Moore County leaders are laying the groundwork for some of the largest investments the county has seen in years. The Moore County Board of Commissioners reviewed major priorities for 2026, including a proposed school construction bond referendum expected to appear on the November ballot. Plans include a new elementary school in the Carthage area, a new high school, and possible renovations at Union Pines and Pinecrest High Schools, which remain overcrowded. County leaders say final details on cost, sites, and attendance zones are still being developed.
In regional recognition news, David Pope, president and CEO of Scotland Health Care System, has been named Richmond Community College’s 2026 Citizen of the Year. The Richmond Community College Foundation praised Pope for strengthening workforce pipelines, including scholarships supporting health care training. He’ll be honored at a gala February 21 in Hamlet.
Small businesses across Moore County now have new funding help available. The Moore County Economic Development Partnership has opened applications for Small Business Impact Grants, offering up to $5,000 for storefront improvements, technology, marketing, and accessibility upgrades — with priority for underserved communities.
And locally, Sandhills Community College is expanding family support with an on-campus after-school program through the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, giving families affordable child care and students more flexibility to work and learn.
That’s your Sandhills News Minute — keeping you connected to the Sandhills and beyond.
