Wilkes County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Wilkes County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
County Manager Honored with Regional Award
John Yates was co-winner of the 2026 Outstanding Local Government Manager Award from the High Country Council of Governments, recognizing 18 years leading Wilkes County.
Sale of County-Owned Tax Foreclosure Parcel
The county will advertise a $2,500 offer for a 0.2-acre parcel it has owned since a 2014 tax foreclosure — about $800 less than the county has in it, but the land has generated no taxes in twelve years and would return to the tax rolls.
Property tax authority challenge and constitutional compliance notice
Two residents served the board a written notice demanding 'constitutional compliance' and challenging the county's authority to tax property. The county attorney explained the board's taxing power flows from the state constitution and General Assembly, and said he has never found the board in violation of its oath.