News About Town: Tonight, September 23, prior to the regular Board of Commissioners meeting, the Board will have a special meeting to review proposed revisions to the Personnel Policy. The Board will consider better defining allowable sick leave before a doctor’s note is required. Discussion will also include adding two weeks of paid military leave for enlisted employees to attend required military training. For employees who are parents (or soon-to-be), the Board is considering whether the paid six weeks of parental leave would be split between parents if both parents work for the town. Currently, parents receive four hours of paid leave for volunteering with their children’s schools. The Board is considering expanding this to include other employees who wish to use the time to volunteer with a non-profit organization.

News Around Town: Yesterday afternoon, motorcyclists from all over NC rode in a fundraiser to benefit North Carolina State Trooper Christopher Wooten. Officer Wooten was paralyzed from the neck down when his motorcycle was struck by another vehicle while he was on duty. The benefit run, a 50 mile escorted ride, started at zMAX Dragway in Concord, NC, and finished at Independence Harley Davidson in Matthews. Those who witnessed the procession stated it was miles long.

One Good Thing: This Saturday, the Town of Matthews, Matthews United Methodist, Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity, and the American Legion are partnering to help you make room in your garage. If you have papers piling up that need shredding, old electronics that can be recycled, or a tattered flag that needs to be properly disposed of, this is the event for you. Volunteers from the Fire and Police Departments, along with Girl Trail Scouts, Boys Scouts and United Methodist Youth will be there to assist. Take your stuff to the church (Matthews United Methodist, 801 South Trade St), and they’ll take it from there, this Saturday, September 28, from 9 am to noon.