Town of Black Mountain Regular Town Council Meeting, April 13, 2026

Black Mountain Town Council Meeting Recap – April 13, 2026

The Black Mountain Town Council convened its regular meeting on April 13, 2026, addressing a range of critical issues impacting the community. The meeting included presentations, discussions, and several key decisions that will shape Black Mountain's future. This recap summarizes the main points for residents seeking a clear understanding of council actions and ongoing priorities.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on addressing pressing needs within Black Mountain’s public safety departments. Chief Red presented a detailed report outlining the challenges faced by both the Fire Department and Police Department due to inadequate facilities. The current situation, which includes firefighters temporarily operating out of the Presbyterian Church and security concerns for police personnel, was deemed a serious issue impacting morale. The council discussed potential short-term solutions like modular units and initiated exploration of long-term options, including the possibility of seeking FEMA assistance. This situation underscores a critical need for improved infrastructure to support Black Mountain’s public safety personnel and ensure community well-being.

Beyond immediate concerns, the council took steps to enhance regional collaboration on housing initiatives. They voted to add the towns of Mars Hill and Marshall as voting members to the Asheville Regional Housing Consortium, expanding opportunities for Black Mountain to participate in regional discussions and potential solutions related to affordable housing. Additionally, Dr. Chantel Simpson presented a proposal for a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) at 3164 US 70, which would provide essential healthcare services to uninsured and underinsured residents. The council listened attentively, recognizing the potential impact of this facility on improving access to healthcare within the community. The projected opening date is December 2026, offering a range of services including primary care, pediatrics, OB/GYN, behavioral health, dental care and pharmacy.

Several other important decisions were made during the meeting. The council approved a bid from CRW Land Services LLC for $323,022.53 to complete Phase II of the Hilltop Road construction project and approved a capital project ordinance for ongoing stormwater improvements on Fairway Drive/Tomahawk Avenue. A request from Brookhaven Drive residents to have the town assume maintenance of their street was tabled pending review of new guidelines for street dedication. Concerns were raised by citizen John Richardson regarding the town's handling of the Black Mountain Brewing/Rail Yard situation, prompting further scrutiny and potential future discussion.

Public comment provided valuable insights from residents. Ben Holland voiced frustrations with the construction inspection process, while Jennifer Galloway and Anna Stearns urged the council to reconsider its postponement of action on Brookhaven Drive’s street dedication. John Richardson reiterated his concerns about the Rail Yard, and John Garcia encouraged greater citizen engagement in problem-solving. These comments highlighted areas where the town can improve communication and responsiveness to resident concerns.

Looking ahead, several action items were assigned to staff. These include gathering information on the East Buncombe Water District, exploring modular unit solutions for public safety facilities, investigating stormwater issues on Fairway Drive, and providing a debt schedule report at the next meeting. Council member Richard will also investigate options for addressing issues with the golf course bridges, potentially involving a contractor. Residents can find more detailed information, including the full meeting transcript and supporting documents, on the Town of Black Mountain website. The next council meeting will provide updates on these ongoing efforts and address other important community matters.