Catawba County Government News

Seminar planned on infrastructure that will be needed to sustain farming in the future.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 3 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Learn more about infrastucture that will be needed to sustain farming in the future, at a free seminar at Lenoir-Rhyne University beginning at 6:30 p.m. on November 16.

Census Bureau names managers for Hickory office

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tony Jones) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

The U.S. Census Bureau has appointed a slate of managers for a new 2010 Census office in Hickory at 1273 16th Street NE, in the Sandy Ridge Plaza. The Hickory office supports census operations in seven counties: Alexander, Alleghany, Catawba, Iredell, Surry, Wilkes and Yadkin.

Agenda for next meeting, Catawba County Board of Commissioners, @ 9:30 a.m. on November 2, now available

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

The agenda for the next meeting of the Catawba County Board of Commissioners, beginning at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, November 2, 2009 at the 1924 Courthouse at 30 North College Avenue in Newton is now available.

Financial services company to bring over 400 new jobs to Hickory.�

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Catawba County EDC) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Fiserv, Inc. a leading global provider of financial technology solutions, has selected Hickory for a project that will create more than 419 customer service jobs supporting the financial services industry, over the next three years, with an investment of approximately $4.9 million over that same three year period.

County Employee Of The Year honored for building successful recycling program, and other �green� initiatives

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amanda Kain was honored for her work to improve waste reduction, reuse, and recycling through waste reduction and recycling education to the industrial and commercial community, which led to Catawba County's being ranked second in the state in recycling.

Catawba County Public Health receives first shipment of H1N1 vaccine

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Kellie Coffey) — Wed, 7 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Public Health has received its first allotment of H1N1 vaccine. The shipment contained 800 doses of the H1N1 live attenuated nasal spray vaccine. This form of the vaccine contains live virus that is weakened so it will not cause illness. Additional shipments of the H1N1 live attenuated nasal spray vaccine and the H1N1 inactivated flu shot are expected soon. At this time, Public Health is not aware of any other local providers who received the H1N1 vaccine this week. However, over 40 local health care providers including hospitals, pharmacies, and physicians have agreed to administer the H1N1 vaccine and will receive shipments in the near future. The H1N1 nasal spray vaccine is approved for healthy people ages 2 through 49 who are not pregnant. Catawba County Public Health will begin giving the vaccine to children ages 2 through 24 and anyone who lives with or cares for children less than 6 months of age starting immediately by appointment only. Those wishing to make an appointment can do so by calling Public Health at 828-695-5800.

Catawba County Cooperative Extension Director looks back on successful career as he approaches retirement

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EST

Fred Miller was instrumental in the opening of an Agricultural Resource Center for the county; helped create one of the first and most successful teams of �area agents� in North Carolina; created a new agent position focused on the environment; and served as president of the national association for professionals in his field.

Catawba County Health Partners tests system of alcohol sales to protect minors

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EST

Over two consecutive weekends last month, 63 stores were tested. 38% of store clerks would have sold alcohol to young adults without checking their identification. Substance abuse is one of four areas of focus for Catawba County Health Partners.

Catawba County telecommunicator who handled call on quadruple murder near Conover wins state award

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 9 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EST

Alena Greer, a 911 Telecommunicator for the Catawba County Communications Center, was recently selected 2009 Telecommunicator of the Year by the North Carolina Chapter of the National Emergency Number Association (NENA). Greer, who answered the 911 call about the March 2009 murders of four people inside their residence in Conover, received the award on September 2, during NC NENA's annual conference in Sunset Beach, NC. Catawba County Sheriff's investigators report that her efforts to keep the caller on the line and rapidly get law enforcement en route that morning led to the discovery of important evidence that resulted in the identification of a suspect in the case.

Back to school time means required immunizations for children

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Kellie Coffey) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 EST

Children entering Kindergarten must be up-to-date on a set of immunizations and others are required for those entering sixth grade. The State of North Carolina requires that students have an up-to-date immunization record on file at their school.

State of North Carolina to add three items to landfill bans beginning October 1

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Utilities and Engineering Department reminds the public of three new landfill bans that will begin later this year. Motor oil filters, plastic bottles and wooden pallets will officially be prohibited from entering any North Carolina landfill beginning on October 1, 2009. The North Carolina Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance have created a website about the upcoming landfill bans (http://p2pays.org/BannedMaterials). The site contains a wealth of information specifically about plastic bottles, since that ban will more likely affect North Carolinians in their day-to-day lives. The site provides citizens and businesses with information on how, where and why to recycle plastic bottles, as well as information about how to recycle wooden pallets and motor oil filters.

Catawba County joins national group working toward improvements in emergency communication

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County is one of only 40 local governments in the US joining the Next Generation Safety Consortium, working toward increased broadband adoption by communities that have not relied on the technology, and improved of service for those involved in emergencies.

Catawba County joins national group working toward improvements in emergency communication

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Animal Services to begin use of micro chips in adopted animals in late August 2009

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Animal Shelter receives visits every day from pet owners who are going through a nightmarish situation. Their dog or cat has been lost and the pet owner is doing everything he or she can think of to find the lost animal. Beginning at the end of August 2009, Catawba County Animal Services will use microchip technology in hopes of bringing more of these terrifying incidents to a happy ending. Every dog and cat adopted from the Animal Shelter will go to a new home with a tiny implanted microchip that could help bring the animal home very quickly if they are ever lost.

Catawba County begins sending out information on traffic incidents via Twitter

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County is now sending out information on traffic incident locations via Twitter. The feed shows the type of incident reported, such as a vehicle accident, stranded motorist or vehicle fire, and gives the location of the incident. Only traffic related incidents are reported through this.

Catawba County schedules additional rabies vaccination clinic into Fall 2009

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Animal Services will continue a series of rabies vaccination clinics through the summer and into the fall of 2009. This year, all clinics are being held on Saturdays and spread over more of the year in hopes of making clinics convenient for more citizens. The Catawba County Animal Shelter is also now providing one year rabies vaccinations to pet owners year round, by appointment. The next clinic will be held on Saturday, August 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Catawba Fire Department, at 108 North Main Street in Catawba.

Catawba County begins oil filter recycling program as State ban on filters in landfills approaches.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST

Motor oil filters in landfills could contaminate ground water, so the State is banning oil filters from landfills. This means no one may dispose of oil filters in their regular trash after October 1, 2009. Used oil filters are now accepted at most Convenience Centers across Catawba County.

Winners named in Voluntary Agricultural District Poster Contest

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST

Three Catawba County young people were recently named winners of the Voluntary Agricultural District Poster Contest. First prize went to Alex Malyszko of Terrell. Aaron Morrison, who lives northeast of Hickory, won the second place prize and Emma Roseman, who resides south of Hickory, won third place.

County program that improved efficiency in Child Protective Services wins national honor

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST

A Social Services team that created a streamlined data compilation system to meet challenging new State requirements for the documenting of child protective services cases, and saved staff from facnig 1600 hours of additional time spent on data reporting, has been named a winner of a 2009 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Award.

Coalition working to prevent and reduce underage drinking changes its name.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Kellie Coffey) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST

Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention (A.S.A.P.), formerly known as the Catawba County Substance Abuse Collation, is working to change the conditions that contribute to the widespread use of alcohol among teens.

Catawba County to mail 2009 property tax notices on or about July 14.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 9 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Tax Office is scheduled to mail more than 99,000 property tax notices on or about July 14, 2009. The notices will give taxpayers information about tax laws and sources for other information, and provide taxpayers with a complete record of payment. The notices will be mailed with a courtesy return envelope for taxpayers to use to return payments to the Catawba County Tax Collector. Taxes will be due on September 1, 2009 and delinquent after Tuesday, January 5, 2010. Advance payments or payment arrangements may be made prior to September 1, 2009. Delinquent taxes will be subject to a 2% interest penalty for the month of January 2010, and a 3/4ths of 1% penalty for each following month.

Apple Inc. announces plans to build East Coast data center in Catawba County.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Catawba County EDC) — Tue, 7 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST

Apple Inc. Company will make a $1 billion investment over 10 years, bringing a minimum of 50 new jobs directly and 250 indirect jobs, at a 500,000 square foot data center in Maiden.

Catawba County Emergency Services to bolster fire prevention efforts through new grant.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Cindy Travis) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Department of Emergency Services' Fire/Rescue Division recently received a $1000 fire prevention grant from FM Global, a leading property insurer of the world�s largest businesses based in Johnston, Rhode Island. The award will be used to help fire investigators more efficiently investigate and determine the cause of a fire.

Catawba County Environmental Health insures food safety during festivals

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Kellie Coffey) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EST

Hot dogs, BBQ, hamburgers, fried turkey legs, and sausages are just a few food options that are commonly associated with outdoor festivals. The tempting smell can have anyone�s taste buds watering. But when you purchase your food, how do you know that what you are eating is safe? Just as you look for a restaurant�s sanitation grade, you should look for the stand�s permit before ordering. Temporary food establishments are required to be inspected and permitted prior to serving the public. Catawba County Public Health�s Environmental Health Division is responsible for permitting temporary food establishments, push carts and mobile food units. Environmental Health Specialists work around the clock to make sure that the food that you are eating is safe. Typically, they permit over a hundred temporary food establishments a year, and they often see the same food vendor more than once in a year. Temporary food establishments must be permitted at each festival that they attend. A temporary food establishment in place for 15 days or less must operate in conjunction with a fair,

Catawba County Board of Commissioners adopts 2009-2010 County Budget

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County's FY 2009-2010 budget holds the County property tax rate stable at 53.5 cents per $100 of property value. It addresses the impact of the recession through conservative revenue estimates and by holding the line on spending. Operating costs are down by 4%, sixteen positions are unfunded, staff has been reassigned to areas with highest service demands, and technology used to maximize available resources. No salary increases and no new programs and services have been added.

Catawba County foster youth wins national award for leadership.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Mon, 8 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EST

Steven Parker, 18 of Hickory, is one of only 100 young people in the nation to be named Outstanding Young Leaders of 2009, by FosterClub, a national network for youth in foster care.

Catawba County Board of Health welcomes two new members

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Kellie Coffey) — Thu, 4 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Board of Health is pleased to announce the addition of two new members. The Catawba County Board of Commissioners recently appointed Dr. Sharon Monday and Dr. David Kulesia to the Board of Health. Dr. Monday fulfills the statutory requirement for a veterinarian and Dr. Kulesia fulfills the requirement for a licensed optometrist.

Catawba County is now conducting building inspection services county-wide after agreement reached with Brookford

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 20 May 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Board of Commissioners and the Town of Brookford�s Board of Aldermen have approved a joint agreement through which Catawba County�s Building Services Division will provide a full range of building inspection related services in Brookford. With this agreement, Catawba County is now providing these services across the entire county, including all eight of its cities and towns. For more information on Catawba County�s providing building inspections services in the Town of Brookford or the County�s Building Services program in general, you may contact the Catawba County Permit Center at 828-464-8399. First time callers should then press 0 to navigate around an automated system available for persons with ongoing and active inspections, to speak with a Permit Center staff person.

Sherrills Ford Convenience Center to remain open at current location after May 17, 2009

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Sherrills Ford Convenience Center will remain in operation after May 17, 2009 as Catawba County and Duke Energy develop a lease arrangement that will allow the Center to remain open at its current location.

Census Bureau keeps the focus on safety!

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tony Jones) — Mon, 4 May 2009 00:00:00 EST

The U.S. Census Bureau says safety is top priority for its employees and the public. That�s why the Census Bureau is reminding people that census address listers wear official identification badges and use handheld computers to record addresses. The 5,000 employees now combing North Carolina streets building an address list for the 2010 Census might also carry black workbags with the words �U.S. Census Bureau� on them.

Catawba County Public Health works with state and federal agencies to monitor Swine Flu outbreak

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Kellie Coffey) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Public Health has been monitoring the evolving Swine Flu outbreak along with other health departments across the state. Contact has been made with local hospitals, schools, and community partners in order to share information about the recent outbreak. In addition, Public Health is participating in conference calls with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health and reviewing websites such as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for updates. Catawba County Emergency Services has also participated in the conference calls and has been working collaboratively with Public Health and North Carolina Emergency Management to prepare to respond if necessary. According to the CDC, as of April 27th at 1:00 pm, there were 40 confirmed cases of swine flu in the U.S. There have been no confirmed cases of Swine Flu in North Carolina at this time.

Attendance at Catawba County Parks at all-time record

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST

The number of people enjoying the outdoors by visiting Catawba County Parks is at an all time high. Traffic estimates show that, as of April 18, more people have used the parks during this fiscal year, which won�t end until June 30th, than used the parks during all of fiscal year 2007-2008. �With 2 � months to go before the end of this fiscal year on June 30th, we believe we will have 100,000 visitors at our three parks by the end of the year,� said Catawba County Parks Manager, Blair Rayfield. �It feels good to be able to offer this service to our residents during these hard economic times.�

Catawba County Annual Financial Report wins national honor for 27th straight year

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Finance Department continues has again wonthe Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). Catawba County has now won the award for 27 consecutive years. The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting is presented to governmental units that the GFOA says "prepare and publish an easily readable, understandable comprehensive annual financial report covering all funds and financial transactions during the fiscal year."

Catawba County Animal Shelter's public operating hours will change beginning May 1, 2009

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Animal Shelter will put new public operating hours in place beginning Friday, May 1, 2009. The shelter will be open to the public from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, with Saturday public hours to expand to 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The change follows a six month study of visiting patterns at the shelter and will allow staff additional time to keep the shelter clean, and to examine and treat animals. The change is also expected to reduce shelter expenses by decreasing costs for staff overtime. For more information on the new public hours at the Catawba County Animal Shelter, or the shelter itself, you may call 828-465-8228.

Catawba County Public Health responds to report of unsafe food handling

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Kellie Coffey) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST

On April 14th 2009, Catawba County Public Health Environmental Health Division was notified that employees of the Domino�s Pizza in Conover, NC were featured on a viral video found on various websites. The video showed the employees handling and preparing food in an unsanitary manner. Representatives from Environmental Health contacted Domino�s to discuss the food handling practices shown in the video, and subsequently consulted with the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NC DEHR), Division of Environmental Health for guidance. On April 14th, Domino�s Pizza in Conover voluntarily closed to begin sanitizing the store. In addition, all food and boxes that were not in their original commercial packaging were destroyed. Catawba County Environmental Health representatives will continue to monitor and provide guidance to the Domino�s location during the sanitation and disposal processes. For questions regarding Public Health�s response to this incident

Catawba County schedules rabies vaccination clinics

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Animal Services schedules rabies vaccination clinics. Clinics begin on Saturday April 11, 2009. All clinics will be held on Saturdays and spread over more of the year in hopes of making clinics convenient for more citizens. Animal Services is also providing one year rabies vaccinations to pet owners year round, by appointment. You may call 828-465-8228 for more information.

Catawba County Public Health earns state accreditation

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Kellie Coffey) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

The accreditation program, which is a joint project of the North Carolina Division of Public Health, the North Carolina Association of Local Health Directors, and the North Carolina Institute for Public Health at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, ensures that all of the state�s local health departments provide the same basic level and quality of services. Local health departments must demonstrate 41 benchmarks thru the documentation of 148 activities. A site visit by members of the board of accreditation confirms that all benchmarks and activities are consistently being achieved.

Catawba County continues work with National Association of Counties to reduce drug costs for the uninsured, underinsured

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Jo Sloan) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County citizens struggling to cope with an uncertain economy are receiving some real financial relief on their prescription drug purchases thanks to their county government. By participating in the National Association of Counties (NACo) Prescription Drug Discount Card Program, uninsured and underinsured Catawba County citizens have saved over $1.6 million on prescription drug purchases since the program�s inception in Catawba County in 2006. For more information on the program, visit www.catawbacountync.gov/dss/Health/Drug.asp or contact Jo Sloan, Catawba County Social Services at (828) 695-5667.

Catawba County honors employees with 25 years or more service

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

The annual luncheon of the Quarter Century Club included the welcoming of nine new members to the club this year.

Catawba County prepares to send data mailers to real property owners, as 2011 revaluation process begins.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Mon, 9 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Revaluation Office will soon be mailing data verification sheets to owners of residential dwellings, as part of the process to revalue all property in Catawba County as of January 1, 2011. The data verification sheets, scheduled to be mailed to all home owners on March 20, 2009, will show basic information that the Catawba County Tax Office has on file for each given property. Owners are requested to verify the information found on the data verification sheet, make any necessary corrections, and return the form to the revaluation office. For more information regarding the revaluation process, you may see a Revaluation Q&A or call the Catawba County Revaluation Office at 828-465-8998.

Retired Catawba County Fire Marshal wins prestigious lifetime achievement award

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST

David Pruitt, who served as Catawba County�s Fire Marshal from 2002 until his retirement in June 2008, has been presented with a prestigious award for lifetime achievement from the North Carolina Fire and Life Safety Educational Council. �David Pruitt has served the fire service since June 1975,� said Terri Byers, Fire Education Specialist, with the City of Hickory and David Watson, Fire Educator with the City of Conover, who nominated Pruitt for the award. �Although officially retired, he continues to teach fire prevention programs throughout the county. During his thirty years, he has been a volunteer firefighter with Mountain View Fire Department and worked as Inspector and Fire Marshal with Catawba County Fire Marshal�s Office. However, the position that appears closest to his heart has always been Fire Educator."

Catawba County Library System conducts annual customer survey

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tammy Wilson) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Library System is conducting its annual customer survey. The survey asks citizens to rate customer service at the Library and suggest additional programs and materials they would like to see offered by the Library.

Catawba County Public Health now accepts credit cards for payment of services

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Kellie Coffey) — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Public Health is now accepting MasterCard, Visa, and Discover for payments on all accounts. American Express is not accepted. Clinics including Foreign Travel, Child Health, Immunizations, Totally Teens, Prenatal, and Adult Health will accept the cards for payment. �By accepting payments through the use of debit and credit cards for services offered to our clients we are providing them with the same convenience used by most businesses today,� said Sindie Sigmon, Business Manager for Catawba County Public Health. �The acceptance of debit and credit cards gives clients another option for making payment on the day of their service in addition to paying by cash, check, or money order.�

County creates data base showing locations of life saving defibrillators

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County Emergency Medical Services and the Catawba County E-911 Communications Center have entered a joint venture that will provide citizens access to valuable information during life-threatening emergencies. Catawba County has developed a database that will store information about Automated External Defibrillators (AED) located throughout our community. An AED is a device used to administer an electric shock (defibrillation) to the heart during certain types of sudden cardiac death.

Catawba County Public Health's WIC Program begins new open scheduling system

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Kellie Coffey) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

With a new year comes a new service offered by Women Infants and Children, or WIC, at Catawba County Public Health. Beginning January 5th, it will be easier for WIC clients to set up an appointment or reschedule due to the new open access scheduling program. WIC is a preventive program administered by Catawba County Public Health which provides low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants and children ages birth to 5 years old with nutritious foods, nutrition education, and improved access to health care in order to prevent nutrition-related health problems in pregnancy, infancy and early childhood. Open access scheduling will shorten the amount of time that WIC clients have to wait to receive an appointment. If clients have to reschedule, they can receive a new appointment as early as the next day.

History talks related to Big Read 2009 scheduled for Catawba County Library in Newton

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tammy Wilson ) — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

February marks the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln�s birth and the launch of programming for the 2009 BIG Read, Geraldine Brooks� Civil War novel, March. Catawba County Library System will host a series of free programs next month at Main Library in Newton. All are free and open to the public and should interest history buffs and BIG Read enthusiasts alike.

Local governments no longer have control over cable television franchises or regulations

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Wed, 7 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

Recent public attention on a dispute between a Charlotte television station and Charter Communications, now apparently resolved, has given Catawba County officials the opportunity to remind citizens that the franchising and regulation of cable television is no longer within the powers of county and city governments. A law passed by the North Carolina General Assembly in 2006 shifted franchising and cable television regulatory power to the State of North Carolina. The Catawba County Board of Commissioners did take the proactive action available to it, on behalf of the citizens of Catawba County, by issuing a resolution calling on WCNC Television and Charter Communications to settle a dispute which WCNC officials had indicated could have resulted in the removal of WCNC from Charter�s channel offerings, as of January 1, 2009. The two parties have since announced an agreement in principle between Charter and Belo Corporation, parent company of WCNC, that resulted in WCNC remaining on Charter�s package of channels.

New customer support center to bring 913 new jobs to Catawba County.

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Catawba County EDC) — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Covation LLC, a high-end customer support center for business telecommunications services, has selected Hickory for a project that will create 913 technical support, billing, and customer service jobs over the next three years with an investment of approximately $6.2 million over five years. The Covation facility will occupy the recently developed ADEVCO facility in McDonald Crossings Business Park located in Hickory at the intersection of Tate Boulevard and McDonald Parkway. Operations are scheduled to begin in April 2009 with 544 employees by 2009 year-end.

Catawba County Library fines of $2 or more may now be paid by credit or debit cards

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Tammy Wilson) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Library fines can now be paid with debit or credit cards at Catawba County Library System. The change, effective immediately, is a convenience for customers. Extended use fees are charged for DVDs, music and equipment not returned within seven days and books, audiobooks and magazines kept for more than 14. Charges vary from 20 cents to $1 per day, depending on the item.

St. Stephens Park to reopn on December 12 as third Catawba County Park

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Mon, 8 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Catawba County�s Parks Division will open its third park on Friday, December 12, 2008, when St Stephens Park, formerly a part of the City of Hickory�s system, reopens for the first time since it was closed in 2005. The 9.1-acre park is located at 2247 36th Ave NE, behind Clyde Campbell Elementary School off Kool Park Road at the dead end of 36th Ave NE in Hickory. Amenities at the new facility include a one-acre dog park, a 1/3 mile gravel surfaced walking trail, playground, horseshoe pits, picnic shelter and meeting room.

New State law will provide property tax relief beginning in 2009 for some seniors and disabled

webmaster@catawbacountync.gov (Dave Hardin) — Thu, 4 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Catawba County Tax Office is preparing to follow a new law passed by the North Carolina General Assembly that will provide property tax relief to certain homeowners, based on their income, who are either 65 years of age or older; totally and permanently disabled; or disabled veterans. �If you or someone you know owns his or her own home, is 65 years of age or totally and permanently disabled and/or a disabled veteran, you may qualify for property tax relief through recently passed legislation in North Carolina,� said incoming Catawba County Tax Administrator Mark Logan. �North Carolina General Statute 105-277.1 created three types of programs with varying qualifying income amounts and conditions. They are the Elderly and Disabled Exclusion, the Circuit Breaker Property Tax Deferment and the Disabled Veteran Exclusion.�

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.

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 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.

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 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/.

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 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.

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.