2026.06.16 Woodfin Town Council Meeting

Woodfin Town Council Recap: Budget, Community Development & New Policies (June 16, 2026)

On June 16th, the Woodfin Town Council held a lengthy and productive work session focused on finalizing the town budget, addressing community development projects, and adopting several important new policies. The meeting covered a wide range of topics impacting residents, from property taxes to public safety and recreational opportunities. Due to pending state legislation regarding property revaluations, a significant portion of the meeting centered on navigating those complexities and adjusting plans accordingly.

Budget & Tax Rate Decisions: A Delay to Ensure Accuracy

A major focus of the meeting was finalizing the town's budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Council members aimed to set a revenue-neutral tax rate, meaning no increase in taxes despite rising property values. However, due to uncertainty surrounding new state legislation (Senate Bills 889 and 474), the council unanimously voted to postpone the final vote on both the budget ordinance and tax rate until June 30th at 5:00 p.m. This delay will allow for adjustments based on the final state legislation, ensuring a fair and accurate budget for Woodfin residents. The council also unanimously approved Ray Baum Garner and Kings Hill as the town's auditors. Finally, a report from the ABC board indicated declining alcohol sales nationally and in North Carolina, prompting discussion about how funds generated by the ABC store will be distributed to support law enforcement, alcohol education programs, and community initiatives.

Community Development Updates: Wave Project Progress & Future Land Use Discussions

Beyond the budget, the council received updates on several key community development projects. The "Wave Project," a popular recreational feature, continues to progress well, with the second cofferdam complete and initial surveying showing promising results. Paddlers are enjoying its performance, although it isn't fully operational yet, with completion expected in late summer/early fall. A significant discussion revolved around the future of the Craggy Correctional Facility and surrounding Riverside Drive properties. The council ultimately postponed a decision on rezoning these 286 acres from Heavy Industrial to Cluster Residential until July 21st. This postponement will allow for further research and individual meetings with council members to explore various development scenarios, ensuring a well-informed decision that best serves the community. The council also unanimously approved rezoning 1.68 acres at 7 & 23 2nd Avenue for a Manufactured Home Community (MHC Six), aligning with the Woodfin Together Future Land Use Map.

New Policies & Programs: Enhancing Safety and Community Support

The council approved two important new policies designed to enhance public safety and streamline community events. A new Special Events Policy formalizes the application process for events on town property, ensuring public safety and order. Similarly, a new Traffic Calming Policy outlines the criteria for implementing measures like speed bumps to address traffic concerns. A motion was made to delay further discussion on the traffic calming policy, allowing staff time to study the issues raised. The council also recognized the success of a Compassionate Code Enforcement Pilot Program, which partnered with New Bridge Baptist Church to clean up neglected properties. While physically demanding, the program demonstrated a compassionate approach and highlighted the need for continued support or partnerships. Finally, residents will have the opportunity to learn self-defense through RAD (Rape Aggression Defense) classes, with plans for regular resident sessions.

What's Next & Why It Matters to You

The council’s decisions and discussions will directly impact residents in several ways. The delayed budget vote on June 30th will determine the tax rate you pay and how town services are funded. The ongoing discussions about the Craggy Correctional Facility rezoning will shape the future of that area and potentially impact traffic, housing options, and community character. The new policies for special events and traffic calming will affect how events are managed and how the town addresses road safety concerns.

Key Action Items & Upcoming Opportunities:

• June 30th, 5:00 p.m.: Special call meeting to finalize the budget ordinance and tax rate.
• June 27th: Community meeting at the Woodfin Community Center to discuss property risks related to landslides and flooding (Climate Smart Communities Initiative).
• Stay informed: Keep an eye out for announcements regarding RAD self-defense class schedules and volunteer recognition events.

The Woodfin Town Council is committed to making informed decisions that benefit the entire community. Your participation and feedback are valuable as Woodfin continues to grow and evolve.