Contact Us: 336-284-2141
131 Church Street, PO Box 1080, Cooleemee, NC 27014

Town of Cooleemee

Author: Cooleemee Admin

Don’t Forget to Vote

Posted on by Cooleemee Admin

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.

Jeff Smith
Mayor
Town of Cooleemee

Former Cooleemee Mayor Lynn Rumley Passes Away

Posted on by Cooleemee Admin

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.

Rescission of State Emergency Declaration

Posted on by Cooleemee Admin

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.

Jeff Smith
Mayor, Town of Cooleemee

From the Town of Cooleemee

Posted on by Cooleemee Admin

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.

Winter Storm – A Message From Your Mayor

Posted on by Cooleemee Admin

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.

Stay warm and stay safe.

Mayor Smith

Staffing and Town Hall Hours Update

Posted on by Cooleemee Admin

We are pleased to announce we have hired Stacy Gilbert to the position of part-time Town Clerk. Stacy is from Cooleemee and is looking forward to helping out her hometown. Stacy will work several days a week to help us through the transition to fill the vacant Town Clerk and Finance Officer position. Please join me in welcoming Stacy to her new role with the town. Town Hall will be open from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm for the next two weeks. Thank you for your patience as we work through the transition.

I can be reached when Town Hall is closed at:

(336) 250-1135 or jsmith@cooleemee.org

Jeff Smith
Mayor of Cooleemee

Staffing and Town Hall Hours Update

Posted on by Cooleemee Admin

We are pleased to announce we have hired Shirley Jacobs to the position of part time Town Clerk. Shirley brings a wealth of experience having served in the role in the past. Shirley will work several days a week to help us through the transition to fill the vacant Town Clerk and Finance Officer position. We are also in the process of hiring additional part time help and over the next two weeks Town Hall will have restricted hours.

Town Hall will be closed on Monday 8/4 and the next two Friday’s 8/8 and 8/15. The other days Town Hall will be open 9-1. Thank you for your patience as we work to get people in place.

Next Two Weeks Town Hall Hours of Operation

8-4       Closed 
8-5       9:00 – 1:00
8-6       9:00 – 1:00 
8-7       9:00 – 1:00
8-8       Closed
8-11     9:00 – 1:00
8-12     9:00 – 1:00
8-13     9:00 – 1:00
8-14     9:00 – 1:00

I can be reached when Town Hall is closed at: (336) 250-1135 or jsmith@cooleemee.org.

Jeff Smith
Mayor of Cooleemee

Organizational Announcement

Posted on by Cooleemee Admin

It is with both sadness and congratulations that I am announcing Steve Corriher will be resigning his position of Town Clerk and Finance Officer to accept a new opportunity with Lowe’s effective August 4, 2025. Sadness in that we are losing a tremendous asset to the town with Steve’s departure, and congratulations that he will be moving to a great opportunity for him and his family.

Steve has always had a great love for the Town of Cooleemee. In addition to his current role as Town Clerk and Finance officer, he has served terms as the Mayor of Cooleemee. In those roles he has served on many boards and worked with the other municipalities, the county, and the state. Steve’s experience in all these areas has helped the town work through some difficult times. Steve will be working part-time as we go through the process of replacing him.

On a personal note, Steve has been a tremendous help to me in my role as mayor. His knowledge and experience along with his willingness to share those with me and the commissioners has helped make things run much smoother for our town.

Please join me in thanking Steve for all he has done and continues to do for Cooleemee, and wish him well in his new opportunity.

Jeff Smith
Mayor of Cooleemee

  • Town of Cooleemee
    131 Church St.
    PO Box 1080
    Cooleemee, NC 27014

  • Phone: 336-284-2141

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