Mills River public meetings in 2021

Board of Adjustment

The Mills River Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance (VAR-21-02) allowing a 10-foot reduction in the front yard setback for Lot 34 of The Farm at Mills River subdivision, changing it from 60 to 50 feet. The board found that the steep topography of the lot created an unnecessary hardship and that all four statutory variance standards were met. The meeting also included the swearing-in of two new alternate board members.

• Approved variance VAR-21-02 for a 10-ft front yard setback reduction on Lot 34, The Farm at Mills River (5-0)
• Found unnecessary hardship due to topography and grading costs (5-0)
• Found hardship peculiar to the property due to steepness (5-0)
• Found hardship not self-created by applicant or owner (5-0)
• Found variance consistent with spirit, purpose, and intent of regulation (5-0)
• Swore in new alternate board members Jeff Moore and Jim Foster

Town Council

This is the final meeting of the current Mills River Town Council, featuring the swearing-in of newly elected board members, votes for Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem, and recognition of outgoing members. The council will also make appointments to outside boards and adopt the 2022 meeting schedule. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Administer oath of office to newly elected board members
• Nominations and vote for Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem
• Council appointments to outside boards and committees
• Adopt 2022 meeting schedule
• Cancel regularly scheduled meeting of December 23

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board is meeting to discuss a text amendment that would add a public notice requirement for major residential subdivisions. The agenda includes routine items like approval of minutes and public comment, with no new business listed.

• Discussion of text amendment to add public notice requirement for major residential subdivisions
• Approval of November 2, 2021 minutes

The Mills River Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of Text Amendment TXT-21-09, which would require mailed and posted public notice for residential major subdivisions. The board also adopted a Statement of Consistency finding the amendment aligns with the Making Mills River 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The recommendation now goes to the Town Council for final decision.

• Recommended approval of Text Amendment TXT-21-09 (unanimous)
• Adopted Statement of Consistency for TXT-21-09 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 2, 2021 (unanimous)

Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee

The Mills River Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to handle routine approvals and public comment, then discuss old business including updates on a picnic shelter/restroom facility, a riverbank restoration project, and a farmers market at Banner Farm Road. New business includes considering a new committee name and charter, plus making recommendations for FY 2022-2023. The agenda is mostly updates and planning, with no major decisions or contracts listed.

• Picnic Shelter/Restroom Facility update
• Riverbank Restoration Project update
• Banner Farm Road Property – Farmers Market discussion
• New Committee Name and Charter consideration
• Recommendations for FY 2022-2023 budget

The Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee voted unanimously to direct Chair Tammy Ross to write a letter to Council supporting the application for PARTF funding to expedite development of the Banner Farm Road property for the Farmer's Market relocation. The committee also discussed the state budget, which includes significant PARTF funding, and will write a letter about applying in the next cycle. They approved the agenda with an added discussion item, approved the October minutes, and recommended several capital improvements for FY 2022-2023. The next meeting was moved from December 28 to January 25.

• Approved agenda with added state budget discussion (unanimous)
• Approved October 27, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Directed Chair to write letter to Council supporting PARTF application for Banner Farm Road (unanimous)
• Recommended capital improvements for FY 2022-2023, including dog park shade, field lights, and trails
• Canceled December 28 meeting; next meeting set for January 25 (unanimous)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The Mills River Agricultural Advisory Committee is holding a regular meeting. The main item is a discussion of support options for the Mills River Farm Market under old business; there is no new business on the agenda.

• Discussion of support options for Mills River Farm Market
• Approval of minutes from August 20, 2021 regular meeting

The Mills River Agricultural Advisory Committee voted unanimously to recommend that Town Council locate the Mills River Farm Market at the Town's Banner Farm Road property and fund phased design work for the master plan. The committee also approved the minutes from August 20, 2021. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from August 20, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved motion to recommend Town Council locate Farm Market at Banner Farm Rd property and fund phased design work (unanimous)

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council will hold a public hearing on a citizen-initiated zoning text amendment and set a future hearing for a new conditional zoning ordinance. The meeting also includes a technical correction to the town code and updates on the rear walking trail repair.

• Public hearing for TXT-21-07, which modifies the citizen-initiated text amendment process
• Setting a public hearing for January 13, 2022, for TXT-21-05, a text amendment adding conditional zoning
• Approval of Ordinance 2021-18, a technical revision to Section 154.046 of the Mills River Code
• Consideration of appointments for Board of Adjustment alternates and Parks & Recreation Advisory vacancies
• Discussion of repairs for the Rear Walking Trail

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board is meeting to discuss a conditional zoning text amendment (TXT-21-05) and a proposed text amendment to add a public notice requirement for major subdivisions. The board will also consider appointments to the Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan Steering Committee and fill alternate positions on the Board of Adjustment.

• Text Amendment TXT-21-05, Conditional Zoning (old business)
• Discussion of Text Amendment to Add Major Subdivision Public Notice Requirement
• Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan Steering Committee member selection
• Board of Adjustment alternate positions available

The Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of Text Amendment TXT-21-05, which would add conditional zoning districts to the town's zoning ordinance. The board also adopted a statement of consistency with the comprehensive plan. Additionally, the board directed staff to draft language for a public notice requirement for major subdivisions.

• Recommended approval of Text Amendment TXT-21-05, Conditional Zoning (unanimous)
• Adopted Statement of Consistency for TXT-21-05 with the Making Mills River 2040 Comprehensive Plan (unanimous)
• Directed staff to draft language for major subdivision public notice and signage requirements
• Volunteered Jeff Moore to serve on the Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan Steering Committee

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council is meeting to approve the agenda and consent items, including minutes and committee reappointments. The regular agenda includes discussion of picnic shelter and restroom designs, the Board of Adjustment charter and membership, and a subdivision guarantee for Banner Farm Road. Staff updates will cover finance, parks and recreation, zoning, and town management.

• Picnic Shelter/Restroom Designs
• Board of Adjustment – Charter and Membership
• Banner Farm Road Subdivision Guarantee
• Re-appointments to Agricultural Advisory Committee: Mike Corn (term ending Aug 14, 2023) and Jason Davis (term ending Oct 10, 2023)
• Approval of minutes from September 23, 2021 regular meeting

Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee

The Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee met to review old business regarding a picnic shelter/restroom facility and the Riverbank Restoration Project. The agenda also included several community announcements for upcoming events.

• Picnic Shelter/ Restroom Facility discussion
• Riverbank Restoration Project discussion

The Mills River Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee recommended that the Town Council proceed with the picnic shelter/restroom facility project, with a request to relocate baby changing stations. The committee also received updates on the riverbank restoration project and rescheduled its next meeting.

• Recommended Council proceed with picnic shelter/restroom facility (unanimous)
• Requested moving baby changing stations to main wash area in both restrooms
• Approved agenda as presented (verbal assent)
• Approved September 28, 2021 minutes (verbal assent)
• Moved next meeting from November 23 to November 30 and canceled December meeting (unanimous)

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council is meeting to consider two text amendments to its ordinances, one regarding a Certificate of Understanding and another about the Planning Board's size. The council will also set a public hearing for a third text amendment, review a quarterly financial dashboard, and receive nominations for a Bicycle/Pedestrian Plan Steering Committee. The meeting includes a closed session to consult with the town attorney.

• Public hearing on Text Amendment TXT 21-03, Certificate of Understanding
• Public hearing on Text Amendment TXT 21-08, Planning Board Size
• Set public hearing for Text Amendment TXT 21-07 on November 18
• Quarterly Financial Dashboard as of September 30, 2021
• Bicycle/Pedestrian Plan Steering Committee nominations

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review the draft ordinance for Text Amendment TXT-21-05 regarding conditional zoning. The meeting also includes scheduling for the November 2, 2021, session.

• Draft Ordinance Discussion for Text Amendment TXT-21-05 (Conditional Zoning)

The Planning Board reviewed draft language for a conditional zoning text amendment (TXT-21-05) but took no action, with discussion to continue at the next meeting. The board voted unanimously to keep its November 2, 2021 meeting despite it falling on Election Day. Staff also reported on website and zoning permit software updates, a new code enforcement officer, and county enforcement of town ordinances.

• Approved minutes of September 7, 2021 (unanimous)
• Kept November 2, 2021 Planning Board meeting on Election Day (unanimous)
• No action on conditional zoning draft; discussion continued

Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee

The Mills River Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to handle routine approvals, hear public comment, and discuss old and new business. Old business includes the Riverbank Restoration Project, Bicycle Fix-it Stations, and recreation programming. New business covers the Mills River Farmers Market and the use of ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds. The agenda also lists upcoming town meetings and events.

• Discussion of Riverbank Restoration Project
• Discussion of Bicycle Fix-it Stations
• Discussion of Mills River Farmers Market
• Discussion of ARPA Funds
• Upcoming events: Blood Drive Oct 1, Veterans' Day 5K Nov 6, Santa Tour Dec 11

The Mills River Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee approved its agenda and August minutes, and received updates on the riverbank restoration project, bicycle fix-it stations, and the farm market relocation. The committee unanimously moved its next meeting from October 26 to October 27 so the Parks and Recreation Director could attend. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational.

• Approved meeting agenda as presented (verbal assent)
• Approved August 24, 2021 minutes (verbal assent)
• Moved next meeting to October 27, 2021 (unanimous)

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council will hold a public hearing on a rezoning request for 598 Miles View Drive and set a hearing for a text amendment on Planning Board size. The council will also consider a Lowe's drainage easement and a bicycle/pedestrian planning grant steering committee, plus approve the consent agenda including canceling the September 23 meeting.

• Public hearing: rezoning request, 598 Miles View Drive
• Set public hearing: text amendment TXT 21-08, Planning Board size, Oct 14
• Lowe's drainage easement
• Bicycle/Pedestrian Planning Grant Steering Committee
• Consent agenda: cancel September 23 meeting

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider several new business items, including text amendments regarding conditional zoning and board composition. The meeting also includes a pre-application conference for a multifamily development proposal on Jeffress Road.

• Commercial Subdivision M-21-05 (Pardee Partners)
• Text Amendment TXT-21-05 regarding Conditional Zoning Introduction
• Text Amendment TXT-21-07 to modify Citizen-Initiated Text Amendment Process
• Text Amendment TXT-21-08 regarding Planning Board Composition
• Pre-Application Conference for Jeffress Road Multifamily Development Proposal

The Mills River Planning Board unanimously approved the Pardee Partners commercial subdivision, a 3.31-acre parcel for a 15,000-square-foot medical ambulatory surgery center on Boylston Highway. The board also recommended approval of two text amendments to Town Council: one modifying the citizen-initiated text amendment process and another reducing the Planning Board's membership from nine to seven. A pre-application conference was held for a proposed 137-unit townhome development on Jeffress Road, with no action taken.

• Approved Pardee Partners commercial subdivision plat and development plan (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of TXT-21-07, modifying citizen-initiated text amendment process (unanimous)
• Approved Statement of Consistency for TXT-21-07 (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of TXT-21-08, reducing Planning Board from 9 to 7 members (unanimous)
• Adopted changes to Rules of Procedure defining 'group' and Vice Chair term (unanimous)
• Held pre-application conference for Jeffress Road multifamily proposal; no action taken

Town Council

The Town Council will review bid responses for riverbank restoration and consider resolutions regarding Henderson County animal and noise ordinances. The agenda also includes non-profit requests and a discussion on volunteer committees.

• Riverbank Restoration Bid Responses
• Resolution 2021-11: Adopt Henderson County Animal Ordinance
• Resolution 2021-12: Request Henderson County to enforce Mills River Noise Ordinance
• Public Hearing setup for Text Amendment TXT 21-03
• Non-profit requests from PEG Television and Mills River Life Enrichment Center

Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee

The Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee will discuss updates on the Riverbank Restoration Project and park flooding. The committee will also address maintenance hiring, recreation programming, and new bicycle fix-it stations.

• Riverbank Restoration Project/ Park Flooding discussion
• Maintenance Position Hiring
• New Picnic Shelter/Restroom
• Bicycle Fix-it Stations

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee approved partnering with the Blue Ridge Bicycle Club to purchase two bicycle fix-it stations for Mills River Park, to be located at the front and back areas. The committee also discussed flood damage from Tropical Storm Fred, which destroyed 100 feet of the paved walking trail, and noted that the lowest bid for the Riverbank Restoration project exceeds the budget by about $16,000. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting was otherwise procedural.

• Approved partnership with Blue Ridge Bicycle Club to purchase 2 bicycle fix-it stations (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda as presented (verbal assent)
• Approved June 22, 2021 minutes (verbal assent)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The Agricultural Advisory Committee will discuss support options for the Mills River Farm Market. The committee will also hold discussions regarding Waters of the United States (WOTUS) and changes to watershed regulation jurisdiction.

• Mills River Farm Market support options discussion
• Watershed regulations jurisdiction change discussion
• Waters of the United States (WOTUS) discussion

The Agricultural Advisory Committee discussed support options for the Mills River Farm Market, noting the Parks and Recreation Master Plan earmarks Banner Farm Rd. as a possible site, and staff will prepare a presentation for the next meeting. The committee also learned that the 2003 agreement with Henderson County to administer watershed rules expired, and the town will take over enforcement, with text going to the Planning Board in October. A letter on WOTUS changes was proposed for Town Council approval. No formal decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from June 18, 2021 (unanimous)
• Discussed farm market support options; staff to prepare presentation for next meeting
• Discussed watershed regulations jurisdiction change; text to go to Planning Board in October
• Proposed drafting a letter on WOTUS for Town Council approval

Planning Board

The Planning Board voted to recommend that the Town Council deny a text amendment that would remove the Certificate of Understanding requirement from final subdivision plats. The Board also discussed developing a new watershed ordinance following the lapse of an enforcement agreement with Henderson County.

• Recommendation to deny Text Amendment TXT-21-03 regarding subdivision plat certificates
• Adoption of Statement of Consistency finding TXT-21-03 inconsistent with Making Mills River 2040 plan
• Introduction of new watershed ordinance development due to lapsed enforcement agreement with Henderson County
• Upcoming presentation on conditional zoning and text amendment process refinements in September

The Mills River Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that Town Council deny Text Amendment TXT-21-03, which would have removed the Certificate of Understanding requirement from the subdivision ordinance. The board also adopted a statement of consistency finding the amendment inconsistent with the town's comprehensive plan. No other substantive decisions were made; the board only discussed a future watershed ordinance and conditional zoning refinements.

• Recommended denial of Text Amendment TXT-21-03 (unanimous)
• Adopted Statement of Consistency for TXT-21-03 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 20, 2021 (unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council will discuss the Powell Bill Policy and review the financial dashboard as of June 30, 2021. The meeting includes setting public hearing dates for a rezoning request at 598 Miles View Drive and a text amendment for Bold Rock Cidery.

• Set public hearing date for September 9: Rezoning Request, 598 Miles View Drive
• Set public hearing date for September 9: Text Amendment 20-01, Bold Rock Cidery
• Resolution 2021-08 to adopt Henderson County Animal Control Ordinance
• Review of Financial Dashboard as of June 30, 2021

Board of Adjustment

The Mills River Board of Adjustment will meet to approve minutes, take public comment, and address two main items. Under old business, the board will reconvene a public hearing on an appeal from a staff decision regarding a zoning violation. Under new business, the board will hold a public hearing on variance request VAR-21-01 for Lot 46 at The Farm at Mills River.

• Reconvene public hearing: appeal from staff decision, zoning violation
• Public hearing: VAR-21-01, Lot 46, The Farm at Mills River
• Approval of minutes from May 18 and June 8, 2021

The minutes for the Mills River Board of Adjustment meeting on August 10, 2021, contain no substantive content—only numbered lines with no text. No decisions, approvals, or discussions are recorded.

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board is considering a text amendment (TXT-21-02) requested by Artisanal Brewing Ventures that would add warehousing, storage, and food/beverage manufacturing as permitted uses in the MR-Neighborhood Commercial district. The board reviewed two versions: the applicant's, which allows these uses with staff-level standards, and staff's recommended version, which requires a Special Use Permit and adds buffer requirements. The board's role is advisory, and it must submit a Statement of Consistency to Town Council.

• Text Amendment TXT-21-02 by Artisanal Brewing Ventures to amend §§154.007, 154.058, and 154.090
• Staff recommends approval of its version requiring Special Use Permit for new uses
• Proposed new uses: warehousing/storage and manufacturing/processing/distribution of food and beverages
• Proposed secondary uses: restaurants, tasting rooms, event assembly, and sales training with overnight lodging
• Site standards include 500-foot setback from residential dwellings and 30-foot vegetative buffers

The Planning Board voted to recommend that Town Council deny text amendment TXT-21-02, which would have allowed warehousing and food/beverage manufacturing in the MR-NC district, citing inconsistency with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The board also unanimously recommended denial of rezoning request R-21-03 for 598 Miles View Drive from MR-LI to MR-30, citing inconsistency with the 2040 plan. Both recommendations are advisory; final decisions rest with Town Council.

• Recommended denial of TXT-21-02 (Artisanal Brewing Ventures) to Town Council (4-1, Jeff Moore opposed)
• Recommended denial of R-21-03 (John Parr Revocable Trust rezoning) to Town Council (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 20, 2021 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council is meeting to approve the tax collector's 2020 property settlement statement and to pass Resolution 2021-11, which charges the tax collector with collecting 2021 property taxes. The agenda is otherwise limited to procedural items, council comments, and adjournment.

• Tax Collector's 2020 Property Settlement Statement
• Resolution 2021-11: Charge Tax Collector with Collecting 2021 Property Tax

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council is meeting to handle routine business including consent agenda items, budget amendments for fiscal year 2020-2021, and a discussion on volunteer committees. The council will also consider a letter of support for the Mills River Farm Market and enter closed session to discuss real property acquisition negotiations.

• Resolution 2021-10 to accept American Rescue Plan funds
• Budget amendments via Ordinances 2021-12 through 2021-15 for FY 2020-2021
• Letter of support for Mills River Farm Market from Agricultural Advisory Committee
• Proclamation for Parks and Recreation Month July 2021
• Closed session for real property contract negotiations

Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee

The Mills River Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and receive updates on the Park Master Plan, River Bank Restoration, and a proposed new position in the FY 2021-22 budget. No new business is listed. The agenda is largely procedural with informational updates.

• Park Master Plan update
• River Bank Restoration update
• FY 2021-22 Budget – New Position
• Blood Drive – July 23, 2021
• Party in the Park – August 8, 2021

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee discussed the Town Council's decision to hire a Parks and Recreation Maintenance Technician instead of a Programmer, despite 95% of public survey responses requesting programs. The committee decided to draft a letter, signed by each member, to be read at the June 24 Council meeting, asking Council to reconsider and hire the programmer position. The committee also approved the agenda and minutes, and canceled the July 27 meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda as presented (verbal assent)
• Approved May 25, 2021 minutes (verbal assent)
• Decided to draft a letter to Town Council requesting reconsideration of maintenance technician hire in favor of programmer (unanimous)
• Canceled July 27, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The Mills River Agricultural Advisory Committee is holding a regular meeting. The only new business item is a discussion of support options for the Mills River Farm Market. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the May 21 meeting and a list of upcoming town meetings and deadlines.

• Discussion of support options for Mills River Farm Market
• Approval of minutes from May 21, 2021 regular meeting
• Upcoming Town Council meetings on Jun 24 and Jul 22
• Municipal filing period opens Jul 2 and closes Jul 16

The Agricultural Advisory Committee discussed supporting the Mills River Farm Market and agreed the town should contribute staff time and provide a permanent space, with the market board retaining oversight. Several members will attend the June 24 Town Council meeting to present a letter requesting help with immediate issues and future support. The committee also heard that the Town Council adopted the Comprehensive Plan, Park Plan, and a fiscal year 2021-2022 budget with no tax increase.

• Approved minutes from May 21, 2021, by unanimous verbal assent
• Agreed to recommend town staff time and a permanent space for the Farm Market
• Decided several members will present a support letter to Town Council on June 24
• Requested the town list weekly market offerings on its website
• Adjourned by unanimous verbal assent

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board voted not to review draft ordinance language for a text amendment (TXT-21-01) that would allow selling 45'x90' lots for a luxury motor coach resort in the MR-MU zoning district. The board directed staff to attempt a refund of the $500 application fee. The decision followed discussion of concerns about reducing minimum lot sizes across the district and preserving the town's character.

• Approved minutes of May 20, 2021, by unanimous verbal assent.
• Directed staff to attempt refund of the Text Amendment App fee ($500).
• Decided not to review more specific ordinance text amendment language for TXT-21-01.
• Kept the July 6 meeting on the schedule.
• Adjourned the meeting by unanimous verbal assent.

Board of Adjustment

The Mills River Board of Adjustment is meeting to reconvene two public hearings: an appeal from a staff decision regarding a zoning violation, and a conditional use request (C-20-01) by Bartel Van Oostendorp. The agenda also includes public comment and approval of the agenda. No other substantive items are listed.

• Reconvene public hearing on appeal from staff decision (zoning violation)
• Reconvene public hearing on C-20-01, Bartel Van Oostendorp, request for conditional use

The Board of Adjustment denied conditional use permit C-20-01 for a lodging and event venue at 26 Cook Lane after a 2-2 vote on a motion to grant with conditions failed. The board had earlier voted 3-1 that the use would not be detrimental, but could not certify it met MR-30 district requirements. The denial was formalized in an order attached to the minutes.

• Denied conditional use permit C-20-01 for event venue at 26 Cook Lane (2-2 vote failed)
• Recessed appeal from staff decision (zoning violation) until August 10, 2021
• Approved agenda unanimously
• Denied Jeff Moore's request for standing in the case
• Rejected motion to deny permit based on MR-30 non-compliance (2-2)
• Approved findings that use would not be detrimental to public welfare (3-1)
• Approved findings that use would not adversely affect health/safety (3-1)

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council will hold public hearings on a rezoning request for Anointed Word Church, the Making Mills River Comprehensive Plan, and the Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan. They will also consider a bond request for Hays Mill Subdivision and a rezoning of two light industrial parcels. Discussion items include roads and volunteer committees.

• Public hearing on rezoning request R-21-01 for Anointed Word Church
• Public hearing on Making Mills River Comprehensive Plan
• Public hearing on Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan
• Request for bond for Hays Mill Subdivision
• Rezoning of two parcels zoned Mills River Light Industrial fronting School House and Banner Farm Roads

Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee

The committee will review the operating and capital budget for fiscal year 2021-22. Members will also receive updates on the River Bank Restoration and the upcoming Park Master Plan public hearing.

• FY 2021-22 Operating and Capital Budget
• Park Master Plan Update
• River Bank Restoration Update
• Soccer and Baseball Season update

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee reviewed the draft FY 2021-22 budget and Capital Improvement Plan presented by Town Manager Daniel Cobb, but took no formal action. The committee also received updates on the Park Master Plan, soccer and baseball seasons, and river bank restoration. The meeting was procedural, with only agenda and minutes approvals and adjournment.

• Approved meeting agenda as presented (verbal assent)
• Approved April 27, 2021 minutes (verbal assent)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:58 PM (unanimous verbal assent)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The committee will review minutes from the March 19, 2021 meeting. The new business portion of the agenda includes a discussion regarding the Mills River Farm Market with Linda Brittain.

• Mills River Farm Market discussion

The Agricultural Advisory Committee heard a presentation from Joe and Linda Brittain about the Mills River Farm Market, including its financial challenges and the need for more town involvement. The committee unanimously approved drafting a letter of support to the Town Council, emphasizing the market's importance and urging increased support. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from March 19, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved drafting a letter of support for the Mills River Farm Market to Town Council (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board met and voted to recommend approval of a rezoning request (R-21-01) for the Anointed Word Church property, despite noting it is inconsistent with both the existing and proposed comprehensive plans. The board also voted to reduce its meeting frequency to once a month starting in June 2021. The meeting included no public comment on non-agenda items and no new business.

• Rezoning Request R-21-01: Recommended approval for Anointed Word Church property, inconsistent with comprehensive plans; passed by majority (3-2)
• Motion to meet once a month starting June 2021, passed unanimously
• Request for supporting documents 48 hours before meetings
• Suggestion for larger notification sign for zoning changes
• Introduction of Zoning Administrator Mike Malecek

The Planning Board voted to recommend that Town Council approve the rezoning request R-21-01 for the Anointed Word Church property, despite noting it is inconsistent with both the existing and proposed comprehensive plans. The motion passed by majority, with Sherri Hill and Jim Foster voting against. The board also voted to change its meeting schedule to once a month starting in June 2021.

• Recommended approval of rezoning R-21-01 for Anointed Word Church (majority vote, Hill and Foster against)
• Approved minutes of May 4, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved moving to one meeting per month starting June 2021 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Mills River Board of Adjustment is meeting to hear two public hearings: an appeal from a staff decision regarding a zoning violation and a conditional use permit request (C-20-01) from Bartel Van Oostendorp. The board will also approve the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting.

• Public hearing on appeal from staff decision regarding zoning violation
• Public hearing on conditional use permit request C-20-01 by Bartel Van Oostendorp

The minutes for the Mills River, NC Board of Adjustment meeting on 2021-05-18 contain no substantive content—only page numbers and no recorded actions, motions, or discussion. As a result, no decisions were made or reported in the document.

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council meets to hold public hearings on a special use permit for Moore and Sons Site Contractor and on noise ordinance amendments, and to receive the FY 2021-2022 budget presentation. The council will also consider consent agenda items including setting public hearings for the comprehensive plan and parks master plan, and resolutions on tax collection. A closed session is scheduled to discuss real property acquisition negotiations.

• Public hearing: Special Use Permit 21-01, Moore and Sons Site Contractor
• Public hearing: Ordinance amendments, Chapter 152 Nuisances (Noise Ordinance)
• FY 2021-2022 Budget Presentation
• Set public hearings for Making Mills River Comprehensive Plan and Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan, May 27
• Resolutions 2021-04 and 2021-05 on forgiving minimal tax over/under payments and not collecting minimal taxes

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board discussed a request to rezone part of Anointed Word International Church's property from residential (MR-30) to general business (MR-GB). Staff recommended denial, citing inconsistency with the comprehensive plan and potential for spot zoning. The board voted to table the decision to gather neighbor input and rescheduled its May 18 meeting to May 20.

• Rezoning request R-21-01 for Anointed Word International Church
• Staff recommendation to deny the rezoning request
• Board voted to table the rezoning decision
• Board moved its May 18 meeting to May 20
• Town Manager gave updates on Bike/Ped grant, EV charging stations, and new planner

The Planning Board tabled the rezoning request R-21-01 from Anointed Word International Church, which sought to change a portion of its property from residential (MR-30) to general business (MR-GB). The board voted to postpone the decision to gather input from adjacent property owners, despite staff recommending denial. The board also moved its May 18 meeting to May 20 to accommodate the rescheduled discussion.

• Tabled rezoning request R-21-01 for Anointed Word Church (majority vote, Perry opposed)
• Moved Planning Board meeting from May 18 to May 20 (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 20, 2021 (unanimous)

Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee

The Mills River Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to approve the agenda and minutes from March 23, 2021, and to hear public comment. Updates will be given on the baseball field and the park master plan. New business includes a discussion on the future of special events and programming. The next meeting is scheduled for May 25, 2021.

• Approval of minutes from March 23, 2021
• Public comment period
• Update on baseball field
• Update on park master plan
• Discussion on future of special events and programming

The Mills River Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee met on April 28, 2021, and approved the agenda and March 23 minutes. They discussed the possibility of adding a Parks and Recreation Programmer position to host special events and expand programming, but no formal decision was made. Updates were provided on the baseball field, park master plan, sunshade, new park ranger, and electric charging station.

• Approved meeting agenda with modifications (verbal assent)
• Approved March 23, 2021 minutes (verbal assent)
• Discussed adding Parks and Recreation Programmer position (no vote)

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council will hold several public hearings on rezoning requests, ordinance amendments, and a resolution opposing state housing bills. The consent agenda includes minutes and a fee waiver for a park event. Staff updates and council comments are also scheduled.

• Public hearing on rezoning request R-21-01 for Anointed Word Church
• Public hearing on rezoning request R-21-02 for Town of Mills River
• Public hearings on ordinance amendments for subdivisions, zoning, corridor overlay, and temporary food vendors
• Resolution 2021-03 opposing Senate Bill 349/House Bill 401 on housing opportunities
• Fee waiver request for Party in the Park on August 8, 2021

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board met and voted to recommend that Town Council deny a special use permit for Banner Farm Road (SUP-21-01), despite a 4-3 vote. They also recommended approval of the 'Making Mills River' Comprehensive Plan, tabled two rezoning requests due to notification issues, and approved a commercial subdivision application.

• Recommended denial of SUP-21-01 (Banner Farm Rd Special Use Permit) by 4-3 vote
• Recommended approval of 'Making Mills River' Comprehensive Plan
• Tabled rezoning request R-21-01 (Anointed Word Church) to May 4 due to missing sign notice
• Tabled rezoning request R-21-02 (Town of Mills River) due to notice objections
• Approved commercial subdivision MS-21-03 (Booher property, 264 Marlow Drive)

The Planning Board voted 4-3 to recommend Town Council deny SUP-21-01 for Banner Farm Rd, after initially considering no action. They also recommended approval of the 'Making Mills River' Comprehensive Plan, tabled two rezoning requests, and approved a commercial subdivision.

• Recommended Town Council deny SUP-21-01 Banner Farm Rd Special Use Permit (4-3)
• Recommended Town Council approve 'Making Mills River' Comprehensive Plan (majority, 2 against)
• Tabled rezoning request R-21-01 Anointed Word Church until May 4 meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled rezoning request R-21-02 Town of Mills River to a later date (unanimous)
• Approved Commercial Subdivision MS-21-03 Booher property at 264 Marlow Drive (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Mills River Board of Adjustment is meeting to approve its agenda and minutes from February 9, 2021, and to hear public comment. Under new business, the board will administer the oath of office to Eugene Edwards and receive training from Town Manager Daniel Cobb and Town Attorney Sharon Alexander. The agenda is largely procedural, with no substantive decisions or public hearings listed.

• Administer oath to Eugene Edwards
• Training by Town Manager Daniel Cobb and Town Attorney Sharon Alexander
• Approval of minutes from February 9, 2021

The Mills River Board of Adjustment held a procedural meeting with no substantive decisions. They approved the agenda and prior minutes, administered the oath of office to Eugene Edwards as a new board member, and received training on quasi-judicial hearing procedures for the upcoming CUP-20-01 hearing. The board was reminded to treat the case as new and base decisions only on facts presented.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 9, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Administered oath of office to Eugene Edwards

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council is holding its regular meeting with a consent agenda and regular agenda items. Key actions include approving minutes, a tax collector report, and setting a public hearing on a noise ordinance. The council will also discuss budget amendments for FY 2020-21, receive a third-quarter financial update, and hold a budget work session for FY 2021-22.

• Set public hearing for Chapter 152 Nuisances (Noise Ordinance) on May 13, 2021 at 6:30 PM
• Budget amendments for Fiscal Year 2020-2021
• Third Quarter Financial Update
• Budget Work Session for Fiscal Year 2021-2022
• Recognition of volunteers

Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee

The Mills River Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to review and finalize the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, elect a committee chair, and receive updates on the baseball field and the 2021-2022 budget. The agenda also includes introductions of new members and public comment.

• Final review of Parks and Recreation Master Plan
• Election of Committee Chair
• Update on Baseball Field
• 2021-2022 Budget update
• Introduction of new members

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee voted unanimously to send the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Final Draft to the Town Council for approval as written. The plan will be presented to Council at their April 22 meeting. The committee also elected Tammy Ross as Chair and John Case as Vice Chair. The meeting was held in person and electronically due to COVID-19 restrictions.

• Approved the meeting agenda as presented.
• Approved the minutes from January 7, 2021.
• Approved sending the Parks and Recreation Master Plan to Council for approval as written.
• Elected Tammy Ross as Chair of the committee.
• Elected John Case as Vice Chair of the committee.
• Adjourned the meeting at 8 p.m.

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The Mills River Agricultural Advisory Committee met on March 19, 2021, and approved the minutes from the February 19 meeting. They received an update on the Comprehensive Plan, noting public input is open until March 25, with review by the Steering Committee on April 7 and Planning Board before a Town Council recommendation in May. The committee also discussed a letter to Representative Madison Cawthorn supporting agricultural immigration legislation, which passed the House but faces Senate action. No other business was conducted, and the meeting adjourned.

• Approved the minutes from February 19, 2021, by unanimous verbal assent.
• Discussed the Comprehensive Plan update, with public input accepted until March 25.
• Discussed a letter to Representative Madison Cawthorn supporting agricultural immigration legislation, which passed the House.
• Adjourned the meeting by unanimous verbal assent.

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board met and took no action on the Banner Farm Road Special Use Permit (SUP-21-01), effectively tabling it until the applicant completes required sewer system plans. The board also heard public comments from a resident raising concerns about notification and compliance related to the Mills River Crossing development. The meeting otherwise consisted of routine approval of minutes and announcements.

• No action taken on Banner Farm Road Special Use Permit (SUP-21-01) due to incomplete sewer plans
• Public comment from Melissa Rayfield regarding Mills River Crossing and Big Hills Construction
• Approval of minutes from March 2, 2021
• Announcement of Mills River Park Ball Field Grand Opening on March 21, 2021

The Mills River Planning Board voted unanimously to take no action on the Banner Farm Road Special Use Permit (SUP-21-01), effectively tabling it until the applicant completes required sewer system plans. The board discussed the application's deficiencies, including the lack of engineered sewer plans and concerns about traffic and parking. The motion to take no action was made by Jim Foster and seconded by Wayne Carland. The board also approved the minutes from the March 2, 2021 meeting and heard public comments from Melissa Rayfield regarding the Mills River Crossing development.

• Approved the minutes of the March 2, 2021 meeting by unanimous verbal assent.
• Took no action on the Banner Farm Road Special Use Permit (SUP-21-01) by unanimous verbal assent, effectively tabling it until the application is completed.
• Adjourned the meeting by unanimous verbal assent.

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council is meeting to consider several items, including non-profit budget requests for the upcoming fiscal year, amendments to ordinances covering corridors, noise, and food trucks, and contracts for the fiscal year 2020-2021 audit. They will also vote on a budget amendment ordinance. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval and a tax collector report.

• Non-profit budget requests for FY 2021-2022
• Ordinance amendments (Chapters 153, 154, Section 154.046 Corridor Overlay, Noise, Food Trucks)
• Audit contract FY 2020-2021
• Independent auditor letter of engagement FY 2020-2021
• Ordinance 2021-02, Budget Amendment

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board met and discussed a special use permit application for a 92-unit multifamily development on 31.9 acres on Banner Farm Road. No action was taken on the permit, which will be reviewed again at a future meeting. The board also canceled its April 6, 2021 meeting and received updates on grants and projects.

• Special Use Permit SUP-21-01: Moore & Son Site Contractors proposes 92 multifamily units on 31.9 acres on Banner Farm Road (PIN 9630776176)
• Comprehensive Plan update comment period open until March 12, 2021
• April 6, 2021 Planning Board meeting canceled
• Riverbank restoration contract signed; grants received for EV charging station and bike/pedestrian plan
• Bike helmet grant approved for third year

The Mills River Planning Board held a pre-application review for a proposed 92-unit multifamily development on Banner Farm Road (SUP-21-01) but took no action, deferring a recommendation to a future meeting. The board also approved minutes from February 16, 2021, and voted to cancel its April 6, 2021, meeting. Staff reported on grants and a riverbank restoration contract, but no substantive decisions were made on the development.

• Approved minutes of February 16, 2021 (unanimous)
• Cancelled April 6, 2021 Planning Board meeting (unanimous)
• No action on Banner Farm Road SUP-21-01; review only

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council will discuss financing options for capital projects, including whether to use debt financing or a capital reserve fund. The council will also consider amendments to several town ordinances and fill committee vacancies. Several items are on the consent agenda, including reappointments and setting a public hearing for a special use permit.

• Discussion of capital project financing versus capital reserve fund
• Ordinance amendments to Chapters 150, 151, 152, 155 and Section 154.046 (Corridor Overlay)
• Set public hearing for Special Use Permit S-21-01 (Moore and Sons) for March 25, 2021 at 6:30 PM
• Reappoint Bert Lemkes and Richard Hayes to Board of Adjustment (terms ending Feb 27, 2024)
• Committee vacancies: Parks and Recreation and Board of Adjustment (Second Alternate)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The Mills River Agricultural Advisory Committee is holding a regular meeting. They will approve minutes from the December 18, 2020 meeting, hear an update on the 'Making Mills River' Comprehensive Plan from Town Manager Daniel Cobb, and discuss farmland preservation with Kieran Roe of Conserving Carolina. The agenda also lists upcoming town meetings.

• Update on 'Making Mills River' Comprehensive Plan by Town Manager Daniel Cobb
• Farmland Preservation discussion with Kieran Roe, Conserving Carolina
• Approval of minutes from December 18, 2020 regular meeting

The Mills River Agricultural Advisory Committee met on February 19, 2021, and approved the minutes from December 18, 2020. They heard a presentation from Kieran Roe of Conserving Carolina on farmland preservation methods and received an update on the Comprehensive Plan, including public feedback and next steps. No formal decisions were made on these topics.

• Approved minutes from December 18, 2020 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board met to discuss a proposed noise ordinance, focusing on amplified sound from local breweries and cideries. Board members reviewed draft language from the town code and heard emailed public comments, mostly in support of live music. No final decision was made; the board continued its discussion of how to regulate noise.

• Discussed noise ordinance language in Chapter 152 of town code, focusing on amplified sound
• Heard public comments supporting live music at Bold Rock, Sierra Nevada, and other venues
• Board considered adopting Henderson County's noise ordinance as a starting point
• No vote taken on ordinance; discussion only

The Mills River Planning Board voted to recommend adoption of a noise ordinance, food truck text amendments, and 160D zoning code updates to the Town Council. The board also approved the Cottages at Hayes Mill major subdivision as presented. All recommendations and approvals were made with unanimous or near-unanimous votes, with one abstention on the noise ordinance.

• Recommended noise ordinance adoption to Town Council (passed, Ryan Perry abstained)
• Recommended 160D zoning code updates to Town Council (unanimous)
• Recommended food truck text amendments to Town Council (unanimous)
• Approved Cottages at Hayes Mill major subdivision MS-21-01 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Mills River Board of Adjustment is meeting to approve the agenda and minutes from January 12, 2021, and to hear public comment. The main item is a public hearing on Conditional Use Permit CUP 21-01, a request by Storage Depot for outside storage. The board will decide whether to grant the permit.

• Public hearing on CUP 21-01, Storage Depot outside storage request
• Approval of January 12, 2021 minutes
• Public comment period

The Mills River Board of Adjustment approved Conditional Use Permit CUP-21-01 for Storage Depot NC, LLC to add outdoor storage at 132 Cross Road Drive. The permit was granted with conditions requiring a fence similar to the First Citizens Bank property and a landscaped green strip along Cross Road Drive. The vote was 4-1, with Brandon McGaha opposed.

• Approved CUP-21-01 for outdoor storage at 132 Cross Road Drive with conditions (4-1)
• Approved finding that the use will not adversely affect health or safety (5-0)
• Approved finding that the use will not be detrimental to public welfare (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda and January 12, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council is meeting to approve the agenda, hear public comments, and consider a consent agenda with minutes from previous meetings. The main substantive item is an interlocal agreement regarding Rugby Middle School, which will be discussed under the regular agenda. The meeting also includes staff updates and council comments.

• Interlocal Agreement – Rugby Middle School
• Approval of minutes from January 14 and January 28-29, 2021 meetings

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board is meeting to handle routine procedural items, including approving minutes and hearing public comment. The only substantive item on the agenda is a discussion of the noise ordinance under old business. No new business items are listed.

• Noise Ordinance discussion (old business)
• Approval of minutes from January 19, 2020

The Planning Board heard a presentation from the Henderson County Sheriff's Office on the county noise ordinance and discussed a proposed town noise ordinance. The board directed Town Manager Daniel Cobb to edit the draft to concentrate solely on amplified music, with a concern raised about exempting church chimes. The edited version is to be reviewed at the February 16 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Directed Town Manager to edit draft noise ordinance to focus solely on amplified music
• Approved minutes of January 19, 2021 (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board is meeting to review old business items, including the 160D review and the Land Use Vision Map. No new business is on the agenda. The meeting will also include public comment and approval of the previous meeting's minutes.

• 160D Review
• Land Use Vision Map Review
• Approval of January 5, 2020 minutes
• Public comment period

The Mills River Planning Board approved revisions to Chapters 150, 151, 152, 153, and 155 of the Town Code to comply with N.C.G.S. § 160D, while holding Chapter 154 for further review. The board also approved a change to the Corridor Overlay District requiring design standards for facades within 500 feet of main corridors.

• Approved 160D revisions to Chapters 150, 151, 152, 153, and 155 (unanimous)
• Held Chapter 154 (Land Uses) for additional review and information
• Approved 500-foot buffer change for Corridor Overlay District design standards (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 5, 2021 (unanimous)

Agricultural Advisory Committee

The Mills River Agricultural Advisory Committee is holding a regular meeting. The main item is an update on the 'Making Mills River' comprehensive plan, presented by Town Manager Daniel Cobb. No new business is on the agenda.

• Discussion of 'Making Mills River' Comprehensive Plan Update
• Approval of minutes from December 18, 2020 regular meeting

The Mills River Agricultural Advisory Committee met on January 15, 2021, but lacked a quorum, so no official business was conducted. The town manager provided an update on the Comprehensive Plan, but no decisions were made.

Town Council

The Mills River Town Council will vote on a consent agenda including meeting minutes, committee reappointments, and tax reports. The regular agenda includes applying for a vehicle charging station grant, a lease for Mills River Brewery on Banner Farm Road, a budget amendment for FY 2020-2021, the Southern Mountains Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan, and a presentation on the Making Mills River Comprehensive Plan.

• Vehicle Charging Station Grant application
• Mills River Brewery Lease – Banner Farm Road property
• Budget Amendment – Fiscal Year 2020-2021
• Southern Mountains Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Reappointments to Parks and Recreation Committee and Planning Board

Board of Adjustment

The Mills River Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two variance requests: one from William C. Hardin for a setback variance and one from Marcella D. Revis for a lot size variance. The board will also elect a chairman and vice chairman. The agenda includes standard items like approval of minutes and public comment.

• Public hearing VAR-20-03: William C. Hardin requests variance from setbacks
• Public hearing VAR-20-04: Marcella D. Revis requests variance from lot size
• Election of officers (Chairman and Vice Chairman)

The Board of Adjustment approved a variance (VAR 20-03) for William C. Hardin to reduce required setbacks at 2115 Butler Bridge Road, allowing a 1,000-square-foot addition to Aletheia Academy. The board denied a separate variance (VAR 20-04) for Marcella D. Revis to subdivide a nonconforming lot at 75 James E. Davis Drive. Both decisions were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved VAR 20-03 for setback reductions at 2115 Butler Bridge Road (5-0)
• Denied VAR 20-04 for minimum lot size variance at 75 James E. Davis Drive (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved November 10, 2020 minutes (unanimous)
• Re-elected Bert Lemkes as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Linda Bregartner as Vice Chair (5-0)

Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee

The Mills River Parks, Trails, and Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to elect a committee chair, review the systemwide plan, and discuss baseball field rules and dog park renovations. The agenda includes public comment and approval of minutes from the December 17, 2020 meeting. No updates were reported. The next meeting is scheduled for February 23, 2021.

• Election of Committee Chair
• Systemwide Plan Review
• Baseball Field Rules Discussion
• Dog Park Renovations
• Approval of Minutes from December 17, 2020

The committee approved draft recommendations and schematic concepts for Mills River Park and Banner Farm Road property, with changes discussed, to be presented to Town Council at Visioning. The committee also tabled a baseball field rules discussion and heard a proposal for future dog park renovations. No public comment was given.

• Approved draft park plans for Mills River Park and Banner Farm Road for Council presentation (verbal assent)
• Tabled baseball field rules discussion until a later meeting
• Heard dog park renovation proposal for Capital Improvements Plan; director to consult engineer on cost and feasibility
• Postponed chair and vice chair election until full board attendance; Stacy Taylor continues as chair

Planning Board

The Mills River Planning Board met to discuss updates to the noise ordinance and architectural standards, with no formal action taken. The board also received public comments about noise enforcement and construction issues at Mills River Crossing. Other agenda items, including the 160D review and erosion control, were tabled.

• Noise ordinance draft discussed; agricultural properties exempt; enforcement and decibel meter concerns raised
• Architectural standards: considering changing 'visible from street' to linear distance from street
• Public comment from Bettye Dorn about sheriff's noise enforcement in Wedgewood subdivision
• Melissa Rayfield raised concerns about construction at Mills River Crossing
• Permits issued for Circle K, storage facility on Old Haywood Rd., Hills Equipment, and Mills River Crossing phases 3 and 4