Following our groundbreaking ceremony on March 23, Representative Julia Howard generously offered to personally fund a new flagpole for the Community Center. The Town would like to thank her for this thoughtful contribution and for her continued efforts to make Davie County and Cooleemee a better place to live.
Post Office
The Town held a public hearing on April 13 to review the mailbox ordinance for Cooleemee. Because the Town uses post office boxes rather than home mail delivery, the ordinance previously stated that exceptions could be granted only on a case-by-case basis for individuals with permanent medical conditions requiring a mailbox. To obtain a permit, the individual or their designee was required to present a request to the Cooleemee Board of Commissioners for approval.
Following the discussion, the Town Board voted to repeal the ordinance.
The United States Postal Service evaluated the possibility of implementing home mail delivery. After reviewing delivery routes, the USPS determined that home delivery would not be cost-effective due to transportation costs from the Mocksville Post Office and increased labor requirements.
Since USPS is required to provide one free method of mail delivery, Cooleemee residents will be eligible for free post office boxes. Once USPS finalizes a plan to convert eligible boxes to no-fee accounts, that timeline will be shared with the community.
The Town also discussed ongoing issues with incorrectly addressed mail reaching the Cooleemee Post Office but not being placed in the appropriate PO Box. USPS has committed to making every effort to deliver these items correctly and to educating customers on proper addressing. Residents can assist by ensuring their mailing addresses are accurate and by confirming that all individuals receiving mail are properly listed for each PO Box.
Senior Games
The horseshoe competition for the 2026 Senior Games was held in Cooleemee from April 14–16. Due to the number of participants, the women’s competition took place over the first two days, with the men’s competition on April 16. Events were held in the mornings to accommodate the warmer weather.
The competition was excellent, but the fellowship among participants was even more meaningful. The Town extends its appreciation to Carrie Miller of Senior Services for her efforts in making the Davie County Senior Games one of the best in the state.
Winners:
Females (60–64): 1st – Julia Fox; 2nd – Paige Whaley (65–69): 1st – Carolyn Sloan; 2nd – Janice Langley; 3rd – Sandra Smith (70–74): 1st – Alice Monk; 2nd – Vanessa Carter (75–79): 1st – Karen Umberger; 2nd – Charli Wilcox; 3rd – Pat Gregory (80–84): 1st – Lois Green; 2nd – Barbara Chapman; 3rd – Bonita Dobbs (85–89): 1st – Alice Barnette; 2nd – Judy Collette (90–94): 1st – Sue Allen
The first Owner/Architect/Contractor project meeting was held on April 7. This formal meeting includes Buddy Staton of Davie Construction (Project Manager), John Fuller of Fuller Architecture, and me. During these meetings, the team reviews the project timeline and addresses any issues that arise.
Weekly meetings are also held each Monday with Project Superintendent Jonathon Smith to plan the upcoming week. In addition, there is ongoing daily communication to ensure the project remains on schedule for an anticipated October completion.
Construction on the new Community Center is now underway. Grading has been completed, and foundation work is expected to begin late next week. A slight delay has occurred due to rebar fabrication requirements.
As part of the grading process, the ground level along the back wall of the building was raised by four feet, reducing the foundation wall height from 14 feet to 10 feet. Once the foundation is completed, construction is expected to progress more rapidly. Residents can look forward to more frequent updates as work continues.
A Growing Tradition of Joy and Connection The third annual Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by the Bridge Church in Cooleemee was again a great success. Pastor Justin Blue is a fantastic event organizer. His enthusiasm is contagious; he’s funny and makes everyone feel comfortable and welcome.
A Creative Twist: Candy from the Sky This year, instead of filling eggs with candy and having the Cooleemee Fire Department release the eggs from their elevated ladder—where they would often break open and get crushed—“rain candy” fell from the sky. Children quickly filled their baskets, and the new approach made cleanup much easier for staff.
Fun for All Ages A separate area was set up for children ages 5 and under to hunt for colorful eggs and fill their Easter baskets, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for the youngest participants.
Free Food and Family Fun Snow cones, popcorn, freshly grilled hot dogs, a bouncy house, and water were all provided free of charge, adding to the festive, family-friendly atmosphere.
Games, Laughter, and Lasting Memories Pastor Blue kept the energy high by challenging kids to games of rock, paper, scissors—drawing plenty of laughs and attention from adults. Several rounds of Simon Says also provided entertainment for the crowd.
A Personal Touch and Invitation Pastor Blue made a point to walk around, thank attendees for coming, and share details about the upcoming Easter Service at The Bridge Church, located at 197 Main Street in Cooleemee.
A Lasting Commitment to the Community Pastor Blue’s sincere interest in Cooleemee is evident year-round, as he and his team continue to show up with food, fun, and fellowship. The Town of Cooleemee sincerely thanks him for his outreach and for always enhancing local events.
Gratitude for Dedicated Partners The town also extends its appreciation to the Cooleemee Fire Department. Whenever schedules allow, their response is always, “When and where.” Their professionalism and willingness to serve do not go unnoticed.
Stay Connected Feel free to contact me—I would love to hear from you at: www.cooleemeenews@gmail.com or 336.250.1133.
(L to R) Back – Kristine Williams, Davie Chamber; Front- Davie County Commission Chair Benita Finney, Cooleemee Mayor Jeff Smith, Senator Steve Jarvis, and Representative Julia Howard.
Project to Bring Library, Programs, and Community Together in One Central Hub
The Town of Cooleemee officially broke ground on its new community center this week, marking what leaders called a “generational project” designed to bring residents together and expand opportunities for learning, connection, and community life.
Local leaders, state representatives, project partners, and residents gathered to celebrate the milestone, which will result in a new multi-use facility that will serve as both a community center and the future home of the Cooleemee branch of the Davie County Public Library.
Davie County Public Library Director Derrick Wold and Cooleemee Mayor Jeff Smith
A Vision Rooted in Community and Connection
Opening the ceremony, speakers emphasized the deeper purpose behind the project—creating a space that will serve generations to come.
Mayor Jeff Smith said the project is designed to bring people together.
“Times are different today. People are pulled in so many directions, and we believe this project is a way to bring people together. If you want people to come together, you have to give them something to do—and that’s what this space will provide.
Standing here today reminds me of this area’s history. This town has always honored its past. Our motto is ‘Preserving the past, building the future,’ and that’s exactly what we’re doing here. We’re taking a meaningful step forward while respecting where we’ve come from.
This location is truly the center—the hub—of Cooleemee. This new community center will serve as a gathering place that strengthens community involvement and enhances the library’s ability to connect with residents. It will also give the town new opportunities to provide services to our citizens.”
Designed for Flexibility and Everyday Use
The $1.8 million project is designed to be a highly versatile space that meets a wide range of community needs.
“It was important to get it right,” Smith said. “The goal was to create the most versatile building possible and provide the greatest benefit for our citizens.”
The facility will include:
A kitchen
Classrooms and conference rooms
A 1,600-square-foot multipurpose space
Audio-visual capabilities for programs and meetings
Located near the park and playground, the site is expected to naturally increase library usage and create a destination where families can spend time together.
“I believe this location will significantly increase the use of the library, which is critical,” Smith said.
Expanding Opportunities for Residents of All Ages
The new community center will allow Cooleemee to expand programming and host a wide range of activities—from children’s programs and movie nights to fitness classes and community meetings.
It also opens the door for additional services.
“We’ve already had interest from groups looking to host medical clinics and wellness programs here,” Smith said.
The facility will also provide a comfortable, air-conditioned gathering space for major community events, including holiday celebrations and summer activities.
(L to R) Kevin Marion, Fuller Architecture; Davie County Library Director Derrick Wold; Cooleemee Commissioner Sheighla Tippett; Cooleemee Commissioner Steve Corriher; Davie County Commissioner Benita Finney; Senator Steve Jarvis; Representative Julia Howard; Cooleemee Mayor Jeff Smith; Cooleemee Commissioner Sandra Ferrell; Cooleemee Commissioner Andy Reavis; Davie County Manager Brian Barnett; Davie County Commissioner Brent Shoaf; Davie County Commissioner Richard Poindexter; Brad Chapman, Davie Construction
A Project Built Through Partnership
Speakers repeatedly emphasized that the project was made possible through strong partnerships at the local, county, and state levels.
“This is truly a generational project—something that doesn’t come along often,” Smith said. “It’s one of the most significant investments our town has seen.”
Julia Howard Reflects on Progress and Community
Representative Julia Howard tied the project to a walk years ago with then-Mayor John Chandler that highlighted the need for continued investment.
“I said, ‘John, why have you got a port-a-jon sitting out there at the front of the Zachary House?’” Howard said. “And he said, ‘Well, we have to have it because we use it. We don’t have a handicap facility inside the building, and so we have to have that.”
“That doesn’t speak a strong message,” she said. “We may be a little behind the times on a lot of things, but most of us don’t have a port-a-jon anymore.”
Howard said that moment led her to take action.
“I went back to Raleigh that day and told John I was going to start looking to see if we could find a little bit of help to get that fixed—and we did.”
Howard said projects like this are built on trust, friendship, and shared commitment.
“I consider each of you a friend and a colleague and would do anything that I can to help you,” she said. “And I feel the same way, that you would do the same for me. And that’s what makes a community.”
She called the groundbreaking “the right step.”
“It’s a small step,” Howard said. “We’re headed in the right direction, and we’ll make one step in the right direction, and then there’ll be others. Stick together, stay together, and let’s make all of this happen.”
Steve Jarvis Highlights Continued Service and Support
Introducing Senator Steve Jarvis, Mayor Jeff Smith noted his service to the region.
Jarvis expressed his excitement about the project and said, “I see this community center as a catalyst to bring the community together. I’m happy to be a part of this and to see history being made. I look forward to coming back when it’s complete for the ribbon cutting.”
Benita Finney Shares Excitement for Cooleemee’s Future
Davie County Commission Chair Benita Finney shared her excitement about the project and its impact.
“I absolutely love Cooleemee, and I adore the people of Cooleemee,” Finney said. “I’m actually getting emotional sitting here during this ceremony because I am just so excited for this town.”
“I think this community center is going to be phenomenal. It’s going to bring so many opportunities here—with the new library and all the activities that will be available. As already mentioned, the senior center and so many other groups across the county are just waiting for these doors to open so they can come down here and support this community even more than they already do.
Finney also credited state leaders for helping secure funding.
“I’m very grateful to Julia Howard and Senator Steve Jarvis for making this happen. They went above and beyond to make sure this community would have this special building,” she said.
Local Roots, Local Impact
The project is also notable for its strong local ties, with both Davie Construction and Fuller Architecture playing key roles.
Kevin Marion of Fuller Architecture said the company enjoyed working with the Town of Cooleemee on several efforts, including other improvements in the area, and was looking forward to continuing to be part of the town’s future and all the positive momentum happening here.
“I have a personal connection to this county. I moved here when I was six years old. My family lived on the eastern side of the county, and while I didn’t know much about Cooleemee at that age, that changed over time.
When I got to high school, I started spending more time here— the Bullhole, the historic areas, and the heart of this community. It became a very important part of Davie County to me.”
Brad Chapman of Davie Construction said the project holds special meaning for him and many on his team.
“When I was contacted by Mayor Smith and the town—along with County Manager Brian Smith—about this project, and we were awarded the work, I was incredibly excited to share the news with everyone in our office because this project is personal to so many of us.”
“I grew up in Cooleemee, attended Cooleemee School, and spent a lot of time at the former Methodist church up on the hill, playing baseball on the field behind the school, using the tennis courts, the playground, and the pool. This place means something to me.
And it’s not just me.
We have several other team members with strong ties to this community as well. This truly feels like a home project for us.
In fact, nearly a third of our employees live in Davie County. So this isn’t just another job—it’s an opportunity for our team and their families to benefit from something we’re helping build.
Much like the work we did converting the old high school into the community park, this project is about more than construction. It’s about creating something meaningful for the people who live here.”
Looking Ahead
With construction now underway and a target completion date of October, town leaders say the new community center will serve as a lasting investment in Cooleemee’s future.
“This partnership is what makes something like this possible,” Smith said. “We could not do this alone.”
Following the ceremony, attendees gathered for the official groundbreaking and celebration, marking the beginning of a project that will shape the community for years to come.
The Town of Cooleemee will soon celebrate the beginning of a transformative project for the community. Construction on the town’s new Community Center — which will also house the Cooleemee branch of the Davie County Public Library — is set to begin March 16, 2026.
To mark the occasion, the town will host a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday, March 23 at 11:00 a.m. at the project site located beside the Zachary House at 131 Church Street. Residents and community partners are invited to attend and help celebrate this important milestone.
The new facility represents a major investment in Cooleemee’s future and will serve as a central gathering place for residents of all ages.
“This community center is truly a generational project for the Town of Cooleemee,” said Mayor Jeff Smith. “It will become a hub where families, seniors, and young people can come together for activities, programs, and events that strengthen the fabric of our community.”
A Partnership Investment in Cooleemee’s Future
The $1.79 million project is the result of a strong partnership between the State of North Carolina, Davie County, and the Town of Cooleemee.
State funding includes a $1 million grant sponsored by Representative Julia Howard and Senator Steve Jarvis, while Davie County is funding the inclusion of the Davie County Public Library branch within the building. The Town of Cooleemee is funding the remainder of the project.
Mayor Smith emphasized how important collaboration has been in bringing the project to life.
“We are incredibly grateful to Representative Julia Howard, Senator Steve Jarvis, and the Davie County Commissioners for their support in making this project possible,” Smith said. “Their partnership and commitment to Cooleemee helped turn this vision into reality.”
The project was designed by Fuller Architecture, and Davie Construction will serve as the builder for the project. Construction is expected to be completed by October 2026.
A New Home for the Cooleemee Library
The project will relocate the Cooleemee branch of the Davie County Public Library from its current location in the shopping center to its new home within the community center.
The move places the library in the heart of the town’s recreational and cultural district, near the Zachary House, local museums, playground, and recreational spaces.
“Relocating the library to this central location will make it easier for families to incorporate reading, learning, and library programs into their daily routines,” said Smith. “Being part of the community center will also allow the library to expand programming and better serve residents.”
The shared facility will give the library access to additional amenities including meeting rooms, a kitchen, and a large multipurpose space, creating new opportunities for educational programs and community events.
Designed for Community Activities and Events
The new Community Center will include:
A 1,600-square-foot multipurpose room
A community kitchen
A fitness and exercise room
Flexible meeting and program spaces
The Cooleemee branch of the Davie County Public Library
Once complete, the facility will create new opportunities for community engagement through events and programs such as:
Movie nights
Fundraisers
Summer activities for children
Town hall meetings
Educational classes and workshops
Senior services programs
Exercise classes
Lunch and Learn events
“This building will give our town the ability to host programs and events that bring people together,” Smith said. “Our goal is to create more opportunities for residents to connect, learn, and enjoy being part of the Cooleemee community.”
Join the Celebration
Residents are invited to attend the groundbreaking ceremony and celebrate the start of construction on a project that will serve Cooleemee for generations to come.
Community Center Groundbreaking Ceremony Monday, March 23, 2026 11:00 a.m. 131 Church Street Cooleemee, NC
Town leaders say the new community center will be more than just a building — it will be a gathering place where the community can learn, grow, and connect for years to come.
March 3rd is more than just a date on the calendar — it is an opportunity for every eligible citizen to make their voice heard. Voting is one of the most fundamental rights and responsibilities we share as Americans. It is how we shape the future of our communities, our schools, our local services, and our nation.
Every election matters. Local and State elections in particular often have a direct impact on daily life — from public safety and education to infrastructure and economic development. The decisions made by elected officials influence the direction of our towns and counties for years to come.
When we vote, we honor the generations who fought to secure this right, and we help ensure that our government reflects the will of the people. Participation strengthens democracy and reinforces accountability.
On March 3rd, I encourage every eligible voter to take the time to cast a ballot. Your voice matters. Your vote matters. Together, we can help shape a strong and vibrant future for our community.
The Town of Cooleemee mourns the passing of former Mayor Lynn Rumley, who passed away on February 11, 2026.
Lynn served as Mayor of Cooleemee from 2010 to 2015, providing thoughtful leadership and steadfast dedication to the community she loved. Prior to her time as mayor, she served as a town commissioner, always working to strengthen and preserve the town’s heritage and future.
An advocate for local history, Lynn was responsible for the creation of the Cooleemee Historical Association. Alongside her late husband, Jim Rumley, she played a vital role in the creation of the Cooleemee Mill Museum and the Mill House Museum. These landmarks continue to serve as educational spaces, welcoming local elementary school students and community members to learn about Cooleemee’s rich history.
Lynn’s legacy is one of service, preservation, and community pride. Her contributions have left a lasting impact on the town and the generations who benefit from her dedication.
The Town of Cooleemee extends heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and all who were touched by her life and service.
TOWN OF COOLEEMEE, NORTH CAROLINA RESCISSION OF STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION January 2026 – Winter Storm Fern
WHEREAS, on January 24, 2026, the Mayor of the Town of Cooleemee declared a State of Emergency in response to Winter Storm Fern pursuant to Chapter 166A of the North Carolina General Statutes and the Town of Cooleemee Code of Ordinances; and
WHEREAS, conditions related to Winter Storm Fem have stabilized and no longer pose an immediate threat to public health, safety, or property within the Town of Cooleemee; and
WHEREAS, emergency response operations have transitioned from immediate response activities to recovery and routine municipal operations; NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the authority vested in me as Mayor of the Town of Cooleemee under Chapter 166A of the North Carolina General Statutes and the Town of Cooleemee Emergency Management Ordinances:
Section 1. The previously declared State of Emergency for the Town of Cooleemee related to Winter Storm Fem is hereby rescinded.
Section 2. All emergency restrictions, directives, and special authorities enacted under the State of Emergency declaration are terminated effective immediately, unless otherwise extended by . separate official action.
Section 3. This rescission shall take effect immediately upon issuance on this 28th day of January, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.
RESCINDED this 28th day of January, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.
The Town of Cooleemee can confirm that former clerk Aaron Thies was indicted by the grand jury on or about January 6, 2026. The grand jury issued indictments for two class C felonies and one class F felony.
The town continues to cooperate with the State Bureau of Investigation and a special state prosecutor.
The town declines to comment further as this is still an active investigation.
The winter storm that is coming for the weekend looks to be more of an ice than snow event, plus anything that falls will be with us for several days due to the cold temperatures that will be in place through Tuesday. I have talked with the county, the Cooleemee Fire Department and Duke Power. All three have made plans to have people in place to deal with whatever comes up during the storm. They all say one important thing we can do is to plan ahead and not be out on the roads after the event starts. Travel will be treacherous with all the ice that is coming. The safety tips below are a good guideline to help in preparation.
Important safety tips
Be sure to have a plan in place if you lose power for an extended period of time, especially if you or a family member relies on electricity for medical needs. This is especially important in a winter storm when travel conditions could be hazardous. Please consider the following reminders.
Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized, as well as trees, limbs, fences, or anything in contact with lines.
Ensure mobile phones remain charged, and you have an adequate supply of flashlights, batteries, bottled water, nonperishable foods, and medicines.
If you use a generator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe and proper operation. Operate your generator outside, and never in a building or garage.
Do not use grills or other outdoor appliances indoors for space heating or cooking, as these devices may emit carbon monoxide.
If a power line falls across a car that you’re in, stay in the car. If you MUST exit the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.
Winter storms can result in hazardous driving conditions. Stay off the road if possible, but if you must travel, watch for utility crews working along the road restoring power. Move over or slow down and give them room to work safely.
Please think about all the fire fighters, sheriff deputies, county employees, and Duke Power employees that will be working during the next several days to help keep us safe.
