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Board unanimously backs resolution asking TVA and partners to address unusable Cable boat ramp

Swain County Board of Commissioners · January 8, 2026

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Summary

Residents presented about 300 petition signatures and told the board the Cable boat ramp has been unusable since December; commissioners voted unanimously to send a resolution/letter of support and urged coordination with TVA and wildlife engineers.

Residents led by Leonard Winchester urged the Swain County board to support a resolution asking state and federal partners to address the unusable Cable boat ramp.

Winchester told commissioners the ramp has not been usable since December and that residents collected about 300 petition signatures. He said Senator Tillis’s office, Carl Gillespie and others have been contacted, and the presenters reported that TVA controls water levels below the high-water mark and must approve changes affecting navigation and ramp usability. Presenters said an engineer indicated possible funds for boat ramps and that the request would not cost the county directly.

Commissioner 11 moved that the board provide a letter/resolution supporting work to restore or improve the ramp; the motion was seconded and the board voted unanimously to pass the resolution.

Commissioners discussed additional nearby ramp needs and noted coordination with the U.S. Forest Service and wildlife authorities will be required. Staff or residents indicated next steps would include sending the resolution and coordinating among the offices that have been contacted.