Mayor’s Summary of the November 13, 2025 Town Council Meeting

November 14, 2025

Greetings Montreat friends,

We’ve had an early cold snap here in the mountains. It’s been fun to pull out the sweaters and even the gloves, reminding us that winter is on its way.

My meeting summary follows below. Remember that 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 expressed further concern about the new 3-way stop sign at Appalachian Way and Oklahoma. During slippery conditions turning onto Oklahoma after stopping could lead to dangerous situations. Town Manager Savannah Parrish said the MPD has been evaluating the situation. Although their study isn’t yet complete, it is likely they will remove the stop signs at Appalachian Way and Oklahoma. The others will remain due to heavier traffic.
  • Jean Norris thanked the Town staff, especially Public Works, for fixing and patching Montreat roads, making driving safer and more enjoyable.
  • Wade Burns announced they will be moving to South Carolina next week, but he will be here for the December Conditional Zoning Permit application for his home in the Montreat ETJ. He asked that Commissioners visit the site before the next meeting to become familiar with the situation.
  • Peggy Scheu asked what has been done thus far to repel bears and its effectiveness. She also asked that if we pass the prohibition of feeding wild animals and birds along with other requirements, how will we know which measures worked best? Savannah responded by saying the NC Wildlife Resources Commission said we need to make bears feel uncomfortable being in Montreat. One of their primary recommendations was a wildlife feeding ban which, in their experience, leads to fewer bear encounters.
  • Bill Scheu suggested the bird feeding prohibition allow bird feeders during the day.
  • Savannah said she has had several calls about who to contact regarding sewer issues. Our sewer system is owned and operated by the Metropolitan Sewerage District. For emergency issues, call 828/255-0061. For administrative issues, call 828/254-9646.

    She also announced that the holiday Gate lighting, sponsored by the Montreat Adult Summer Club and the Town, will be on Friday, December 5th, at approximately 5:15 pm. The “kid friendly” event will offer refreshments, holiday music from the infamous Montreat Calliope, holiday favors for kids, and the kids helping me “flip the switch” to turn on the lights. Don’t miss it and invite guests to this festive affair.

Council Meeting

After opening the meeting, I wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving as families and friends gather together. I also thanked all veterans for their service and especially to the families of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Public Comments Summary

Letta Jean Taylor asked that if the Wildlife Feeding Ordinance is passed, would she be in violation due to the flowers and trees she has planted providing food for birds and other small animals.

Old Business- There was none

New Business

  • The Council heard a report from Buncombe County Tax Assessor, Eric Cregger, about the 2026 real estate reappraisal. Real Estate reappraisals are typically done every four years. However, due to Hurricane Helene, the scheduled appraisal for this year was delayed until 2026. Appraisals are based on current market value for our area and will be reappraised at 100% of market value. Mr. Cregger recommended property owners check out their property record to make sure it is described correctly. Go to www.taxbuncombenc.gov to review your property profile. Expect to hear about your new appraisal in January or February 2026. Appeals may be made. To review Mr. Cregger’s slide presentation, CLICK HERE.
  • The Council heard a very encouraging report from Jean Norris about Montreat Landcare’s Flat Creek Crossing Accessible Trail initiative. The Steering Committee has been busy developing new plans after the devastation of the area after Hurricane Helene. Their plans are to move ahead but additional work and funds are needed. To get a full summary report, CLICK HERE.
  • The Council approved a motionto execute a Memorandum of Understanding with the state for Flat Creek clean up services. Savannah warned that it will not be a fast process but the cost will be paid by FEMA.
  • The Council approved a budget amendment to appropriate FEMA payments in the amount of $230,592 to the Helene Recovery Fund.
  • The Council approved an agreement with the NC Debt Setoff Program to help collect outstanding bills for various Town services.
  • The Council agreed to postpone action on the Wildlife Feeding Ordinance to address various issues raised during the meeting, including when the Ordinance would go into effect, how long the test period will be, how outcomes will be evaluated, and other language in the Ordinance.
  • The Council approved the establishment of a Stone Bridge Committee to advise the Town on aesthetic enhancements to the Montreat bridges.
  • The Council, in conjunction with Savannah, discussed proceeding with a loan from First Bank for a new Kubota excavator in the amount of $87,357. The Town’s current Volvo excavator has stopped working and is not repairable due to non-stop, challenging Hurricane Helene projects. The Council told Savannah to proceed with discussions.
  • The Council passed a proclamation designating yesterday, November 12, as Arbor Day in the Town.


Council Communications– There were none

It was a long meeting and much was accomplished. We were encouraged by the “full house” in attendance. We are always blessed by your encouragement. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas, 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

Leave a Comment