Long’s death was not formally on the council’s agenda, but Rhodes’ remarks underscored the broader theme of accountability threaded through the evening’s presentations.

A 73-year-old man experiencing homelessness in Rutherfordton was arrested this week after allegedly threatening to “handle” police officers “with a rifle." 

Ernest Oly Horton, 64, of 763 Harris Henrietta Road, Forest City, allegedly assaulted Mickey Gene Graham Jr. on Nov. 4, 2025, using a tie rod, causing serious injury and acting with intent to kill, according to public court records.

Weatherization and heating-repair programs help prevent energy emergencies, reduce utility costs, and protect health. According to the latest available data, in 2021, WAP provided weatherization services for more than 1,100 homes and repaired or replaced over 900 heating and cooling systems.

The organization operates a Code Purple emergency shelter whenever temperatures drop to 32°F or below, offering warm beds, hot meals, showers, and supportive staff.