Agenda Review Meeting May 5, 2025

Fletcher Town Council Agenda Review Meeting Recap – May 5, 2025

On May 5th, 2025, the Fletcher Town Council held an Agenda Review Meeting focused on several key issues impacting our community. The meeting included public comments, updates from various boards and departments, and discussions on pending state legislation. This recap summarizes the key outcomes and what they mean for Fletcher residents.

A significant portion of the meeting centered on proposed amendments to the town's floodplain ordinance. Following a request from the Planning Board, the council will be scheduling public hearings in June to consider these changes. The most notable proposed adjustments include raising the elevation requirement above base flood elevation from 3 to 4 feet – aligning with state standards outside coastal zones – and expanding the list of prohibited uses within floodplains. This would restrict construction of facilities like schools, assisted living centers, and even police/fire stations within these vulnerable areas. The updated ordinance will then be submitted to the state for review and approval, a process residents should monitor as it directly impacts property values and development potential.

Beyond floodplain regulations, the council engaged in a productive discussion regarding the Fletcher ABC store's performance. Presented by Chairperson Samantha Todd and Brandon Olson, the update highlighted impressive financial growth – gross sales have increased 49% over five years and profits exceeded $1 million in the last two years. The store’s efficient operations and generous contributions to the town, exceeding mandatory requirements, were also acknowledged. Looking ahead, the ABC Board is exploring a potential second store location near I-26, which would require an increase to their fund balance. A Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) outlining this proposal will be presented next month, providing residents with an opportunity to learn more and offer feedback.

The meeting also addressed concerns raised by community members during the public comment period, particularly regarding traffic safety on Howard Gap Road. Residents like Joe Black shared harrowing experiences involving speeding vehicles and near misses with local wildlife, prompting a call for increased law enforcement presence. The council acknowledged these concerns and will likely explore options to address them. Additionally, residents expressed appreciation for Fletcher's scenic beauty and raised concerns about out-of-state vehicles driving dangerously on local roads.

Finally, the council addressed ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene and provided an update on the Town Center Project. Progress is being made repairing park facilities, with electrical repairs nearing completion and bridge repair bids expected in late May. The town is actively pursuing public-private partnerships for the Town Center development, and updated marketing materials are on their way. The Town Manager is also working to integrate the proposed floodplain ordinance changes into their analysis of the project, ensuring any future development aligns with updated regulations. The Fletcher Farmers Market will launch tomorrow, May 6th, from 3:00-6:00 PM.

Looking Ahead: Residents can expect several key actions to follow this meeting, including public hearings on the floodplain ordinance in June and a presentation of the ABC Board’s Capital Improvement Plan next month. The council will also be sending a resolution addressing potentially restrictive state legislation to our local representatives, Senators Moffitt and Baucom. Be sure to check the town website for dates and times of upcoming public hearings and budget reviews, as these decisions will directly shape the future of Fletcher.