North Carolina has been named the number one state for workforce development in 2026 by Site Selection magazine, following its 2025 ranking as “America’s Top State for Business.”

Airport Director Devon Raisch reported that fuel sales are down nearly $40,000 this month. He cited the recent Statesville plane crash, which killed seven people, as a factor affecting local flight activity.

Rutherford County commissioners were confronted Monday night with urgent warnings from Department of Social Services employees who said chronic staffing shortages and heavy caseloads are jeopardizing child welfare.

Authorities are asking for the public’s help in locating Randy Sean Waters, 39, who was reported missing by his family on December 30, 2025.

On January 1, 2026, investigators with the Tri-City Violent Crimes Task Force conducted surveillance at Sterling Oaks Apartments, a location that has received multiple narcotics complaints.