Tag Archive for: #vancecountynews

The Local Skinny! Curtis McRae Ends House District 32 Campaign

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In light of Curtis McRae’s recent announcement that he is withdrawing from the House District 32 race, Vance and Granville County Democratic leaders are planning meetings this week to discuss possible replacements in the upcoming election.

“Recent personal health challenges have made it clear that I need to focus my time and energy on my health and my family,” McCrae said in a statement on Friday. “I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported this campaign, volunteered, donated, offered encouragement, or simply believed in our vision for the district.”

Vance County Democratic Party Chairperson Angela Thornton told WIZS News Monday that representatives from the two counties that comprise House District 32 will meet this week – most likely several times – to determine a replacement.

“The committee will meet and discuss appointing a replacement for (Mr. McRae),” Thornton said.

“It’s too late in the election cycle for a candidate to say ‘I want to run for this seat,’” Thornton explained. The committee – three representatives from Granville County and two representatives from Vance County – will appoint a replacement and will inform the House Caucus of its decision before an announcement is made.

The counties’ representatives have not met yet, but plan to this week, she said.

The seat is currently held by Democrat Bryan Cohn, who announced that he would not seek re-election. McRae defeated Melissa Elliott in the March primary. The Democratic replacement will face Republican challenger Frank Sossamon, who held the seat before being beaten by Cohn in the last election.

When asked Monday about whether he was reconsidering his decision, Cohn told WIZS Monday that he’s “evaluating that now.” Elliott told WIZS that she has “inquired about the process” of being considered by the local committee for consideration as a replacement candidate.

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Faith In Mental Health Initiative Plans Programs For Vance, Granville Churches

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The Faith in Mental Health initiative has two free events coming up in June to share information with churches about ways to support a faith-informed approach to mental health and addiction programs.

The “Faith-informed Responses to Youth Mental Health and Well Being” takes place on Monday, June 15 from 6 p.m.to 8 p.m. in the Maria Parham Health auditorium, 566 Ruin Creek Rd.

It’s open to any church in Vance and Granville counties, said Karl Johnson, program coordinator. There will be a youth panel and presentations from youth-oriented organization, as well as presentations from behavioral health specialists and community leaders.

Food will be provided.

The second event is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23 at Cornerstone Christian Community Church in Oxford.  This event is an in-person webinar screening featuring Dr.Andrea Clements a professor of psychology at East Tennessee State University and author of The Trauma Informed Church: Walking With Others toward Flourishing.

The presentation will provide participants with a better understanding about caring for those with addiction and mental health struggles through a trauma-informed approach.

Cornerstone Christian Community Church is located at 3237 Knotts Grove Rd., Oxford.

Refreshments will be provided.

Contact Johnson at kjohnson@gvph.org or call him at 616.298.5626.

TownTalk: Around Old Granville – The Ingleside Community

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Most anyone traveling the stretch of N.C. 39 between Henderson and Louisburg probably passes through the unincorporated community of Ingleside with little fanfare, but this general area holds on to some interesting history since it was first established in the decades before the Civil War.

Leave it to local history sleuths Bill Harris and Mark Pace to come up with some tidbits worthy of mention about this northern Franklin County crossroads in the most recent segment of Around Old Granville.

Ingleside was originally known as Macon, Pace said. There was a post office there from 1830-1834, but perhaps to avoid confusion with the other Macon post office in what is now Warren County, the name was changed to Ingleside and remained open until August 1907.

That may have been the reason to change the name, but why was the name Ingleside chosen? Well, there was a home with that name in the vicinity at the time owned by the Littlejohn family from Granville County. It was located about a half mile from the present-day intersection of N.C. 39 and U.S. 401.

It had a similar fate of many other homes of that period – it burned in the 1920’s.

Another home called Monreath is located near Ingleside. This home was built in the late 1770’s and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

There’s also Locust Grove, Harris said, which is a great example of Georgian-style architecture that dates possibly from the 1760’s. Although there’s some speculation that the home has been moved from its original location, not everyone’s on board with that theory. Some point to the discovery of Roman numerals notched on the home’s structural beams as evidence that the house had been disassembled – the numerals would have indicated how the house would be put back together.

“That’s a big house to move, back in the day – and a long ways,” Pace said. Regardless, the home certainly has been around since at least 1790 and was originally owned by Thomas Bell.

“It’s an absolutely gorgeous, gorgeous house,” Harris said.

The property eventually was sold to John Haywood, who served as the state’s treasurer from 1787 until he died in 1827. It was sold to Peter Foster of Gloucester County, VA., one of Harris’s ancestors.

Locust Grove provided room and board to some students of nearby Mt. Welcome Academy in the early 1800’s. According to an 1828 ad, students could stay for $36 a session.

A grandson of Peter Foster was Fenton Garland Foster, an inventor who is credited with a typesetting machine that basically is the forerunner of the typewriter.

Foster had a falling-out with his grandmother, and she kicked him out of the house for not paying rent. He moved to Connecticut and got in on the ground floor with a newish company called Sperry Rand and ended up losing the rights to all his patents.

There are a few more homes in the general area with names that end in Grove – there’s Maple Grove, Elm Grove and Oak Grove, the name of the home where Harris lives.

Oak Grove was built by a son of Peter Foster, Dr. Peter Stapleton Foster. The good doc, born in 1823, built the home in the 1850’s, Harris said. And the house has stayed in the family since its construction.

It is scheduled for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places, fingers crossed, by next week, the proud owner stated.

Just down the road from Oak Grove is Traveler’s Rest, a tiny building that, as the name implied, offered respite from the road for stagecoach passengers.

“It’s one of the most iconic structures” in the area, Pace said.

Right near Ingleside is Rocky Ford, where a structure known simply as the “little stone house” or the “little rock house” stands.

They don’t know much about its history, but there are some theories floating around that it could have been a place where people would have taken refuge if they feared trouble from the Native Americans living close. Another theory has it being a mental institution.

It’s left experts and architectural survey professionals stumped, Pace said. “Nobody really knows what it was used for…it’s just an enigma.”

There’s a lot more to learn about Ingleside and the surrounding area – listen back to the complete conversation on Thursday’s Around Old Granville segment of TownTalk.

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VCS ‘Educators Of Excellence’ Celebration Recognizes Teachers, Administrators

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— Information courtesy of Vance County Schools

Vance County Schools honored outstanding educators and school leaders during its annual Educators of Excellence Celebration on Tuesday, June 2 at the Henderson Country Club.

The event recognized each school’s Teacher of the Year and Beginning Teacher of the Year, while also celebrating nominees for Principal of the Year and Assistant Principal of the Year. These educators and administrators exemplify dedication, innovation, and excellence in serving students across the district.

“We are honored to recognize the incredible work taking place in our schools each day,” said Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett. “Our students deserve the absolute best education and these accomplished educators and administrators inspire students, support colleagues, and prepare our students for success.”

VCS recognized Zeb Vance Elementary’s Grant Hairston as Teacher of the Year and Aycock Elementary’s Kevon Allen as District Beginning Teacher of the Year. Kristen Boyd, principal at E.O. Young Elementary was selected for Principal of the Year honors and Razvan Tegean of L.B. Yancey Elementary was selected as Assistant Principal of the Year.

The following educators were recognized as Teacher of the Year for their respective schools:

Advance Academy – Sheila Taylor

Aycock Elementary – Tracey Fontanet

Carver Elementary – Marinda Daye

Clarke Elementary – Venessa Lofters

Dabney Elementary – Tyreka Ward

Kelvin Henderson, E.M. Rollins STEAM Academy

E.O. Young Elementary – Emily Hunsinger

L.B. Yancey Elementary – Jamie Chin

New Hope Elementary – Jasmine Rogers

Pinkston Street Elementary – Marlou Fabruada

STEM Early High – Roanna Evans

Vance County Early College – Vicki Ann Fullwood-Barrett

Vance County High – Selvaraj Arulappan

Vance County Middle – Tashalie Nelson-Sleugh

Vance Virtual Village Academy – Angela Foster

Zeb Vance Elementary – Grant Hairston

Beginning Teacher of the Year honorees, by school, are:

Advance Academy – Gay Charisse Beran

Aycock Elementary – Kevon Allen

Carver Elementary – Kayla Boyd

Clarke Elementary – Sarah Pelos

Dabney Elementary – Nichole Campbell Gordon

E.M. Rollins STEAM Academy – David Rincon

E.O. Young Elementary – Chrystal Primiano

L.B. Yancey Elementary – Doris Gomez

New Hope Elementary – Angel Gilchrist

Pinkston Street Elementary – Deborah Hawley

STEM Early High – Alexandra DeGuzman

Vance County Early College – Ashley Bolling

Vance County High – Ronique Golding

Vance County Middle – Garnet Brooks

Zeb Vance Elementary – Kiangi Hill

The district recognized the following Principal of the Year nominees: Dr. Shannon Bullock (Vance County Middle School), Kristen Boyd (E.O. Young Elementary School) and Jessica Austin (STEM Early High School).

Assistant Principal of the Year nominees included Chabre’ Phillips (Aycock Elementary School), Sharita Jones (Carver Elementary School), David Cooper, Jr. (E.O. Young Elementary School), and Razvan Tegean (L.B. Yancey Elementary School).

Following is more information about each of the award recipients:

From left: Kevon Allen, Kristin Boyd, Razvan Tegean and Grant Hairston

Grant Hairston – Vance County Schools Teacher of the Year

Grant Hairston has a passion and dedication that define exceptional teaching. A graduate of East Carolina University with a Bachelor of Science in Science Education, Hairston has spent the past 10 years inspiring students through engaging, hands-on learning experiences, including seven years serving the students of Vance County Schools at Zeb Vance Elementary School.

As a fifth-grade Science and Math teacher, Hairston is known for creating a classroom environment where curiosity thrives and learning becomes an adventure. He encourages students to ask questions, explore the world around them, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. His teaching philosophy centers on learning alongside students, modeling curiosity, problem-solving, and a lifelong love of discovery.

His commitment to education extends beyond the classroom. International experiences studying education and culture in Korea and serving as an instructional leader in South Africa have broadened Hairston’s perspective and strengthened his belief in the power of education to connect people, expand horizons, and create meaningful opportunities for students. He brings these global insights back to his classroom, enriching learning experiences and helping students see themselves as part of a larger world. Hairston finds joy in helping students build confidence, develop new skills, and discover their potential, celebrating each “lightbulb moment” that sparks a lifelong love of learning.

As the 2026–2027 Vance County Schools Teacher of the Year, Hairston represents the very best of the teaching profession as an educator whose enthusiasm, innovation, and unwavering commitment to students make a lasting impact on the lives of children and the future of our community.

Kevon Allen – Vance County Schools Beginning Teacher of the Year

Kevon Allen’s dedication and heart define him as an outstanding educator. A graduate of St. Joseph’s Teachers College with a Bachelor of Education in Primary Education, Allen has quickly distinguished himself as a talented educator and leader during his first year at Aycock Elementary School, where he teaches fourth-grade Mathematics.

Although education was not his original career aspiration, Allen believes teaching became his calling. Since entering the profession, he has embraced the opportunity to shape young lives, exceed expectations, and help develop future leaders. He approaches each day with the mindset of a lifelong learner, understanding that education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives and opening doors for students.

Allen is known for building relationships with his students and creating a classroom environment where every child feels valued, supported, and capable of success. He believes that teaching extends far beyond academics and that the lasting impact of an educator is found in the encouragement, confidence, and sense of belonging they provide. His students are inspired by his unwavering belief in their potential and his commitment to helping them move from “I can’t” to “I can.”

As the 2026–2027 Vance County Schools Beginning Teacher of the Year, Allen represents the promise and potential of the next generation of educators. His passion for

student success, commitment to relationship-building, and dedication to fostering a positive learning environment make him a deserving recipient of this honor and a bright example of excellence in education.

Kristen Boyd – Vance County Schools Principal of the Year

Kristen Boyd’s educational journey is a testament to dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to Vance County Schools. A proud graduate of East Carolina University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and North Carolina State University with a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership, Boyd has devoted her entire 25-year career to serving the students, staff, and families of Vance County.

She began her career in 2001 as a second- and third-grade teacher at Aycock Elementary School, where her passion for student success and instructional excellence quickly distinguished her as a leader among her peers. After serving as assistant principal from 2007 to 2014, she served as principal of Aycock Elementary from 2014-2024 and in 2024, was named Principal of E.O. Young Elementary where she continues to inspire excellence and innovation.

Throughout her career, Boyd has been recognized for her exceptional leadership and commitment to continuous improvement. Her honors include Aycock Teacher of the Year in 2006, Superintendent’s Leadership Award, Disruptive Innovator Award, Vanceformation Award, and 2017-2018 VCS Principal of the Year. She has also participated in numerous leadership development programs, including Future Ready Leadership, Leadership Vance, NC Leaders in Personalized and Digital Learning, and Opportunity Culture Fellowship.

Known for her visionary leadership, strong relationships, and relentless focus on student achievement, Boyd has made a lasting impact on Aycock Elementary and the entire Vance County Schools community. As the 2026–2027 Vance County Schools Principal of the Year, she exemplifies the very best of educational leadership and the profound difference one dedicated educator can make in the lives of students and colleagues alike.

Razvan Tegean – Vance County Schools Assistant Principal of the Year

Razvan Tegean exemplifies the leadership, dedication, and student-centered focus that define exceptional school administrators. He is a graduate of Babes-Bolyai University in Romania with a degree in K-12 Physical Education and High Point University with a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership. As the assistant principal at L.B. Yancey Elementary School, Mr. Tegean is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where every student feels safe, valued, and empowered to reach their highest potential.

An advocate for student achievement, Tegean’s hands-on approach to leadership is evident through his work supporting diverse student populations, strengthening intervention efforts, and providing instructional support to both students and teachers. Through innovative initiatives and targeted academic support, he has helped drive measurable gains in student performance while ensuring every child has access to opportunities for success.

Tegean is deeply invested in the professional growth of educators. Through classroom visits, coaching conversations, walkthroughs, and actionable feedback, he supports teachers in refining their practice and continuously improving outcomes for students. His commitment to collaboration and professional learning helps build leadership capacity throughout the school and strengthens a culture of excellence.

Known for his unwavering commitment to students and ability to inspire those around him, Tegean has made a lasting impact on L.B. Yancey Elementary and the broader Vance County Schools community. As the 2026–2027 Vance County Schools Assistant Principal of the Year, he exemplifies the power of building relationships, supporting growth, and creating opportunities for success for every student and educator.

The Educators of Excellence Celebration highlights the commitment and impact of educators across Vance County Schools and serves as an opportunity for the district and community to celebrate those who make a difference in the lives of students each day.

For more information about Vance County Schools, visit the district website or follow Vance County Schools on social media.

VGCC Foundation’s $5M ‘Building Futures Campaign’ Well On Its Way To Goal

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The Vance-Granville Community College Foundation’s $5 million fundraising campaign is well on its way, with more than $1 million raised since the campaign kicked off in March.

Building Futures: Empowering Students, Strengthening Communities is a 10-month campaign to raise money to address a funding deficit and ensure the successful completion of two transformational workforce training facilities, namely the Center for Advanced Manufacturing & Applied Technology (CAMAT) and the Transportation Training & Technology Center (TTTC).

The $1,051,000 in philanthropic support demonstrates strong early momentum, donor confidence, and measurable community impact, according to school officials.

Building Futures represents a high-impact workforce development initiative, advancing economic mobility and career pathways for students across Vance, Granville, Franklin, and Warren counties.

While state funding and grants have supported both facilities, increased construction costs have created a funding shortfall. The Building Futures fundraising plan seeks to raise $5 million in transformational philanthropic investment to ensure both facilities open fully equipped with modern technology and industry-grade training equipment.

This investment directly supports student success, workforce readiness, and long-term regional economic growth, while strengthening the talent pipeline for high-demand industries.

The Center for Advanced Manufacturing & Applied Technology will serve as a state-of-the-art training center designed to prepare students for high-demand, high-wage careers in welding, mechatronics, electrical systems, and HVAC.

This facility will expand access to quality jobs, industry-recognized credentials, and upward economic mobility, while supporting employers seeking a highly skilled workforce.

The Transportation Training & Technology Center will expand and modernize instruction in CDL-A and B, heavy equipment operations, and diesel and heavy equipment mechanics.

This facility addresses critical workforce shortages while providing hands-on, career-connected learning opportunities that lead directly to employment and family-sustaining wages.

Together, these two facilities represent a transformative investment in community impact, workforce innovation, and economic development. By aligning education with industry demand, VGCC is advancing scalable workforce solutions, employer partnerships, and student-centered outcomes that strengthen communities and regional competitiveness.

The Building Futures initiative reflects a commitment to evidence-based impact, measurable outcomes, and expanding opportunity at scale—key priorities for national philanthropic leaders investing in systemic change.

Individuals, families, corporations, and philanthropic organizations are invited to participate in the Building Futures initiative through a variety of major gift and naming opportunities. Donors may choose to name classrooms, labs, and more.

For more information about supporting workforce training, transformational giving opportunities, philanthropic partnerships, or community impact investments, please contact the VGCC Foundation at foundation@vgcc.edu or 252.738.3264 or visit www.vgcc.edu/building-futures.

Franklin County Hosts 5-County Beef Tour On June 12

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Franklin County is hosting the 2026 5-County BEEF Tour on Tuesday, June 16. Participants will carpool to three innovative beef cattle farms, both large and small, that are participating in the Southeastern US Regenerative Agriculture Project, according to information from Matthew Place of the Franklin County Center of N.C. Cooperative Extension.

There will be lots of networking, but also use of new technology for the cattle producer, demonstrations (grazing forages, rainfall simulator), and expert insights designed to help your farm thrive.

Participants will hear about the latest in agricultural tech and management strategies, including:

  • Nutritional Efficiency: Learn how to maximize your herd’s performance while managing costs. Grazing efficiency using the “grazing forage stick”, one free per family.
  • Forage & Drones: See how drone technology is changing the game for pasture management, heat checks, etc. See a live demonstration using the forage rainfall simulator.
  • Virtual Fencing: Explore the future of grazing without the wire.
  • Trade Show during lunch: new Hay Equipment, Seed companies, “No Fence” company, Farm Conservation and more.
  • Lunch speaker: Regenerative Agriculture and Programs Available.

Registration is required and the $30 fee includes lunch. The deadline to register is Friday, June 12.
Register at go.ncsu.edu/2026-5-county-beef-tour

For more information, contact Franklin County Center, 919.496.3344, Agricultural Extension Agent Martha Mobley or the Sampson County Center, 910.592.7161, Agricultural Extension Agent Paul Gonzalez.

The link to the tour brochure is Brochure & Tour Map.

 

 

 

Sheriff: Two Arrested In Connection With May 23 Death; Two Others Still Being Sought

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— From Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame

The Vance County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into a homicide that occurred during the early morning hours of May 23, 2026.

At approximately 3:14 a.m., deputies with the Vance County Sheriff’s Office responded to 457 Lemay Lane in reference to a reported gunshot victim. Upon arrival, deputies located 33-year-old James Boggs of Henderson suffering from a gunshot wound. Boggs was pronounced deceased at the scene.

During the course of the investigation, a 17-year-old juvenile was identified as a suspect in the homicide. On May 28, 2026, investigators with the Vance County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division arrested and charged the juvenile with First-Degree Murder.

Additionally, investigators determined that several individuals residing at 457 Lemay Lane allegedly assisted the suspect following the homicide. As a result, the following individuals were charged with Accessory After the Fact to First-Degree Murder:

  • Jerry Lemay, Jr., 35, of Henderson
  • Tyra Wilson, 34, of Henderson
  • Jedarious Lemay, 23, of Henderson
  • Crystal Johnson, 35, of Henderson

As of the issuance of this press release, Jerry Lemay, Jr. and Tyra Wilson have been taken into custody. Lemay received a $250,000 secured bond. Wilson received a $256,200 secured bond, which includes the Accessory After the Fact charge as well as additional outstanding warrants that were served upon her arrest.

The Vance County Sheriff’s Office is actively seeking the whereabouts of Jedarious Lemay and Crystal Johnson. Anyone with information regarding their location is encouraged to contact law enforcement immediately.

“This case demonstrates the commitment of our investigators and law enforcement partners to ensuring that those responsible for violent crimes, as well as those who attempt to hinder investigations, are held accountable,” said Sheriff Curtis Brame. “We remain committed to seeking justice for James Boggs and his family while ensuring the safety of our community.”

The Vance County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, continues to actively investigate this incident.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the Vance County Sheriff’s Office at 252.738.2200 or Henderson-Vance Crime Stoppers at 252.492.1925. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through the P3 Tips mobile application.

Bear Sightings More Frequent In Late Spring – Add Henderson To The List

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The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has received reports of bear sightings recently from Rocky Mount, Durham and Hillsborough.

Add Henderson to that list.

A juvenile black bear was captured – on video –  as it ran across the back parking lot at  Maria Parham Health. Social media posts show the bear, probably a male, as it moved quickly into a nearby wooded area.

Bear sightings, while not uncommon in North Carolina, aren’t everyday occurrences, either. Wildlife biologists say American black bears in the Piedmont fall into two categories: resident or transient.

The youngster who scampered across the hospital grounds most likely fell into the transient category.

Resident bears live here year-round in established breeding populations defined by females with cubs. Transient bears pass through seasonally or as they search for their own territories, which is highest during spring and summer months. Reports of bear sightings spike from Memorial Day weekend through early summer.

“Historically, black bears were abundant throughout the state, including the Piedmont region,” said NCWRC black bear biologist Jenna Malzhan. “The Piedmont region currently supports a very low density of bears, with most being transient. But thanks to conservation efforts, black bear populations across the state have rebounded over the past couple of decades and we are also experiencing a recent expansion of a breeding population into this region.”

District 3 Biologist Greg Batts manages 11 counties from Wake County to the Virginia border and east to I-95.

“It’s not that bears can’t live around people, it’s that people aren’t as tolerant of bears living around them in the Piedmont,” said Batts.

The Wildlife Resources Commission recommends BearWise ® as a resource for urban and rural communities to prepare for bear encounters. BearWise also offers methods to deter bears from unwanted visits to homes and public establishments.

NCWRC says implementing BearWise Basics minimizes interactions and conflicts with other wildlife, such as raccoons, coyotes, opossums, foxes and skunks. It also encourages a transient bear to move on rather than remain in an unwanted area.

“Since adopting the BearWise program in 2018, we’ve had promising results with encouraging folks in the mountain communities to follow BearWise recommendations,” said Ashley Hobbs, the agency’s Statewide BearWise Coordinator. “Most people in Western North Carolina have at least heard of BearWise, and many use it as a resource to successfully coexist with bears. It’s better to be proactive than reactive when it comes to wildlife encounters, thus we want BearWise to become familiar to the rest of the state. Urban expansion will mean more bear encounters. We want safety for both humans and bears, and we know BearWise provides the tools to make it happen.”

Learning about the BearWise Basics is important information for those living in the Piedmont, and for those travelling to other parts of the state.

NCWRC  BearWise Coordinator Ashley Hobbs said, “In North Carolina, you’re just as likely to encounter a bear at the beach, as you are in the mountains.”

Hobbs suggests brushing up on reminders when planning summer vacations, such as how to store food and garbage, slow down when driving and what to do during a bear encounter.

BearWise Basics include:
•    Never feed or approach a bear
•    Secure food, garbage and recycling
•    Remove bird feeders when bears are active
•    Never leave pet food outdoors and keep dogs leashed
•    Clean and store grills
•    Inform your neighbors

 

For more information visit:
BearWise.org
NCWRC Bear Species Page 

TownTalk: Franklin County Sends Letter To KLRWS For Terms To Be Met

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In a letter to the owners of the Kerr Lake Regional Water System dated May 21, Franklin County Manager Ryan Preble posed a couple of possible solutions to his county’s need for more water.

The six-page letter recounted efforts undertaken by Franklin County over the past almost 20 years to find a way to bring more water to an area experiencing explosive growth, seemingly with no end in sight.

Preble sent the letter to City Manager Paylor Spruill, Warren County Manager Crystal Smith and Oxford City Manager Brent Taylor – Henderson is a 60 percent owner of the KLRWS and Warren County and the City of Oxford each have a 20 percent share in ownership.

In March, Franklin County asked the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for its own allocation of water from Kerr Lake – 16.7 million gallons a day. That request will be considered but no answer is expected for more than a year.

The regional water system is undergoing an expansion that will increase capacity to 20 million gallons per day, but Preble’s letter states that it would be too costly and impractical for Franklin County to pay as a customer.

In his conclusion, Preble offers the three water system owners “options” and gives the three entities 30 days to accept the terms.

Here’s an excerpt from the letter:

“Franklin has been in discussions within the region about short-term and long-term water supply for at least 19 years (since 2007). Henderson supplies Franklin with an additional 450,000 GPD but that is all Henderson is willing to do given the size of its water distribution infrastructure. Franklin respects that. Short-term, Franklin cannot pay $35 million for 2.5 MGD when there are other potential sellers at a lower cost. Franklin is open to regional discussions, but KLRWS must either agree to sell at an agreed-upon fair market value of a 51% stake in KLRWS or sell a lower percentage interest but give Franklin the right to expand at its cost to develop additional capacity that belongs to Franklin (the Basic Terms). If either of these options are amenable, we would like to discuss terms to move this forward. Any business formation issues (create an authority or a joint venture) are irrelevant unless Franklin is going to solve its supply challenge with a regional solution.

Please indicate your willingness to accept the Basic Terms within thirty (30) days of the date of this letter, by June 21, 2026. If you would like to setup (sic) a meeting after accepting the Basic Terms, please let me know.”

Find the full text of the letter here https://www.franklincountync.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2089/Letter-from-County-Manager-Ryan-Preble-on-Regional-Water-Discussions—May-21-2026-PDF

 

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Donate At Upcoming American Red Cross Blood Drives

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The American Red Cross is sponsoring several blood drives in the area over the next few weeks.

Please consider signing up to donate blood or platelets as Memorial Day and summertime activities heat up. The Red Cross relies on blood and platelet donations to help medical centers stay ready and be able to respond quickly to emergencies.

If you donate by May 31, you’ll receive an oversized Red Cross beach towel, while supplies last.

And anyone who comes to give June 1-28 will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice, plus automatic entry for a chance to win one of two $7,500 gift cards. See RedCrossBlood.org/June for details.

Book your time to give lifesaving blood or platelets now — To schedule, visit RedCrossBlood.org,  call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities May 20-June 7:

Vance

Henderson

5/26/2026: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Kerr Lake Country Club, 600 Hedrick Road

5/28/2026: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., Raleigh Road Baptist Church, 3892 Raleigh Rd

6/2/2026: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Clearview Church, 3485 US-158 BUS

6/6/2026: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Freedom Life Church of God, 1001 Martin Creek Rd.

 

Warren

Macon

6/4/2026: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., Macon Baptist Church, 159 Church Street

 

Granville

Butner

5/22/2026: 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., Central Regional Hospital, 300 Veasey Road