Local Officials

Morganton City Council

Since 1913, the City of Morganton has operated as a council-manager form of government. The residents of Morganton elect the City Council, which consists of four Council members and the Mayor. The City Council is responsible for passing ordinances and establishing policies that impact the City. It appoints a City Manager, who serves at the Council's discretion, and serves as the Council’s chief policy advisor by developing the city budget, managing daily operations, implementing its policies, and enforcing its ordinances. Each Council member is elected to a four-year term.

Portrait of an older man with white hair, wearing a black suit, white shirt, and striped tie, smiling at the camera.

Ronnie Thompson Mayor

(828) 437-6994 mayor@morgantonnc.gov
First Elected 2013

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Butch McSwain District 1

(828) 437-0022 citycouncil@morgantonnc.gov
First Elected 2019

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Chris Jernigan District 2

(828) 403-0862 citycouncil@morgantonnc.gov
First Elected 2019

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Molly McKay District 3

(828) 439-3225 citycouncil@morgantonnc.gov
First Elected 2025

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Wendy Cato
Mayor Pro Tem District 4

(828) 448-4067 citycouncil@morgantonnc.gov
First Elected 2017

Burke County Commissioners

Burke County is governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners, elected at large to serve four-year terms. Terms are staggered so that, every two years, three or four commissioner seats are up for election.

Burke County School Board

The mission of Burke County Public Schools is to educate diverse learners, nurture their potential, and empower them to be competitive, successful, and productive citizens.

Burke County Health Department

Promoting Health, Protecting the Environment is a statement that we take seriously at the Burke County Health Department. We promise to provide you with high-quality care from a highly qualified and friendly staff.

Burke County Board Of Elections

This is a statute board consisting of 5 members, of which 4 are appointed by the State Board of Elections and the chair is appointed by the Governor. The Board of Elections establishes and issues rules, regulations, and instruments that are not inconsistent with laws or rules established by the State Board of Elections, as it may deem necessary for the guidance of election officers and voters.