The Town of Valdese is located in Burke County and nestled in the foothills of the Western Piedmont Region between Hickory and Morganton. With access to the Catawba River and the banks of picturesque Lake Rhodhiss, the Town is intersected by I-40, US Highways 64 and 70, and NC Highways 18 and 181. Valdese is located approximately one hour from the major cities of Charlotte, Winston-Salem, and Asheville and within an hour of the mountains including Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and Grandfather’s Mountain. Founded on the traditions of 19th-century Waldensian settlers, Valdese honors its rich heritage with historic charm, parks, and annual events.
The Waldensian Heritage Museum and the Trail of Faith take visitors back 130 years and to the Cottian Alps villages of the founding ancestors. Valdese offers many attractions, ranging from vibrant arts and cultural experiences to diverse outdoor activities. The “Old Rock School,” a century-old building on the Historic Register, is the Town’s arts and cultural center. It houses an arts foundation with exhibitions of monthly art shows along with the Piedmont and Western Railroad Museum. Valdese also features beautiful parks, a quaint walkable downtown, and a truly unique heritage showcased in a variety of attractions.
The Town operates under the council-manager form of government and is composed of a Mayor and five-member Town Council, elected at-large and serving four-year staggered terms. The Town departments include: Administration (Human Resources & Finance), Fire Department; Parks & Recreation; Planning & Zoning; Police Department; Community Affairs & Tourism; Public Works (includes streets & grounds); Wastewater Treatment Plant; Water Treatment Plant; and Water/Sewer Construction. Valdese is also designated as a North Carolina Main Street Community. The town staff includes 71 full-time and 70+ part-time/seasonal. The $14,463,192 budget is divided into a $ 7,643,990 General Fund and a $6,819,202 Water/Sewer Fund.
