December 4, 2025 - Hendersonville City Council Meeting

Hendersonville City Council Meeting Recap: December 4, 2025

The Hendersonville City Council convened on December 4, 2025, for a meeting focused primarily on future infrastructure investments and recognizing key contributors to the city. The session included public comment, presentations, landmark nominations, and significant discussions surrounding stormwater management and citizen engagement. A full agenda was approved, including a special presentation honoring Mayor Pro Tem Hensley and the late Mayor Volt for their regional leadership.

A major decision of the evening was the approval of a $10 million General Obligation Transportation Bond Order, which will be placed on the March primary ballot for voter consideration. This bond aims to fund crucial improvements across the city, including resurfacing roads, constructing multi-use paths and sidewalks, and upgrading intersections. Council members engaged in a detailed discussion about the potential tax implications of this bond, with City Manager Adam Murr providing financial analysis and advocating for a phased implementation approach to manage costs. The council also unanimously approved the landmark designations for three historic properties: the Eubank Whitmire House, Waverly Inn, and McKeithen Rogers House, preserving important pieces of Hendersonville’s heritage.

Beyond infrastructure, the council addressed citizen engagement and city services. A motion was passed directing staff to begin developing a Citizen Advisory Committee, replacing the existing Diversity and Inclusion Committee. This initiative aims to broaden citizen input on city operations and improve customer service, with staff tasked with reaching out to former Diversity and Inclusion Committee members to gauge their interest in participating. A comprehensive presentation on the Comprehensive Stormwater Master Plan highlighted prioritized capital projects and explored funding strategies, including potential debt issuance and grant opportunities.

Several residents offered public comments during the meeting. Ken Fitch praised city public works employees for their dedication, while Brett Warner advocated strongly for preserving shuffleboard courts at Patton Park and emphasized the need for both a pump track and skate park, suggesting an interlocal agreement with Buncombe County. Lynn Williams voiced concerns about the impact of zoning changes on neighborhood character and the emotional toll repeated public hearings can take.

Looking ahead, several key action items were identified. City staff will begin developing a charter and bylaws for the Citizen Advisory Committee, contact former Diversity and Inclusion Committee members, continue pursuing grant funding for stormwater projects, and submit a full application for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The council will also consider a revenue bond issuance in FY27, contingent on favorable audit results. This meeting demonstrated the council's commitment to addressing critical infrastructure needs while prioritizing citizen engagement and recognizing those who contribute significantly to the community. Residents are encouraged to learn more about the proposed transportation bond and its potential impact before voting in the March primary.