The program, supported by a $3 million federal HRSA grant awarded to the United Way of Rutherford County in 2024, has been operating quietly since March but had not previously been discussed at a Rutherfordton council meeting

Many county and municipal projects depend on federal grants and assistance, from infrastructure improvements to emergency management programs. With the shutdown underway, those funds may be delayed, suspended, or harder to access, potentially stalling current projects and postponing new ones.

However, Mayor Pritchett’s statement that Lake Lure suffered “no loss of life” does not align with official records. Chimney Rock resident Lisa Peeler Brady died from landslide injuries and was found in Lake Lure five and a half days after the storm

Owens urged the legal community and residents to prepare in advance. “Please make sure any electronic accounts are set up and ready,” he said. “During this transition, some services will be limited, and early preparation will help avoid disruptions.”

The Tri-City Task Force includes officers from Rutherfordton, Spindale, and Forest City police departments. Formed to pool resources and strengthen enforcement efforts, the task force aims to make a greater impact on drug-related crime across the region.