Mayor’s Summary of the August 14, 2025 Town Council Meeting
Hello Montreaters,
Although summer activities are largely concluded, Montreat continues to rock with Montreat College students arriving for the fall semester.
My meeting summary follows below. But remember the official minutes with far more detail will be in next month’s agenda packet. And, you can view tonight’s meeting recording by CLICKING HERE.
Public Forum
· Letta Jean Taylor asked questions about Town Hall hurricane repair expenses, Town expenses related to the Burns/Hamilton litigation, and Board of Adjustment training.
· Wade Burns commented about legal issues regarding his house and suggestions for the Town’s involvement.
Council Meeting
After the Pledge and a moment of silence, I reminded everyone we are still in a rebuilding phase that moves slowly. The Town staff is working long and hard to get funds to pay for repairs while others are making those repairs. We need to be patient in this long-term, three or more-year process.
Town Manager, Savannah Parrish, yielded her time to Montreat Police Chief, Jeff Eaton. Chief Eaton offered suggestions on bear management since we have seen such a high level of bear sightings, incidents, and even incursions. In summary, Jeff stated:
· Bear encounters have increased this season, or at least reports have increased
· If you encounter a bear:
o Do Not Run. Bears will attack if you run. They have incredible speed
o Back away facing the bear while acting “BIG”
o Make arm gestures and lots of noise– be LOUD
o Seek safe shelter
o If you feel threatened, don’t hesitate to call 911 and insist upon an officer response
· In your homes:
o Do not leave doors and windows open, even if there are screens; close first floor windows and doors at night
o Keep doors and windows locked
o Stop feeding birds for this period of time, as bears are also feasting on bird food
· If you see violations by others, such as feeding, approaching, or otherwise, call the Montreat Police and report the incident
Public Comments Summary (both agenda items)
· Mary Standaert commented about the Mayor’s Meeting Summary from last month (both times on the agenda)
· Letta Jean Taylor suggested car doors be locked for bear safety
Old Business– There was none
New Business
· The Council approved the addition of Finance Director, Rachel Eddings, as a signer on the checking account. Savannah also explained new internal financial control procedures where there are adequate segregation of duties and approval procedures.
· Savannah offered an update about the Buncombe County Helene Recovery Plan, which involves the county and the five municipalities within the County formulating a unified recovery plan. The joint plan is now being drafted after receiving public input. Each municipality will have its own plan based on their own needs, but the plans will be consolidated for a unified overall plan. She will keep us informed of progress.
Council Communications
· Commissioner Blake thanked Public Works for moving the Town Speed Limit sign outside the gate to give earlier warning about the 20 mph speed limit.
· Commissioner Widmer stated that the Montreat Police Department survey is complete and thanked everyone for participating. 292 surveys were completed. Results will be shared at a later date.
· I thanked Public Works for installing a 3-Way stop sign at the intersection of Greybeard Trail and West Virginia, making the intersection much safer for motorists and pedestrians. I also appreciate the MPD for suggesting the stop signs at that location.
· Town Manager Savannah Parrish explained that the paving projects approved last month will begin next week, weather permitting.
Thank you for your encouragement and participation in Town government and activities. If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please write me at thelms@townofmontreat.org or call me at 828/669-3852.
Thank you again,
Mayor Tim Helms on behalf of the Town Council
