Town of Black Mountain Regular Town Council Meeting, November 10, 2025

Black Mountain Town Council Meeting Recap: November 10, 2025

The Town of Black Mountain's Regular Town Council meeting on November 10, 2025, addressed a range of topics, from recognizing local achievements to tackling community concerns and planning for future improvements. The meeting, attended by the full Town Council, included a significant amount of public input and resulted in several key decisions impacting residents.

A major focus of the evening was recognizing the outstanding work of Town Manager Josh Harrell, who was lauded for being named one of the Top 10 Town Managers in North Carolina. Vice Mayor Fritiller delivered a detailed and heartfelt recognition of his accomplishments, highlighting his dedication to Black Mountain. The Council also unanimously approved a proclamation recognizing Indigenous Peoples Heritage Month, detailing the history and contributions of North Carolina’s tribal communities.

A recurring theme throughout the meeting, particularly during the public comment period, was the condition of Veterans Park Disc Golf Course. Several residents voiced strong concerns about overgrown grass and overall neglect, rendering the course largely unplayable. Mayor Pro Tem Hay responded by committing to meet with a Recreation Commission member, David Galloway, this week to discuss immediate maintenance plans. The Council also approved several items related to Veteran’s Park, including authorizing grant applications and approving design services from Kimley Horn, signaling a commitment to long-term improvements at the park.

Beyond Veterans Park, the Council addressed several other important matters. They approved a consent agenda that included routine items like approving past meeting minutes, tax collection reports, and appointments to various boards. A proposed ordinance amendment aimed at restricting wheeled vehicles (scooters, hoverboards, etc.) in the Central Business District was tabled until next month. Council members expressed reservations about potential unintended consequences, and further research will be conducted before a final decision is made. A discussion was also held regarding a proposal to relocate water lines within high-risk hazard areas, and funding for this initiative was approved.

Citizen input extended beyond the condition of Veterans Park. Residents raised concerns about traffic flow changes on Ridgeway Avenue and expressed interest in a left-turn only sign on Montreat Road from State Street. The Council agreed to consider a plan for increasing police visibility and enforcement in conjunction with a potential reduction of the speed limit on South Ridgeway and Sutton Avenues. Finally, the town will be collecting non-perishable food items at the Public Services Building to support Swannano Valley Christian Ministry.

What's Next?

• Veterans Park: Expect to see immediate action taken on the disc golf course, with a meeting scheduled between Mayor Pro Tem Hay and a Recreation Commission member to address the maintenance issues.
• Wheeled Vehicle Ordinance: The ordinance will be revisited at the next Town Council meeting after further review and comparison with other cities' regulations.
• Traffic Safety: The Council will continue to explore options for improving safety on South Ridgeway and Sutton Avenues, including potential speed limit reductions and increased police presence.
• Grant Applications: Staff will continue pursuing grant funding for Veteran’s Park improvements and other projects.

This meeting demonstrated the Town Council's commitment to addressing community concerns, recognizing local achievements, and planning for future improvements. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming meetings and opportunities to participate in local government decisions.