CITYCOUNCIL
High Point has once again earned national recognition as one of the best places to live in North Carolina, ranking No. 10 in the state in the 2026–2027 U.S. News & World Report Best Places to Live rankings. The city also earned national rankings of No. 213 in Best Places to Live in the US and No. 79 in Best Places to Retire in the US. The annual rankings evaluate over 850 communities across the country based on factors including affordability, quality of life, desirability, and job market strength.
“High Point’s growing recognition reflects the momentum we continue to see across our community, ” said Visit High Point President Melody Burnett. “The visitor economy is often the front door to our city, shaping first impressions that can lead people to live, work, invest, and do business here. Through our events, attractions, hotels, restaurants, High Point Market, High Point University, and our Certified Autism Destination designation, we are telling High Point’s story as a welcoming place for all. ”
The impact is felt year-round through major institutions and attractions that draw visitors, support the local economy, and strengthen community life. High Point Market alone drives global visitation and billions in economic impact every year, bringing approximately $6.73 billion annually to North Carolina and supporting more than 42,000 jobs.
“High Point Market is the largest economic development event in North Carolina, and that scale is no coincidence when we look at why companies and people are choosing to locate here, ” said Tammy Covington, High Point Market Authority President and CEO. “We’ve built a robust design economy that continues to attract businesses, talent, and investment to High Point. ”
The recognition comes at a time of continued momentum for High Point and the greater Piedmont Triad region of North Carolina. US Census Bureau population estimates show that High Point is one of the fastestgrowing communities in North Carolina, reflecting increased interest from new residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
“This recognition reflects the strength of High Point’s business community, ” said Rachel Collins, President and CEO of the Business High Point - Chamber of Commerce. “Companies benefit from a strong workforce and a competitive business environment where employees’ dollars go further. ”
The U.S. News rankings placed additional emphasis this year on affordability and overall value, areas where High Point and the Piedmont Triad continue to stand out nationally.
“This recognition reinforces what we see every day in High Point, a community where businesses can grow and compete, with access to a strong, skilled workforce, ” said Peter Bishop, High Point Economic Development Director. “It is also a place where the cost of living allows workers’ paychecks to go further, making High Point an increasingly attractive choice for both employers and employees. ”
The full 2026–2027 Best Places to Live rankings are available through U.S. News & World Report, including High Point’s profile at https://realestate.usnews.com/places/north-carolina/high-point.
The City of High Point proudly celebrated Public Service Recognition Week, honoring the dedicated employees who work every day to provide essential services and enhance the quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors. The annual observance serves as an opportunity to recognize the commitment, professionalism, and hard work of public servants whose efforts help keep the city running smoothly.
The week began with a proclamation presented by the Mayor during the May 4 City Council meeting, officially declaring May 4-8 as Public Service Recognition Week in High Point. The proclamation highlighted the vital role public employees play in delivering services, responding to community needs, and supporting the city’s continued growth and success.
Council also recognized May as Mental Health Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of employee wellness and self-care.
The City of High Point proudly celebrated Public Service Recognition Week, honoring the dedicated employees who work every day to provide essential services and enhance the quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors. The annual observance serves as an opportunity to recognize the commitment, professionalism, and hard work of public servants whose efforts help keep the city running smoothly.
The week began with a proclamation presented by the Mayor during the May 4 City Council meeting, officially declaring May 4-8 as Public Service Recognition Week in High Point. The proclamation highlighted the vital role public employees play in delivering services, responding to community needs, and supporting the city’s continued growth and success. Council also recognized May as Mental Health Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of employee wellness and selfcare.
Throughout the week, employees were invited to participate in a variety of appreciation and wellness activities designed to celebrate their contributions and foster connection among coworkers. Festivities kicked off with a breakfast meetand-greet at City Hall, where employees enjoyed coffee, donuts, and time with members of the City Management Team.
On Tuesday, employees took part in “Take a Picture Tuesday, ”helping showcase the people behind the services residents rely on every day. Wednesday focused on wellness, offering employees opportunities to prioritize their health and well-being through a group walk and a lunchtime yoga session.
The celebration continued on Thursday with “Thankful Thursday, ” as department directors visited employees throughout the organization to personally express appreciation and distribute treats as a small token of gratitude for their service and dedication. The week concluded with a Friday gathering at High Point Theatre, where employees enjoyed FRIOS Gourmet Pops, fellowship with colleagues, and prize drawings.
Public Service Recognition Week served as a meaningful reminder that every employee, whether working directly with residents or supporting operations behind the scenes, plays an important role in the City’s success. The week highlighted the collective impact of the City workforce and reinforced the organization’s appreciation for the individuals who serve High Point with professionalism, dedication, and pride throughout the year.
NORTHCAROLINA
Dozens of runners carried the Flame of Hope through High Point as part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics North Carolina. Officers and staff from the High Point Police Department ran the five-mile route alongside local Special Olympics athletes and supporters from the City of High Point, High Point Parks and Recreation, and the community. Several local athletes will compete in the 2026 Summer Games in Raleigh.
The City's Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) and Shred Collection Event on Saturday, May 16, was a tremendous success, providing residents with a safe and convenient way to dispose of unwanted materials while helping protect the environment.
Throughout the day, approximately 244 vehicles participated in the event, dropping off a variety of items for proper disposal and recycling.
Collection totals included:
Household Hazardous Waste: 18,880 pounds
Secure Document Shredding: 3,000 pounds
Electronics: 2,374 pounds
Scrap Metal and Appliances: 680 pounds
Medications: 41.2 pounds (113 pounds including collection container)
Sharps: Approximately 10 pounds
Ammunition: 40 pounds
Tires: 32
These impressive totals highlight the responsible waste disposal and environmental stewardship.
A special thank you goes out to all staff, volunteers, partners, and residents who helped make this event such a success. Their participation and support played a key role in ensuring these materials were collected and handled safely.
The City's new HP Collects app has also been instrumental in helping spread awareness about events like this one, making it easier than ever for residents to stay informed about collection schedules, disposal opportunities, and other important sanitation services.
Public Services play such an important role in keeping our communities moving every single day. Events like Public Works Day give us the opportunity to share that mission with the public and showcase the dedication and heart behind the hard work.
On May 19, we were thrilled to welcome over 100 community members who came out to explore the many cool exhibits and demonstrations. It was wonderful to see so many people engaged, asking questions, and learning more about the services that help our city run smoothly. Visitors and participants had the opportunity to celebrate the hardworking crew who keep our city running smoothly with the following:
Touch-a-Truck – Climb aboard real Public Services vehicles!
Backhoe Rodeo – Watch our operators show off their skills!
Giveaways – Fun freebies from the Public Services Department!
PIO took some great photos at the event. If you are curious to see, check out the following link: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCUp2g
Thank you all again for coming together to make this event such a success. Your coordination, flexibility, and positive energy did not go unnoticed, and I truly appreciate the effort each of you contributed.
We even had a skilled Council Member participate in the Backhoe Rodeo. And of course, congratulations to Max Shoaf for taking home the Backhoe Rodeo championship this year!
The Greater High Point Food Alliance h at the Library on April 27.They awarded almost $60,000 to fund 23 projects through their 2026 Food Security Fund. Two of the funded projects were granted to the High Point Public Library.
Karen Idol, Children’s Librarian, received a grant award to support the Power of Produce Program, which she coordinates through her outreach with Greater High Point’s Mobile Pantry, Growdega.
Mark Taylor, Research Services Librarian, received a grant to support his efforts to enhance the Library’s Teaching Gardens and the programming he coordinates around them.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and we are supporting the Guilford County Family Justice Center in their violence prevention campaign. On April 29, the library participated in Denim Day, an internationally recognized day to promote awareness about sexual violence and stand in solidarity with victims of these types of assaults.
Family Service of the Piedmont and the Social Work Interns working at the library set up information tables in the Lobby. To learn more about this observance, go to: https://denimday.org/.
High Point Public Library hosted Shared Radiance Performing Arts Company in a performance of “ShakesCollage” on Sunday, May 3, in the Arts and Education Plaza. “ShakesCollage” is a fast-paced, interactive, and educational Shakespeare revue suitable for all ages. The cast for this performance will be Rachel Brianna Cumberland, Joey Upper, and Camille Christina Wright, led by Sherri Raeford, the founder and Artistic Director of Shared Radiance Performing Arts Company. This performance is made possible by the Friends of the High Point Public Library.
This event is part of the High Point Public Library’s 100th anniversary celebration. More information about the library's centennial events can be found at: https://www.highpointnc.gov/3196/High-Point-Public-Library-at100-Years-1.
A MORNING WITH MR. JEFFERSON
The High Point Public Library hosted “A Morning with Mr. Jefferson” , as part of its America250 programming. Tom Pitz has been performing as Thomas Jefferson since 1987. He considers it an honor and a privilege to bring one of America’s greatest historical figures back to life for audiences.
Those in attendance had the opportunity to hear his personal insights into Thomas Jefferson’s life, philosophy, and role in creating the United States of America. This presentation was made possible by support from the Friends of the High Point Public Library.
Photo courtesy of Laura Green, High Point Enterprise
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On May 9, High Point Parks & Rec j
Declan Donoghue Foundation as we opened the seventh playground - and the third in High Point - honoring the memory of their son Declan. This new and very special playground is located at Festival Park’s North Overlook (1917 Eastchester Drive, High Point).
The Declan Donoghue Foundation is a non-profit whose mission is to build playgrounds throughout the Piedmont Triad. It was started by Declan's parents to honor him after he passed away in September 2010 from a rare genetic immune disease. The Foundation provides half the cost of the playground equipment and installation in each case and has contributed over $175,000 to the City for these efforts over the years. This will be the Foundation's last project, and we are so honored that High Point has chosen it as its location.
HIGHPOINTOPENSSEVENTHPLAYGROUND HONORINGDECLANDONOGHUE
The Foundation’s website says, “We believe play is essential to the human spirit, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the joyous and uninhibited play of children. Declan was a shining example of this spirit. Though his short life was filled with medical struggles, it was never without play. ”
High Point Parks & Recreation's Adult Basketball League had a special guest stop by during the playoff games to offer support: Harry Giles! Harry played high school basketball at Wesleyan Christian Academy before going on to play as a standout at Duke! He now plays internationally and it was great to see him. Thanks for the inspiration, Harry!
PROMOTIONS
ANDREW PIERCE
Park Attendant to Marina Operator
ANTHONY ESTES
Fire Captain II to Fire Battalion Chief
ANTHONY MARLAND
Firefighter to Firefighter, Master I
ARMANDO TOLEDO-VAZQUEZ
Firefighter, Master II to Fire Equipment Operator I
AUDREY HARDIN
Seasonal Park Attendant to Theatre Associate
BRYAN LONG
Firefighter to Firefighter, Master I
CHRISTOPHER SHOFFNER
Firefighter to Firefighter, Master I
CLINTON WHITTEN
Fire Equipment Operator II to Fire Captain I
PROMOTIONS
DEVON LASTER
Admin Specialist I to Admin Specialist II
EDWIN RENN
Traffic Paint/Sign Tech II to Traffic Paint/Sign Tech III
JOSLYNN KILLLIAM
Assist. Rec Center Supervisor to Rec Center Supervisor
JUSTIN ROGERS
W/S Plant Mechanic II to W/S Plant Mechanic III
KAREN SHEARER
Telecommunicator II to Real Time Crime Center Supervisor
MARSHALL BROWN
Lifeguard to Pool Manager
NOAH ROBLES
Seasonal Park Attendant to Groundskeeper I
PROMOTIONS
REBECCA KERN
Admin Specialist II to Admin Coordinator
RICKY CAUDLE
Administrative Specialist I to Administrative Specialist II
TJ MOORE
MRF Worker I to MRF Equipment Operator
NEW HIRES
BRANDON ANDREWS
Police Officer I
CHRISTOPHER JONES
Police Officer I
DAVID PARKER
Groundskeeper I
ERNEST COOPER
Groundskeeper I
NEW HIRES
GARRETT SPRINGER
Motor Equipment Operator I
JACOB TUCKER
MRF Worker I
JAMES DENNIS
Police Officer I
JENNIFER WOODALL
Transit Manager
JORDAN WILLIAMS
Police Officer I
JUSTIN PENN
W/S Technician I
MASON MELLOTT
W/S Technician I
MAYRA DERAS
ACCOUNTANT II
SHAYLEE BOWEN
GIS MANAGER
TAYLOR HARPER
POLICE OFFICER I
WENDY JONES
TRANSIT OPERATOR I
