April Hoyt

Key discussions included updates on the Ecusta Trail, specifically the installation of speed limit signs and the opening of special event applications. The board moved to recommend applying for the Hurricane Helene PARTF Grant to secure funding for the Berkeley Park Sports Complex, justifying the need based on damages sustained at Jackson Park soccer fields. Discussions also covered ongoing fundraising efforts for the Berkeley Park Sports Complex amenities, such as lighting and sponsorship banners. Staff presented an ongoing project concerning asset inventory for all Parks and Recreation operations, intended to clarify departmental duties for budget planning. Furthermore, the board approved proceeding with a proposal to develop a small-scale bike park in Jackson Park in collaboration with Pisgah Area Sorba. Finally, updates were provided on the progress of the East Flat Rock Park playground installation and the Berkeley Park soccer field turf work, noting a significant funding shortfall for lighting at the latter. Staff also provided updates on new interns and upcoming recreational programs, including the Daddy Daughter/Family Dance and the launch of an Adult Pickleball League.

The committee conducted a regularly scheduled meeting. Key agenda items included the approval of the agenda and meeting summary. Updates were provided for the City of Brevard project, noting anticipated completion dates for design phases and construction bidding timeline adjustments with NCDOT. Henderson County's phase two project shifted to a design-build model, with cost proposals expected in March and completion scheduled for late 2028. The Friends of Ecusta Trail reported on their ambassador training and use of an issue tracker. Significant discussion focused on the Draft Ecusta Encroachment Policy Amendments, resulting in a motion to recommend adoption to the Board of Commissioners; changes included allowing fences under six feet, utilizing smartgov software for applications, prohibiting invasive species, and adding a memorial section. The committee also reviewed the Ecusta Calls/Issue February Report, noting activity related to a homeless camp and vehicle encroachment. An overview of the multi-state Saluda Grade Trail project was presented, emphasizing coordination efforts. Finally, the City of Hendersonville announced applications for a Build Grant for the Above the Mud project and seeking a bond for broader transportation improvements.

Key discussions included public comments regarding trail users, speeds, and width concerns. The committee approved the agenda and the meeting summary with noted corrections. Henderson County provided an update on trail construction, noting that the design/build selection is in progress with an expected completion for Phase II by the end of 2028. The county is also coordinating with NCDOT regarding impacts from US 64 improvements and is utilizing temporary speed detection flashers. The Friends of Ecusta Trail reported an upcoming 5K event in April and ongoing work on ambassador training and etiquette signage. The committee reviewed updates to the Draft Ecusta Encroachment Policy concerning non-utility uses and structure placement but tabled the item for further review next month. The most reported issue remains vehicles on the trail, and staff provided an update on current awareness measures.

The committee discussed two primary agenda items. The first involved rezoning application R-2026-01 for a 2.05-acre tract located off Old Hendersonville Road, requesting a change from Industrial to Residential One zoning. The committee recommended forwarding this application to the Planning Board, noting potential impacts from a proposed NCDOT roundabout and the presence of an existing cemetery on the property. The second item concerned an amendment to the Conditional Zoning District CD-2020-02-A1 for Horseshoe Farms, proposing a new administration building, relocation of the RV area, and a revised internal road configuration including a third entrance onto South Rugby Road. The TRC recommended forwarding this amendment request to the Planning Board subject to several conditions, including NCDOT screening for a Traffic Impact Study, confirmation of soil scientist usage for septic systems, review of ADA parking needs due to additional employee parking, revision of Erosion Control and Stormwater plans, resubmission of water plans, and verification that new road widths accommodate fire trucks.

The meeting featured an overview of Henderson County Public Schools' capital projects since 2018 and the establishment of the Maintenance, Repair, Technology, and Security (MRTS) Program. A significant discussion focused on the Needs-Based Public School Capital Grants Program, with plans to pursue preliminary design work for East Henderson High School renovations, contingent on the County's tier status for matching requirements. In an update on the School Bus Garage project, LS3P was selected as the architect, but the Construction Manager at Risk (CMR) selection is pending; discussions included reducing the design scope from ten bays to eight and potentially incorporating space for servicing ambulances. An update on MRTS allocations noted that all funds are currently allocated, and there was discussion regarding the impact of redirecting a portion of funding intended for the school system. The School Board approved $4.5 million in projects, including window replacements, computers, paving, and mechanical needs.