Today’s Local News from WSPC 107.3 FM & 1010 AM
Also heard on Magic 103.3 FM
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
🕙 Your mid-morning briefing from Dave Andrews in the WSPC newsroom
Brought to you by Friendly Chevrolet and Uwharrie Bank
🚫 Albemarle Council Considers Urban Camping Ban
The Albemarle City Council is moving forward with an ordinance that would prohibit urban camping and the improper use of public spaces.
If approved, the new rule would take effect January 1, 2026, and make it illegal to:
- Camp, sleep, or store personal belongings on public property, including streets, sidewalks, parks, and parking lots.
- Use tents, vehicles, or other shelters as living accommodations.
Violators would first receive a warning, with repeat offenses leading to possible misdemeanor charges.
There are exceptions — people may still sit or rest in public for legitimate reasons such as:
- Medical emergencies
- Waiting for transportation
- Attending permitted events like festivals or parades
City officials say the proposal aims to balance compassion and public safety while keeping shared spaces open for everyone.
A second reading of the ordinance is scheduled for November 3rd before a final vote.
🏠 Stanly Sees Strong Home Construction Activity
Stanly County Commissioner Bill Lawhon shared new housing data showing steady growth in residential construction this year.
From January through September 2025, the county issued:
- 402 new home permits — just four fewer than the same period last year.
- $131.2 million in permit value, up 47% or $42 million from 2024.
Lawhon called the numbers “good construction going on in Stanly County,” noting the average new home permit value is $326,352 — helping move closer to covering local service costs.
🏫 Stanly Community College Expands Trades Training
Commissioner Lawhon also highlighted the recent opening of the Brown Building, a new Trades Facility at Stanly Community College.
The state-of-the-art building features:
- A CNC machine shop
- Electrical, HVAC, and construction classrooms
- Heavy equipment simulators for bulldozer and machinery training
“It’s a very impressive building,” Lawhon said. “A good addition to the community college.”
🚒 NC Emergency Training Center Brings Growth Potential
Lawhon also toured the new North Carolina Emergency Training Center near the Stanly County Airport, a project valued at roughly $87 million.
The center offers realistic simulations — from flash flood rescues to airplane crash firefighting — and is expected to bring first responders and trainees from across the state.
“What does that mean for Stanly County?” Lawhon said.
“People will be coming here to train, eating at local restaurants, staying at hotels, and shopping in our stores. That will generate new sales tax revenue.”
⛳ Gray Stone Golfer Headed to State Championship
Gray Stone Day School congratulates Dara Lash, who has qualified for the State Golf Championship.
Students and staff are cheering her on as she represents the school on the state stage.
📅 Coming Up:
The Stanly County Board of Education will hold a special called meeting on Thursday, October 23rd at 9:00 a.m. at 723 E. Main Street, Albemarle.
📧 Send your local news tips to news@1010wspc.com
📻 WSPC 107.3 FM • 1010 AM • Magic 103.3 FM
💬 Follow us on Facebook for breaking updates
Brought to you by Friendly Chevrolet and Uwharrie Bank