Rutherford County COVID-19 Updates

May 4, 2020 at 2:00 PM

Sadly, the Rutherford County Health Department is reporting the 7th COVID-19 associated death in the County. 

We lift up the family of those individuals who have passed away. 

We are so sorry for your loss and are holding each family in our hearts.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family that lost their loved one. 

 

 

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A Message From Our Mayor, Carol Pritchett

Protection and Progress Throughout the Pandemic

 

"I would like to thank everyone in Lake Lure for taking the COVID-19 Pandemic seriously. Our citizens acted quickly in response to requests to “Stay at Home” and to practice social distancing. Many of you cancelled events and gatherings to ensure the safety of others. Though it was very difficult to refrain from all the enjoyable springtime activities, I believe our prudence made a significant difference in controlling the spread of the virus in Lake Lure.

 

The early measures that your Town Council and Town Staff took to strengthen safety measures has also helped protect our community from the full impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic thus far. We suspended Residential Vacation Rentals, closed public boat ramps temporarily, and restricted Parks that did not allow space for social distancing, while allowing golf and access to the Buffalo Creek Park, Weed Patch Mountain Trail and the Dittmer-Watts Park so citizens would have an opportunity to exercise and enjoy nature while practicing social distancing.

 

Your Lake Lure Town Council and Town Staff have continued to move important priorities forward, despite this very challenging time." Please click here to read the rest of Mayor Pritchett's article and to learn about progress with the new Lake Lure Marina and Boardwalk, revenue generated by the Lake Lure Hydro-Electric Plant, new staff, and more...

 

   

 

 

 

 

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Important Rutherford County and Lake Lure COVID-19 Updates

5/4/20

 

Please see the attached COVID-19 chart that illustrates the COVID-19 cases by Zip Code to include Total Positives vs. Active Positives. Note the cases in Lake Lure's zip code 28746.

 

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Expanded Outdoor Activities

The state of North Carolina stay-at-home order is still in effect; however, outdoor activities are authorized as long as social distancing practices are followed. The Town of Lake Lure has amended the State of Emergency Declaration to expand Lake Access and Boating, Golfing and Outdoor Worship for Churches.

•    Lake Access & Boating: Lake Lure is open beginning 4/28/20.  Boat occupants must be members of the same family.  No tie ups are allowed and social distancing is required for non-family members.

Please note that boaters will need to bring their own gas as the pump at the Washburn Marina is not currently available.

•    Golf:  Golfers may ride with more than one to a golf cart, if the cart contains members of the same immediate family.

•    Church/Outside Worship: Guidance has been established for outside worship and these guidelines have been shared with the pastors of Lake Lure Churches.  Social distancing is required.

As a reminder, in addition to these changes Buffalo Creek Park, Weed Patch Trail, and the Dittmer-Watts Park remain open for your enjoyment while practicing social distancing.  Morse Park and the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge are temporarily closed.

Thank you to all who are protecting yourselves and our citizens by staying at home and practicing social distancing when you go outside. The Town of Lake Lure will continue to closely follow the NC State guidelines for COVID-19. Please stay tuned to the Town of Lake Lure website for further updates. Stay safe and be well.

Please click here to download the Amended Town of Lake Lure State of Emergency Declaration. 

Please see the daily statistics in both English and Spanish. There are 147 positive cases of COVID-19 in Rutherford County.  

• Please see the map below which uses zip codes to illustrate the number of cases throughout the County. Additionally, you will see a graph illustrating the age range of the County's COVID-19 cases, the location of the current hospitalized patients from the County, and an illustration of the status of the positive COVID-19 cases.

  

   

The number of positive cases in Rutherford County has increased but note the trend line for active positives.

• CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.

• Thank you to many citizens who are wearing these masks in public.

• Please stay at home, wash your hands, and maintain a 6-foot social distance from others.

 

• The positive results represent clear transmission county wide. Contact tracing reveals that transmission is coming from contacts with positives, contacts outside the county as well as community wide transmission.
  

• We also have positives that do not have traceable origins. In addition, the Health Department has identified specific areas in the county where these outbreaks are occurring.
  

• These clusters represent health care agencies, retail stores, commercial businesses, congregate living situations and educational entities.

Interactive COVID-19 Map

Johns Hopkins University has launched this interactive map that permits the user to drill down on their dashboard to find Rutherford County specific data.

• Click on the link below to go to the interactive site.
  
• Data on positive cases is based on the previous day's numbers.
  
• This information is compiled by Johns Hopkins University and Rutherford County is sharing this resource for information only and is not responsible for the content of this data.
• https://bao.arcgis.com/covid-19/jhu/county/37161.html.
  
• Note that the data will be one day behind.
  

Rutherford County COVID-19 Questions and Answers

 

 
Please take a moment to hear Public Health Director, Karen Powell answer questions from media and citizens in an informative video you can watch by clicking on this image below. or going to www.facebook.com/rcemergencymanagement  

Important Updates - Use Caution

April 30, 2020

 

The Town of Lake Lure sounded the siren on Thursday, 4/29/20 around 11:30 PM to notify citizens that the Tainter gates had been raised to make adjustments in lake levels because of incoming rain.  Citizens were notified to use caution when near the river or streams and to seek higher ground if you are in a flood-prone area.  Everyone was also reminded to call 9-1-1 for any emergencies.  Notifications were made via the Everbridge Mass Notification System, a Facebook Post, and the Town's Website. 

The Tainter gates are the arms that control the flow of water at the dam. The Lake Lure Dam has three Tainter gates. These gates are raised and lowered as needed as a normal course of operation. The Town sounds the siren if the Tainter gates are opened by 3 feet or more to ensure the public will be aware of the flood warning, to use caution near rivers, streams, and areas prone to flooding.

On 4/29/20, the Town opened a combination of the Tainter gates for a cumulative total of 4 feet (i.e we opened #3 Tainter gate 36 inches and opened #2 Tainter gate 12 inches) Tainter gates were raised by 4 feet to match the amount of water that was coming into Lake Lure via streams and groundwater runoff.  Lake Lure received approximately 2.15" inches of rain overnight. The Town did not release more water than we received.

If you did not receive an Everbrige Notification, Please Register Now.  

If you have any questions please send them to Communications@townoflakelure.com .

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SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Businesses and Residents

Affected by Severe Storms and Tornadoes

 

WASHINGTON – Businesses and residents affected by severe storms and tornadoes on Feb. 6 - 7, 2020 can apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration, Administrator Jovita Carranza announced today.  The declaration covers Spartanburg County and the adjacent counties of Cherokee, Greenville, Laurens and Union in South Carolina; and Polk and Rutherford in North Carolina.

Thank  You From Lake Lure!

Local Good News Stories

April 17, 2020

 

 

Thank you to the Rutherford Women’s League for their $7,000 donation to Washburn Outreach Center today. Washburn Outreach Center works to provide food and assistance to many citizens affected.

2020 Census

Supporting Local Businesses

 

Rural communities such as ours have been greatly impacted by the global Corona Virus pandemic. The small businesses and restaurants here in Hickory Nut Gorge are doing the best they can to navigate through this unprecedented time.  Many restaurants are offering curbside take-out and delivery, and only essential retailers are permitted to be open.  

The Chamber of Hickory Nut Gorge is offering EVERYONE the opportunity to help them virtually by purchasing gift cards for future visits with our participating area merchants. 

Simply click on the Register Now button, add your name and email address as attendee, then select the various gift cards you wish to purchase. You will see various denominations that you can choose from. Gift card(s) will be emailed out each Thursday.

One hundred percent (100%) of the purchased amounts go directly to the business.  The Chamber of Hickory Nut Gorge is managing this process and paying costs associated with this effort.

The local businesses need your support!  PLEASE ORDER YOUR GIFT CARD TODAY! 

Thank you for your support of businesses in our community!

 

 

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Lake Lure Ladies Making A Difference

One Mask At A Time

Ladies all across Lake Lure are making much needed masks to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.  Yvonne Cooley has made and delivered masks to the Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach and to numerous high-risk individuals in the community.  Yvonne is pictured above modeling one of the colorful masks she made in addition to the photo of the masks that have been distributed.

Nancy Evans is spearheading one group of mask makers, dubbed the Lake Lure Masketeers. Nancy is pictured above in her sewing room. The Lake Lure Masketeers including Yvonne Cooley, Mary Ellen Jones, Carol Wolfe, Yates Marsic, Julie Parsell, along with Nancy.  They have made the masks and distributed them to the Lake Lure Fire Department, Lake Lure Police Department , Bills Creek Fire Department, Hickory Nut Gorge Emergency Medical Services, Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach, Chimney Rock Fire Department, Fairfield Mountain Fire Department, Rutherfordton Police Department, MAHEC, Rutherford Veterinary Hospital, the VA hospital in Asheville, and Hospice of Rutherford County. They estimate having made over 300 masks thus far.  Nancy added, “We are glad to be helping our first responders and others on the front lines. Our motto is Making a Difference, One Mask at a time.”

Another team of sewers from Lake Lure are now known as “The Masked Heroes.”  These mask makers include the women from the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, women from the Lake Lure Artists group, and anonymous ladies who are donating their time, materials and talents to make the much needed masks.   They are volunteering to sew masks for our area residents for distribution by our local doctor’s office.  The Masked Heroes' goal is to make 100 masks for Blue Ridge Health. They are half way to that goal.  The volunteers are providing materials, their time, and expertise as well as sewing the masks.

Anyone interested in contributing in anyway and/or sewing for the Masked Heroes may contact Communications@townoflakelure.com.

Today's inspiration

April 14, 2020

“It is only in our darkest hours that we may discover the true strength of the brilliant light within ourselves that can never, ever, be dimmed.”

― Doe Zantamata

The lovely moonlight photo was taken by Blaine Cox. 

Please continue to send your inspiring photographs, quotes and stories to Communications@townoflakelure.com.  

North Carolina Executive Order  131

April 13, 2020 

Tighten Social Distancing Measures, Strengthen Long-Term Care Rules and Streamline Unemployment Benefits Process.

COVID-19 Information Resource Guide

Download the COVID-19 Resource Guides

COVID-19 Physical Resource Guide

Rutherford County COVID-19 Informational Updates

Today's Inspiration

April 13, 2020

Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.

Desmond Tutu  

Today's Inspiration

April 12, 2020

Thank you for staying home and staying safe. Be well and Happy Easter from the Town of Lake Lure,

(Captivating photo by the very talented Buddy Morrison.)  

Local Good News Stories

April 13, 2020

 Bring Your Own Gas

April 8, 2020

Lake Lure Tours is closed temporarily until further notice. The marine fuel dispenser (gas pump) at the Washburn Marina has malfunctioned and is not working.

The Town has ordered a replacement gas pump and will work with Lake Lure Tours to get the pump installed as soon as possible. Updates will be provided as soon as the gas dispenser is operational again.  In the meantime, please bring your own fuel for your boats.

Today's Inspiration

April 7, 2020

“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day, saying, “I will try again tomorrow.”– Mary Anne Radmacher  

Magnificent sunset Photo of the Town of Lake Lure is submitted by Charles Yop.

Please continue to send your inspiring photographs, quotes and stories to Communications@townoflakelure.com.  

Lake Lure Good News Stories

April 7, 2020 

Top 3 Local Positive Efforts to Share from the Emergency Operations Center (EOC):

•   RHI gave a $25,000 grant to purchase PPE at our central source location at the EOC

•   Rutherford Outdoor Coalition members packaged 200 boxes and handed out over 120 boxes of food for Chase Corner Ministries. Thank you to Chase Corner Ministries for providing this much needed service.

•   A special thank you to some individuals sewing masks for health care workers. Today we thank: Della Richardson, Marsha Daves, and Monica Martin.

Please email us at Communications@townoflakelure.com if you have a positive story to share.  

Today's Inspiration

April 4, 2020

What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Good News  Stories

April 3, 2020 

We’d like to share some good news going on in Rutherford County and the many partners working together to help our cause locally.

• We know there are many more individuals, organization and businesses doing good will.
  
• We have more businesses to share tomorrow and will continue to share this information with you as we receive it.
  
• Please email us at covid19@rutherfordcountync.gov if you have a positive story to share.
• Here are just a few: 

1. Facebook donated 1,000 surgical masks.
2. Dominos Pizza in Rutherfordton and Forest City are donating over 400 Large Pizzas throughout the community. This includes Rutherford Hospital Staff, Fire Departments, Police Departments, School Personnel, Pharmacy Staff and Grace of God Rescue Mission.
   
3. Big Springs Baptist Church in Hollis/Ellenboro area is making and donating cloth face masks to give to local healthcare workers, plus they are supporting two area schools with making and delivering backpack food, and assisting in preparation of breakfast and lunch at area schools.
   
4. Current companies are finding suppliers of PPE for us.
   
5. Parker Hannifin donated more face shields, but also gloves and aprons
   
6. Isothermal Community College donated gloves.

Today's Inspiration

April 3, 2020

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. –Maya Angelou  

Special thanks to the very talented Michelle Schwartz for sharing this breath taking photograph. Please send your inspiring photographs to communications@townoflakelure.com.  

Lake Lure Good News Stories

April 3, 2020 

Lake Lure Baptist Church (6837 US 64/74A Lake Lure) is having a free food giveaway this Sunday, 4/5/20. They have prepared baskets of food and toilet paper for those who are in need. These will be given out on Sunday. 4/5/20 from 12:30 pm to 3 pm OR until their stocks last. NOTE: This will be a drive-thru pickup in the church parking lot so that social distancing practices may be closely followed. First come. First served. This is Lake Lure Baptist Church family's way of trying to help those who are in need and showing their love for our community.  

Rutherford County Proclamation Suspending Residential Vacation Rentals

April 3, 2020 

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to pose a looming threat to the health and safety of people of Rutherford County. As the situation continues to develop and new cases are reported throughout the state of North Carolina, and especially in the foothills region, our local government continues to be proactive in taking the necessary staeps to stem the spread of COVID-19 through all appropriate means.  

Download the  Rutherford County Proclamation Suspending Residential Vacation Rentals

Violations of Stay at Home Orders

We know people are concerned about businesses violating the Stay at Home order.

Citizens can go to www.rutherfordcountync.gov and click on the COVID-19 box.

Once you click on the box you will see a violations form that can be filled out.

Today's Inspiration

April 2, 2020 

When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it. (Henry Ford)  

Lake Access for Lake Lure Property Owners Returning Boats

April 1, 2020

The Town of Lake Lure closed Public Boat Ramps effective 3/31/20 due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

• The Town will open these Boat Ramps for Lake Lure Property Owners who need their boats back on the Lake while Public Boat Ramps are closed.
  
• The Public Boat Ramps are only to be used for the return of boats and are closed for any other reason.
  
•  Social distancing guidelines must be closely followed.
•  Please click here for instructions:
  

Good News Stories

We’d also like to share some good news going on in Rutherford County and the many partners working together to help our cause locally.  Here are just a few:

1. Parker Hannafin is creating face shields utilizing their 3D printer.

2. Defiant Whiskey has made hand sanitizer for first responders.

3. Westrock has donated bleach and rubbing alcohol.

4. Trelleborg and Spencer Baptist both donated Tyvek suits.

5. Multiple dentists have also donated PPE:  Dr. John Crossland (surgical masks), Dr. Thompson (gloves), Dr. Frank Jones (disposable gowns), Blanton Miller & Moore (surgical masks and disposable gowns)

We know there are many more individuals, organization and businesses doing good will.  We have more businesses to share tomorrow and will continue to share this information with you as we receive it.

Please email us at Communications@townoflakelure.com if you have a positive story to share.  

 

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Town of Lake Lure Supplemental Declaration 

on Residential Vacation Rentals and Parks

March 31, 2020 

 Greetings from the Town of Lake Lure,

The Lake Lure Town Council and Staff have been working to strengthen safety measures to protect our community from the COVID-19 pandemic.   Rutherford County issued a Declaration of State of Emergency on 3/16/20 and the Town of Lake Lure issued a Proclamation of State of Emergency on 3/17/20.  Rutherford County and the incorporated municipalities then issued a Joint Supplemental Proclamation of a State of Emergency on 3/27/20 and also issued a Rutherford County Short Term Rental Suspension Request on 3/27/20.

Rutherford County’s Short Term Rental Suspension Request is voluntary, but recognizes the best available medical evidence confirms that human travel promotes the spread of this disease and the presence of visitors in Rutherford County has the potential to exacerbate the strain on the limited healthcare resources and facilities available within Rutherford County. This request was made to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in a manner and at a pace that overwhelms the ability of Rutherford County and its healthcare partners to respond effectively in the coming days. This Suspension Request was made to all types of transient lodging within the County.           

The average age of year-round residents in Lake Lure is approximately 60. Older persons have been identified as particularly susceptible to life-threatening complications associated with COVID-19.  Residential Vacation Rentals pose an increased risk and danger for the spread of the COVID-19 virus within the Town of Lake Lure due to the age of our population and the number of such Rentals within the Town’s corporate limits, approximately 340 units.  Additionally, the Town’s Residential Vacation Rentals are embedded throughout the Town’s Residential neighborhoods. 

To protect our citizens, the Town of Lake Lure is suspending Residential Vacation Rentals within Town limits.  

·  All Residential Vacation Rental properties (as defined in §92.005 Zoning Regulations of the Town of Lake Lure) in the incorporated area of Lake Lure, shall cease accepting new reservations for any period of time from 12:01 a.m. 4/1/20 through 5/15/20 (such time limit is subject to further modification).  

·  Violations of this Declaration may result in suspension of Residential Vacation Rental permits, along with additional fines set forth in the Town Code and herein.

·  Existing reservations made for a period beginning 4/1/20 through 5/15/20 will be rescheduled or canceled.

·  Visitors currently checked in may remain until the end of their existing reservations, but such reservations shall not be extended. 

·  Those units consistently occupied since 3/1/20 are exempt, but rental occupancy may not be increased by others, including friends or family members.

The Town will continue to monitor the data released by local, State and National authorities regarding COVID-19 and may extend the ban outlined herein to other types of transient lodging facilities within the Town as appropriate.  Additionally, publicly-owned and privately-owned places where large numbers of persons tend to congregate consistently throughout the day pose a particular risk for the spread of COVID-19, such as parks and similar recreational sites.  

To protect our citizens, all amusements designed to attract and accommodate visitors, are hereby ordered to close effective Tuesday, 3/31/20, including but not limited to movies and live performances, miniature golf (not golf courses), amusement parks and arcades, and similar attractions typically involving more than 10 persons at any given time.

·   The  following Parks and public areas shall close effective 3/31/20:

Ø  Public Boat Ramps - Closed

Ø  Morse Park - Closed

Ø  Flowering Bridge – Closed

Ø  Pool Creek Park – Closed

·   Buffalo Creek Park/Weed Patch Mountain and Dittmer Watts Park (all walking/hiking trails) shall remain open; however, appropriate social distancing of persons (at least six feet) shall be practiced and enforced.

·   Golf Courses may remain open; however, no more than one person shall be allowed per cart.  Walking on the golf course shall be allowed with appropriate social distancing being practiced and enforced.  

The Town recognizes the importance of making some outdoor areas available but will continue to monitor developing conditions and whether these opportunities are being used in an acceptable and safe manner by the public and may issue further Orders in appropriate circumstances.  Any person who violates any provision of this declaration shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor in accordance with G.S. 14-288.20A.

Please continue to visit the Town’s Website where daily updates are posted at www.townoflakelure.com.  See the link for “Town News” on the Homepage for information related to Rutherford County, the Town of Lake Lure, and CDC Guidelines for prevention.

·   If you need emergency assistance, please call 9-1-1.  

·   If you need COVID-19 Health Screening call Rutherford County, NC Medical Screening Hotline at (828) 289-1185.

·  If you need resources or information in COVID-19, please call 2-1-1 or 888-892-1162.

·  Be sure you are registered for Everbridge, the Town’s Mass Emergency Notification System.  To register for Everbridge you may visit the Town Website at www.townoflakelure.com. and look for the link for Everbridge on the left hand side of the page.    

·  If you have further questions or need additional support during this Emergency Period, please contact Laura Krejci our Needs Assessment Officer at 828-625-9983, ext. 103.

Thank you for your ongoing cooperation during this challenging time.  Our continued unity as a community is critical.  Please continue to stay safe, stay informed and Stay At Home to assist in controlling the spread of     COVID-19.  Please take this opportunity to support each other and to staying in touch with family, friends, and neighbors.   

/es/ Carol Pritchett

Mayor, Town of Lake Lure

Download the Mayor's Letter 

Rutherford County Strike Teams

March 30, 2020

The Rutherford County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has developed unique medical strike teams to check in on patients suffering from COVID-19. It is the best medical practice for patients to isolate at home and treat with fluids, an anti-fever medication such as Tylenol, and rest. However, with several high risk populations, Rutherford County wants to provide special focus on their needs.

Each Strike Team consists of one or two paramedics or EMT’s who will provide a follow up well check via phone or in person of COVID-19 patients that are under self-isolation protocols. They will also perform vital sign checks on these patients and work closely with Rutherford Regional Health System’s providers to utilize telemedicine services if needed. The EOC in conjunction with Rutherford Regional Medical Center, will stay in contact with these patients to monitor how they are progressing. If a patient become critical, EMS will transport them to Rutherford Regional for additional resources. Frequency of contact will depend on availability of medical resources and the total number of patients.  

Read more....

What is the Paycheck Protection Program?

(Link to A Simple Guide)

The U.S. federal government just passed a big coronavirus relief bill, aimed at supporting small businesses through this difficult time.

One of the measures in the bill is the Paycheck Protection Program—here’s everything you need to know.

Today's Inspiration

 

President's COVID-19 Guidelines

Download Guidelines

Download Guidelines

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State of North Carolina Executive Order

Stay At Home Order and Strategic Directions for NC in Response to COVIC-19

March 27, 2020

Download the NC State Executive Order

Download the Frequently Asked Questions Related to the Executive Order

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Rutherford County COVID-19 New State At Home Order

March 27, 2019

A new Stay At Home Order has been signed by Rutherford County. The Town of Bostic, the Town of Forest City, the Town of Lake Lure, the Town of Rutherfordton and the Town of Spindale directs residents to stay at home effective at 6:00 am on Saturday, 3/28/2020.

• This Order will be in place for three weeks until 4/17/20 at 6:00 am.
  
• The Order limits activity, travel, and business functions to only the most basic and essential needs.
  
• To the extent individuals are using shared or outdoor spaces, they must at all times maintain social distancing of at least six feet from any other person when they are outside their residence.
  
• This Order was issued in response to the significant and increasing number of suspected cases of community transmission and likely further significant increases in transmission.
  
• The order defines essential activities as necessary for the health and safety for individuals and their families.
  

The following are, for the purposes of this Proclamation, all Essential Activities:

1. For health and safety. To engage in activities or perform tasks essential to an individual's health and safety to self, family, household, partners, or pets.

2. For necessary supplies and services. To obtain for themselves and their family or household members (or to deliver to others) necessary supplies such as groceries and food, household consumer products, items needed to work from home, and products needed to maitain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences. 

3. For outdoor activity. Provided  compliance with Social Distancing Requirements, including walking, hiking, golfing, cycling, boating, fishing, hunting, or running.

4. To take care of others. To care for a family member, friend, or pets in another household, and to transport them for purposes allowed in this proclamation. 

5.  For certain types of work. For work at Essential Businesses or Essential Goverment Services, or performing Minimum Basic Operations.

Download Rutherford County Stay at Home Order & Frequently Asked Questions 

COVID-19 Information Resource Guide

Download the COVID-19 Resource Guides

COVID-19 Physical Resource Guide

Rutherford County COVID-19 Informational Updates

Message from the Mayor

   March 20, 2020

Greetings from the Town of Lake Lure,

We are here to serve you during this challenging time.  Your Town Council and Staff want to ensure your critical needs are met and we are here to support you as needed.

We are providing daily updates on our Town Website at www.townoflakelure.com.  Please see the link for “Town News” on the Homepage for information on prevention, resources, and the latest Center for Disease Control and Prevention updates related to COVID-19.  

If you did not receive our electronic notification on 3/17/20, the Town of Lake Lure designated an Emergency Period from March 18, 2020 – May 15, 2020.  We want to ensure you have the latest information and contacts to call in case you need assistance.

• 911: If you need emergency assistance, please call 9-1-1.  

• COVID-19 Screening: If you need COVID-19 Health Screening call Rutherford County, NC Medical Screening Hotline at (828) 289-1185.

• If you need resources or information in COVID-19, please call 2-1-1 or 888-892-1162.

• NC 2-1-1- is staffed by United Way of North Carolina and this is a resource for people to call for assistance related to the COVID-19 coronavirus. 

• North Carolinians can text COVIDNC to 898211 to receive general information and updates about COVID-19.  You may sign up now to get regular alerts on the rapidly evolving situation and North Carolina’s response. 

• NC 2-1-1 can refer callers to the organizations in their local community best equipped to address their specific health and human services needs including food, shelter, energy assistance, housing, parenting resources, health care, employment, substance abuse treatment, as well as specific resources for older adults and for persons with disabilities.

• Simply dial 2-1-1 or TTY 888-892-1162 for assistance.

• Emergency Notification System: We also want to take this opportunity to ensure you are registered for Everbridge, the Town’s Mass Emergency Notification System.  To register for Everbridge you may visit the Town Website at www.townoflakelure.com. and look for the link for Everbridge on the left hand side of the page.   You may call 828-625-9983 ext. 103 and our staff will assist with your registration. 

• Needs Assessment Officer: If you have further questions or need additional support during this Emergency Period, please contact Laura Krejci our Needs Assessment Officer at 828-625-9983, ext. 103.

Thank you for your cooperation during this challenging time.  It is important that we stay united as a community to take the necessary precautions to assist in controlling the spread of COVID-19.  Please take this opportunity to support each other and to staying in touch with friends and neighbors.   

Carol Pritchett

Mayor, Town of Lake Lure

 

NC 2-1-1 to Provide Assistance for COVID-19

 

Governor Roy Cooper announced NC 2-1-1 by United Way of North Carolina as a resource for people to call for assistance related to the COVID-19 coronavirus. 

North Carolinians can text COVIDNC to 898211 to receive general information and updates about COVID-19. Sign up now to get regular alerts on the rapidly evolving situation and North Carolina’s response.

NC 2-1-1 can refer callers to the organizations in their local community best equipped to address their specific health and human services needs including food, shelter, energy assistance, housing, parenting resources, health care, employment, substance abuse treatment, as well as specific resources for older adults and for persons with disabilities, and much more. Simply dial 2-1-1 or TTY 888-892-1162 for assistance.

All North Carolinians are encouraged to visit www.ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus for reliable, up-to-date information. Included on this page is helpful information for:

• Individuals and Families

• Businesses and Employers

• Providers

• Colleges, Schools and Child Care Providers

• Long-term Care Facilities

• Travelers

Information that could help everyone includes:

• What is COVID-19?

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Latest Updates for NC: COVID-19 case count, weekly updates, list of websites and social media to find reliable COVID-19 information.

• News Releases

• Stigma: What can be done to combat fear and anxiety.

• Community Events: Guidance for community events and mass gatherings.

• Materials and Resources: Materials available for use on social media or for downloading and printing.

Dear North Carolinian:

I am pleased to inform you that the SBA has approved the request for North Carolina’s disaster declaration.  Eligible applicants may now apply for economic injury disaster loans (EIDLs) as a result of the ongoing effects of COVID-19.

Please feel free to share this message and/or the information below with friends and colleagues. 

Thank you and do feel free to call on the SBA North Carolina District if we can be of service.

Sincerely,
Thomas A. Stith III
District Director

SBA Assistance Resources in light of COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in modified and additional SBA resources to help our small businesses, small aquacultural businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and/or most private nonprofit organizations. 

Read More

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Important Town Updates

March 17, 2020

Emergency Period March 18, 2020 – May 15, 2020  

 

 

Limited Access to Town Hall - Effective 3/18/20: Town leadership encourages customers to conduct Town business via telephone or mail as much as possible.  Customers should pay by mail or by phone using credit cards, rather than coming into Town Hall. (A 3% fee applies to credit card payments.)  However walk-up windows will be available to accommodate customers during regular business hours Monday-Friday, if needed.  

Utility Payments: The Town will NOT turn off utilities for missed payments during the emergency period, March 18, 2020 – May 15, 2020.  The Town will give customers another 30 days beyond the Emergency Period until June 15, 2020 to work out a payment plan and/or pay their bills in full. This should ensure no interruption of service.

Boat Permits: The Town will cease enforcement relative to current/existing boat permits until June 15, 2020.  However, everyone must secure new boat permits by June 15, 2020.  All other regulations still apply.

Burn Permits: Burn Permits will not be issued during the Emergency Period.

·  All Town Board and Committee meetings other than those held by Town Council are suspended until May 15, 2020. 

·  The Town will be limiting Town Council meetings to ten or fewer face-to-face participants which will include Town Council and Town Staff. This is in keeping with best practices for social distancing as recommended by the latest National Guidelines. 

·  The Town will Live Stream Town Council Meetings to allow virtual participation in meetings as much as possible.  

·  See Live Streaming to view the meeting. this link is available from the Town of Lake Lure Website Homepage at www.townoflakelure.com

Town Hall and Facilities:Lake Lure Town Hall, Police Department, Fire Department, the Lake Operations building, and Public Works facility (including offices and garages) will be closed for any meetings or gatherings other than official Town business.

Restaurants and Bars: In accordance with the Governor of the State of North Carolina’s executive order effective at 5:00 pm on 3/17/20, all restaurants and bars will be closed to dine-in customers in an effort to fight the coronavirus outbreak. Restaurants and bars may still provide take-out and delivery operations, but cannot have customers in the dining room.

Download the Town of Lake Lure Emergency Period Press Release

Prevention is Key!

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
  • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
  • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to  others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

For information about handwashing, see CDC’s Handwashing website

For information specific to healthcare, see CDC’s Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings

These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses. CDC does have specific guidance for travelers.

Local Resources

• Local Provider: If you need to be seen, you may contact Blue Ridge Health
  

  Address: 146 Nesbitt Ridge, off Highway 9, near Ingles in Lake Lure.

  Hours of Operation: They are open Monday – Friday from 8:00am – 5:00pm.

  Appointments: While appointments are encouraged, walk-ins are welcome.

  Contact Number: For more information or to make an appointment, call 828.625.4400.  

  
  
• County Health Department: If you have specific questions regarding COVID 19 you may contact the Rutherford County Health Department at 828-287-6100. 

• North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services: You may also be interested in reviewing the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Response in North Carolina

• NC COVID 19 Call Center: 866-462-3821
  

Center for Disease Control (CDC) Recommendations

Everyone can do their part to help us respond to this emerging public health threat:

• Individuals and communities should familiarize themselves with recommendations to protect themselves and their communities from getting and spreading respiratory illnesses like COVID-19.
• Older people and people with severe chronic conditions should take special precautions because they are at higher risk of developing serious COVID-19 illness.
• If you are a healthcare provider, be on the look-out for:
  • People who recently traveled from China or another affected area and who have symptoms associated with COVID-19, and
  • People who have been in close contact with someone with COVID-19 or patients with pneumonia of unknown cause. (Consult the most recent definition for patients under investigation [PUIs].)
• If you are a healthcare provider or a public health responder caring for a COVID-19 patient, please take care of yourself and follow recommended infection control procedures.
• If you are a close contact of someone with COVID-19 and develop symptoms of COVID-19, call your healthcare provider and tell them about your symptoms and your exposure. They will decide whether you need to be tested, but keep in mind that there is no treatment for COVID-19 and people who are mildly ill are able to isolate at home.
• If you are a resident in a community where there is ongoing spread of COVID-19 and you develop COVID-19 symptoms, call your healthcare provider and tell them about your symptoms. They will decide whether you need to be tested, but keep in mind that there is no treatment for COVID-19 and people who are mildly ill are able to isolate at home.

For additional information please visit CDC.gov 

Bear Alarm Clocks Are Going Off  

Bears’ internal alarm clocks start ringing in March, with many adult male bears emerging from their dens sometime this month. Next to wake up will be juveniles of both sexes, then female bears with yearlings and solitary females. Mother bears with newborn cubs are the last to poke their noses out into the world. After not eating or drinking for several months, it’s time for water, stretching and wandering around. Soon after getting their bearings, bears start looking for food. 

Now is the time to double-check your to-do list and make sure there’s nothing that will attract bears to your home or property. A few hours of prevention now can save you a lot of time and trouble later.

Employment Opportunities

Development and Environmental Review Specialist: The Town of Lake Lure is seeking qualified applicants for a full-time Development and Environmental Review Specialist. Candidate will perform professional, administrative and enforcement type work requiring extensive public contact reviewing applications for land development, codes, environmental regulations, and nuisance abatement.   Please see Employment Opportunities for additional information.

Firefighter: The Town of Lake Lure is seeking qualified applicants for a full-time firefighter at the Lake Lure Fire Department.  Please see Employment Opportunities for additional information.

Would You Like to Receive Monthly Email Updates on the Latest Town News?

Important Information You May Have Missed in Previous Months

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Register for Everbridge to Receive Important Notifications

The Town of Lake Lure's Mass Notification System is Everbridge

 
The Town of Lake Lure has implemented Everbridge, a new Mass Notification service that allows the Town of Lake Lure to alert you when necessary. This is the notification system utilized by Rutherford County and it will replace the Code Red System that is currently in place. You may opt-in to enter your contact information and subscribe based on your location. The information you provide is protected and will not be used for any other purpose.

When the Town of Lake Lure issues a notification about a potential safety hazard or concern, you will receive a message on the voice or text communication methods that you have registered. If requested for the notification, you can confirm that you have received the message and you will not be contacted by any subsequent methods regarding that particular notification. If you do not confirm, the system will continue to attempt to reach you at all of the contact paths that you have registered.

Please click here to create an account and add your contact and location information into the Mass Notification system. All information you provide will be kept strictly confidential.  Be sure to select the "Emergent/Pertinent Information" when setting up your Alert Subscriptions. 

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You can stop receiving at any time by removing your contact information from your profile. 

 

 

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LAKE LURE DAM UPDATES

Please click here for a summary of the dam’s history, present day realities, and findings of the exhaustive analysis that has been recently conducted. 

This report also includes the next steps Town Council is taking to ensure the dam meets current day standards.   

Regular updates are provided in Town Council Meetings.

 

 

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LAKE LURE DAM BRIDGE 

 

The Lake Lure Dam Bridge is owned by the NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT). The Town of Lake Lure requested a copy of the latest safety inspection report from NCDOT. 

Please click here to read this report.

Town leaders are working to ensure a coordinated effort is made as NCDOT considers future options for renovating/replacing the bridge.