Regular Meeting December 9, 2025

Fletcher Town Council Agenda Review Meeting Recap – December 9, 2024

The Fletcher Town Council held its regular Agenda Review meeting on December 9, 2024. This meeting provided a comprehensive update on the town's financial standing, ongoing projects, and future planning initiatives. The meeting was attended by all council members and featured presentations from town staff and external auditors, with no public comments received during the designated period.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the year-end audit report for Fiscal Year 2023-2024, presented by Carol Avery. The town received an unqualified opinion – the highest possible rating – from the Local Government Commission, demonstrating sound financial management. The town concluded the year with a healthy cash balance of $10,609,339 and total assets valued at $11,625,878. Notably, revenue increased significantly due to higher property taxes, grants (including $235,000 for body and vehicle cameras), and investment income. While expenditures also rose due to increased public safety salaries, capital outlay (fire contract), and transportation costs, the town still ended the year with a fund balance increase of $380,594. The council unanimously approved the audit report, recognizing the town's strong financial position.

Beyond finances, the Council took action on several key issues impacting residents. Recognizing the need to proactively address flood risks, they unanimously approved a 12-month moratorium on new development within designated floodplains. This action, coupled with ongoing work by McGill Associates to evaluate and potentially update floodplain regulations, signals a commitment to responsible land use planning. The council also approved street resurfacing projects totaling $230,000, prioritizing roads like Powellville Road, North Sunbury Trail, and Wild Meadow Road. Bids for this work will be solicited competitively to ensure cost-effectiveness.

A key moment in the meeting was the appointment of Amber McKinney to fill the vacant District 1 Council seat. Following interviews with four candidates – Amber McKinney, Mitch Bavar, Brandon Olson and Jessica Roselli – the council unanimously selected McKinney, who will be sworn in at the January agenda review meeting. This appointment ensures continued representation for District 1 residents and allows the council to move forward with its ongoing work.

Looking ahead, the Council reviewed a timeline for the 2025-2026 budget process. Key dates include a budget work session on January 13th, presentation of the full budget request from staff and departments on March 18th, and a final recommended budget presentation for council approval on May 8th. Residents are encouraged to participate in this process, as it directly impacts town services and finances. Finally, Town Manager Keith Pressley provided updates on storm recovery efforts (including debris removal), the Essential Municipal Government training program for council members, and encouraging survey results from the Farmers Market feasibility study.

What's Next for Fletcher Residents?

• Floodplain Regulations: Stay informed about updates to floodplain regulations as McGill Associates completes its evaluation.
• Street Resurfacing: Keep an eye out for construction notices as the approved street resurfacing projects get underway.
• Budget Process: Participate in upcoming budget work sessions and provide feedback on town priorities.
• Storm Recovery: Report any remaining storm-related debris through the town's online reporting system.