The combination of a change in the primary election date in North Carolina, the demographics of many precinct workers and new technologies has created a serious shortage in precinct workers in Catawba County as the primary election approaches. The Catawba County Elections Office is currently searching for registered voters living in the county who would be willing to work in precincts and provide a vital service to the election process. The primary is scheduled for March 15. Precinct workers must be registered voters in Catawba County. Precinct workers earn at least $150 for the day. Poll workers must also attend one training session and assist with setup on the day before the election. Polls open at 6:30am and close at 7:30pm on Election Day. Precinct workers must arrive by 6am are are required to stay at the polls all day without leaving. Anyone interested in becoming a precinct worker may call the Elections Office at 464-2424.

Morganton City Hall will be closed today in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's birthday. City recreation facilities will also be closed. Garbage pickup will be on a one day delay this week. The City of Hickory offices are closed today, but garbage and recycling pickup will continue. All Caldwell County government offices are closed today and City of Marion offices are closed today. Residential garbage, recycling and street trash collection will be on a regular schedule this week.