2022.09.20 TC Meeting Video

Woodfin Town Council Meeting Recap: September 20, 2022

The Woodfin Town Council convened on September 20th for a meeting that addressed financial health, community concerns, and ongoing town projects. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comment, highlighting a range of resident perspectives on local issues. Overall, the council demonstrated a focus on responsible financial management and addressing community needs as Woodfin continues to grow.

A key outcome of the meeting was the unanimous approval of the consent agenda, which included routine items like approving minutes from the previous meeting and a budget amendment. Notably, the council clarified that contracts must explicitly include gender identity and sexual orientation in non-discrimination policies to comply with current legal interpretations. The council also approved a resolution setting the stage for a public hearing regarding the voluntary annexation of approximately 5 acres on Wall Road, and updated the town's fee schedule to include new sanitation fees.

A substantial portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comment, revealing several concerns from residents. A recurring theme centered on the recently distributed larger trash cans. Residents like Harry Garfinkel, Bonnie Snyder, and Melissa Himaline expressed concerns about their size – noting they don't fit in garages, pose potential bear hazards, and could discourage recycling efforts. Bradley Collins raised a point of contention regarding the removal of a moment of silence from town meetings, advocating for its reinstatement and offering assistance in facilitating prayer. Finally, Carol Wormum passionately urged the council to consider an ordinance against chaining animals after witnessing what she described as inhumane treatment of a dog on Pelzer Street.

The meeting also included a positive Auditor’s Report presented by Nancy Lux from Ray-Bongrenner Kingshill. The report revealed a remarkably strong financial standing for Woodfin, with a general fund balance exceeding $6.45 million and significant increases in tax revenues. The town has successfully addressed past budgetary challenges, leading to the removal of oversight from the Local Government Commission. A notable point was the allocation of $2.14 million in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds towards salaries during the fiscal year.

Beyond financial updates, Town Staff provided several important updates. The town is re-initiating the comprehensive plan process and conducting interviews for a stormwater administrator, with Bob Dennis recently hired to fill that role. The Greenway-Blueway project remains fully funded and progressing well, while the Parks and Greenways Advisory Committee is exploring options for permanent pickleball facilities. Residents should also be aware that the town will begin enforcing regulations requiring trash to be bagged starting November 1st, coinciding with the distribution of new trash and recycling cans.

Looking ahead, the council continued a public hearing regarding a request to close a portion of the right-of-way on Wellington Drive, encouraging the property owner to submit an amended petition. The full audit report will be available on the town’s website once finalized and approved by the Local Government Commission. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about these ongoing developments and participate in future council meetings as Woodfin navigates growth and addresses community concerns.

This meeting highlighted the town's financial stability while also underscoring the importance of listening to and addressing resident concerns, particularly regarding waste management practices and animal welfare.