Haywood County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Haywood County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Economic Development and Workforce Training Wins
Commissioner Best presented data showing unemployment back down to 3% after Helene, nearly 400 new small businesses since 2020, broadband reaching all but 121 homes, and major job additions from employers like Drake Software and Velocity Truck Centers.
Free industrial park land for two local businesses
The county is giving land to Pisgah Electrical Services (38 jobs) and Willow Hill Soap Company (8 jobs), with clawback agreements to make sure the promised jobs and wages materialize.
Tourism Development Authority board appointments
Tourism brought $357 million in visitor spending, supports 2,200+ jobs, and saves households about $900 in taxes. 2025 set occupancy tax records despite Hurricane Helene, aided by the "Open Haywood" recovery campaign.