Montreat Minute for April 17, 2026

Small Actions, Big Impact on Collection Day

A piece of metal discovered in a brush pile just before it was sent through the chipper

Our sanitation and brush collection crew encountered several challenges this week that highlight the importance of proper curbside preparation.

In multiple cases, large cardboard boxes were placed out for collection without being broken down, taking up unnecessary space and slowing the collection process. Crews also discovered metal debris mixed into brush piles. This issue poses serious safety risks and can damage equipment if sent through the chipper. Additionally, some brush piles were placed in different directions, requiring staff to stop and reorganize materials so they could be processed safely and efficiently.

While these may seem like minor oversights, they can significantly impact operations in the field. Breaking down boxes, keeping non-organic materials out of brush piles, and aligning cut ends in the same direction all help crews work more efficiently and safely.


Sanitation Ordinance Q & A

Q: Will the Town still operate the Convenience Center?
A: Yes—and it will be better than ever. The Town will be modifying the collection system to include on-site compaction for both solid waste and recyclables. This improvement is expected to reduce the frequency of full dumpsters and improve overall service.

Q: Can I bring items like furniture, appliances, or construction debris to the Convenience Center?
A: No. The Convenience Center is for household trash and recyclables only. Cameras are now in place to identify vehicles and license plates of violators, and fines will be issued for misuse. For bulk items, residents should contact the Town to arrange a special pickup. Fees for this service begin at $30.


State Revolving Funds Award

The Town of Montreat has officially been awarded $4.8 million in State Revolving Fund (SRF) funding to support critical water infrastructure improvements. Even more exciting, this funding comes as 100% principal forgiveness, meaning it will not need to be repaid.

This significant investment allows the Town to move forward with much-needed upgrades that might otherwise have taken decades to complete. It represents a major step forward in ensuring the reliability, safety, and long-term sustainability of Montreat’s water system. A big thank you to Jarod McIntosh, our Senior Water Operator, for his leadership and collaboration with our consultants in delivering a strong, high-quality application.


Updates and Reminders

Updates and Reminders

  • Buncombe County Election Services will be conducting an information session on April 28, at the Black Mountain Library for those interested in running for office in Black Mountain and Montreat this November. For more information and to RSVP, CLICK HERE. All are welcome to attend. Watch for details in weeks to come.
  • There will be no Board of Adjustment meeting on April 23rd.
  • The Sign Ordinance Subcommittee and Town Council will hold a joint workshop on May 1 at 10:00 a.m. in Town Hall.
  • Do you receive your own copy of the Montreat Minute or know someone who doesn’t? Sign up for the Sunshine List to receive the Montreat Minute and stay “in the know” about the Town’s happenings. CLICK HERE to sign up for the list!
  • Do you receive Montreat CodeRED alerts, an emergency communications system used a number of times during the hurricane? If not, CLICK HERE to register and ensure you will be contacted in the event of an emergency.

Questions or Comments?

Do you have Town-related questions or comments to offer? If so, please send them to Angela Murphy at info@townofmontreat.org and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Have a good weekend!

Leave a Comment