Eligible homeowners may receive assistance through: 

✔️ Acquisition (Buyout Program) – Sell your home located in a flood zone to Haywood County. 

✔️ Elevation – Raise your home above floodwater levels. 

✔️ Reconstruction – Move or rebuild your home safely outside the flood zone. 

✔️ Landslide Assistance – A new program addressing landslide risks to homes and structures. 

How to Apply: 

1️⃣ Learn More: Visit NC Emergency Management’s Hazard Mitigation website: https://www.ncdps.gov/our-organization/emergency-management/hazard-mitigation/about-hazard-mitigation  

Or contact Cody Grasty at 📞 828-476-0285 or 📧 mitigation@haywoodcountync.gov. 

2️⃣ Ready to Apply: Request an application online or pick one up at 141 Hemlock St, Waynesville, NC. 

3️⃣ Submit: Email your completed application to mitigation@haywoodcountync.gov or drop it off in person/mail it to Haywood County Emergency Services, 141 Hemlock St, Waynesville, NC.  

💡 Have landslide-related concerns? Email your details to Cody Grasty, including your address, a brief description of the issue, and a photo. Email information provided above. 

 _____________

The United States Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will be receiving subgrant applications from the State of North Carolina for acquisition and demolition or mitigation reconstruction and/or elevation of residential and commercial properties. Pursuant to Executive Order (EO) 11988 and 44 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 9.12, FEMA hereby gives final notice of the intent to provide statewide funding for these projects under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) as a result of Tropical Storm Helene.

A cumulative Initial Public Notice was published and posted on October 5, 2024, and an amended Initial Public Notice posted on October 17, 2024, for DR-4827-NC located at: https://www.fema.gov/disaster-federal-register-notice/4827-dr-nc-public-notice-amendment-003-0. Comments and other information received were fully evaluated by FEMA along with evaluation of social, economic, environmental, and safety considerations. This serves as a cumulative Final Public Notice for FEMA’s funding action for Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) HMGP expedited activities that may be located within, affect, or be affected by floodplains or wetlands.

The purpose of acquisition projects is to permanently eliminate the risk of future flood or other hazard damages and to prevent health and safety risks for property owners. The proposed scope of work for acquisition and demolition may include the following: On a completely voluntary basis which property owners may opt out of, a County may acquire a property within its jurisdiction. If a property owner opts out of a county acquisition, the property owner may proceed with elevation, or reconstruction and elevation, depending on the extent of damage to the property. Should a County enter into a voluntary agreement with a property owner to acquire a property, all structures on the property will be demolished. Demolition activities include removal of foundations, removal or capping of utilities, removal or filling of septic tanks, and/or removal of ancillary buildings such as barns, garages, fencing, etc. Management and disposal of all associated debris shall adhere to all North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Division of Waste Management requirements and adhere to all North Carolina General Statutes. The property will be converted into open space and deed restricted as set forth in the FEMA program requirements concerning the acquisition of property for open space at 44 CFR 206.434 (e). 

Structure elevation and mitigation reconstruction projects aim to significantly reduce potential future flood damage to structures, enhancing resilience and ensuring the safety of their occupants. The proposed scope of work for mitigation reconstruction projects may include the following. Mitigation reconstruction will entail demolition of the existing primary living structure on the property and rebuilding a new code-compliant structure, possibly on a new foundation, with the first floor elevated to the highest elevation required among local, state, and federal floodplain management and flood risk reduction requirements. Activities may include site preparation, disconnection of utilities, and elevation of electrical and mechanical equipment located outside the structure. Any enclosed space at grade level shall have hydrostatic vents and can only be used for storage or parking. The square footage of the newly constructed and elevated structure shall be no more than ten percent greater than the original square footage. The project shall be designed and constructed in compliance with the North Carolina Building Code, ASCE 24-14 or latest edition, the Federal Flood Risk Management Standards (FFRMS), National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) standards in 44 CFR Part 60, applicable floodplain ordinances, and all other applicable local regulations. Management and disposal of all associated debris shall adhere to all North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Division of Waste Management requirements and adhere to all North Carolina General Statutes. 

Structure elevation projects aim to significantly reduce potential future flood damage to structures, enhancing resilience and ensuring the safety of their occupants. The proposed scope of work for projects that involve only elevation may include the following. Elevate the existing, primary living structure on the property such that the first floor is elevated to the highest elevation required among local, state, and federal floodplain management and flood risk reduction requirements. Activities may include site preparation, disconnection of utilities, and elevation of electrical and mechanical equipment located outside the structure. Any enclosed space at grade level shall have hydrostatic vents and can only be used for storage or parking. The square footage of the newly constructed and elevated structure shall be no more than ten percent greater than the original square footage. The project shall be designed and constructed in compliance with the North Carolina Building Code, ASCE 24-14 or latest edition, the FFRMS, NFIP standards in 44 CFR Part 60, applicable floodplain ordinances, and all other applicable local regulations. Management and disposal of all associated debris shall adhere to all North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Division of Waste Management requirements and adhere to all North Carolina General Statutes. 

Under the National Environmental Policy Act, federal actions must be reviewed and evaluated for feasible alternatives and for social, economic, historic, environmental, legal, and safety considerations. EO 11988 and EO 11990 require FEMA to consider alternatives and provide a public notice of any proposed actions in or affecting floodplains or wetlands. EO 12898 requires FEMA to provide the opportunity for public participation in the planning process and to consider potential impacts to minority and low-income populations. This notice may also fulfill requirements under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

President Biden issued new Executive Orders 13985, 13990 and 14008 in January 2021 to further address the need to achieve environmental justice and equity across the federal government and to tackle the ongoing climate crisis. Additionally, President Biden issued Executive Order (EO) 14096 in April 2023, advance the nation’s implementation and enforcement of environmental justice. The issuance of the new executive orders indicates the administration’s directive to federal agencies to renew their energy, effort, resources and attention to environmental justice and climate change.

Executive Order 14030, Climate-Related Financial Risk (May 20, 2021), reinstated Executive Order 13690, Establishing a Federal Flood Risk Management Standard and a Process for Further Soliciting and Considering Stakeholder Input (January 30, 2015), which established the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS). To implement the FFRMS, FEMA Issued FEMA Policy 206-24-005, effective for federal disaster declarations occurring on or after September 9, 2024. FEMA will determine FFRMS Floodplains and associated design standards using the Climate Informed Science Approach (CISA), Freeboard Value Approach (FVA), and 0.2-Percent-Annual-Chance Flood Approach (0.2PFA) according to the process detailed in the FFRMS Policy.   For all FEMA programs and project types, if a state, local, tribal, or territorial government has its own higher elevation standard, FEMA requires use of the higher standard. FEMA program policies also reference additional consensus codes and standards, such as ASCE-24-14, that incorporate additional elevation requirements beyond the base flood elevation. More information about the FFRMS can be found at: https://www.fema.gov/floodplain-management/intergovernmental/federal-flood-risk-management-standard.

FEMA has determined that the only practicable alternative is to fund these mitigation projects as quickly as possible to provide relief to the socioeconomic challenges property owners are experiencing before, during, and after disasters. The three alternatives proposed; as described above, are deemed practicable based on the variables of the property such as existing conditions of structures, topography, property owners’ decision, and other environmental and socioeconomic factors or constraints. The no action alternative has been quickly dismissed due to the need to be proactive and not reactive to multi-hazard threats to property owners in the State of North Carolina.

For the above stated actions, this will be the final public notice from FEMA. Other activities and those involving facilities that do not meet the criteria described above are required to undergo more detailed review including the study of alternative locations. Subsequent project-specific final public notice(s) regarding such projects will be published, if necessary, as more specific information becomes available.

Comments: Interested persons may submit comments, questions, or request a map of this specific project by writing to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Region 4, 3005 Chamblee-Tucker Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, or by emailing FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov. Comments should be sent in writing or email with the subject line “HELENE NC HMA EXPEDITED” at the above addresses within 15 days of the date of this notice.

• Be available for at least 18 months 
• Be located outside the Special Flood Hazard zone 
• Be accessible by road 
• Comply with local zoning codes and regulations 
• Have all utility connections in place: 
  • Electric 
  • Water 
  • Sewer 

Exciting updates are on the way for pickleball enthusiasts in Haywood County! Thanks to a grant-funded partnership between Haywood County and the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center, the pickleball courts renovations at Lake Junaluska are complete! This project, which highlights the growing popularity of pickleball in the area, will also include upgrades to the adjacent public bathrooms, ensuring a top-notch experience for players and spectators alike. 

“Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in our community,” Elli Flagg, Director of Haywood County Parks and Recreation, expressed enthusiasm about the project. “These renovations will not only support our local players but also attract visitors from across the region, further solidifying Haywood County as a recreational destination.” 

This will not impact Lake Junaluska's four tennis courts, which will remain fully available for use. 

Ken Howle, Executive Director of Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, saying, “This is a big deal for our community and the entire Southeast. The upgraded facilities will allow us to host multiday tournaments and camps, bringing significant economic and social benefits to Haywood County.” 

In addition to local play, the enhanced courts are already generating buzz, with tournaments scheduled for May and October 2025.  

“This partnership underscores Haywood County’s commitment to improving recreational opportunities for residents and visitors,” said County Manager Bryant Morehead. “These projects are investments in our community’s health, well-being, and economic vitality.” 

The upgraded courts will also host senior games and pickleball camps, including “how-to” clinics for beginners. When not in use for tournaments or classes, the courts will be open for community use, providing year-round opportunities for recreation and social connection. 

Haywood County and the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center invite residents and visitors to stay tuned for updates on the project and future events.