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Highlands board asks attorney to study legal options for Chamber building after heated lease debate
Summary
The Highlands Chamber of Commerce asked the board to renew a $1-per-year triple‑net lease or transfer the building; the board asked the town attorney to research legal pathways including conveyance with reversionary clause and to evaluate implications under state law cited by staff.
The Highlands Town Board of Commissioners on April 17 directed the town attorney to research legal options for the building that currently houses the Highlands Chamber of Commerce and visitor center after a lengthy public presentation and debate over rent, donor intent and town authority.
Kaye (Chamber representative) asked the board to renew a 10‑year triple‑net lease at $1 per year, citing the donor intent of Jane Woodruff and the Lords’ discounted 2012 sale. Kaye presented a history of the donation and maintenance investments: she said Jane Woodruff donated $700,000 toward the purchase in 2012 and that the sellers accepted a $1,172,000 sales price that effectively reduced the town’s cost. Kaye said the Chamber and Visit Highlands NC have invested $488,481.01 in building renovations and listed recent community contributions and support she…
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