Now or never

Fontana Dam – In a nearly two-hour council meeting Jan. 17, Fontana Dam’s woes bubbled to the surface, much like the town’s operator in responsible charge hopes a lingering water leak will soon do. Pure and simple, the smallest municipality in North Carolina has drifted into dangerous waters.

‘It’s about the people’

Robbinsville – Becky Garland’s successor has dove in with both feet, accepting the role of Graham County Finance Officer just as budget season kicked off.

‘I want to end my career well’

Robbinsville – Under Becky Garland’s watch, Graham County’s financial woes did a 180-degree turnaround. When Garland accepted the role as the county’s finance officer in 2009, there was $1.9 million in the bank – and just $1 million of that could be used as needed (unrestricted funds).

Commissioner seeks fire-station funding

Robbinsville – Considering that two fire chiefs serve on the five-member Graham County Board of Commissioners, you might not know it from the condition of the county’s fleet of fire engines.

County manager resigning

Robbinsville – After four years on the job, Becky Garland is transitioning out of her role as Graham County’s manager. Garland informed the board of commissioners of her exit during closed session Jan.