Catawba County Government News

Catawba County Board of Commissioners November 24 subcommittee meetings cancelled

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Board of Commissioners subcommittee meetings scheduled for Monday, November 24 have been cancelled.

Do you end up gaining weight over the holidays? Learn how to avoid that common problem with Eat Smart, Move More

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Learn good ways to avoid gaining weight during the holidays with Cooperative Extension's Eat Smart, Move More program.

719 acres to be protected along Lake Norman through creation of Catawba County's largest park.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Catawba Lands Conservancy and Catawba County have announced the approval of $2.6 million of funding for the permanent conservation of 719 acres along the shoreline of Lake Norman, Mountain Creek and Terrapin Creek in southeastern Catawba County � a move that will bring permanent watershed protection to the drinking water source of the Charlotte-Metro Region. In an innovative public/private partnership between Catawba County, Catawba Lands Conservancy, Clean Water Management Trust Fund, Duke Energy and Crescent Resources, a complex land protection plan was designed to complete one of the largest conservation projects in the Conservancy�s history, and will create the largest public park in Catawba County.

Agenda for November 17 meeting of the Catawba County Board of Commissioners is available

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The agenda for the next meeting of the Catawba County Board of Commissioners, to begin at 7 p.m. on Monday, November 17, 2008 at the 1924 Courthouse in Newton is now available.

Facing foreclosure? There are state and local resources that can help.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Mon, 3 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The North Carolina Housing Finance Agency and the Western Piedmont Council of Governments are offering some advice on ways to deal with a possible foreclosure action.

Retiring Social Services Director Bobby Boyd honored at reception

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tami Hefner) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Speakers reviewed the many contributions made by Boyd and announced the naming of a Catawba County residential group facility as Boyd Corner House II to honor the significant role he has played in expanding residential services for children in Catawba County.

County Employee Of Year recognized for effort to promote employee health and wellness

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Avajean Wickes was named winner for creating and shepherding a fun and healthy program that was a portion of an overall Catawba County Wellness effort. The �Team Up for Heart Fitness Challenge�, encouraged Catawba County employees to improve their cardiovascular health by forming teams of five people. Individuals choose activities that fit their lifestyle while they join with team members to earn points for exercising. Employees were encouraged to select activity with a moderate-intensity.

Team of staff from Catawba County Social Services, Public Health wins state best practices award

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Early Childhood Support Team of Catawba County Social Services and Public Health, which brings together professionals from different agencies and disciplines to provide educational, health and safety, and clinical services to childcare programs, children ages birth to five years old, and families, has won a Best Practices Award from the North Carolina Association of Social Services Directors. The Team, a Smart Start funded project, is the only program in North Carolina with embers from different agencies and disciplines that work collaboratively to provide educational, health/safety and clinical services to childcare programs, children birth to five years of age and their families.

Catawba County Board of Commissioners accepts study of judicial system processes

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

The report studied the current court process and ways to improve how business is done for the benefit of different judicial offices; the public who are clients; and taxpayers.

Catawba County Library is for preschoolers, too!

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tammy Wilson ) — Wed, 1 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Library System is all about serving patrons, even those who can�t yet read. For several years, Outreach and Bookbaggers programs have provided story times and easy library books for preschoolers. �It�s one of the most important services we offer,� said Lidia Miller, library services specialist at Main Library in Newton. Every Monday, she heads out to at least a couple of local day care centers to read books to youngsters. �This is one way local kids are being introduced to books and getting ready to read,� Miller said.

Catawba County opens adoption process for more than 130 animals confiscated on September 30

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 1 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Animal Services has finalized the details for making dogs, confiscated from a residence southeast of Newton on September 30 after being found in unhealthy and unsanitary conditions, available to the public for adoption. 133 rat terriers that remain in the care of Catawba County Animal Services will be available for the public to adopt beginning Thursday, October 2, 2008 at 9:00 a.m. at the Animal Shelter, located beside and behind the Catawba County Justice Center, off Highway 321 Business (Southwest Boulevard) in Newton. Catawba County Animal Services has agreed to waive all adoption fees for any animal being adopted from Animal Services until further notice. Anyone wishing to make donations to Catawba County Animal Services, to help meet the cost of rescuing the 153 dogs confiscated on September 30, may contact Catawba County Animal Services at 828-465-8228.

Catawba County Tax Administrator announces plans to retire as of January 1, 2009

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

Randy Moose, who has been serving as Catawba County Tax Administrator since April 2001, has announced plans to retire effective January 1, 2009. Moose, who has worked for Catawba County for almost 34 years. As Tax Administrator, Moose supervised all aspects of the County�s Tax Department, including tax collection, the appraisal of all new construction in the county and the County�s in-house property revaluation. He is also responsible for the deed transfer and tax mapping departments. As property changes ownership, it is re-mapped to keep an accurate record of current ownership. Moose pointed to several accomplishments during his time as Tax Administrator that have been significant.

City of Hickory modifies water restrictions, as of September 25, 2008

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Mandy Pitts, CIty of Hickory) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group have recommended that conditions have improved such that water providers may allow two day per week outdoor water use in the Catawba-Wateree River Basin through November 30, 2008, unless conditions worsen and necessitate a change. Hickory is a member of the DMAG, and Hickory, along with communities in the Greater Hickory Metro adhere to the recommendations. The Cities of Hickory, Lenoir, Morganton, Conover and Claremont, and the Towns of Granite Falls, Valdese, Long View and Maiden, as well as customer water systems including water corporations in these areas will continue with their existing water use restrictions. These restrictions are in effect for any customer who receives a utility bill from these systems or systems they provide water to and will be in effect while the Catawba River Basin remains in Stage 3 LIP drought conditions or until drought measures change and public water suppliers feel it prudent to modify the restrictions.

Catawba County Public Health to offer flu shots at two locations beginning in early October

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tracey Paul) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Public Health will offer flu shots at the Health First Center at Valley Hills Mall beginning on Friday, 10/3/08, and at Catawba County Public Health on Monday, 10/6/08. The cost for the flu shot is $24, payable by cash or check only. Medicaid and Medicare Part B insurance will cover flu shots if you provide your card

Retired Congressman, County Commissioner T. Cass Ballenger given County's highest honor, the Catawba County Spirit Award

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Board of Commissioners recently presented its highest honor to T. Cass Ballenger, a retired County Commissioner, state senator and representative, and United States Congressman, with its highest honor...the Catawba County Spirit Award. "Cass Ballenger is known by those who live in Catawba County as a champion for school children, a long-time public servant and a respected business owner," said Board of Commissioners Chair, Kitty Barnes, reading from the proclamation. "He has worked tirelessly to ensure the success of The No Child Left Behind legislation and has made accountability and flexibility in our school systems a lifelong priority. In his roles as a County Commissioner and Congressman, serving in both the North Carolina House and Senate, Cass was an exemplary representative of the people of this County and State. His efforts reached far beyond the borders of the State of North Carolina and the United States in his position as Chair of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee of the House International Relations Committee where he promoted political stability in Latin America. Even after retiring from his congressional seat, Cass continues his education, housing and healthcare efforts in these Third World counties through the Ballenger Foundation."

New feature on County's Animal Services web site allows citizens to post and view information about lost, found animals

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 2 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

A new design for Catawba County�s Animal Services web site features a way for citizens to post details about lost and found animals, and search information others have posted about missing and rescued animals. The addition is just the latest is a series of new features that will be found at the Animal Services web site. �We recently updated our web site to make it easier for people to find the exact information they want and meet their specific needs,� said Jay Blatche, Catawba County�s Animal Services Manager. �We�ve made the page more interactive, especially with the new way to report lost or found animals and look at information about animals that are missing or have been found.� The newest links are prominently featured at the center of the page. Large buttons next to pictures of dogs and cats lead to information about the animals currently available for adoption at the Animal Shelter and to links for reporting, and viewing information about, lost and found pets.

Retired County Commissioner, State Representative Stine Isenhower receives Catawba County Spirit Award.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 2 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Board of Commissioners paused at its meeting on September 2, 2008 to present its highest honor to W. Stine Isenhower, a retired County Commissioner and representative from Catawba County to the North Carolina House of Representatives, with its highest honor...the Catawba County Spirit Award. "Stine Isenhower has long been an established, respected leader in Catawba County," said Kitty Barnes, Chair of the Catawba County Board of Commissioners, reading from the Award proclamation. "The impact of his efforts and commitment to seeking the best for our citizens will be felt by generations to come. Stine has worked tirelessly throughout his life to ensure Catawba County grew, excelled and prospered in all aspects including education, industry, faith and community. His public service, as a County Commissioner for eight years and three terms in the North Carolina House of Representatives, has been selfless and instrumental in achieving equity in funding for all public school children in the County, regardless of the school system attended, as well as implementing county-wide zoning to ensure controlled growth and continuity."

Catawba County names new Social Services Director

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST

John K. Eller, IV, who is currently Director of Social Services in Cabarrus County, North Carolina and has over nine years of experience in social services administration in western and central North Carolina, has been named Catawba County�s next Social Services Director. Eller will succeed Bobby Boyd, who is scheduled to retire on November 1, 2008. Eller will be responsible for overseeing the provision of services to families and children in areas including adult assistance, child care support, day care support, family and children services, food assistance, child abuse prevention, Work First assistance and more. He will supervise a staff of 407 in an agency that has a fiscal year 2008-2009 budget of $42,663,609

Catawba County's Budget Manager, Judy Ikerd, announces plans to retire at end of 2008

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST

Judy Ikerd, who has served as Catawba County�s Budget Manager since 1989 and has worked for the County for nearly twenty-nine years, has announced plans to retire, effective December 31, 2008. Ikerd is recognized by peers and supervisors for her dedication to a very exacting job and her outstanding performance of those duties, even in times when the County was challenged by the loss of significant funding from other levels of government.

Catawba County Pubilc Health names 2008 Credentialed Child Care Centers

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tracey Paul) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Public Health�s Early Childhood Support Team (ECST) staff are recognizing 37 local child care centers that successfully completed all necessary requirements to receive the Catawba County Child Care Health & Safety Credential for 2007-2008. This is the fifth year in which this credentialing program has been offered to child care centers.

Experienced volunteer/state liaison with Red Cross named Catawba County Emergency Management Coordinator

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

As Emergency Management Coordinator, Karyn Yaussy will be responsible for updating and maintaining Catawba County�s Emergency Plans. She will also be a part of the County�s response teams to any naturally occurring emergency or event, as well as events related to human activity, such as those involving hazardous materials. She will be one of several members of the County�s Emergency Services staff involved in public outreach, occasionally speaking to community groups on emergency preparedness topics and will also research grants available from the state and federal governments and submit grant applications for the County for funds that can be used for new equipment and to cover the costs of planning exercises

Catawba County names new Assistant County Manager

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

During an 18 year career in local and state government, Dewey Harris has been a leader in virtually the entire range of governmental services, from administration to budget and finance to emergency services, human services, and technology. He will soon be bringing that experience to Catawba County Government as one of its two Assistant County Managers. Harris, who is presently serving as Interim Assistant City Manager in Wilmington, North Carolina, and has served as Director of Wilmington�s Community Services Department since 2002, has been named one of two Assistant County Managers in Catawba County. He will begin his new duties on August 25, 2008.

Catawba County enters into biodiesel fuel research partnership with Appalachian State University

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

University staff and students will work at a biodiesel fuel testing facility to assist the County in producing biodiesel fuel from its EcoComplex and locally grown crops, and assist emerging biodiesel fuel producers in western North Carolina. A building will be constructed to house the research and the County's White Goods Freon recovery operation.

State rules regarding inspection of wells to change on July 1, 2008

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Ed Rivers) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

State rules regarding well inspections will change on July 1, 2008. Catawba County has had well rules in effect since 2001, so the Environmental Health Division is well positioned to assume the responsibilities required under the new rules. There should be little change for well contractors who have worked in Catawba County since 2001.

State rules to add fee for permits for temporary food establishments, effective July 1, 2008

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Ed Rivers) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

Beginning July 1, 2008, Catawba County Public Health and other local health departments in North Carolina will begin to collect permit fees from vendors who are issued temporary food establishment (TFE) permits at fairs, festivals, carnivals, and similar gatherings. The fee will be $50. Permits will be in effect for the length of the fair, festival or other event, up to 15 days. Previously, these vendors were required to obtain permits, but were charged no fee.

Catawba County Board of Social Services awards three Gretchen Peed Scholarships

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Valerie Huffman) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

In May of this year, three students applied for, and will receive, scholarships from the Gretchen Peed Scholarship Fund. John Mallett, 2008 valedictorian of the Newton-Conover Health Science High School has been accepted to Brigham Young University and will receive $500 toward his tuition. Alescia Caldwell will receive $500 and has been accepted at Pensacola Christian College. Kellie Auton will receive $250 and will be attending Western Piedmont Community College.

Catawba County Director of Social Services Bobby Boyd will retire on November 1, 2008

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Valerie Huffman) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

Bobby Boyd has been recognized on the local, state and national level as a visionary in the field of Social Work. Since 2000, he has steered the agency through a time when the community�s dramatic economic downturn brought about an increased need for the services the agency provides. He's been credited with leading his staff ably through these difficult times in a focused and steady manner, remaining firm in his commitment to efficiency, respect for customers, and commitment to excellence.�

Catawba County Personnel Director announces plans to retire, effective November 1, 2008

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

Debbie Bradley is being recognized and thanked for leading the effort to make the County�s Personnel Office more customer service oriented, playing an important role in helping the entire County government in a renewed emphasis in customer service, creating new programs to promote a healthier workforce, and using new technologies over her tenure so that the Personnel Office works more efficiently and in a more environmentally friendly way.

Catawba County wins two prestigious national awards

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

Two Catawba County programs, one that is developing an EcoComplex in and around the Blackburn Landfill that is turning the landfill into a resource recovery and �green� research facility and one that expedited the process of moving child welfare cases through the court system, have been named winners of 2008 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Awards.

Monday evening story hours are back at the County Library in Newton

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tammy Wilson) — Thu, 5 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

Richard Griffin, Youth Services librarian, will begin weekly story times for young children beginning at 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 9, a time when many working families can visit the library together and enjoy stories with their young children.

Catawba County Board of Commissioners adopt fiscal year 2008-2009 budget

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 5 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

The budget holds the County property tax rate stable at 53.5 cents per $100 of property value, as promised with the passage of the 1/4 cent sales tax. It funds debt payments for the current four year cycle of facility needs for the three public school systems and Catawba Valley Community College; needed water and sewer projects; additional public safety positions in law enforcement, EMS, 911 Communications Center and Animal Services, and the expansion of operating hours at County parks.

Sherrills Ford Fire and Rescue prepares to serve expanded district

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 28 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

Sherrills Ford Fire and Rescue and Catawba County officials have developed plans for Sherrills Ford Fire to serve the entire area of Catawba County previously served by the Denver Fire Department. The plans follow a May 19, 2008 letter, in which Denver Fire Chief James Flynn informed Catawba County that the Denver Fire Department will end a contract to provide fire service to portions of southeastern Catawba County on June 30, 2008. �Public safety and service to our citizens is and always has been our foremost concern,� Weldon said. �With the opening of a new base on Slanting Bridge Road earlier this year, Sherrills Ford Fire and Rescue will provide 1 to 3 minutes faster response times and better fire insurance ratings to the eastern section of the district currently served by the Denver Fire Department. We have continually asked the Denver Fire Department to continue serving the western and central portions of the district at a fire tax rate of 3.89 cents. The response of the Denver Fire Department, thus far, has been to insist on an 8.92 cent fire tax rate. Catawba County cannot justify a doubling of the fire tax rate to our citizens in that area from the present 3.89 cents to an 8.92 cent fire tax rate, nor can Catawba County justify its citizens paying a disproportionate share of the Denver fire budget .�

Catawba County ranks second in North Carolina in recycling, per person

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County rose to second place among North Carolina counties in the amount of material recycled, per person, during fiscal year 2007, according to data just released by the North Carolina Division of Waste Management. The first county in the state to offer curbside recycling countywide back in 1991, Catawba has consistently ranked in the top five statewide in recycling since that date. Now, in part due to an innovative EcoComplex that is turning the County�s Blackburn Landfill into a resource recovery facility, Catawba County�s per capita recovery of recyclable material has risen significantly. Dare County continues to lead the state in recycling, with 941.63 pounds of material recovered, per person, in fiscal year 2007. Catawba County reported 713.89 pounds recovered, per person, substantially higher than the 475.64 pounds recovered in fiscal year 2006, when Catawba ranked third in the state. Camden County ranked third for 2007 with 426.73 pounds recovered, followed by Buncombe County with 422.80 pounds recovered and Pitt County with 415.54 pounds recovered.

Catawba County Animal Shelter to expand hours of operations beginning May 28

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Animal Shelter will expand its operating hours, beginning on May 28, 2008. The shelter will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays and from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturdays, to give more citizens convenient times to visit the shelter and consider the adoption of animals.

Customers of the Catawba County Library System give the library high marks

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tammy Wilson) — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Area residents are pleased with the Catawba County Library System, according to a recent customer service survey. Results from the annual poll show that virtually all of the 813 patrons who took the survey rated the library service as good or excellent. The high marks reflect an ongoing perception of the County system as evidenced in surveys for about 16 years. The survey allows the library to gather formal responses from patrons from mid-February to mid-March.

Friends Of The Library groups welcome donations of used books and audio/visual materials in good condition.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tammy Wilson) — Thu, 3 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Spring cleaning? Don�t forget the library! Friends groups associated with Catawba County Library System welcome used books as well as audio/visual materials in good condition. Those include CDs and DVDs as well as audio or videotapes. A few titles may be added to the library collection as appropriate, but most will benefit books sales conducted by Friends of the Library. Proceeds from those efforts support such projects as author visits, children�s workshops and purchase of library materials.

Catawba County completes transition to use of lethal injection in most cases when an animal must be euthanized

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County�s Animal Care and Control Division has completed a transition to the use of lethal injections for the majority of cases when the Animal Shelter must euthanize an animal. The County made this transition as of February 4, 2008, prior to a decision by the North Carolina Board of Agriculture on February 13 that will set standards for the use of carbon monoxide gas chambers, but did not call for the discontinuation of the use of gas chambers by 2012 as had been anticipated. County officials have been planning for several months for the transition from the use of a gas chamber to lethal injection, which has been recognized as a more humane method for euthanizing animals. Staff in the County�s Animal Care and Control Division will use carbon monoxide gas only in cases where the health and safety of staff would be threatened by direct contact with an animal.

State wide burning ban is in effect across all of Catawba County. All outdoor burning is currently prohibited

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST

All outdoor burning is currently banned in Catawba County, following a new outdoor burning ban put in place across the State of North Carolina by Governor Michael Easley on February 14. The ban enacted by the state prohibits outdoor burning in all areas other than within 100 feet of a dwelling. Catawba County Fire Marshal David Pruitt has the authority, as do all fire marshals across the state, to extend the ban to within 100 feet of a dwelling. Because of the continuing drought conditions in our area, Pruitt has declared a ban on all outdoor burning in Catawba County. �After talking with local Forestry Services officials, I have concluded that the safest decision is to enact a total burning ban in Catawba County,� Pruitt said. �Even though we have received more rainfall since December than we got last fall, our area is already two inches behind average for rainfall in 2008. The decision to enact the local option for the fullest burning ban means there is to be no outdoor burning at all until the Governor cancels the current statewide ban.� Pruitt said the ban is unlikely to be lifted until the area receives significant rainfall. Citizens can help keep Catawba County safe by watching for hazardous fire situations and calling if 9-1-1 if dangerous conditions exist. Pruitt says another good safety measure is to avoid keeping lit cigarettes inside vehicles.

Catawba County Budget Staff wins nineteenth consecutive Distinguished Budget Presentation Award

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 5 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST

For the nineteenth straight year, Catawba County�s Budget Office has been recognized by its peers for producing a budget document which is easy to read and understand. The County Budget Office has won the 2007 Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). Budget Manager Judy Ikerd and Budget Analysts Jennifer Mace and Katrina Hawkins were presented with the honor at the February 4, 2008 meeting of the Catawba County Board of Commissioners.

Catawba County Library System names Youth Services Librarian

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tammy Wilson) — Mon, 4 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Library System has named a new Youth Services Librarian. Richard Griffin, Jr. of Hickory, who recently earned a Masters Degree in Library Science, will be involved with community outreach and programming for children and youth through age 18, and assist with posting youth information on the library's website.

Veteran in Animal Services in Guilford County and US Coast Guard, is named new Catawba County Animal Services Manager

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 00:00:00 EST

John Blatche, who has served as Chief of Animal Control in Guilford County, North Carolina for the last three years and worked in animal services in the United States Coast Guard, will soon be bringing his experience to Catawba County. Blatche has been named Catawba County�s new Animal Services Manager. He will begin his new duties on January 2, 2008. Blatche will oversee the services provided by Catawba County Animal Services which, under the Catawba County Code and North Carolina law, are to define and prohibit the abuse of animals; protect citizens and other animals from rabies transmitted by unconfined, uncontrolled or unvaccinated dogs, cats or other animals; regulate animals that may be a nuisance; and regulate, restrict or prohibit the keeping of wild or exotic animals. He will supervise a staff of eight.

Immunization Audit finds 90% of Catawba County child care centers in full compliance with law

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Maria Reese) — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Public Health is recognizing all child care centers that are 100% in compliance with immunization laws. "Based on the results of our 2007 Immunization Audit, 90% of childcare centers are in full or 100% compliance, an impressive achievement,� said Catawba County Public Health Director, Doug Urland. A list of the centers that are 100% in compliance is now available at www.catawbacountync.gov.

Annual Financial Report shows County remains in sound financial condition

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County�s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year that ended on June 30, 2007 shows the County continued to deliver services in a sound fiscal manner. Paula Hodges, a partner of Martin Starnes & Associates, CPAs, P.A., told the Catawba County Board of Commissioners� that the County is in "good financial condition" at the Board�s meeting on December 17. Hodges said the County received a �clean� audit opinion for this fiscal year and that their firm was pleased with the County�s internal control structure.

Board of Commissioners approves Parks Master Plan

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Board of Commissioners has approved a Parks Master Plan, which will guide the County in future development of its parks system and programs. The plan follows two years of study and public outreach by a Parks Focus Group, comprised of a cross-section of citizens from different backgrounds and geographic areas of the county.

Area livestock & agriculture agent Jeff Carpenter wins 2007 Outstanding Contributor to Agriculture Award

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 00:00:00 EST

Jeff Carpenter, a North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service Agent who specializes in livestock and agriculture, was recently named winner of the Catawba County Outstanding Contributor To Agriculture Award. Carpenter, whose basic responsibilities include providing assistance and educational programs on beef cattle, sheep, horses and 4-H livestock in Catawba, Lincoln and Gaston counties, received the award at the annual Farm-City Week banquet. The award is sponsored by the Hickory Kiwanis Club. Carpenter was praised by several persons who nominated him for his outstanding service, including assistance to young persons in the 4-H program. He was especially noted for working to help area beef and dairy farmers face the exceptional drought conditions currently in the southeast region of the United States.

Duke Energy revises estimate on possible Stage 4 drought conditions...now says stage 4 may occur by end of February 2008

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Duke Energy) — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 00:00:00 EST

Due to cooler temperatures, lower evaporation rates and conservation efforts, Stage 4 drought triggers have been delayed. Previous estimates indicated the triggers would be met between mid December 2007 and mid January 2008. Now those triggers are not expected until sometime in February. Stage 4 does not mean the remaining supply of water in the basin is depleted. Rather, tougher water restrictions will be needed at that time.

Catawba County Public Health offers vaccine to prevent shingles

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Maria Reese) — Mon, 5 Nov 2007 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Public Health announces the availability of the Zostavax vaccine for the public. Zostavax is used for adults 60 years of age or older to prevent shingles (also known as zoster). At least 1 million people a year in the United States get shingles, most commonly in people over 60 years of age. Zostavax works by helping the immune system protect a person from getting shingles, and the associated pain and other serious complications.
Shingles is a rash that is usually on one side of the body. The rash usually lasts up to 30 days. In some cases, person receiving the Zostavax vaccine may still have singles; however, Zostavax may help prevent the nerve pain that can follow shingles in some people.

Catawba County E-News wins second prestigious national award for 2007

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County E-News, a twice monthly e-mail newsletter with information about Catawba County and the Catawba County Board of Commissioners, has won a 2007 Silver Circle Award from the City-County Communications and Marketing Association (3CMA). Catawba County E-News was named the second best e-newsletter in the U.S., among cities and counties with a population of 1.4 million and fewer people. The e-newsletter also won an Award of Excellence from the National Association of County Information Officers earlier in 2007.
Anyone interested in receiving the twice-monthly newsletter by e-mail may subscribe at the County's web site at www.catawbacountync.gov. Those interested in subscribing should look for a link labeled "Subscribe To Our Newsletter" on the right hand side of the page.

Catawba County Public Health following new State rules on inspection of restaurants, food serving establishments

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Maria Reese) — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Public Health is focusing its restaurant and food service establishment inspections on those establishments with the highest potential risk, and those with violations more likely to contribute to food-borne illness, following a recent change in the State�s rules governing the sanitation of food service establishments.
Local health departments began assessing facilities using the new process, which changes the frequency of inspections, on August 1, 2007. Each food service establishment will be evaluated and assigned a risk category, developed by the North Carolina Division of Environmental Health's Food Protection Branch, and based on the type of food and amount of food preparation conducted in the facility. Those in the highest category will be inspected more frequently.

Catawba County Library is a county wide learning resource.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tammy Wilson) — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST

What�s worth over $5.7 million and free to all Catawba County residents?
If you guessed the collection of Catawba County Library, you�re correct.
The library system, founded more than 75 years ago in Newton, serves the lion's share of the county's residents with seven locations. Officially, the system has some 64,500 registered borrowers�or 58% of the estimated 112,000 people living outside Hickory. These borrowers may check out books, magazines, videos or CDs at one of seven locations: Main Library in Newton, Conover, Claremont, Maiden, Sherrills Ford, Southwest or St. Stephens branches. Patrons may also download materials from the library website, http://www.catawbacountync.gov/library/.

First site in Hickory Metro Foreign Trade zone is established

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST

The first site in a Hickory Metro Foreign Trade Zone has been established. The zone sites in Catawba, Alexander, Burke and Caldwell Counties are expected to make the region more competitive in attracting new businesses.

Catawba County Public Health names Health Services Manager

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tracey Paul) — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST

Jennifer McCracken, RN, BSN, who has nine years of experience in program administration and mid-level management at Catawba County Public Health, has been named the department�s new Health Services Manager. She is responsible for overseeing all clinical and community health services including: WIC, Adult Health, Prenatal, Post Partum Newborn Home Visiting Program, Translator services, Maternity Care Coordination, Child Service Coordination, Immunization program, Dental Health Education, Health Check, School Health, Early Childhood Support Team, School Health, Adolescent Health, and Child Health programs. Other duties include project management, budgetary planning, clinic marketing, clinic management, implementing changes in standards and procedures and recommending budgetary and personnel changes.

Surveys show the Catawba County Library continues to earn high marks from customers.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tammy Wilson) — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 00:00:00 EST

Patrons of Catawba County Library continue to give the system high marks when it comes to customer service. The annual survey conducted earlier this year shows 95% of respondents rated the county library as good to excellent as they have for the past 15 years or so. The survey is one way the library gathers formal responses from residents.

Catawba County Economic Development Corporation launches Existing Industry Helpweb

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Fri, 3 Aug 2007 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Economic Development Corporation has created an Existing Industry Helpweb, to assist existing industries in solving "business headaches", so they can concentrate on their processes.

Catawba County Public Health tests system for mass distribution of medication

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Maria Reese) — Mon, 2 Jul 2007 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Public Health Department was the host agency for a North Carolina Public Health Preparedness and Response Mass Dispensing Exercise on June 20th at the Hickory American Legion Fairgrounds. The United States Department of Health and Human Services, via a directive from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, requires every local public health agency to have a plan for dispensing medications to the public and to test the plan. In an emergency situation, medications would be dispensed to the public for the purpose of preventing and treating disease. Over 100 participants and volunteers drove golf carts to exercise the dispensing of medications to the general public in a �drive through� format.

Hours at Conover Branch of the County Library to expand

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 00:00:00 EST

Business hours for the Conover Branch of the Catawba County Library will be adjusted beginning July 1 to better serve customers' needs. The branch will be open from 9 am to 6 pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and from noon to 8 pm on Tuesdays. Sunday hours remain from 2-6 pm. The facility is closed on Fridays, Saturdays and county holidays.

Catawba County dedicates Public Safety Officers Memorial

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County has dedicated a Public Safety Officers Memorial, to honor those who gave their lives in the line of duty in law enforcement, firefighting, emergency medical service and rescue.

Subscribe now to receive notice of emergencies by phone, e-mail, text message

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Government is finalizing installation of a Community Alert System (CAS) that will be used to inform citizens about emergencies, by phone, e-mail and/or text messages. The system is expected to be in operation in July. County officials are encouraging citizens who wish to receive these emergency notifications to be sure their phone numbers and e-mail addresses are in the system, because cell phones are not automatically included in the phone data base the County acquired for the system. You may sign up for the system at www.catawbacountync.gov.

Catawba County moves up in State recycling rankings

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 22 May 2007 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County has moved up in State rankings of the amount of material being recycled, per person! Catawba now ranks third among the 100 North Carolina counties and was singled out for recognition by the State, in part for its planning for a new Eco Complex. Congratulations to all Catawba County citizens and businesses who are recycling!

Chamber of Commerce launches web site for persons thinking of moving to Catawba County

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Fri, 11 May 2007 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Chamber of Commerce has created a new web site with information designed for persons thinking of relocating to Catawba County. The web site's address is http://www.catawbalivingroom.com.

Catawba County Sheriff's Office offers citizens opportunity to sign up for free wireless Amber Alert notifications

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Sheriff's Office has added a page to its web site through which citizens may subscribe to receive wireless Amber Alert notifications. Information regarding Amber Alerts, which have helped to safely recover more than 300 children by distributing information about missing and possibly abducted children nationwide, will be sent as text messages to cell phones of those who sign up.

Are you prepared to face a disaster or an extended emergency?

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 3 Oct 2006 00:00:00 EST

Being prepared for a disaster is still very much about being ready for flooding, ice storms or other kinds of natural disaster. But it's now about much more, including being prepared for the rare possibility of a flu pandemic that has been so much reported in the news in recent months. The Catawba County Health Department has provided some information on how to be better prepared for this type of situation.