In a recent Ashe County Commission meeting held on June 16, 2025, significant discussions centered around updates to inspection fees and a heartfelt farewell to a long-serving sheriff's office employee.

The meeting began with a review of proposed fee increases for fire inspections and general building inspections. Fire Marshal Josh Steelman and Chief Building Inspector Brian Carson presented their recommendations, which included a $25 increase for various inspection fees to align with neighboring counties. Notably, the structure of periodic fire inspection fees was revised to simplify communication regarding costs based on building square footage. The commission unanimously approved these changes, reflecting a proactive approach to maintaining competitive service fees while ensuring public safety.

The meeting also featured a poignant tribute to Randy Lewis, a veteran of the Ashe County Sheriff’s Office, who is retiring after 37 years of service. Sheriff’s Office representatives highlighted Lewis's extensive career, noting his adaptability through significant technological advancements in law enforcement. His retirement marks the end of an era, as he is recognized as the last member of a generation that has seen the evolution of policing from manual processes to modern, computerized systems. A plaque was presented to Lewis in appreciation of his dedication, with an invitation extended to the community for a celebration in his honor next week.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to public safety through updated inspection protocols and recognized the invaluable contributions of long-serving employees, reinforcing the importance of community and continuity in local governance.