December Departmental Reports

Below are key highlights from each department for the month of December. Full

reports are available upon request.

Public Services Department Report

 

The Public Services Department continued routine maintenance and operations throughout the month. Regular tasks included meter reading and installations, water leak repairs, utility locates, bulk trash pickup, work order responses, facility upkeep, wastewater sampling, and maintenance at the Dam, and Wastewater Treatment Plant. Additionally, staff played a vital role in supporting various storm recovery efforts.

Top Accomplishments & Project Updates

• West End Sewer Project: Public Service staff completed the West End Sewer Project, and all connections are now available. Prior to completion, staff conducted smoke testing of lakeside manholes as part of ongoing efforts to protect system integrity and prevent environmental impacts.
• Water and Sewer Operations: Staff raised the lake level to 975.5 feet in preparation for work on the spillway gates, which has now begun and is progressing as planned. A major water leak at Boy’s Camp Road and Memorial Highway was identified and repaired. 
• Penstock: The penstock at the dam was inspected and closed as needed:
• Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA): Work continues on installation and expansion of the SCADA system for the Town’s water system.
• Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP): Additional projects underway include the WWTP belt press installation to improve wastewater treatment operations.

• Marina and Lake Infrastructure: Staff worked with private property owners to establish functional water access in key areas. Efforts continue to prepare for opening of the lake. Ongoing projects include work on fuel pumps, stationary and floating docks, boat ramp repairs, and demolition of the Beach Marina.

• Road, Drainage, and Grounds Maintenance: Roadside mowing throughout Town was completed, including intersections and rights-of-way. Staff constructed a protective berm on the dam’s north abutment to reduce erosion risk. Equipment and materials were successfully relocated from the current Public Works facility to the East End facility.

Routine grounds maintenance and drainage activities continued throughout the month.

• Parks and Public Spaces: Staff worked with Odom Engineering on stormwater plan for Morse Park, walking path restoration, and planning for a possible kayak launch and improvements to enhance public access and recreational opportunities.

 

Community Development Department Report

 

Director Williams reports that the department continues providing permitting support and guidance as residents move forward with repairs and rebuilding projects. Staff also continued assisting property owners affected by Tropical Storm Helene as they transition to privately funded cleanup and reconstruction following the conclusion of FEMA and USACE programs. The following permits were issued in

December:

• 8 Zoning Permits
• 14 Lake Structure Permits
• 2 Land Disturbance Permits
• 0 Vacation Rental Operator Permit
• 7 Certificates of Completion

Top Accomplishments & Project Updates

• Zoning and Planning Board and Board of Adjustment and Lake Structures Appeals Board (BOA/LSAB):  The Zoning and Planning Board heard a request for rezoning of a parcel on Whitney Boulevard. The request was reviewed in accordance with the Town’s zoning ordinance and Comprehensive Plan, and the Board voted to recommend approval of the rezoning request to Town Council. The Board also reviewed three staff-proposed text amendments to the zoning ordinance. Two amendments were approved for recommendation to Town Council, while the third item was tabled for further consideration at the January meeting. In addition, the Zoning and Planning Board met with the Foothills Regional Commission to discuss ongoing work related to the Comprehensive Plan.

The BOA/LSAB did not meet.

• Helene Recovery Assistance: Staff continued working with property owners whose properties were affected by Tropical Storm Helene. These efforts included guiding owners through remaining cleanup needs, demolition planning, and rebuilding steps now that federal assistance programs have ended. Staff worked with a local contractor to help negotiate pricing for work that owners must now fund independently.

The department also identified several structures that must be removed before the lake reopens because they present public safety hazards.

• Cell Tower: Staff continued working with Tillman Construction to advance completion of the cell tower project. Progress was impacted by delays in installation of the power meter, which in turn postponed the mounting of antennas on the tower.

The current projection is mid-February for AT&T to have its antennas mounted, calibrated, and fully approved for operation on the tower. At this time, the tower owner has not yet received an application from Verizon. Staff have been recommending that Verizon customers contact their carrier to encourage submission of an application, which is necessary for Verizon service to be added to the tower.

 

Fire / Emergency Management Department Report

 

The Fire / Emergency Management Department responded to 22 fire, medical, and rescue calls in December. Firefighters completed 356 hours of training, reflecting a continued commitment to professional development, preparedness, and operational readiness.

Top Accomplishments & Project Highlights

• Fire and Emergency Response: During December, the department responded to a wide range of incidents, including medical emergencies, fire alarms, smoke investigations, public assistance calls, and multiple fire-related events. Notable responses included a structure fire on Memorial Highway, a mutual aid structure fire in Greenhill, a brush fire on Shumont Mountain (Haircomb Fire), and a motor vehicle collision on Cattail Road. Crews also managed a rock climber fall rescue on Silver City Road, establishing a helicopter landing zone at Fire Fly Cove, and responded to a cardiac arrest. Additional calls involved downed trees, lockouts, lift assists, seizure response, and storm-related incidents throughout the Town and Chimney Rock State Park. All incidents were handled promptly to ensure public safety and effective coordination with partner agencies.

• Personnel and Training: Personnel completed extensive training throughout the month, including driver training, hose deployment drills, and preparation of triage packs for medical and mass casualty responses. Annual hose and ladder testing was completed, and staff participated in a departmental employee meeting.

Firefighters also conducted school bus safety outreach during a visit to Lake Lure Classical Academy and continued collaboration with County EMS through joint responses.

• Inspections and Maintenance: Significant maintenance activities were completed in December, including repairs to Engine 2511 and Brush Truck 2521, ladder rack repairs, medical equipment inspections, and annual hose and ladder testing. Crews assisted with bay heater repairs at Station 1, conducted routine station and grounds maintenance, and completed year-end fire report filings. Ongoing apparatus and facility maintenance ensured continued readiness for emergency response.

• Support for Community and Town Projects:  The department supported Town operations by participating in meetings regarding Town Hall recovery, assisting with public safety needs such as lockouts and alarm responses, and providing assistance to residents with nonemergency requests. Crews remained available for community assistance throughout the holiday period and continued coordination with Town departments, County EMS, and mutual aid partners.

 

Police Department Report

 

Traffic has been slower throughout town, with both residents and visitors taking time to enjoy the recovering lake and the seasonal decorations at Morse Park. Officers continue to patrol neighborhoods to ensure safety, and vacationers are actively utilizing the Home Watch Program, particularly during the holiday season.

Top Accomplishments & Project Updates

• Community Engagement and Holiday Outreach: The Police Department extends sincere thanks to the Lake Lure community for helping spread holiday joy to students at Lake Lure Classical Academy.  Through the annual Raptor Roundup Christmas program, community members selected and purchased gifts for children whose families may not have been able to provide presents during the holidays. Gifts were delivered on December 12 during a festive Christmas Parade at LLCA, creating a memorable event for all students and staff. The department greatly appreciates the continued generosity and support of the community.

• Patrol and Neighborhood Safety: Officers maintained a visible patrol presence throughout neighborhoods and commercial areas, ensuring public safety during the holiday period. The Home Watch Program remained in high demand as visitors and second-home owners relied on officers for added security while away.

• Personnel Updates and Recruitment: Sergeant Carl Umphlett, who began his service with the department in 2012, will be retiring in January. Sergeant Umphlett looks forward to spending more time with his family and enjoying future camping trips. The department thanks him for his dedicated service and wishes him continued success in retirement.

Corporal Collins will be promoted to the rank of Sergeant.

• K9 Program: The Police Department is proud to announce the addition of its first K9 officer in department history. Koda, a search and rescue and drug detection dog, will begin training with Officer Burrell in January. Once training is complete, Koda will enhance the department’s operational capabilities. Chief Humphries and Officer Burrell extend their sincere appreciation to the Town Council for its support in making this initiative possible.

 

Parks, Recreation & Lake Department Report

 

The Parks, Recreation, and Lake Department continued its focus on restoration and recovery efforts related to Hurricane Helene impacts. Staff assisted FEMA with multiple site inspections of damaged parks, trails, and lake-related assets and maintained weekly water sampling efforts to monitor lake health.

Water quality results continue to be compiled and published on the Town of Lake Lure website to ensure transparency and public awareness.

Top Accomplishments & Project Updates

• Volunteer Support: The department utilized a total of 97 volunteer hours during the month, representing an estimated value of $3,248.53 (based on $33.49/hour). Volunteers played a critical role in trail maintenance, water sample collection, and restoration activities across multiple locations. Volunteer efforts included weekly water sample collection, trail inspections, and organized workdays at Buffalo Creek Park, Weed Patch Mountain, Dittmer-Watts Nature Trails, and the new Turtle Rock Trail.

• Marina Operations: Staff continued working closely with the marina contractor to coordinate installation activities and ongoing operations. Efforts focused on maintaining safe and functional marina facilities while addressing storm-related impacts and project needs.

• Dredging Grant: The department is pleased to report that the $750,000 annual dredging grant has been awarded, and annual dredging activities will begin soon. Staff worked on the dredging grant budget and coordination efforts to ensure readiness for implementation. This project supports the Town’s long-term goals of maintaining lake navigability and addressing sediment accumulation.

• Trail System Recovery and Maintenance: Staff continued collaboration with Conserving Carolina, the Carolina Climbers Coalition, and the Rutherford Outdoor Coalition to assess storm damage and plan reroutes necessary to reconnect the Buffalo Creek Park and Weed Patch Mountain trail systems. Temporary and permanent trail signage was developed and installed as needed. Major repairs were completed on the north segment of the Buffalo Creek Park loop, marking a significant milestone in trail recovery efforts. Staff also planned upcoming maintenance days and recruited additional volunteers.

• Lake Operations and Permitting: Staff compiled and updated water sample data, delivered samples weekly to Black Mountain, and coordinated volunteer-assisted sampling efforts. Preparation continued for 2026 boat permit sales, which are scheduled to begin January 12, 2026. Activities included ordering 2026 boat permits, reviewing commercial model applications, contacting previous applicants, and developing updates to the 2026 Boater’s Guide, Boater’s License Process, and Parks, Recreation & Lake sections of the Town website.

 

Finance Department Report

 

Overall, the Finance Department has maintained strong oversight of revenues and expenditures, completed audit preparations, and continues to actively pursue funding opportunities to support the Town’s ongoing operations and financial stability.

Top Accomplishments & Project Updates

• Financial Status: The Town’s current financial position includes an unreconciled bank balance of approximately $8,700,000 for all funds, excluding special revenue funds.  The Dam Fund maintains a balance of $8,000,000. As noted in prior reports, State revenue replacement loan proceeds, FEMA reimbursements, and ARPA funds continue to significantly enhance the Town’s cash position.

• Budget and Revenue Tracking: Revenue and expenditure accounts are generally tracking with budget projections for all departments except non-governmental accounts, where insurance costs are estimated to exceed projections. Water and sewer collections are continuing to perform above budgeted levels, as reflected in Fund 53. Public Services staff are effectively controlling costs and monitoring activities to maintain financial stability.

• Audit: The Finance Department is awaiting the final steps for the FY 2024 audit. Staff have also begun preparing for the FY 2025 audit process, initiating the first steps in the review to ensure a smooth and timely audit cycle.

• FEMA Revenue Replacement Loan: The Finance Group continues to follow up with FEMA representatives regarding potential “revenue replacement” funding, which could be provided as a loan or other form of disbursement. Securing this funding will provide an additional revenue component for FY 2026.

 

Communications Department Report

 

Throughout December, Communications Director Laura Krejci successfully managed public engagement, social media, grant coordination, and event planning, ensuring transparency, active community involvement, and effective dissemination of critical Town information.

Top Highlights & Project Updates

• Media and Public Information: The department continued proactive public information efforts through Town News updates, the Town website, and social media platforms. Messaging focused on storm recovery, lake level updates, winter weather preparedness, Town meetings, employment opportunities, and community programs. Several posts reached more than 200,000 people, reflecting strong public engagement and broad dissemination of critical information.

• Website & Digital Communications: The Town’s website recorded approximately 14,000 users in December 2025, an increase from 13,000 users in November. A total of 47 Town News posts were published during the month, covering topics such as lake use regulations, comprehensive planning updates, meeting summaries, emergency preparedness, permit information, and community events. On January 1, a summary of Town News items was emailed to 2,937 subscribers, representing an increase of 194 subscribers from the prior month.

• Social Media Growth and Management: The Town of Lake Lure’s social media following continued to grow, reaching over 40,297 followers in December. This represents a 14 percent increase since January 2025. The department shared 60 posts during the month, generating significantly increased engagement and comments, which required active monitoring and response. Comparative analysis shows Lake Lure’s social media presence exceeds that of several similarly sized municipalities and regional partners.

• Events and Community Engagement: The department successfully planned and coordinated the Lighting Up Lake Lure event on December 3, which was attended by well over 100 participants. 

Additional December events in Lake Lure included the Raptor Roundup wrapping party and parade, The Giving Tree Drop-In, Comprehensive Planning Round Table meetings, Town Council meetings, workforce housing discussions, and various community and partner meetings.

Planning is ongoing for upcoming January meetings, storm recovery sessions, and special events, including presentation of the Dirty Dancing Proclamation at a January 2026 Town Council meeting.

• Grants and Project Coordination: 

• FY22 30% Design Grant – Lake Lure Replacement Dam: The Town has officially confirmed receipt of $484,471 in grant funding. An updated work order with Schnabel Engineering was approved by Town Council, and coordination with the NC Dam Safety Office continues to advance the project. Construction is scheduled to begin in January 2026 and is expected to take 6–8 months.

• FY24 Detailed Design Grant: The Town submitted a complete application for the detailed design phase of the replacement dam totaling $3.5 million, with a required 35 percent local match. In December, notification was received that the project is moving forward for FEMA signature, pending completion of the FY22 project.

• Dogwood Trust Collaboration & Innovation Grant: The previous application was not approved due to the lack of an identified property location for the workforce housing project. Coordination continues with Town leadership, Gateway Wellness Foundation, Foothills representatives, and Dogwood Trust. A follow-up meeting is scheduled and Council direction will be needed if the Town plans to resubmit during the March grant cycle.

• NC DEQ Dam Safety Grant: An application was submitted for the spillway project, and coordination continues as part of the Town’s broader dam safety and infrastructure strategy.

 

Manager / Administration Department Report

 

December was a dynamic and productive month, marked by a high volume of staff, council, and board meetings, as well as ongoing efforts to navigate the evolving landscape of post-storm recovery and day-to-day operations.

Top Highlights & Project Updates

• FEMA Coordination and Recovery Funding: Town staff continued weekly meetings with FEMA leadership to advance ongoing storm recovery projects and advocate for Lake Lure’s funding needs, with a focus on accelerating support for key infrastructure projects and ensuring timely reimbursement. Staff also worked closely with ICF to advance funding through FEMA Public Assistance and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). Applications for HMGP have been submitted, while the Community Development Block Grant for Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) cycle has not yet opened. The Town has successfully secured NCDEQ Division of Water Infrastructure (SA-HMW) funding for several major Hurricane Helenerelated projects, including the Wastewater Treatment Plant replacement, a water line extension to Yacht Island, and the construction of bulk chemical storage facilities at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

In addition, the Town received $562,500 in funding through the Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM) to support the sewer replacement project. Staff continue to actively monitor and pursue emerging funding opportunities through the American Flood Coalition, including a submitted application for a dam failure impact study, the Economic Development Administration, and other state and federal programs to maximize recovery resources for the Town.

• Project Obligations and Reimbursements: Fifteen FEMA Public Assistance projects have been obligated, including thirteen small projects and two large projects. The Town has received $4,214,143.92 for thirteen of the small projects, with an additional reimbursement of $106,737.47 pending. Drawdown requests have been submitted for the two large projects, but funds for these have not yet been received.

• Tainter Gate Repairs: All documents for the tainter gate seal repair project have been initiated and we remain on schedule to complete the project by February 1st. 

• Fuel Pump, LLT Docks and Morse Park Stormwater Plan: Odom Engineering is finalizing the remaining work on two Town projects: the Lake Lure Tours fuel pump and docks, and the Morse Park stormwater plan. The conceptual design plan for the fuel pump and docks is complete, and Odom is now working on the formal design. A draft of the stormwater plan has been submitted and is currently under review by the Town. Bid documents for the fuel pump and dock work are already in preparation to allow the Town to move forward promptly.

• Army Corps: USACE provided updated LiDAR, but no formal hydrology report has been received.

• Proctor Road:  The Proctor Road stabilization project is complete, including the installation of jersey barriers. A separate project addressing a culvert on Proctor Road will begin once funding is received from FEMA.

• West End Sewer Project: Crews have completed work for this project. Chimney Rock Village has been formally notified that it may now connect to the collection system.

• Lake Structure Demolitions: Town staff were informed that a decision on direct federal assistance cannot be appealed, and a grant request to the Office of State Budget and Management for removal was denied. Staff continue to evaluate removal options and are working with the State SMART program to explore any remaining possibilities.

• Lake Debris Cleanup: Town staff remain in communication with the state SMART program administrator regarding shoreline and remaining lake debris removal. A contractor has been selected by the program and is expected to be on the lake in early January to finalize their scope of work. This support allows for debris management without initial Town procurement costs or cash flow impact.

• Welcome Center and Marina Building:  The marina building has been demolished, and a temporary marina structure will be installed to allow Lake Lure Tours to operate this season. For the welcome center, Town staff continue to provide information to FEMA regarding substantial damage and the need for timely removal due to health and safety concerns, with discussions ongoing to determine next steps for demolition.

• Boys Camp Bridge Replacement: Bidding documents for the Boys Camp Bridge replacement are expected to be advertised in late January or early February. Following the bid process, the contract will be awarded and construction will begin, with anticipated completion in spring 2026.