The Mitchell County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution in June 2025 expressing support for Blue Ridge Regional Hospital in Spruce Pine and urging state policymakers to protect rural health-care access.

County staff presented the resolution after citing social-media reports and state budget discussions that staff said could threaten rural hospitals if certain bills were enacted. The resolution describes Blue Ridge Regional Hospital as “an essential health care provider for Mitchell County and the surrounding rural communities” and calls on county leaders to advocate for policies that maintain access to local care.

The resolution notes the hospital’s role after Hurricane Helene, when it housed a disaster medical assistance team and an emergency pharmacy. County staff read the resolution in full to the board before asking for a motion. The board moved and seconded the resolution, and it passed by voice vote.

Chair Dale Blevins urged residents watching the livestream to contact elected officials, saying the county needs widespread community advocacy. "We need all 15,000 plus 15 in Mitchell County to start sending letters, making phone calls," he told viewers during the meeting.

County staff said the board will send the adopted resolution to members of the General Assembly and other appropriate officials.