Chairman Delivers State of Wake County Address

Board of Commissioners Chairman Tony Gurley praised Wake County's improvements during his State of the County address Monday.

Posted 3:12 a.m. Nov 20, 2007 — Updated 4:41 p.m. Nov 20, 2007

RALEIGH, N.C. — Board of Commissioners chairman Tony Gurley praised Wake County's improvements during his State of the County address Monday.

"Over the last year, we have faced many challenges and celebrated many achievements," Gurley said in a news release. "And with the help of our citizens, business leaders and nonprofit organizations, together we are laying foundations for a future that promises to be one of the brightest in North Carolina, and in all of the United States."

Among many achievements of the year, Gurley said the Commissioners took pride in helping fund the first freestanding hospice in Wake County.

Hospice of Wake County broke ground in October 2007 for The William C. Dunlap Center of Caring, also made possible with donations from the community.

Gurley also said Wake County has the best school system in the state, and the largest.

"We all recognize that education is directly linked to attracting business, high-paying jobs, and maintaining a great quality of life," Gurley said. "No one contributes more to this goal than our teachers, especially Wake County Teacher of the Year Paige Elliott."

Gurley praised programs that won state and national awards.

"We are strong in delivering the responsibilities of county government. But government is just one facet. Our businesses, the nonprofits and the citizens of Wake County are the real drivers behind our success," he said.

Suggest A Correction