In 2025, Moore County experienced a year marked by significant community debates, natural disasters, and development challenges. The contentious decision to site the new Carthage Elementary on Vass-Carthage Road highlighted local divisions, while Tropical Storm Chantal caused historic flooding and ongoing infrastructure repairs. The county also grappled with the future of the historic High Falls Dam, with local leaders opposing its removal amid environmental and safety concerns. Progress was made in infrastructure with plans to repair the long-neglected Gaines Road in Jackson Hamlet and a revised, community-influenced redesign of the Pinehurst Traffic Circle aimed at easing congestion without major disruption.

Growth and development remained hot topics, with some large subdivision proposals paused due to concerns over infrastructure and school capacity, while others moved forward, including new housing projects in Aberdeen, Southern Pines, and Pinehurst. The county explored expanding commercial air service at Moore County Airport, though the idea remains under consideration. Community highlights included the grand opening of the Elaine T. Baillie Skatepark, heroic local rescues of animals and people, and inspiring personal stories such as EJ Russell’s journey from Special Olympics athlete to college graduate. The year closed with the adoption of a new Land Use Plan focused on managing growth while preserving the county’s rural character and farmland.