2023.04.11 TC Budget Work Session

Woodfin Town Council Works on Budget, Addresses Annexation and Future Projects

On April 11th, the Woodfin Town Council held a work session dedicated to discussing and refining the town's budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting provided a comprehensive look at key priorities and projects impacting Woodfin residents, from annexation agreements to major infrastructure investments.

Key Decisions & Approvals: The council formally appointed Gina Powers as the new Town Clerk, a unanimous decision marked by her subsequent swearing-in. They also approved ordinances finalizing annexation agreements with both Asheville and Weaverville, a necessary step to align property boundaries based on state law. These agreements primarily address properties near the Sourwood Inn and a previously annexed parcel south of Woodfin, ensuring clarity in municipal services for residents.

Discussion Highlights: Investing in Woodfin's Future: A significant portion of the session was devoted to exploring major capital improvement projects. The Woodfin Greenway Blueway (WGB) project received considerable attention, with updates provided on demolition at Silver Line Park and permitting progress for Riverside Park/Taylor's Wave. While the project is moving forward, a funding gap of approximately $444,000 was identified. Town staff are actively pursuing grants (potentially totaling $485,000) and private donations to bridge this gap. Should those efforts fall short, a value engineering process may be implemented to adjust project elements and stay within budget. The council also discussed plans for street resurfacing, with Skyland Circle, Lookout Road, and Old Logging Road slated for improvements next year. Perhaps the most significant discussion centered on a proposed stormwater utility fund, which would implement tiered flat fees for residential properties and per-ERU (Equivalent Residential Unit) rates for commercial properties. This initiative aims to ensure compliance with state regulations and establish a dedicated funding stream for stormwater management programs, ultimately protecting Woodfin’s infrastructure. Finally, the council reviewed preliminary plans and a feasibility study for a potential new Town Hall or combined community center/Town Hall, with construction potentially beginning in 2025 and completion around 2027.

Community Input: The annexation agreement hearings saw no public comments from residents, but the discussions surrounding the WGB and proposed stormwater utility fund highlighted a concern among council members about the disproportionate financial burden on Woodfin taxpayers compared to Buncombe County for projects like the WGB.

Action Items & What's Next: Several key action items emerged from the meeting:

• Town staff will continue aggressively pursuing grant opportunities to support the WGB project.
• Efforts to secure financial assistance from Buncombe County for the WGB will continue.
• The Town Hall/Community Center feasibility study is ongoing, and the council will be actively involved in future decisions.
• Implementation of a standalone billing system for the proposed stormwater utility is underway.

Why This Matters to You: The discussions and decisions made during this work session will directly impact the quality of life for Woodfin residents. The WGB project promises enhanced recreational opportunities, while improved street infrastructure will enhance safety and accessibility. The establishment of a stormwater utility fund ensures responsible management of our waterways, protecting properties and infrastructure for years to come. The feasibility study for a new Town Hall/Community Center will shape the future of community gathering spaces in Woodfin. Residents can expect further updates at the next budget work session on May 2nd, followed by a full budget presentation to the council on May 16th and a public hearing in June.

This meeting provided a valuable glimpse into the town's financial planning and commitment to investing in Woodfin’s future.