Highlands Town Board advances parking plan and considers demolition of former Playhouse Building

The Town of Highlands Regular Board of Commissioners Meeting held on May 15, 2025, addressed several key agenda items, including a parking plan, the former Playhouse Building's asbestos report, and the fiscal year 2025-26 budget presentation.

The meeting commenced with discussions regarding the town's parking plan. A motion was made to send the plan to the planning board for further study, allowing for additional recommendations. The motion received unanimous support from the board members, emphasizing the importance of gathering more insights before finalizing the plan.

Next, the board reviewed the asbestos report for the former Playhouse Building, presented by Josh Ward from Alpha Environmental. The report confirmed that no asbestos-containing materials were present, which aligns with the standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency. This finding allows for the potential demolition of the building, contingent upon obtaining the necessary permits from the Macon County Building Inspections Department. The board discussed the next steps, which include directing the town manager to seek bids for the demolition and ensuring that the asbestos report is included in the bid documents.

Additionally, the board considered the implications of the demolition on the surrounding area, particularly regarding parking spaces that could be utilized by contractors. The discussion highlighted the need to reassess the parking plan in light of these developments.

The meeting concluded with a significant presentation of the fiscal year 2025-26 budget by Town Manager Josh Ward. This budget will be reviewed and considered by the board in the coming weeks, marking an important step in the town's financial planning.

Overall, the meeting was characterized by collaborative discussions aimed at improving town infrastructure and planning for future developments. The board's decisions to involve the planning board and seek bids for the former Playhouse Building's demolition reflect a proactive approach to town management.