Town Council Regular Meeting - May 18 2026

The Town Council held its Regular Meeting on May 18, 2026, focusing on financial planning, infrastructure projects, and community event management. The session addressed the town’s tax collection status, proposed budget increases, and the operational costs associated with local events organized by the Weaverville Business Association (WBA).

A primary focus of the meeting was the town’s financial health and upcoming budget. Council members reviewed a proposed FY2026-2027 budget totaling $19,867,460, which represents an 11.9% increase over the previous fiscal year. This proposal includes a property tax rate increase of $0.04, estimated to generate $747,500, and a 5% water rate increase. Council members debated the impact of potential property revaluation and the funding levels necessary to maintain services. One council member noted that community feedback suggests a consensus among residents willing to pay higher taxes to maintain current service quality. Staff confirmed they are investigating alternative IT support providers to manage costs efficiently.

Significant decisions were made regarding administrative contracts and infrastructure. The council voted unanimously to approve a three-year audit contract with Golden Killian, setting the fee for the 2025-26 audit year at $36,000. The council also voted to approve change orders #3 and #4 for the Water Treatment Plant Resiliency Project and authorized the Public Works Director to coordinate with Reems Creek Nursery for a donated tree at Lake Louise Park. Additionally, the council voted not to accept ownership or liability for the Coleman Pedestrian Bridge and adopted an amendment defining crypto mining and data centers as noxious uses. All council members were required to sign a letter responding to the Local Government Commission regarding the town’s water asset expansion plans.

The Weaverville Business Association presented a detailed analysis of the municipal costs associated with WBA-organized events, such as "Art in Autumn" and "Music on Main." WBA President Dion Arroyo argued that the town’s estimates of municipal support were inflated and requested itemized line-item accounting to determine actual service usage. Arroyo emphasized that the WBA seeks a "hybrid position" with the town to ensure sustainability, suggesting the town could manage these core events independently at a cost of approximately $192,500. A concerned citizen also raised life safety issues regarding planned events that block Main Street, urging the council to consider moving some events to maintain clear emergency vehicle access.

Regarding next steps, the council voted to move two zoning map amendment items from the consent agenda for later discussion. Public hearings for these zoning amendments are scheduled for June 22, 2026. Staff will prepare for a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plan set review regarding waterline replacement on May 20th. The town will await notification on an NC Land and Water Fund grant award decision expected on October 1st. The council will continue discussions on tax increases and budget details during upcoming budget workshops starting June 8th.