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News this week is mostly good
The old adage, “No news is good news,” definitely does not apply here at The Sylva Herald, where we rely on community events to make our pages interesting for our subscribers and readers. So while we’re generally forced to adhere to a “all news is good” philosophy, we’re happy when we’re able to report positive developments, and a number of good things have been taking place around the county this week.
– Repaving N.C. 107. We appreciate the Department of Transportation’s efforts to improve Jackson County’s most congested road, and we applaud whoever decided to accomplish the work at night rather than creating a bottleneck during business hours. And DOT gets extra credit for scheduling the paving crews in July when school is not in session
– Expanding operations at Smoky Mountain Biofuels. More locally produced biodiesel means more money that will benefit the local economy in an environmentally friendly way that helps protect air quality throughout our region.
– A new principal at Smoky Mountain High School. Jay Grissom, now a four-year local school system veteran, was first an asset as an SMHS assistant principal. He showed his versatility by next supplying a calming influence and steady hand at the School of Alternatives. He’s a proven commodity, and we have every reason to believe he’ll experience success at SMHS as well.
– Positive news on the public health and safety front. Last week Superior Court Judge Marlene Hyatt upheld the town of Sylva’s ruling that Kirby Ensley’s dilapidated Hospital Road trailer park is a community menace and gave town officials the authority to remove the trailers if Ensley won’t. It is good to see local government taking on the hard challenges that come with enforcing the minimum housing standards and fighting for the rights of those who can’t afford to stand up for themselves.
– Progress on countywide steep-slope and subdivision ordinances. Though no vote was taken July 19, commissioners appear poised to make a decision on Aug. 6 and end the moratorium that’s been in place since March. The draft ordinances look like a good first step toward keeping our county safe, green and beautiful.
– Sylva’s grant from the N.C. Clean Water Management Trust Fund. When all the paperwork is completed, Sylva’s former watershed (now Pinnacle Park) will be protected forever from development, and more than $3 million will flow into town coffers. Did someone say “win-win?”
– The Sylva Central High School Alumni Reunion. This time we definitely saved the best for last. Former Golden Hurricanes from 1927 to 1960 will gather at the Ramsey Center to celebrate old times and old friends. Hats off to all who helped make it happen.
In summary, we have to say that this week’s news isn’t perfect, it’s pretty darn good. And we’re proud to share it with our mountain readers.
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