Government & Law Enforcement: January 11, 2023
Today’s session of Leadership Haywood was quite the unique opportunity to learn firsthand about the mechanisms, leaders, and personnel behind government and law enforcement here in Haywood County. This week’s class is highly intriguing as an individual with limited experience/knowledge of how local governments operate.
After our initial introduction and discussion of the day, we had the opportunity to sit in front of critical governmental leaders/representatives from Canton, Clyde, Waynesville, and Haywood County. Our group learned a bit about these individuals and what has motivated them throughout their careers in civil service. These instrumental individuals spoke with us about the strength of Haywood County and our towns, but also our opportunities for improvement; the conversation went even further as these individuals shared their personal-professional insights into what we may see coming up in the future of Haywood County.
From here, we had the opportunity to meet with the Waynesville Police Department (Chief Adams and officers) and Haywood County Sheriff’s Department (Sheriff Wilke and officers). From our open conversations with these offices, it is clear that the citizens of Haywood County are well supported by individuals that take great pride in serving and protecting our community. Some of the topics we discussed included technological advancements and their impact on law enforcement, efforts to maintain/protect these forces’ physical and mental health, and duties performed by these two departments.
This day was really eye-opening into a vital aspect of Haywood County. A few of my biggest takeaways/opportunities for further learning from this day are:
-as citizens of Haywood County, one of the best ways we can support our county is by attending public hearings/forums to be involved in the discussions revolving around the future growth and direction of Haywood County.
-Haywood County residents have the opportunity to participate in a free program called the Waynesville Civilian Police Academy to strengthen our community and Police force alike.
-Our government and law enforcement leaders here in Haywood County really care for the community. They are always close by and happy to support you however possible.
A major thank you to Haywood County Chamber, Leadership Haywood Program, and volunteers who participated in this week’s session.
Cory Nuckolls
Director of Guest Services
Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center