February 12, 2024 Town of Black Mountain Town Council Meeting

Town Council Meeting Recap: February 12, 2024

The Town of Black Mountain Town Council convened on February 12, 2024, for a regular meeting that addressed community recognition, public safety acknowledgments, and several long-term planning initiatives. The session opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence, followed by an acknowledgment of the Black Mountain Police Department’s efforts in addressing a stalking situation at Veterans Park. The Council proceeded to review administrative matters, including the approval of the consent agenda, which contained meeting minutes and a monthly property tax collector’s report. A minor correction was made to the financial figure in the December 14 meeting minutes before the agenda was approved.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing community heritage and planning for park renovations. The Council unanimously approved a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month, highlighting the contributions of African Americans to the community, state, and country. The proclamation also honored three Black Mountain residents who have previously served on the Town Council: John B. Hamilton, Carlos Showers, and Archie Pertiller Jr. The Mayor delivered remarks on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., emphasizing the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice and connecting it to the importance of preserving democracy.

Regarding park infrastructure, Josh Henderson presented a renovation plan for Craigmont Park, which included proposals for new pickleball courts, tennis court resurfacing, basketball court improvements, restroom facilities, and security lighting. The Council discussed the costs associated with various options, particularly regarding parking surfaces and court construction. Following this discussion, the Council directed staff to proceed with bidding out a package that includes tennis courts, basketball courts, six pickleball courts, gravel parking, and park security lighting. The Council also encouraged fundraising efforts to cover the cost of two additional pickleball courts beyond the six included in the initial bid package.

Community input was a focal point during the citizen comment period, where several residents advocated for additional pickleball courts. Speakers Catherine Octamire, Bill Boyd, Lisa Williams, and Cecilia Hines expressed strong support for the sport, citing its benefits for physical health, social connection, and community building. These residents requested at least six courts to accommodate growing participation, with some advocating for even more. Concerns were also raised regarding the condition of existing basketball courts at the park.

Other administrative and strategic updates included a presentation from Keith Miller of the Buncombe County Tax Department regarding the upcoming reappraisal process, where he emphasized transparency and encouraged residents to use the "MyValueBC" app. Lucille, the Community Garden Manager, presented a 10-year strategic plan for the Dr. John Wilson Community Garden, outlining operational, capital, and programmatic goals. Additionally, the Council discussed the feasibility of including a QR code on water bills to direct residents to the town newsletter, noting it would involve significant annual costs.

Follow-ups and Next Steps

The following action items were explicitly agreed upon during the meeting:

• Town Staff: Will solicit bids for the Craigmont Park renovation package as directed by the Council.
• Town Staff: Will explore options and fundraising opportunities for two additional pickleball courts.
• Town Staff: Will investigate the feasibility of including a QR code on water bills to direct residents to the town newsletter.
• Keith Miller (Buncombe County Tax Department): Will provide further information regarding the County Tax Department reappraisal process and address Council questions about financial details.