Town Council Work Session and Action Meeting Summary - Wednesday, August 26, 2026

Thank you to those who were able to join us for the Lake Lure Work Session and Action Meeting on August 26, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. 

The meeting was held at The Landings at 920 Buffalo Creek Road, Lake Lure, NC 28746. 

The public was invited to attend. 

The following is a high level summary of the meeting with some additional information.  Note that these are not the formal minutes which will be published at the following month's meeting packet. 

For additional information, you may download the meeting packet.

I. Call to Order

Mayor Carol Pritchett called the meeting to order.

II. Agenda Adoption

The agenda was adopted as posted.

III. Public Hearing for Town of Lake Lure Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) applications through the Renew NC Community Infrastructure Program

i. Staff Report: The Town’s plans to submit Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) applications under the Renew NC Community Infrastructure Program. The proposed applications support Hurricane Helene recovery efforts and future resilience improvements and include:

• Replacement and resilience upgrades to the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
• Restoration and resilience improvements to eligible public service and community infrastructure components of the Lake Lure Municipal Center.
• Replacement and resilience improvements to the Lake Lure Dam Tainter gates.

• Representatives from Carolina Land & Lakes provided an update on the grant application process and emphasized the competitive nature of the funding. The Town is utilizing the available prescreening process to strengthen its applications. Staff also reported that the Town has received approximately $27.45 million in post-Hurricane Helene grants, appropriations, and principal forgiveness, excluding repayable loans and FEMA Public Assistance.

• The hearing provides residents and stakeholders an opportunity to comment on the proposed projects, disaster recovery needs, community impacts, and the anticipated benefits to low - and moderate - income persons and other affected residents.
• The Town will consider all public input prior to submission of the grant applications.

ii. Public Hearing: 

• Jennifer Gregg inquired how much money is designated to Parks and Recreation?
• Staff advised that several grant applications related to Parks and Recreation remain pending, with more funding requests currently pending than awards received. It was noted that the Kaboom playground grant is the primary award received to date in the past year. Additional funding has been requested through Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP) and the Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR), and the Disaster Recovery Section of the Division of Water Resources.

With no other comments, the public hearing section of the meeting closed.  

iii. Commission Deliberation: 

Council members expressed support for the program.

iv. Consideration for Adoption of Town of Lake Lure Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) applications through the Renew NC Community Infrastructure Program

Town Council voted to adopt the CDBG-DR application through the Renew NC Community Infrastructure Program.

IV. Discuss Capital Project Ordinances

North Carolina municipalities may use either their annual budget ordinance or capital project ordinances to appropriate funds for capital projects and expenditures.

• While the Town has historically adopted project ordinances for several major projects, staff is currently reviewing and updating those ordinances and recommends using capital project ordinances for all capital projects moving forward.
• Staff believes this approach is a best practice because capital projects, including smaller projects, often extend across multiple fiscal years.
• A capital project ordinance establishes a project-specific budget that remains in place for the life of the project, allowing revenues, expenditures, grants, and financing sources to be tracked in a single document from start to completion.
• This improves transparency, accountability, and project tracking while providing a clearer picture of total project costs and available funding. Staff requests Council discussion and input on implementing this approach for future capital projects as part of the Town's continued efforts to strengthen financial management and project oversight.
• Town Manager Olivia Stewman recommended that the Town begin utilizing multi-year capital project ordinances for capital projects that extend beyond a single fiscal year, particularly as the Town receives funding from multiple sources.
• This approach would provide clearer tracking of project revenues and expenditures and improve accounting for projects that span multiple fiscal years.
• Ms. Stewman noted that the Town has historically budgeted capital projects annually but now has several projects with multiple funding sources and longer timelines.
• The Town’s audit firm supports the use of capital project ordinances.
• Existing capital project ordinances will also need to be updated to reflect additional funding received.
• Council discussed whether changes to work orders would still require Council approval.
• It was confirmed that changes exceeding applicable thresholds would require an amendment to the project ordinance.
• Council expressed support for moving forward with the use of multi-year capital project ordinances.
• Staff will prepare ordinances for current capital projects for consideration at the September 8, 2026 meeting.

V. Hager Strategic Solutions

Mr. Hager notified the Town that he was unavailable to attend the meeting and advised that he had no current updates to provide.

VI. Town Manager/Project Updates

Town Manager Olivia Stewman provided Council with project updates and any other updates that are not included on the meeting agenda. 

• Fueling System: Wiring is being completed, with the Rutherford County inspection team scheduled to conduct the final inspection in the coming days. Upon approval, Town staff will coordinate with Lake Lure Tours and Great Lakes Petroleum to establish the POS system and prepare for operation. Updates will be provided on the Town website and Facebook page.
• Morse Park Grading: The NC Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) requested additional information regarding the grading plans. Town Staff will work with the Town’s engineers to provide the requested information so the project can move forward.
• Dredging and Sediment Removal: It was explained that sediment removal activities near the park are part of the Town’s annual dredging operations, supported by the DEQ dredging grant of $750,000 plus the Town's $250,000 matching funds. The Town plans to continue mechanical dredging and is seeking methods to dewater and haul sediment away more efficiently rather than creating large sediment mounds.
• Canal/Private Property: Staff clarified that maintenance of the canal and pond area behind Happy Hollow is the responsibility of the private property owners. The Town was unable to address the area through FEMA assistance unfortunately.  The Town will follow up with FEMA representatives regarding potential options for private-property debris removal.
• Boys Camp Bridge: Significant progress is being made on the bridge replacement on Boys Camp Road, with the bridge structure expected to become visible within the next few weeks. The project remains on schedule for completion within the contractor’s 120-day period.
• Town Hall: FEMA issued a determination letter rejecting the Town’s proposed scope and cost for Town Hall restoration. The Town will proceed with the appeals process. It was noted that FEMA representatives recently visited the site and indicated that alternate project funds may potentially be used for initial demolition and interior work while the appeal is pending.
• Marina Building: The geotechnical design for the permanent Marina Building has been completed and the architect and engineer are preparing the bidding package. The Town anticipates advertising the project by the end of the month or early next month. Lake Lure Tours is currently operating temporarily from a temporary trailer in the area.
• Morse Park Future Development: The grading and stormwater design is intended to address current drainage concerns while establishing a foundation for future park development and restoration. It was noted that funds remain set aside specifically for the reconstruction of Morse Park, including approximately $200,000 from the Division of Water Resources, although additional funding will likely be needed.

VII. Public Comment

• Robert Deloach (261 Sugarbush Pt.): Mr. Deloach stated that he was a property owner and local business owner and he thanked Town Council for reopening the lake and acknowledged the difficulty involved in that effort. He shared that he had owned and managed a successful vacation rental in Lake Lure for 11 years and had been a permanent resident since 2020. He asked whether the Town currently had another tenant interested in leasing the market property and whether there were immediate plans for the B Building. He requested that the Town provide an estimate of the costs associated with the matter, including direct financial costs, lost rent, legal fees, settlement costs, and potential indirect impacts such as damage to the community's reputation, loss of public trust, reduced business and tax revenue, and potential impacts on property values. He referenced an online appropriation of approximately $55,000 for legal fees and requested a detailed accounting of the legal fees incurred in connection with the matter.
• Hillary Yoxall (177 Ridgeview): Ms. Yoxall shared a deeply personal account of losing her daughter in August 2024 and later learning through the autopsy report that her daughter had been murdered. She described the devastation caused by the hurricane two days later, which destroyed much of Chimney Rock and severely damaged Lake Lure, leaving her without the familiar places and sense of community that had provided comfort during her grief. She explained that local businesses, including Lured Market and Lured Grill had provided her with a sense of belonging and support, particularly after the hurricane. She expressed concern that changes resulting from the ongoing lawsuit could take away another important part of her community and asked where she would go to find that same sense of belonging. The resident pleaded with Town Council and the other parties involved in the lawsuit to show grace and consider the impact their decisions may have on residents. She emphasized that she deserved to be heard, seen, counted, and to feel safe and connected within her community. She concluded by asking Council not to further change the character of the town, stating that she could not endure another significant loss.
• John Moore (123 Firefly Cove): Mr. Moore, a former Town Council member, thanked the Mayor and Commissioners for their service and recognized their significant efforts following the hurricane, including work on cleanup, utilities, infrastructure, FEMA coordination, and securing state and federal funding. Regarding the controversy surrounding the former ABC store lease, Mr. Moore stated that he considers the market a valuable community asset but does not know all of the facts surrounding the lease. He expressed his trust in Council to make a fair and informed decision and encouraged residents to respect Council members and wait for all of the facts before making judgments.
• Jayne Mann (168 Firefly Cove): Ms. Mann expressed support for the Mayor and Town Council and thanked them for their extensive efforts following the hurricane and flooding in Lake Lure. She also credited Council and staff with helping the community recover and encouraged residents to come together, support local businesses, and remain thankful for the community and local police force.
• Peter Volk (2681 Memorial Hwy): Mr. Volk spoke regarding the Town-owned building on Memorial Highway that houses the market and coffee shop. He asked Council to clarify the Town’s intended use for the building, noting that Council has previously stated it has no current plans for the property. Mr. Volk stated that he believed the lease dispute was being used as leverage in a separate property dispute and expressed concern about the impact of removing a business that supported the community following Hurricane Helene. He cited the business's local employees and vendors and questioned whether the Town had adequately attempted to resolve the lease issues before pursuing eviction. He expressed concern that the building could remain vacant or be repurposed for Town offices, which he felt would negatively affect public trust and the Town's reputation. Mr. Volk asked Council to clearly explain the purpose of the building and emphasized that greater transparency would help address community concerns.
• Council confirmed that there were no other plans for the building.
• Jennifer Gregg (396 Piney Creek Dr.): Ms. Gregg statements were regarding the Comprehensive Plan. She asked how and when proposed changes, particularly those concerning pickleball courts, could be made before the plan is finalized and voted upon. She  expressed concern that dividing the courts between locations (Morse Park and the Green Space) would not support families staying together during tournaments.  She also noted the potential economic benefit of hosting tournaments. She shared plans to establish a Lake Lure artist gallery within the market, highlighting it as an opportunity to showcase local artists and provide visitors with another way to learn about and experience the community pending current litigation.
• Leslie Rowland (180 Riverside Dr.): Ms. Rowland spoke about the lease and eviction proceedings involving her and her husband Wade Opplinger, stating that they had invested significantly in Lake Lure and followed Town requirements but experienced what she described as a hostile business environment. She stated that the situation contributed to their decision to sell or close their local gym.  She added that the matter had affected plans to develop a rowing program for Lake Lure Classical Academy and provide scholarship opportunities for local youth. She expressed support for the market and its contributions to the community, stating that the current dispute could have been resolved through communication, but had instead negatively affected their business and the community. While acknowledging the difficult challenges facing Town leadership, she expressed concern about a lack of empathy and vision and encouraged Council to focus on infrastructure needs rather than the ongoing dispute. She concluded by asking Council to reinstate the lease.
• James Sciandra (1062 Memorial Hwy.): Mr. Sciandra emphasized the importance of unity within the Lake Lure community and encouraged the parties to resolve the ongoing dispute so the Town can move forward and focus on its upcoming 100th anniversary. He  expressed the opinion that the boathouse dispute could have been avoided through communication and encouraged the tenant to acknowledge the Town’s position regarding the boathouse and honor the lease terms.  He also stated that they had not seen evidence that the Town was seeking to remove the tenant in order to obtain the market building, noting that there had been previous opportunities to terminate the lease over late payments that were not pursued. He praised the market and grill businesses for their contributions to the community while emphasizing that positive contributions should not be used to excuse violations of agreements. Mr. Sciandra recognized Town staff and leadership for their efforts following the hurricane and encouraged the community to remain united and work toward recovery and future growth.
• Andrew Stephenson (121 Middle Oaks Trl.): Mr. Stephenson stated that he was a local pottery vendor at the market.  He said that he spoke on behalf of the more than 50 vendors who sell products there. He emphasized the market’s role in supporting local farmers, craftspeople, and small businesses while keeping money within the local economy. He stated that the market provides opportunities for vendors to connect directly with residents and visitors, promotes community interaction, and benefits surrounding businesses. Mr. Stevenson expressed concern that closing the market would negatively affect numerous small businesses and questioned whether those impacts were justified by the ongoing boathouse dispute.
• Kevin Winfrey (415 Tanglewood Trail): Mr. Winfrey stated that he spoke in support of the market, the Brock family, and the employees and vendors who contribute to the community. He stated that after reviewing the legal documents, he saw issues concerning the boathouse but nothing directly related to the market. He respectfully requested that the Town settle the lawsuit and allow the market to remain.
• Cory Coile (746 Raven Blvd.): Mr. Coile spoke regarding the need for community-serving businesses in Lake Lure, including services such as health care, gyms, and small grocery stores. He stated that the market and gym help meet those community needs and expressed frustration that a resolution could not be reached between the Town and the market. Mr. Coile stated that he and others had approached the Town about obtaining a new lease for Suite B (in the Market location) in an effort to preserve the gym. He explained that due to the current lease language and litigation involving Suite A, the gym in Suite B is now responsible for the building’s full rent of approximately $4,000 plus a $300 fee, making continued operation difficult. He expressed concern about the impact on the community and the perception created by the situation.
• Sandy Hamel (147 Sugarbush Ct): Ms. Hamel spoke about the importance of community, hope, and leadership in Lake Lure. She shared that she and her husband chose Lake Lure as their retirement home because of its natural beauty but ultimately found that the people and sense of community were what made them want to stay. She stated that the market and its employees had become an important part of that community and expressed disappointment in seeing the ongoing situation unfold publicly. She said the matter had caused her and her husband, for the first time, to question their decision to retire in Lake Lure. She expressed hope that the situation could be resolved and urged the Town not to evict what she described as the “heart of our community.”
• Sarah Ziomek (185 Diamond Loop): Expressed strong concern regarding the Town’s filing for eviction of the market shortly before the previously scheduled public meeting. The speaker questioned the Town’s stated position that it had no plans for the market building and expressed concern that the timing of the eviction filing suggested otherwise. She characterized the market as an important community resource and urged the Town to explain its intentions for the building and pursue a resolution rather than proceed with eviction.
• Nick Sottile (Chimeny Rock): Mr. Sottile spoke in support of Paul and Cara and the market, emphasizing their contributions to the community following Hurricane Helene. He stated that they provided food, support, and opportunities for local businesses and residents during a difficult period. He shared that the market allowed his business to operate at no cost for several months, providing income for himself, his family, and employees when other opportunities were limited. He acknowledged the legal matters were complicated but stated that, as someone who had benefited from their generosity, he felt it was important to stand in support of them and the market.
• Dino DeAngelis (193 Deer Trail): Mr. DeAngelis read comments from Charlie Ellis regarding the Town’s Comprehensive Plan. The comments noted that adopted plans call for a more vibrant pedestrian area around the beach and town center, additional improvements and parking near the former ABC property and police boathouse, and a future boardwalk or greenway connecting to nearby trails and additional boat slips. The speaker stated that the existing leases for Lake Lure Market and the rowing center are consistent with these adopted plans and represent an important step toward achieving the Town’s long-term vision.
• Melissa Price Stepp (110 Church St): Ms. Stepp spoke in support of the market and shared her experience during Hurricane Helene. She stated that the market provided her with food, communication, and a place of refuge when she was separated from her husband and unable to return home. She noted that the market continued serving residents, workers, and the surrounding community for weeks following the storm. Expressed gratitude for the market’s assistance during the recovery and concern that the community was now facing litigation over the boathouse. She urged the Council to reconsider its actions, listen to residents, and recognize the market’s importance to the community.
• Rob Earls (295 Messersmith): Mr. Earls read a statement from Olivia Christian, an 11-year-old Lake Lure resident, describing her long-standing relationship with the market and Paul. Olivia shared personal memories of growing up in the community and receiving encouragement and support for her interests and small jewelry business. She described the market as more than a business, calling it a place where people feel welcomed, supported, and connected. She highlighted the market’s role in helping the community during Hurricane Helene by providing food, supplies, and a place for people to gather. Olivia urged the Town to consider what the community has endured together and find a way to resolve the dispute, stating that losing the market would mean losing an important part of her childhood and the community.
• Steve Allen (131 Blue Fox): Mr. Allen spoke about the losses experienced by many in the community and the way Hurricane Helene brought residents together. He acknowledged the passion and tension surrounding the current dispute and encouraged the Council to approach the matter with a focus on compromise rather than a win-or-lose outcome. He suggested that if the dispute began with the boathouse, the parties should consider resolving that issue through compromise rather than pursuing actions that could result in the loss of the market. He urged the Council to make choices that benefit the entire community and work toward reducing the growing animosity.
• Scott Piper (136 Starling Terrace): Mr. Piper urged the Council to listen to residents and resolve the dispute, stating that the potential loss of the market would be a significant loss to the community. He criticized the timing of the Town’s eviction filing and expressed concern regarding what he described as repeated poor judgment by Town leadership. Mr. Piper also raised concerns about the handling of boat slip fees and availability, characterizing the situation as unfair. He concluded by urging the Council to reconsider its actions and find a way to resolve the matter.
• April Bolet (Bat Cave): Ms. Bollette stated that she was a small business owner and one of the market’s vendors. She spoke about the market’s importance to the surrounding community, particularly during Hurricane Helene. She shared that residents in Bat Cave were isolated for approximately 11 days and relied on community hubs such as the market and Ridgeline for supplies and information. She expressed her personal connection to Lake Lure and Chimney Rock and the difficulty of witnessing the current dispute. She encouraged the Council to consider the importance of grace and its impact on the community.
• Patrick Brown (472 West Main Street): Mr. Brown spoke about the importance of supporting local businesses and maintaining community unity. He described the Lake Lure and Chimney Rock communities as closely connected and stated that businesses contribute to the community through sales tax revenue, tourism, and economic growth. Mr. Brown acknowledged that residents and Town officials may not always agree but encouraged the Council to support local businesses and work toward a resolution that benefits the entire community.
• Paula Hayes (239 Feather Box): Mr. Hayes stated that although she is not a resident, she spends significant time in Lake Lure and considers herself part of the community. She urged Council to keep the situation simple and listen to the wishes of its constituents. Ms. Hayes encouraged the Town to reinstate the Market’s lease, stating that the community has made its position clear. She expressed concern that the ongoing dispute is creating unnecessary emotion and division within the community and urged Council to work toward a resolution.
• Nicole (154 Harper Valley): The attendee stated that Lake Lure Market was the first place she went with her children after she was able to leave her area from the hurricane. She described having to ration food for her children because she was uncertain when additional supplies would become available. She stated that the Market was the first place to provide her two boys with a full meal following the storm and expressed that the Market and its operators deserved better.
• Michael Yelton (193 Suset Lane): Mr. Yelton stated that he has been teaching fly fishing in the area since 2006 and has witnessed many changes within the community. He encouraged the Town to focus on preserving positive community developments and urged all parties to return to the negotiating table. Mr. Yelton stated that the current dispute does not have to become a point of division and expressed his belief that the Town and the parties involved can work toward a better resolution.
• Ashley Jackson (194 Thomas Drive): Ms. Jackson thanked the Town and its representatives for their efforts following Hurricane Helene, while also recognizing the Market operators for voluntarily stepping up to support the community during the recovery. She questioned the Town’s continued emphasis on alleged lease defaults, noting that the Market operators were reportedly current on their payments and that the Town had previously granted rent deferrals during the recovery period. She suggested that the significant community service and personal effort provided by the operators during the disaster should also be considered when evaluating the lease dispute.
• Resident (residing at 47 Minihaha): He stated that the purpose of the comments was not to argue the legal merits of the ongoing lawsuit, but to express concern for the community, local businesses, employees, and vendors affected by the dispute. He noted that the parties had recently participated in approximately seven hours of mediation, which ended without resolution, and questioned what authority the Town’s representatives had to negotiate and what potential solutions the Town was willing to consider. The speaker emphasized that continued litigation creates costs for both the private parties and Town taxpayers. Asked Council to clarify the Town’s ultimate objective and whether a resolution could be reached that would allow the Market to continue operating while the courts address any remaining legal questions. Suggestions included accepting rent, maintaining the business and jobs, protecting the legal interests of both parties, and allowing the courts to resolve the contractual issues. Concluded by stating that, if maintaining the status quo is not possible, residents deserve to understand why, what benefit would result from removing the business, and what the ultimate cost to taxpayers would be. The speaker emphasized that the issue now extends beyond litigation to questions of governance, public resources, local businesses, and the community’s future as it continues rebuilding.
• Bruce (430 Windy Rose): Resident stated that although she does not live within the Town limits, he considers Lake Lure his community. He identified himself as an attorney with extensive experience handling lease disputes and litigation and shared concerns regarding the ongoing dispute. Also stated that, based on his understanding, nonpayment of rent was not the primary issue and questioned the decision to reject a rent payment after it was offered. He referenced the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing in contracts and encouraged the Town to consider whether that principle was being upheld. Also questioned whether factors beyond the lease dispute may be contributing to the litigation and cautioned against allowing the matter to become a prolonged personal or adversarial conflict. Also noted that mediation can fail when emotions and underlying concerns are not fully addressed and that continued litigation can create significant legal expenses for both parties. Expressed support for Lure Market and encouraged the parties to return to mediation or meet directly to work through the outstanding issues. He concluded by stating that a continued adversarial process could have negative consequences for the parties and the community.
• Paul Brock (2655 Memorial Hwy: Mr. Brock thanked the residents and supporters who attended the meeting and spoke on behalf of the Market. He expressed his sadness and frustration over the ongoing situation and stated that he and his family care deeply about the community. Mr. Brock stated that the Market has been a labor of love and that losing the building would effectively force the business to close. He acknowledged the difficulties the family experienced following Hurricane Helene and emphasized that his comments were not intended to seek sympathy, but to provide context for the personal impact of the situation. Mr. Brock stated that the dispute should not continue to focus on past difficulties, including rent payments or who did or did not assist during the recovery. He emphasized that he wants to focus on moving forward and finding a path that allows the community and the Market to continue. Specially stating he didn’t care about the boathouse or lake access.  "We don’t want this. I want this to stop today."
• Cara Brock (2655 Memorial Hwy) Ms. Brock stated that the Market and its operators did not want the ongoing dispute and urged the Town to bring the matter to an end. She presented the rent payment and asked the Town to accept the payment, reinstate the lease, and allow the parties to sit down and resolve the remaining lease issues. She asked Council to end the dispute, moving forward, and preserving the Market. She proposed that if the Market operators agreed in writing to discontinue pursuing the boathouse and comply with the lease, the Town should accept the rent and reinstate the lease. She emphasized that the dispute was dividing the community and urged the parties to reach a written agreement that would resolve the boathouse issue and allow the businesses to continue operating.
• Discussion was held regarding the ongoing litigation and the desire to reach a resolution. It was stated that the Town’s position was that, if Second Mountain provided written confirmation that the boathouse was no longer needed and accepted payment, the lease could potentially be reinstated and the matter resolved.
• Commissioner Proactor stated if Second Mountain stops pursuing the boathouse and they adhere to their lease, that's the solution. So, let's do it.
• The Town Attorney clarified that two lawsuits have been filed and that resolving the matters would require appropriate legal procedures. The attorney stated that, because Second Mountain is represented by counsel, direct communication regarding settlement must occur through its attorney and could not appropriately be negotiated during the meeting. The attorney expressed a willingness to work toward resolution, while noting that the matter could not be resolved during the meeting itself.
• Council reiterated that the Town’s attorneys are required to communicate with represented parties through their legal counsel and asked that the parties’ intentions regarding the property and lease be clearly stated for the record. It was further noted that the litigation has resulted in legal restrictions that must be followed.
• Mike Williams (Curtis Drive): Mr. Williams spoke regarding his longstanding family connection to the community and his appreciation for the Town. He shared personal memories of his family’s property dating back to the 1940s and expressed his deep emotional connection to the area. Mr. Williams stated that he was concerned about the division within the community and the amount of conflicting information, emotions, and anger surrounding current issues. He emphasized that this was not representative of the community he knows and values. He noted that he works for the Town, respects the Town Council and staff, and appreciates their efforts and service.
• Friedrich Jaeger (315 Bolt Rd): Mr. Jaeger thanked the Mayor, Town Council, and Town staff for their significant efforts throughout the recovery process, including coordinating with state and local agencies and keeping the community moving forward. He acknowledged the emotional nature of the current lease and property dispute and encouraged respectful consideration of the work and sacrifices made by town officials and staff. After reviewing the lease, particularly Paragraph 19, they believed the matter was not clear-cut and recognized the Town’s legal obligation to protect public property and uphold the law. However, he also expressed concern that taking no action or taking an unnecessarily abrupt approach could create a precedent or result in the loss of a business that has been an asset to residents and visitors. Encouraged continued good-faith negotiations and the use of practical, measured solutions where possible, emphasizing the potential impact on local jobs, vendors, and the community. He concluded by noting the strong sense of community and shared love for Lake Lure that was evident throughout the recovery effort and thanked the Council and staff for their service.

No other Comments were received.

VIII. Closed Session in Accordance with G.S. 143-318.11(a) (5) for the Purpose of Discussing Property Acquisition

Town Council entered into a closed session.

IX. Adjournment

The meeting was adjourned.