Montreat Minute for July 17, 2026
Tax Rate Increased Due to State Legislature’s Actions
Earlier this year, the Town Council adopted the Fiscal Year 2026–2027 budget using Buncombe County’s anticipated 2026 property revaluation. At that time, although a higher budget was approved, the Town adopted a lower tax rate because the higher property values resulting from the revaluation would have generated the same amount of property tax revenue needed to fund Town services.
Since the budget was adopted, the General Assembly enacted legislation that changed how certain counties, including Buncombe County, must proceed with property taxation this year. As a result, Buncombe County will bill taxes using the previous property values rather than the new revaluation.
Because the tax base is reverting to the previous valuations, the Town must also adjust its tax rate to generate the same revenue that was included in the adopted budget. While the tax rate will increase from the rate previously adopted, this will not raise additional revenue beyond what was approved in the budget. At a meeting this morning, the Town Council approved a revised tax rate of .535 per $1,000 of property valuation, up from .43 per $1,000. It is a technical adjustment to account for the lower property values that will now be used for taxation. Without this adjustment, the Town would experience a significant shortfall in revenue, impacting the ability to provide essential municipal operations.
We understand changes to the tax rate can be confusing, particularly after a budget has already been adopted. We appreciate the community’s patience as we comply with changes in state law and work to ensure the Town remains on sound financial footing while continuing to provide the services residents expect. If you have questions, please email info@townofmontreat.org or call 828/669-8002.
Montreat Cottagers Annual Meeting Tomorrow, July 18th
All are welcome at the Montreat Cottagers Annual Meeting tomorrow, Saturday, July 18th, at 10:00 am in Upper Anderson. Leaders of the Montreat Conference Center, the Town of Montreat, Montreat College, and the Presbyterian Heritage Center will update us with important news about their organizations.
Additionally, Community groups will display and distribute information at the meeting. It is an excellent opportunity to connect with friends and neighbors and see what volunteer opportunities are available to benefit our community.
PHC Ice Cream Social Also Tomorrow, July 18th
The Presbyterian Heritage Center invites you to a delicious, old fashioned ice cream social tomorrow, Saturday, July 18th, from 2:00-4:00 pm at the PHC, 318 Georgia Terrace. Young and old will enjoy greeting old friends as well as making new while enjoying freshly churned, homemade ice cream and music by Montreat’s own Rock Hoppers!
You will also have the opportunity to check out the latest PHC exhibits, including new exhibits on “Montreat: The Early Years” and “Mecklenburg’s Declaration?: NC’s Revolutionary Presbyterians”. The Ice cream and the fun are free!
Montreat Adult Summer Club Summer Speaker Deke Arndt This Wednesday. July 22nd
Meteorologist and climate scientist Deke Arndt, Dir. of the National Centers for Environmental Information (NOAA), will present an historical retrospective of Hurricane Helene, which brought catastrophic flooding and wind damage to the Southern Appalachians. Helene, the deadliest tropical cyclone in the U.S. since Katrina, caused billions of dollars of damage in Western North Carolina. Deke will explain how this historic hurricane fits into our understanding of weather and climate history.
Refreshments in Gaither Fellowship Hall will follow Deke’s presentation.
Please note the location for this year’s speakers: Graham Chapel in Gaither Hall.
Mahjong Tournament a Success; Second Event Planned for July 26th
The Montreat Town Hall grounds are still not fully recovered from Hurricane Helene. A group of dedicated Montreaters is working to remedy the situation and make it look as beautiful as it was when it opened on July 4, 2020. “Tiles for Town Hall” is a fundraiser to do just that.
The first night was a teaching night for beginners. It was a full room with fun, fellowship, and learning. The second night on July 26th is a game night for more experienced players with added games, prizes, and a bigger raffle. The second event will be held July 26th at Que Sera restaurant, 101 Black Mountain Avenue. Doors open at 5:00 pm, with social time and food at 5:30. Play begins at 6:15 and the night caps off with a raffle at 8:00. Cost is $50. Players should bring their own sets and cards.
Call or text 803-322-4521 to reserve your spot. Please leave your name, phone number and level of play.
Updates and Reminders
- If you are in Montreat this summer and don’t already have a 2024 Montreat Directory, they are on sale at the Town Hall for $25 (cash or check).
- 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 Code Redalerts, an emergency communications system used a number of times during the hurricane and wildfires? To learn more about Code Red or to be added to the list, CLICK HERE.
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 great weekend!
