Meet Mayor Pat

"I was in the gym when some were saying the COVID vaccination plan was too intrusive, too early. and the Mayor responded, 'This is the right plan, and I'll take the heat.' That's Leadership. And it worked."  

Matthew Eberz.

"On the sale of the hospital, Mayor Pat stood firm on keeping it here for ten years instead of the five years they planned, and he won. He was right then and he is right now on their commitment to employee housing." 

Barrett Hawks

"Mayor Taylor has served the Highlands Community admirably since being elected in 2013.  I've had the privilege to work with Mayor Taylor for 8 years as a Town Commissioner.  There isn't anyone that can question Mayor Taylor’s commitment and love for our town.  He selflessly makes his duty as Mayor a great priority and represents the town well, regardless of if it’s a town board meeting or he is representing the town in Raleigh.  I hope you’ll join me and support Pat Taylor this November, for four more years of solid leadership.” 

Brian Stiehler

"As Chairman of the Macon County Board of Commissioners, I have had the opportunity to deal with numerous politicians at all levels of government, and in my mind, Mayor Pat Taylor stands out as one of the best that I have the opportunity to interact.  ... it comforts me knowing that Pat Taylor is the Mayor of Highlands because I know that he will not give a “knee jerk” reaction to a problem.  Instead, he will have a respectful conversation, he will study the issue until he understands it from all angles and then once he has come to a conclusion, he will clearly communicate the reasoning for his decision.Mayor Pat Taylor has not only earned my utmost respect as a fellow politician, but more importantly he has without a doubt, earned my vote."    Jim Tate

With a long term commitment by the HCA to provide services to our community, the town stands ready to move forward in areas such as health workforce housing. (Click image to see more.)

Highlands has a very good water system. The $1.8 million Buckhorn water tank is a new addition to the water system. The Town embraces a continuous improvement model in operating essential services. (Click image to see more.)

The town strong reserves also help keep property tax rates and debt low, as well as self-finance major capital improvements projects. (click image to see more.)

We have chosen the best solution to take us to the expanded future. Access to world class broad band will be essential to quality of life here in Highlands. While other communities continue plan for expanded broad band service, Highlands has access to services now. (click image to see more.)

The program is a complete success; the trash caused by bears has been drastically reduced.  A "Well Done" to our business owners and residents. We have protected the health and safety of our sanitation workers, the appearance of our town and the well being of our bear friends. (Click image to see more.)

We now have one of the best recreation departments in Western Carolina that serves all ages in our community. (Click image to see more.)

We have more parking than all our neighbors, but is it enough? For additional parking tradeoffs may have to be considered. (Click image to see more.)

A valued natural asset this community needs and the town is ready to work and partner with the Mirror Lake community on their obtaining grants and raising money for restoring the lake. The town has a program to pave all roads near critical water impoundments. (Click image to see more.)