Town of Black Mountain Regular Town Council Meeting, March 9, 2026

Black Mountain Town Council Meeting Recap – March 9, 2026

The Black Mountain Town Council convened on March 9, 2026, for a comprehensive meeting addressing various community priorities. The session began with several recognitions honoring dedicated public servants and celebrating important observances, setting a positive tone for the discussions that followed. This recap provides an overview of key decisions, debates, community input, and upcoming actions for Black Mountain residents.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing the condition and future of the town's Public Safety Building. Following a presentation from McGill Associates and Mosley Architects, the Council agreed to proceed with a geotechnical study to assess soil conditions beneath the building. Concerns were raised regarding structural integrity and potential flooding issues, prompting discussion about temporary staff housing solutions while the study is underway. This initiative aims to ensure a safe and functional workspace for our public safety personnel, ultimately benefiting the entire community.

Beyond infrastructure concerns, the Council reaffirmed Black Mountain's commitment to environmental stewardship. The town renewed its Mayor’s Monarch Pledge with the National Wildlife Federation, demonstrating ongoing support for monarch butterfly conservation. Additionally, Asheville Greenworks presented a proposal for the installation of a "Trash Trout" in Swannanoa River at Veterans Park, a device designed to capture litter. The Council expressed enthusiasm for this project, pending a formal agreement with Asheville Greenworks.

The meeting also included important votes on several key items. The Council unanimously approved the voluntary annexation of a property from Givens Highland Farms, paving the way for future development. They also approved the Stormwater Master Plan and Capital Improvement Plan, a crucial step in securing grant funding for future stormwater management projects. A vote was taken to authorize town staff to enter into partnership with Carolina Elite Soccer, a move that could significantly enhance recreational opportunities for Black Mountain residents.

Community voices were actively heard throughout the meeting. Cheryl Melton raised concerns about a conditional use permit granted to Montreat College, alleging procedural irregularities and potential ethical conflicts. Lisa Crush passionately advocated for preserving the lower nine of the golf course as a natural green space, while Richard Hudson expressed concerns about the current condition of the course and suggested exploring alternative management options. Jake Disabontino urged the council to develop a comprehensive plan for town investments, emphasizing data-driven decision-making and community engagement. These diverse perspectives highlighted the varied interests within our town and underscored the importance of inclusive decision-making processes.

Looking ahead, several key action items were identified. The geotechnical study for the Public Safety Building will be prioritized, and Duke Energy is expected to return with more detailed information regarding their easement request along the golf course. A special meeting will be scheduled before the end of March to discuss potential uses for the basement of the Senior Center. The Council also committed to reviewing the annexation process and developing a more formal set of criteria for evaluating future requests. Finally, public hearings are scheduled for April 13th to discuss proposed amendments to signage regulations and updates to the town’s System Development Fees. Residents are encouraged to attend these hearings to share their thoughts and contribute to shaping Black Mountain's future.

This meeting demonstrated a commitment from the Town Council to address critical infrastructure needs, promote environmental sustainability, and engage with residents on important community matters. The decisions made will have a lasting impact on Black Mountain, and ongoing communication and transparency remain vital to ensuring that our town continues to thrive.