Rachel DeGroat

The primary discussion centered on the need to appoint a second authorized check signer for the town bank account, following recent changes in the roles of Mayor and Commissioner. The agenda was formally amended to specify this action. Mayor Gerald Masterson was subsequently motioned and approved to be appointed as the "second check signer," granting him access and check signing abilities to the Town of Ronda checking account at First Community Bank.

The work session addressed the resignation of Mayor Benge and scheduled the discussion and action items regarding the Mayor/Commissioner Open Seat and the Appointment of Mayor Pro-Tem for a subsequent Board Meeting. The board unanimously accepted the Mayor's resignation. Key discussions centered on adjusting the 2026 meeting schedule, moving the start time for both Work Sessions and Regular Board Meetings from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The Administrative/Clerk Report covered the completion of the Town Hall security camera upgrade, the Clerk's recent training on Open Meetings Law, updates on posting minutes to the website, and initiating the FEMA compensation process for Hurricane Helene repairs. A significant discussion focused on the town's current low checking account balance of approximately $30,000 and the process for accessing and replenishing trust/grant funds, especially in light of an expected $10,000 YVSA bill and a $15,000 emergency water leak bill. The ORC Report detailed the repair of a water leak and intensive discussions regarding the replacement of old asbestos service lines, potential use of $1.8 million in grant funds for this replacement, and updates on water testing (radium levels slightly above limit) for a new well, including the consideration of filtration equipment. The Maintenance Report highlighted a drainage issue on Factory Street where a road section buckled under a tractor-trailer, requiring coordination with the contractor and the factory owner regarding drainage diversion and road stability, a severe structural concern exacerbated by heavy truck traffic. The board also discussed general security and potential upgrades at Northside Park, including surveillance cameras, and authorized the Maintenance person to purchase new safety signs within budget allowances.

The meeting agenda was approved, followed by a discussion to amend the previous Work Session minutes from November 14th. Key discussion points included reports from YVSA regarding a major system upgrade grant pursuit, HCCOG providing updates on grant opportunities for road and drainage improvements, and an update regarding the Wilkes EDC representation following a recent passing. The board also addressed public comments concerning cemetery mulch delivery and the value of the current Town Clerk. Major board actions involved approving the estimated new cost of $1,602,760.00 for well treatment using state appropriation funds, which is projected to significantly lower per-thousand-gallon water operational costs. A substantial portion of the meeting was dedicated to an open session deliberation and vote regarding a public censure against Commissioner Bobby Munsey, stemming from allegations of interference with a contractor and ethical concerns related to a landscaping project approved before Veterans Day. Following this, the board appointed Matthew Foster to fill the Commissioner vacancy, Gerald Masterson as Mayor, and Kevin Reece as Mayor Pro-Tem, using a nomination ballot method. In a subsequent Closed Session, the board unanimously approved a $3.00 per hour raise for the Town Clerk, effective immediately.

The meeting agenda was amended to include requests regarding appointing a third check signer, appointing a Mayor Pro-Tem, discussing the Wilkes Chamber appointment, and addressing solar pole cameras for litter control and data collection. Key reports included an update from YVSA detailing FEMA fund usage and plans for raising pump station elements above the flood plain, and a YVCC report noting Ronda's attendance and upcoming local events. Board actions included tabling the JFam Utilities Contract Review until December, appointing Commissioner Combs as the third check signer and Mayor Pro-Tem, appointing Commissioner Combs as the representative to the Wilkes Chamber of Commerce, and approving a $2,000.00 budget for purchasing solar pole cameras. The board moved the Town Clerk's Performance Evaluation to the December Work Session and approved a $1.00 per hour pay increase for Jordan, effective November 24th.

The Work Session agenda was amended to include a Commissioner Seat Vote and a Clerk Evaluation. Key discussions centered on the process for a potential public censure against a Commissioner, specifically involving due process rights and scheduling a hearing for December 9, 2025. A Commissioner extensively detailed allegations against Commissioner Bobby Munsey regarding interference with a flagpole planter contract, including misrepresentation and threats of lawsuits, which prompted the motion for censure consideration. The Board appointed Michael Boaz as the new Budget Officer, replacing Commissioner Munsey. Candidates for an open Commissioner Seat were heard, and Michael Combs was appointed following a discussion involving Commissioner Porter's prior commitments. The ORC reported on water system issues, including a leak on Austin Traphill Road requiring outside contractor assistance and serious concerns regarding high gross alpha levels (17 vs. MCL of 15) in a well, leading to the scheduling of a Special Meeting for November 21, 2025, to discuss long-term water supply solutions, potentially involving Elkin or drilling a new well. Maintenance reported on completed tasks and the Maintenance staff pay increase and contract amendment for the ORC were added to the next Board Meeting agenda. A motion was passed regarding a 60/40% payout for the Dowell contract for the Town Hall Basement Door. The request for 48-hour agenda release prior to meetings was addressed, with a consensus to maintain the current practice while staff aims for a 48-hour release. Finally, Commissioners were instructed to complete the evaluation for the Town Clerk.