It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Alexandriana Historic Site in Alexander, NC gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Alexander, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I am a current client of this provider I like the caregiver they give us. They always”
“I am a current client of this provider I'd like to see the communication improved. The”
“such a good environment everyone’s so kind so easy and welcoming !!”
“I am a current client of this provider They need to be better at communication and”
“Lindsay was the most helpful and professional individual I have ever worked with. Highly recommended!!”
“I can’t say enough wonderful things about Lindsay at Always Best Care. She is kind,”
“I am a current client of this provider I didn't like different caregivers coming all the”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are responsive when I”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that the agency is responsive. I am”
“Lindsay was amazing to work with. She made the whole process so much easier. She”
“Hiring process is amazingly easy, absolutely friendly environment, they care about what your needs are.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are showing up. We set”
“I am a current client of this provider I had a caregiver come to my home,”
“I am a current client of this provider Maybe the selection of employees could be improved;”
“I am a current client of this provider They are very reliable. They provide transportation. They help”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are easy to work”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are always on time. They”
“I am a current client of this provider They help with the needs that we have. It”
“I am a current client of this provider I like my caregiver. They've made my experience positive”
“I am a current client of this provider I feel comfortable with them so far. I don't”
“ABC has provided care for my client for 5-6 years. They have been great! Melisa”
“Always Best Care for Seniors has served my clients well based on feedback received. They”
“I am a current client of this provider Belinda has done everything I have asked and”
“I am a current client of this provider They are courteous, polite, kind and hard-working. It helps”
“I am a current client of this provider I liked the intake interview lady. Mary, the”
“I am a current client of this provider I like the caregiver they give us. They always come out once a while to make sure everything is okay.”
“I am a current client of this provider I'd like to see the communication improved. The people they have sent have been pretty good. They make it positive by taking care of my daily needs.”
“such a good environment everyone’s so kind so easy and welcoming !!”
“I am a current client of this provider They need to be better at communication and scheduling. The caregiver is amazing; the issue is with the office staff having high turnover and not being reliable. The caregiver has helped the most by giving my dad transportation to go to places like the grocery store, and she offers companionship.”
“Lindsay was the most helpful and professional individual I have ever worked with. Highly recommended!!”
“I can’t say enough wonderful things about Lindsay at Always Best Care. She is kind, compassionate, and truly goes above and beyond to make sure her clients feel comfortable, respected, and well cared for. Her professionalism, patience, and genuine concern for others really stand out. Knowing someone like Lindsay is there gives families real peace of mind.”
“I am a current client of this provider I didn't like different caregivers coming all the time, but we just have one now, and that's good. The days that the caregiver comes are good for us.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are responsive when I have questions or concerns. I like having one caregiver. I don't know what they could improve on.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that the agency is responsive. I am out and about, and I don't have to be with the client.”
“Lindsay was amazing to work with. She made the whole process so much easier. She went above and beyond to help us.”
“Hiring process is amazingly easy, absolutely friendly environment, they care about what your needs are. Orientation was quick and painless which is always a PLUS in my book! 10/10 recommend if you are looking for that 1st step into the healthcare field without all the extra certifications and such!”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are showing up. We set up a plan of care, and the plan has been executed very nicely.”
“I am a current client of this provider I had a caregiver come to my home, whom I liked very much, and they took her away. Since then, I have had a bunch of different ones come in, but I need one like that caregiver I liked. They do things for me that I can't do for myself anymore.”
“I am a current client of this provider Maybe the selection of employees could be improved; I don't know for sure. Explain to them that you don't need a cell phone at work. I appreciate them letting me stay in touch with them or them staying in touch with me.”
“I am a current client of this provider They are very reliable. They provide transportation. They help with anything she needs, depending on the day.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are easy to work with and they are good. They have been great with dealing with her.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are always on time. They have helped me the most with light housekeeping.”
“I am a current client of this provider They help with the needs that we have. It gives me time to go to the grocery store.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like my caregiver. They've made my experience positive by sending me Barbara.”
“I am a current client of this provider I feel comfortable with them so far. I don't have any problems getting things done when the caregivers show up.”
“ABC has provided care for my client for 5-6 years. They have been great! Melisa and Autumn have given extra effort and care to assist with managing my client's needs. I don't know how I would have made it without them.”
“Always Best Care for Seniors has served my clients well based on feedback received. They take the time to assess the needs of caregivers and care recipients alike and establish a detailed person-centered plan of care that addresses the care needs and wellbeing of the care recipient. This approach builds rapport and confidence with the caregiver and emphasizes respite for the caregiver while meeting the care recipients’ needs.”
“I am a current client of this provider Belinda has done everything I have asked and more. Belinda has gone above the call of duty.”
“I am a current client of this provider They are courteous, polite, kind and hard-working. It helps keep him interactive with people.”
“I am a current client of this provider I liked the intake interview lady. Mary, the nurse, is very encouraging. Their presence is helpful because I can't be there.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Alexander River Park in Alexander, NC with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local J. Alexander's Restaurant or visit Hezekiah Alexander House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Alexander, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Alexander, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Alexander, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Alexander County Government will participate in Operation Green Light for Veterans November 4–11, 2026, illuminating the County Administration Building, Alexander County Services Center, and Courthouse Park in green to show support and appreciation for local veterans and their families.Operation Green Light is a nationwide initiative of the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers (NACVSO), with support from the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCA...
Alexander County Government will participate in Operation Green Light for Veterans November 4–11, 2026, illuminating the County Administration Building, Alexander County Services Center, and Courthouse Park in green to show support and appreciation for local veterans and their families.
Operation Green Light is a nationwide initiative of the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers (NACVSO), with support from the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC). The Alexander County Board of Commissioners has adopted a resolution supporting the initiative each November.
The initiative honors veterans of all military conflicts while raising awareness of the challenges many veterans and their families face, as well as the resources available to assist them at the local, state, and federal levels.
“By shining the green light, we continue to honor the brave men and women who’ve sacrificed so much to protect our freedom,” said Cherry Kilby, Alexander County Veteran Services Officer. “Our veterans deserve our gratitude and support. I encourage families, businesses, and organizations to join us again this year in displaying a green light to show appreciation for our veterans and their families.”
Residents, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to participate by replacing a single light bulb with a green bulb. Whether displayed outdoors for neighbors and passersby or indoors to spark conversations, each green light serves as a visible reminder that veterans are seen, appreciated, and supported.
Although Operation Green Light coincides with Veterans Day on November 11, participants are encouraged to display green lights year-round and share photos on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.
For more information about Operation Green Light, visit www.naco.org/operationgreenlight. To learn about local services and resources available to veterans and their families, visit https://alexandercountync.gov/departments/veterans-services.
At the September 14 meeting, the Alexander County Board of Commissioners approved an agreement with the North Carolina Railroad Company to receive an additional $50,000 grant to evaluate a second site in the Alexander Industrial Park. The first $50,000 grant agreement was approved in August.County Attorney Ben Faulkenberry presented the agreement at the meeting. He said studies funded through the initial grant are underway, with results expected by the end of October.In April, the board approved an option-to-purchase agreement ...
At the September 14 meeting, the Alexander County Board of Commissioners approved an agreement with the North Carolina Railroad Company to receive an additional $50,000 grant to evaluate a second site in the Alexander Industrial Park. The first $50,000 grant agreement was approved in August.
County Attorney Ben Faulkenberry presented the agreement at the meeting. He said studies funded through the initial grant are underway, with results expected by the end of October.
In April, the board approved an option-to-purchase agreement with Alexander Railroad Company for two parcels totaling approximately 115 acres adjacent to the industrial park.
The agreement with NC Railroad gives the county two years to determine whether the property is suitable for industrial development. The studies will include a Phase I environmental site assessment and a site survey, as well as, if necessary, a boundary and topographic survey, streams and wetlands survey, threatened and endangered species survey, and geotechnical studies with borings.
The studies funded by the grant are part of the county’s due diligence process and do not commit the county to purchasing the property.
According to the grant agreement, NC Railroad created the program to provide funding to communities to help eliminate site development barriers and create a pipeline of investment in new industrial sites in North Carolina.
“We are grateful to the North Carolina Railroad Company for providing additional grant funding to help us evaluate another potential site in the Alexander Industrial Park,” said Larry Yoder, Chairman of the Alexander County Board of Commissioners. “We are hopeful the surveys and assessments will produce positive results and allow us to move forward with expanding the inventory of available industrial sites in Alexander County.”
In other business: • Commissioners tabled the public hearing on an economic incentive grant for “Project Automate.” The board will consider the matter at the October 5 meeting.
• The board formally adopted the 2027 Schedule of Values for the upcoming revaluation, as presented by Tax Administrator Doug Fox and Jimmy Tanner with Tanner Valuation Group. The schedule was presented at the July 13 meeting, and a public hearing was held on August 3.
• Commissioners approved a rezoning request for 1.5 acres owned by Emily Prince on Vic Court in Taylorsville, as presented by County Planner Amy Bucknum. The property will be rezoned from R1 (Residential District One) to R2R (Residential District Two Rural) to allow for the placement of a single-wide manufactured home. The planning board recommended approval.
• The board approved a Federal Section 5310 Program grant application and resolution for fiscal year 2028, as presented by Consolidated Human Services Director David Moose. The program provides transportation services to Alexander County residents age 65 and older, as well as people with disabilities, for medical appointments and other life-sustaining activities. The project budget totals $194,592, with a required 10 percent local match of $19,460.
• Zack Shepherd, Community Relations Regional Director for Vaya Health, presented an update to the board. He said the organization will have a new name, Vaya Partners Health, as Vaya merges with Partners Health Management effective October 1. Shepherd said the consolidation will create a more robust organization. Vaya Partners will serve 47 of North Carolina’s 100 counties, making it the largest public managed care organization in the state. Learn more at vayapartners.org.
• Commissioners approved 21 new road names, as presented by County Manager Justin Mundy. Fifteen road names are for the Esplanade development off Rink Dam Road, including Birchwood Avenue, Esplanade Boulevard, Grandview Ridge, Hickory Bluff Lane, Lake Hickory Lane, Lodge Way, Magnolia Terrace, Misty Mountain Lane, Poplar Point, Reflection Terrace, Stonecrest Way, Summit View Drive, Trillium Way, Watercrest Lane, and Windward Way. Other new road names include Icenhour Farm Lane (off Taylorsville Manufacturing Road), Longleaf Pine Drive (off Stikeleather Road), Praying Springs Farm Drive (off Russell Gap Road), Rooster Hollow (off Ridgeway Drive), Seven Feathers Path (off All Healing Springs Road), and Triple R Indian Lane (off Hwy. 64-90 West).
• Commissioners approved two budget amendments and one project budget ordinance, as presented by County Manager Justin Mundy.
The first amendment decreases the Health Department budget to reflect a revised allocation of federal grant funds from the Public Health Infrastructure Local Workforce Development program, increases the budget for additional state grant funds for the Family Planning program, and increases the budget for Medicaid revenues for the Care Management for High-Risk Pregnancy program.
The second amendment increases the Economic Development budget to account for the $50,000 grant from the North Carolina Railroad Company for site development studies in the Alexander Industrial Park.
The project budget ordinance establishes a $516,000 budget for Alexander Soil & Water Streamflow Rehabilitation Assistance Program (StRAP) grant funds from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services.
• The board approved the consent agenda, which includes tax abatements and adjustments totaling $12,293.99 and tax refunds totaling $2,487.47; minutes from the August 3 meeting; the August line-item transfer report; a proclamation declaring September as National Preparedness Month; a request from Sheriff Chad Pennell to surplus retiree Mark St. Clair’s service weapon; a request from Public Works to surplus 11 vehicles; and personnel policy revisions related to travel expenses and weather leave.
Consolidated Human Services Board meeting
Following the regular meeting, commissioners convened the quarterly meeting of the Consolidated Human Services Board.
• Billie Walker, Health Director, presented the health department report. There are three vacancies on the advisory board for a dentist, an ophthalmologist, and a registered nurse. There is one internal staff vacancy for a Dental Assistant II. The department recently hired an Administrative Assistant II, Processing Assistant III, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
The health department is working through the North Carolina Local Health Department Accreditation process, which is utilizing a new system this year with 45 activities and 147 benchmarks. A site visit is scheduled for October 29.
Dori Maltba, Nurse Director, presented the 2025 communicable disease update. She said prevention and control of communicable diseases is one of the most important functions of public health. The most common sexually transmitted and bloodborne diseases in Alexander County in 2025 were chlamydia (46 cases), chronic hepatitis C (24 cases), and gonorrhea (20 cases). The most commonly reported food-borne illnesses were Campylobacter (5 cases) and Salmonella (3 cases).
The health department’s role regarding communicable diseases is to conduct investigations and provide healthcare providers with guidance on appropriate treatment, monitor patients’ course of illness, investigate circumstances surrounding the occurrence of the disease, determine and provide control measures, identify outbreaks/clusters, and report events and outbreaks to the state.
Maltba said there have been no cases of Monkeypox or Measles in Alexander County.
Walker said the health department will participate in Healthy Living Education at Alexander Central High School on September 16, Senior Health Fair on September 18, National Night Out on October 6, and Taylorsville Apple Festival on October 18.
• Consolidated Human Services Director David Moose and DSS Director Keri Jerrell presented the social services report. DSS now provides a monthly report to the board that tracks performance data and other information from the preceding month. The report includes director and legislative updates, accomplishments, upcoming events, and other departmental information. The first report was issued August 17.
The department is also compiling a performance scorecard that measures program performance against standards established in the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services memorandum of understanding with Alexander County. All program areas are currently performing at or above the established standards for the month ending July 2026.
Moose also provided an update on HR 1, also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill. He said the legislation will increase the administrative workload for counties, including requiring Medicaid redeterminations twice a year instead of once a year. The legislation also reduces federal reimbursement for Food and Nutrition Services administrative costs. The state is providing supplemental funding to help offset some of the additional administrative burden on counties.
DSS currently has a 6.0 percent staff vacancy rate, with active recruitment continuing in the child welfare and economic services divisions. The average vacancy rate for departments of social services statewide is approximately 10 percent.
Jerrell reported that 47 children are currently in foster care, with seven enrolled in the Links program and five participating in the 18-21 program extension. Adult Protective Services currently has 17 wards. One home is in the foster parent licensing process. Six adoptions have been completed, and two foster care cases were closed following family reunification.
The Child Support Division was recognized at the North Carolina Child Support Annual Conference for outstanding achievement. The division was named most improved overall, with an 87.41 percent increase in self-assessment measures. The division was also recognized for exceeding all collection incentive and self-assessment performance measures. The division includes Supervisor Andra Robinson and Child Support Agents Rose Gresham, Judy Pennell, Sherry Reese, Jean Wilson, and Isaiah Daniels.
DSS staff have also been active in the community, recently distributing training toilets to area childcare centers, parents, and caregivers, as well as free school supplies at a community event. Staff also participated in a recent Food Truck Fridays event to recruit foster parents.
Upcoming events include the Senior Health Fair on September 18, National Night Out on October 6, the Alexander County Job Fair on October 29, and a Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting (MAPP) class beginning November 5.
• Assistant Director Brianna Fox presented the Senior Center report. Kelly Peterson, the new activity assistant, began her duties on June 22. New flooring was recently installed throughout the main senior center, made possible by a Home and Community Care Block Grant. Musician’s Jam events are popular, with two evening jams held on June 30 and July 28. Ice Cream Social events were held on August 6 in Bethlehem and August 7 in Taylorsville, with a total of 172 participants.
Upcoming events include a Senior Health Fair on September 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at East Taylorsville Baptist Church, Medicare Open Enrollment from October 15 through December 7, and an open enrollment kickoff “Spooktacular” on October 9 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, featuring games, food, fraud prevention information, and Medicare/SHIIP information.
The center is planning two overnight trips in 2027, with destinations including the Grand Canyon, departing April 11, and Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, departing September 16. Seniors will also depart next week for a trip to Ireland.
From January through July 2026, the Senior Center helped local seniors save $379,521 in Medicare prescription drug costs.
Participation increased 76.26 percent from January through July 2026, with 74,965 visits compared to 42,530 during the same period in 2025. The Bethlehem and Stony Point satellite sites continue to grow in popularity.
The next regular meeting of the Alexander County Board of Commissioners is scheduled for Monday, October 5, at 6:00 p.m. at the CVCC Alexander Center for Education (Room 103). Regular meetings are recorded and may be viewed on the county’s Government Channel (Spectrum Channel 192) or the county’s YouTube channel. Meeting agendas, minutes, videos, and additional information are available at alexandercountync.gov/commissioners.
Final Election ResultsCatawba CountyBoard of Commissioners-three winners Final- 40 of 40 precincts reporting **Sherry Edmonds Butler [R] 20.75% **Jay Moore [R] 20.35% **Cole Terrell Setzer [R] 20.32% Aubrey Gregory [D] 13.22% Jesse Alden [D] 12.87% Phyllis Michaux [D] 12.49%Catawba County Schools Board of Education- four winners Final- 28 of 28 precincts reporting **Matthew Fox [R] 19.87% **Tim Settlemyre [R] 19.82% **Don Sigmon [R] 19.74% **Greg Whitener [R] 19.71% Khristy Womack Smith [D] 10.87% Kevin Hawley [D] 9.99%...
Final Election Results
Catawba County
Board of Commissioners-three winners Final- 40 of 40 precincts reporting **Sherry Edmonds Butler [R] 20.75% **Jay Moore [R] 20.35% **Cole Terrell Setzer [R] 20.32% Aubrey Gregory [D] 13.22% Jesse Alden [D] 12.87% Phyllis Michaux [D] 12.49%
Catawba County Schools Board of Education- four winners Final- 28 of 28 precincts reporting **Matthew Fox [R] 19.87% **Tim Settlemyre [R] 19.82% **Don Sigmon [R] 19.74% **Greg Whitener [R] 19.71% Khristy Womack Smith [D] 10.87% Kevin Hawley [D] 9.99%
Alexander County
Board of Commissioners- three winners Final- 10 of 10 precincts reporting **Marty Loudermilt [R] 30.07% **Ronnie L. Reese [R] 29.16% **Andrew Johnson [R] 28.98% Steven Warren [D] 11.79%
Alexander County Schools Board of Education District 6 Final- 3 of 3 precincts reporting **Tim Fox [R] 75.77% Cindy Thomas Sellers [D] 24.23%
Burke County Board of Commissioners- two winners Final- 31 of 31 precincts reporting **Randy Burns [R] 39.87% **Phil Smith [R] 34.59% Pam Genant [D] 25.54%
Mayor of Hildebran Final- 2 of 2 precincts reporting **Vicky A. Carpenter [Nonpartisan] 59.25% Karen Robinson [Nonpartisan] 39.07%
Burke County Board of Education, Central District Final- 31 of 31 precincts reporting **Tiana Beachler [R] 61.14% Mark Smith [D] 38.86%
Caldwell County Board of Commissioners- two winners Final – 15 of 15 precincts reporting **Mike LaBrose [R] 34.02% **Corey Moore [R] 31.64% Roger Patterson [D] 16.23% Faith Naff [D] 15.47%
Iredell County
Board of Commissioners- three winners Final- 30 of 30 precincts reporting **Brent Goddard [R] 23.23% **Bert Connolly [R] 22.99% **Scottie Brown [R] 22.75% Terence Clark [D] 15.72% Amanda Brown Kotis [D] 15.30%
Lincoln County
Sheriff Final – 23 of 23 precincts reporting **Bill Beam [R] 82.12% Anthony Huss [L] 17.88%
Mayor of Lincolnton Final- 7 of 7 precincts reporting **Jill Tipton [R] 53.66% Jim R. Watson [D] 45.97%
State and national races affecting Hickory Metro
N.C. State House District 96 Catawba Final- 40 of 40 precincts reporting ** Jay Adams (R) 54.64% ** Park Inglefield (D) 45.336%
NC State House District 89 Catawba Final- 40 of 40 precincts reporting ** Mitchell Setzer (R) 68.28% ** Robert (Spider) Thompson (D) 31.72%
NC State House District 87 Caldwell Final- 15 of 15 Precincts Reporting **Destin Hall (R) 68.35% Iris Bender (D) 31.65%
NC State House District 86 Burke Final- Precincts Reporting 31 of 31 **Hugh Blackwell (R) 63.44% Wesley E. Hendrix (D) 36.56%
NC House District 94 Alexander Final- Precincts Reported (29 out of 29) **Blair Eddins (R) 72.57% Andy Warren (D) 27.43%
N.C. Senate District 45 Catawba/Caldwell Final- Precincts Reported (50 of 50) **Mark Hollo (R) 62.76% Greg Cranford (D) 37.24%
NC State Senate District 36 Alexander Final- Precincts Reported (70 of 70) **Eddie Settle {R} 72.88% Trevor Cole Hardwick (D) 27.12%
NC State Senate District 46 Burke Final- Precincts Reporting (68 of 68) **Warren Daniel (R) 56.42% Kyle Whisnant (D) 43.58%
105 of 105 Precincts Reported NC State Senate District 47 Caldwell **Ralph Hise [R] 55.66% Frank Patton Hughes III [D] 44.34%
Final- 187 of 187 Precincts Reported U.S. House District 10 Catawba **Pat Harrigan [R] 49.72% Ashley Bell [D] 48.69% Steven Feldman [L] 1.59%
230 of 230 Precincts Reported
U.S. House District 5 Alexander/Caldwell
**Chuck Hubbard [D] 48.70% Virginia Foxx [R] 48.66% Robert Luffman [L] 2.64%
U.S. House District 14 Burke
142 of 142 Precincts Reported **Lakesha Womack [D] 51.11% Tim Moore [R] 48.89%
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