County adopts Operation Greenlight to honor veterans

In a recent government meeting, Burke County officials approved a significant construction bid and discussed initiatives to support local veterans and disaster recovery efforts.

The Board of Commissioners awarded a contract to Beam Construction Company for $13.5 million to build a new Emergency Medical Services (EMS) headquarters and an animal shelter. The bid includes additional funding for emergency radio responders, fire alarms, and specialized flooring, pending review by the county attorney. The motion passed unanimously with a vote of 4-0.

In another key agenda item, the board endorsed Operation Greenlight, a week-long initiative aimed at raising awareness of veteran services. Veteran Services Director Molly Yeller presented the program, which encourages local buildings to be illuminated with green lights from November 4 to November 11, coinciding with Veterans Day. The initiative aims to highlight available resources for veterans and their families, inviting community participation to honor their service.

Additionally, Finance Director Margaret Pierce introduced a capital project ordinance for a $3 million disaster recovery grant related to Hurricane Helene. The funding is expected to be fully covered by FEMA, with no financial burden on the county. The project will address various recovery categories, starting with debris removal and emergency procedures.

These discussions reflect Burke County's commitment to infrastructure development, veteran support, and disaster recovery, showcasing a proactive approach to community needs.