Date: July 6, 2026
Training Underway at New EcoKing Manufacturing Plant in Robbinsville
Training has started at the former Stanley Furniture site in Robbinsville for EcoKing Solutions, the U.S. subsidiary of Zhejiang Kingsun Eco-pack. The company is investing $80.5 million to create its first North American facility producing biodegradable paper tableware such as trays, bowls, and platters. Initial plans call for 300 jobs growing toward 515 total, with average wages above $46,700. State and local incentives supported the project. Construction and retrofit work are advancing at the 588,000-square-foot plant that sat vacant since 2014.
Sources:
2025-07-22 | https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2025/07/22/governor-stein-announces-515-new-jobs-western-nc-manufacturer-selects-graham-county
2026-07-02 | Cherokee Scout coverage
Cherokee Scout Planning Office Relocation in Murphy
The Cherokee Scout is planning to sell its 2008 building at 89 Sycamore Street in Murphy, including the former press plant, because the space is nearly three times larger than current needs. Publisher David Brown said the paper will move to a smaller, more efficient local office while maintaining full operations. Printing stays on Tuesdays, mailing on Wednesdays, and the e-edition continues without interruption. The move is about efficiency with no change in service to readers.
Sources:
2026-07 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-newsletter/scout-planning-relocate-office
Andrews Discusses Reviving Water Interconnect with Murphy
The Andrews Board of Aldermen is reviewing options to reactivate the 10-mile drinking water interconnection with Murphy. The line was installed in 1999 with a multimillion-dollar grant. Recent outages and advisories in Andrews have renewed interest. Murphy Mayor Tim Radford confirmed openness to sharing water and noted regular flushing on the Murphy side. The Andrews end requires a 72-hour flush process before drinking water use. This step aims to improve reliability for both communities.
Sources:
2026-07 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-newsletter/andrews-seeking-water-murphy
Hayesville Intermediate School Construction on Schedule
Work on the new Hayesville Intermediate School continues on schedule. Recent progress includes the base for tiered seating, a catwalk prepared for paint, and ongoing work around the stage area. Superintendent Melissa Godfrey held a construction meeting this week to keep momentum. The project represents a significant investment in local education facilities for Clay County students and families.
Sources:
2026-07-02 |
https://www.claycountyprogress.com/
Festival on the Square Preparations in Hayesville
Downtown Hayesville is gearing up for the 45th annual Festival on the Square, set for July 10-12. The long-running event features free entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, and food options that draw visitors from across the Southeast. Bands are booked and local businesses are preparing. It remains one of Clay County’s signature weekends for community gathering and supporting downtown shops.
Sources:
2026-07-02 | https://www.claycountyprogress.com/
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