Holiday Cozy Time: Cocoa, Coloring, & Quality Time @ Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library

Pre-School Winter Crafts @ Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library

Holiday Cards Crafts @ Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library

Small Business Saturday

Merry Municipal

Christmas Village & Tree Lighting

Heather Land

Wreaths Across America

Clayton Christmas Parade

The Nutcracker

Johnston County Chorus

Town earns Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting

The Finance Department's Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for 2021 has been awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States (GFOA).

Groundbreaking held for Ranch Road Extension

The Town of Clayton, in conjunction with the N.C. Department of Transportation, held a groundbreaking ceremony on Nov. 1 to celebrate the launch of the Ranch Road extension project. 

The extension of Ranch Road will create a direct route between U...

American Rivers Names NC's Neuse River the 2022 River of The Year

Clayton is thrilled to share that NC's Neuse River is the American Rivers River of The Year 2022! We're proud to highlight our Water Resources Staff and thank them for their commitment to providing clean water and supporting river health.

Clayton Public Power Conducts Apprenticeship

The Town of Clayton Electric Department is partnering with the NCWorks NextGen Program to provide apprenticeship opportunities to eligible youth who are interested in pursuing a career in the electric field.  

The program focuses on providing youn...

Clayton sells regional pretreatment facility to Novo Nordisk for $34 million

The Clayton Town Council has accepted a $34.25 million bid from Novo Nordisk to purchase the R. Steven Biggs Regional Wastewater Pretreatment Facility.  

The bid was unanimously accepted by the council during their regular meeting on Oct. 3 throug...

Recreational Water Advisory Issued for Little Creek

The Town of Clayton, in conjunction with North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health, is issuing a precautionary advisory while an active waterway clean-up and remediation for Little Creek between Main Street to Lomba...

Clayton Youth Council Launches Community Service Initiative

Clayton Youth Council members from Johnston County high schools have committed to volunteering 1,000 hours by the end of the 2022-2023 school year through their community service initiative, “The Art of Coming Together.”  

Clay...

Clayton Fire Department Celebrates Lifelong Resident's 100th Birthday

Lifelong Clayton resident, Aldine Parrish, celebrated her 100th birthday on Saturday, Sept. 10, surrounded by family, friends, and firefighters.   

Mrs. Parrish was born on Sept. 13, 1922, and throughout the last century, she has collecte...

Town of Clayton hires new Town Manager

The Clayton Town Council has selected Rich Cappola to serve as the next town manager. The council voted unanimously to appoint Cappola during their meeting on Sept. 6. 

Cappola has served as the interim town manager since May 2021. For the past fi...

Clayton Town Council names new Town Clerk

Heidi Holland has been selected to serve as the new town clerk for the Town of Clayton.  

Holland has served as the deputy town clerk for the town for the past four years and as both the deputy town clerk and the executive assistant to the town ma...

Clayton SRO Program expands to serve seven area schools

The Clayton Police Department has expanded its School Resource Officer (SRO) Program, and for the first time in the Town’s history, a Clayton Police Officer will serve as the SRO for Clayton High School.  

The Clayton Town Council has ap...

Town of Clayton Welcomes Allen Turnage as New Electric Director

Clayton, North Carolina has upgraded retail recruitment with Retail Strategies

Clayton, North Carolina has upgraded its retail recruitment service to include Downtown Strategies.

Johnston County's First All-Girls Robotics Team Volunteers Over 500 Hours in Local Communities

G-Force Robotics, the first high school all-girls robotics team in Johnston County, is making a positive impact within the Clayton community. The team of 12 young women is the largest all-girls robotics team in North Carolina. While hard at work coding, b...

Town expands workforce with on-the-job classroom

The Town of Clayton has welcomed two apprentices to its Water Resources Department, Michael Ratley and Ilona Williams, thanks to a program through the North Carolina Rural Water Association (NCRWA).

The two-year training program provides the educa...

New youth theatrical group to debut in Clayton

The Clayton Center is now the home of a new, community-focused theatre company thanks to the efforts of two Clayton High School (CHS) educators, Andrew Wade and Ann Meigs. 

Wade, the artistic director, has been a performer professionally for the p...

International System Administrator’s Appreciation Day

The Town of Clayton is thrilled to recognize today as International System Administrator’s Appreciation Day! This holiday celebrates the professionals who are working around the clock in order to keep our digital world running. System administrators are t...

National Intern Day

The Town of Clayton is excited to celebrate National Intern Day. The Town’s Summer Intern Program provides college students with opportunities to gain experience in their field of interest, make professional connections, and explore a career in ...

Park renamed in honor of former Globetrotter

The Town of Clayton has officially unveiled Donald “Clyde” Sinclair Park in honor of the former Harlem Globetrotter. 

The Town held a special ceremony on July 23, to rename All-Star Park, located at 400 E. Front Street, to Dona...

Family Uses Love of Reading to Honor Son's Memory

The books at Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library have many stories to tell. Because of the compassion and generosity of one local family, the library’s collection of books and stories is growing.  

Bryant and Kara Carroll are the parents of two daug...

Municipal Park Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

The official Municipal Park Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held on Monday, July 18, 2022. Clayton Parks and Recreation extends many thanks everyone who helped bring this project to life and is excited to share this space with the community.

Parcels adjacent to Town of Clayton properties

The Town has initiated a rezoning project to address zoning irregularities for 65 Town-owned properties that are currently under the wrong zoning district(s). Per the Town of Clayton’s Unified Development Code, the Town must rezone these 65 prop...

The Planning and Engineering Departments Announce Several Development Process Changes

Historic Clayton Center Heading In New Direction

The historic Clayton Center, located in downtown Clayton, is under new leadership and is looking to head in new and exciting directions.

Steven Langston, a 19-year staff member, has been named the Interim Director of The Clayton Center by the Town of Clayt...

Town of Clayton welcomes John Mack as Director of Information Systems

John Mack began his new role as the Director of Information Systems (IS) on May 23. Mack will be the first IS Director the Town has had in nearly 12 years. The last person to serve in this role for the Town was Chief Information Officer Angela Tousey, who...

2022 Clayton Pedestrian Plan Draft

Town of Clayton staff and the consultant (Alta Planning + Design) will be at the Farmers' Market on Saturday, June 4, to gather additional input, provide more information, and answer any questions the public may have about this plan.

Clayton Electric Department Competes at Lineman's Rodeo

Clayton is sending three linemen to compete and judge in the 23rd Annual North Carolina Association of Municipal Electric Systems Lineman's Rodeo. The NCAMES is a non-profit association and an affiliate of the NC League of Municipalities. NCAMES ...

Town Launches Codify Clayton Project

The Codify Clayton project is an initiative being undertaken by the Town to review and update its Unified Development Code, which establishes basic rules for how land may be used.

Family Night in Downtown Clayton

Town of Clayton Recognized as a Reliable Public Power Provider

The Town of Clayton has earned a Reliable Public Power Provider (RP3) designation from the American Public Power Association (APPA) for providing reliable and safe electric service.

Clayton Public Power earned the Gold RP3 designation, which lasts for thre...

Section of Sam’s Branch Greenway closing Monday, April 18

Beginning Monday, April 18, the section of the Sam’s Branch Greenway between Covered Bridge Road and the Ashcroft Subdivision will be closing to the public.  

The closure is needed as a public safety measure, while a new transmission pipeline is p...

Clayton's First Hook Lift Truck Featured at National Truck Show

Early this week, the Town of Clayton Streets Department attended the largest annual truck show in the US, NTEA Work Truck Week in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The show featured the town's first hook lift truck, complete with a snowplow, a cradle salt spreader, a...

East Clayton Community Park begins $6.2 million upgrade

Major renovations are officially underway at the 65-acre East Clayton Community Park. 

The park will receive $6.2 Million in upgrades including two lighted artificial turf fields, expanded parking, and accessibility improvements as part of the $18...

Town Of Clayton Launches $200 Million Construction Project

The Town of Clayton officially began construction of the town’s new $200 million water reclamation facility. 

“This is the largest capital project that our town has ever undertaken,” said Interim Town of Clayton Manager Rich Cappola. 

The ...

Clayton Police Officers Honored with Prestigious Life Saving Award

At the Jan. 18 Town Council meeting, Police Chief Greg Tart had the honor of presenting the Life Saving Award to four Clayton Police Department employees. These men took action in the face of danger to help individuals who, without immediate assistance, w...

Town of Clayton 2021 Employee of The Year

Detective Brantley has been with the Clayton Police Department for over 14 years. He has spent most of his time in the patrol division serving as a Patrol Officer, with 8 of those years being a K9 handler with his partner Abel. Jamie has also served as a ...

Municipal Park Groundbreaking

Clayton residents will soon see the beginning stages of construction on the new Municipal Park in Downtown Clayton.

Municipal Park, located at 325 McCullers St., is the Town’s first and oldest park, with many of its current features dating back to the earl...

Clayton Police Help Businesses Create Emergency Action Plans

People often ask themselves, “What would I do in an emergency?” It is hard to know the answer to that question if you have never faced danger. It’s even more difficult in the context of a business, church, school, or community organization. Officer Neal J...

Clayton High Partners with Town on New Artificial Turf Field

The new field is part of a partnership between the Town and the high school, which will help expand recreational and community involvement opportunities for both parties.

The Town of Clayton and Clayton High School celebrated the completion of a new artifi...

Heather Land Live! Dec. 9

Comedienne, author, and singer Heather Land tells it like it is with sarcasm and Southern charm. Practically overnight, Heather burst through the clutter of the online world with her hilarious and witty videos, which have garnered more than 300 million vi...

Thompson Square Tickets On Sale in Mid-December

Tickets go on sale later this month for country music duo Thompson Square in concert on Saturday, April 15, 2023.

Everyone remembers where they were the first time they heard Thompson Square. It’s been a decade since the husband-and-wife team of Keifer and...

Comedian, actor Paul Reiser performs on January 20

From standup to Stranger Things, Mad About You to The Kominsky Method, Paul Reiser is one of Hollywood’s most prolific talents — and he shows no signs of slowing down. See him live on January 20 at 8:00pm.

A comedian, actor, television writer, aut...

Confederate Railroad In Concert

Confederate Railroad, who first rolled onto the national country music scene in the early 90s, makes a return to radio and the stage with a new album and a tour that includes a stop in Clayton on January 14 at 7:00pm.

The band is known for its unique style...

The Mesmerizing Magic of Jason Hudy

Mystery. Intrigue. Comedy. Bewilderment. Jason Hudy's ‘one-of-a-kind’ show will draw you into the intricate world of illusion. Jason will leave you baffled with his mesmerizing magic and laughing along with his comedic audience participation acts. He has ...

Steven Curtis Chapman "Still"

Steven Curtis Chapman is bringing brand new music on his upcoming tour, “Still.” He will encourage you through his music and inspire you through his stories. And in addition to new music, he will “still” perform his...

Latin Grammy nominee Gina Chavez performs on March 31

In an industry that looks to define artists, Gina Chávez refuses to fit into a box. From features on NPR’s Tiny Desk to Brené Brown to Colbert, this talented, passionate musician has become a force to be reckoned with.

Chávez — a truly independent recordin...

Spend a Sunday evening with the music of The Isaacs

Tickets go on sale Friday, Nov. 18, for the Sunday, April 23, concert by multi-award winning family band The Isaacs. The Grand Ole Opry members will perform their unique blend of bluegrass, rhythm and blues, folk, country, and southern gospel.

The Nashvill...

Clayton Center Introduces Over 900 Students to Performing Arts

The Clayton Center was thrilled to welcome over 900 local elementary school students to its auditorium for the new School Stage Series.   

The free performing arts experience was funded in part through a North Carolina Arts Council Grassr...

Clayton’s Sculpture Trail Decorates Downtown with Stories from Across America

One of the most visible and celebrated public art initiatives in Clayton is the Annual Downtown Sculpture Trail. 

The Clayton Public Art Advisory Board received more than 80 applications from across the country for this year’s trail. The...

A Deep Dive into the Municipal Park Splash Pad

Municipal Park re-opened in early July 2022 and unveiled the Town of Clayton’s first splash pad. This highly anticipated feature provides the community with a unique play experience that is inclusive, thoughtfully designed, and refreshingly fun....

Take Me Out to The Clayton Clovers Ballgame

Clayton has officially welcomed The Clayton Clovers Baseball Club to the Town. 

The Clayton Clovers’ inaugural season will begin with their first home game on Monday, May 30. The team will play against the Fuquay-Varina Twins at 6:30 p.m...

Hiking for Habitat: Luke Bennet Hikes Through Clayton to Raise Awareness for Wildlife Conservation

Clayton's greenways connect us to destinations, nature, and each other. Many locals and visitors enjoy these trails while running, biking, or leisurely strolling. For those who desire fresh air and green scenery, Clayton's greenways are the place to be. H...

Last Friday in Clayton Returns to Downtown

Tonight, Last Friday in Clayton returns to downtown. Expect more treats, surprises, and fun than ever before. 

In an interview with the Town of Clayton, Dan Barbour Owner of Barbour Shop Creative Services and a driving force behind one of the most...

The Secret to Great Hot Dogs and Perfect Inspection Scores: Jones Cafe

For many Clayton residents, Jones Cafe is an iconic component of this town’s downtown landscape, hometown traditions, and history. In a town that has experienced an abundance of opportunity, change, and growth, Jones Cafe is one place that has r...

Greenways Expand into Downtown Clayton

Clayton is home to miles of greenway, which make up portions of much larger trail systems. These trails connect us to the outdoors, from east to west, north to south, and with each other.

Sam’s Branch Greenway in Clayton has been extended and now provides ...

New Red Card

The Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library will be joining NC Cardinal this Spring! All current library users must update their current card information and get the new RED CARD by December 31, 2022. All cardholders with 22100-cards will lose access to the HEM...

Free Library Cards for all Johnston County Residents

Beginning Tuesday, Feb. 8, the Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library will no longer charge an out-of-town usage fee for persons residing in Johnston County.

What's New in 2022 at Clayton Parks and Recreation!

Happy New Year! Start your new year off right at Clayton Parks and Recreation.

We offer group fitness classes for every level of experience. From total body toning to line dancing for beginners, you will be sure to reach your new year goals here!

Our new Tr...

Municipal Park Ground Breaking

Dean Penny receives the Larry Bailey Award

Congratulations to Dean Penny for receiving the Larry Bailey Award on behalf of the Clayton Community Recreation Foundation. 

Mr. Penny has been on the Clayton Community Recreation Foundation board for over 15 years and is the forerunner for the C...

Proposed Municipal Park improvements

On Wednesday, November 10, a special Town Council meeting was held to address the proposed Municipal Park improvements and the progress of Clayton's Parks and Recreation Bond. 

Here are two images that were presented to Council during the...

Clayton Police Department Lt. Kilpatrick Graduates from Administrative Officers Management Program

Congratulations to Lt. Bill Kilpatrick who graduated from the 94th session of the Administrative Officers Management Program (AOMP) at NC State University. AOMP is a 12-week intensive academic program where graduates earn 15 hours of college credits (9 un...

Sgt. Marquis Receives 5-Star Credible Leader Certificate

The Clayton Police Department would like to congratulate our own Sgt. Marquis on receiving his 5-Star Credible Leader Certificate.

A 5-Star Credible Leader is powerful and admired by those they influence. They usually achieve results not through the old-fa...

Bike & Walk To School Day

Thank you to everyone who joined Clayton Police Department on October 4 for Cooper Academy: A College Prep Elementary School Bike/Walk to School Day! Our officers appreciated this opportunity to connect with the community and students.  

This annu...

2022 Active Shooter Class

***JUNE 28- CLASS IS FULL******JULY 28- CLASS IS FULL******AUGUST 25- CLASS IS FULL***The Clayton Police Department is offering an Active Shooter Class every month through the end of this year. The first class is next Tuesday, June 28th from 6:30 PM - 8:3...

Clayton Police Department 2022 Teen Police Academy

Meridian Center Rezoning, 2022-54-RZ

Proposed Work: To Rezone Parcel from I-1 And PD-C to O-I to accommodate office space for vacant 30,000sqft building.Address/Location: 935 Shotwell Rd.

Acreage of Property: 6.65

Parcel ID #: 05602006J

Applicant: Meridian Building Investment, LLC

Staff Contact:...

Malachite Voyager

By Glenn Zweygardt of Alred Station, NY
Location: Town Square

Process

By Christian Happel of Wimauma, FL
Location: Town Square

Floramingo

By Joni Youngkins-Herzog of Athens, GA
Location: Horne Square

Swinging II

By Jack Howard-Potter of New York, NY
Location: Horne Square

Particle II

By Christian Happel of Wimauma, FL
Location: Horne Square

Valkyrie

By Jack Howard-Potter New York, NY
Location: Horne Square

Sun Twist

By Sun Twist of New Albany, PA
Location: Clayton Community Center

On Two Wheels

By Jason Morris of Lillington, NC
Location: Mannings Restaurant

Colorful Giraffe

By Jonathan Bowling of Greenville, NC
Location: Front Street Roundabout

Self-Portrait

By Adam Walls of Tryon, NC
Location: Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library

Magic Man

By Jason Morris of Lillington, NC
Location: Mannings Restaurant

Torch

By Phil Hathcock of Cary, NC
Location: The Yellow House