Town Council Regular Meeting - Mar 23 2026

The Weaverville Town Council held its Regular Meeting on March 23, 2026, in the Weaverville Community Room. The session focused on municipal operations, infrastructure planning, and fiscal management, characterized by a discussion of fiscal responsibility and proactive community engagement. The Council began by approving the agenda and confirming no conflicts of interest, followed by a recognition of Doug Durrett for his military service and contributions to local boards, including his role in establishing the Main Street Nature Park.

Key decisions included the unanimous approval of a comprehensive consent agenda, which covered monthly tax reports, budget amendments for Police and Fire departments, and various board appointments. The Council also approved a Capital Project Ordinance to leverage a $4 million USACE grant for water system improvements, requiring a potential town cost share of up to $1.3 million. Additionally, the Council approved a resolution supporting a $3 million grant application for a pickleball center at 115 Reems Creek Road and adopted an amended resolution concerning growth areas, specifically striking the R-12 district while adding provisions for multi-family zoning. The Council also unanimously approved a salary increase for Town Manager Harris to $152,500, along with a one-time retention bonus of $2,500.

Significant discussions centered on land use planning and infrastructure challenges. The Council scheduled public hearings for April 27 regarding the updated Comprehensive Land Use Plan and a proposed text amendment classifying crypto mining and data centers as "noxious uses" subject to conditional district review. A detailed budget presentation highlighted property tax revaluation and revenue projections, while debates addressed concerns regarding double taxation and transparency in the Public Safety Interoperability Program. Infrastructure updates included the preservation of the Coleman foot-bridge, street paving projects involving Lakeshore Drive and ADA improvements, and ongoing operational issues with automated garbage trucks.

Public input was received during the budget discussion, with residents providing comments on the Comprehensive Land Use Plan, Reems Creek corridor development, and budget priorities. The Council acknowledged these inputs as part of the broader conversation on fiscal management and community growth. Proclamations were also issued for Arbor Day, Earth Day, and National Line Workers Appreciation Day, marking upcoming community events such as a tree planting at Lake Louise and a butterfly dedication at the Clock Lot.

Several follow-up actions were established to address specific municipal needs. Staff will facilitate a meeting with NCDOT regarding the Coleman foot-bridge and report back at the next council meeting. A council member agreed to ride along with the trash truck crew on April 7 to better understand operational challenges. Furthermore, the Council scheduled a public hearing for the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and a tax amendment for April 27, a budget workshop for April 13, and a County Fire Tax District public hearing for April 21. These steps outline the immediate administrative path forward for the town’s planning and fiscal initiatives.