2026.09.15 Woodfin Town Council Meeting

Woodfin Town Council Budget Worksession Recap Date: September 15, 2026

The Woodfin Town Council convened for its Budget Worksession on September 15, 2026, beginning at 6:00 PM. The meeting opened with the unanimous approval of the agenda and the consent agenda, which included closed session minutes. A primary focus of the session was an informational presentation by Tom Hardy, General Manager of the Metropolitan Sewerage District (MSD), who provided a comprehensive overview of district operations, infrastructure, and financial status. The council also addressed administrative matters, including the introduction of new police leadership and personnel appointments for local boards.

During the MSD presentation, Mr. Hardy detailed the district’s history since 1962, its service to over 277,000 people, and its current financial health, noting a AAA bond rating and relatively low debt levels of $80 million. He highlighted a $795 million capital improvement program over the next decade, including significant upgrades to the Weaverville pump station and biological treatment processes. Mayor Jim McAllister expressed surprise at the complexity and age of the existing infrastructure, particularly noting that the treatment plant remained operational during Hurricane Helene when other systems failed. Council Member Speaker 13 supported the investment in the Weaverville pump station, stating, "You're betting on Weaverville big time, which you should." Mr. Hardy clarified that while the district is "very low" on debt, future borrowing is determined by coverage ratios rather than a fixed limit.

The council took several administrative actions during the session. They unanimously approved Resolution 2026-09, recognizing the 25th anniversary of the federal roadless area conservation rule and authorizing its distribution to federal and state officials. Additionally, the council unanimously appointed Melanie Petrolo to the Planning Board of Adjustments (PBOA). Council Member Speaker 9 expressed enthusiasm about having a full PBOA board again, while Petrolo emphasized the importance of balancing housing needs with the maintenance of green space. The council also introduced Ryan Craig, the new Patrol Lieutenant and Watch Commander, welcoming him for his extensive local law enforcement experience.

Public comment was received regarding a pending zoning ordinance amendment for a property at the corner of Weaverville Road and Baird Cove Road. Resident Jonathan Gilbert raised concerns about traffic safety, parking, and the lack of sidewalks on Baird Cove Road and Weaverville Highway. He specifically suggested locating driveways on Fisher Lane rather than Baird Cove Road and advocated for sidewalk installation, noting, "We have a tendency in Asheville, we wait until somebody gets hit, then we fix it." Because the property applicant was not present to answer questions, the council voted to continue the public hearing to the October meeting. Staff member Ricky agreed to bring the application back for further discussion at that time.

Several follow-up actions were established during the meeting. Council Member Speaker 13 requested a tour of MSD facilities, and Mayor McAllister confirmed that staff would arrange a tour for council and board members. The zoning hearing for the Weaverville Road/Baird Cove Road property remains pending and is scheduled to resume in October, as the applicant was not present to address the council’s inquiries. No other immediate actions were taken regarding the public comments or the MSD presentation beyond the informational exchange and the agreement to schedule the facility tour.