Community News

State of Emergency Declared

In advance of the expected impacts from Winter Storm Gianna, Union County is declaring a State of Emergency that goes into effect on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, at 7 a.m. The County's Emergency Operations Center will be activated at the same time to monitor impacts of the winter storm, direct the County’s response efforts, and share timely information with the public. Meteorologists are forecasting significant winter weather conditions across the area, including an estimated 4-12 inches of snow over a two-day period, which could result in hazardous travel, downed trees, impassable roads, and power outages. North Carolina Emergency Management has described the upcoming snowfall from Winter Storm Gianna as potentially historic for the region, highlighting the need for residents to prepare carefully and exercise caution.

Read about the declaration on our website.

County Facilities Closed This Weekend Due to Expected Winter Weather

In preparation for Winter Storm Gianna, Union County Government is closing County facilities that are typically open on weekends, due to forecasted snow and freezing temperatures, which may create slick roads. Saturday, Jan. 31: All County facilities will be closed, including libraries, County parks, waste and recycling facilities, and the Agricultural Center. Sunday, Feb. 1: County Facilities Closed (County parks, Agricultural Center) Monday, Feb. 2: To be determined – check unioncountync.gov for updates. Essential public safety services will remain operational 24/7. The safety of our residents, employees, visitors, and volunteers is our priority. Please stay home until the threat of severe weather ends and the roads are clear so safety crews, utility personnel and emergency management staff can have access to better serve you. Read more.

Winter Weather Prep

Review your emergency plans, prepare your home and vehicle, and check on neighbors, older adults, and pets. Visit our Winter Weather Preparedness page for safety tips and resources to help you stay warm, safe, and ready. Follow Union County Government on Facebook for the latest updates on County operations, weather alerts and community resources.

Public Health Issues Quarantine Orders Related to Measles Exposure at Private School

Union County Public Health issued more than 170 quarantine orders related to measles exposure at Shining Light Baptist Academy in Monroe. At this time, there are no confirmed measles cases in Union County, but additional spread is anticipated due to the contagious nature of measles. Public Health is working directly with affected families and offering vaccinations and immunity testing.

Read more about the current situation, symptoms, prevention steps, and more on our website.

Know Your Measles Immunity Status

With cases of measles continuing to rise in our region, it’s important to take action to protect yourself and your loved ones. Without proof of immunity, even a potential exposure could lead to Public Health issuing a 21-day quarantine, per communicable disease law. Check your vaccine status online.

Can’t find your immunization record?
Try these steps:

• Check with local pharmacies, clinics or health departments.
• Look at school, military or family records.
• If vaccinated in another state, check their registry.

Your Best Protection Against Measles

Measles can be easily prevented with the MMR vaccine. It is important for all individuals aged 12 months and older to get vaccinated. It is rare for vaccinated individuals to contract measles.

Measles vaccines are available through healthcare providers, local pharmacies or clinics.

Serve At-Risk Youth

Submit Your Proposal to Union County's Juvenile Crime Prevention Council

Calling all organizations that serve at-risk young people with services that include, but are not limited to, treatment, counseling, mentoring, and vocational learning. Union County's Juvenile Crime Prevention Council is requesting proposals for the upcoming 2026-2027 fiscal year to serve court-involved and at-risk youth. View more details on the request for proposals and funding available.

Pre-K Applications & Kindergarten Enrollment Open Feb. 2

Union County Public Schools will begin accepting applications for Pre-K programs and kindergarten enrollment for the 2026–2027 school year on Monday, Feb. 2. UCPS offers multiple Pre-K options, including Title I Pre-K, NC Pre-K, Pre-K Peer Pals and Exceptional Children Preschool. Families can also attend upcoming parent information sessions to learn more about programs and receive help with applications. Kindergarten enrollment is open to children who will turn five by Aug. 31, 2026. View more information about kindergarten enrollment and academic offerings.

Free Income Tax Prep

Don’t let the burden of filing your income tax return overwhelm you.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to people who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns, including: Household income of $70,000 or less Persons living with disabilities; and Limited English-speaking taxpayers. Beginning Monday, Feb. 2, call 704-296-4312, Monday-Thursday, between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., to schedule an appointment. Visit our website for any updates due to the winter storm.

Community Events

Annual Garden Symposium

Learn new gardening tips and meet new gardening friends at the second-ever Annual Garden Design Symposium presented by the Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Association of Union County on Saturday, Jan. 31, from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Due to winter weather conditions, the Symposium will now be held virtually on Zoom. Register online for $60 per person.

Free Car Seat Safety Checks

The Union County Sheriff’s Office will host a free Car Seat Safety Check at the Indian Trail bureau location, 130 Blythe Drive, Indian Trail, on Tuesday, Feb. 3 between 10 a.m. and noon. Deputies will be on site to inspect car seats, answer questions and provide guidance on proper installation.

Regional Transportation Pop-Up Event: Marshville

The Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization - or CRTPO - is coming to Union County to get your thoughts and input on the 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan. Stop by the Marshville Community Center, 118 E. Union St., on Thursday, Feb. 5, 4-6 p.m. to learn more about the plan and share your thoughts on regional transportation needs and priorities.

Save the Date: Senior Wellness Expo 

The Council on Aging’s Senior Wellness Expo is an important event that brings together older adults, health care professionals, and experts to promote wellness. The expo features a variety of vendors and health screenings that focus on the unique health needs of aging populations, such as disease prevention and management, nutrition, physical activity, mental health, and health care access. Connect with vendors and enjoy refreshments and door prizes on Wednesday, Feb. 11, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Union County Agricultural Center.

View the Senior Wellness Expo flyer.

Friends of the Library Galentine's Gala

On Thursday, Feb. 12, from 6 to 8 p.m., Friends of the Library will host a ticketed event at The Grande Victorian, featuring two best-selling romance authors. The event will feature books available for purchase from both authors, refreshments and a raffle.

All proceeds from this event will support the Union County Library's programs and services. Purchase tickets online for $35 per person.

Healthy Living

National Radon Action Month

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in America and claims the lives of nearly 21,000 Americans every year.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is not detectable by your senses. You can’t see, smell or taste radon, but testing for radon in your home is easy and inexpensive.

Purchase a discounted radon test kit by visiting the NC Radon Program's website.

Download our radon fact sheet for more information.