Hendersonville aldermen pass first reading of 9-month moratorium on high-density residential projects, 11-1

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen of Hendersonville on Aug. 12 passed first reading of Ordinance 2025-14, imposing a nine-month moratorium on acceptance, review and approval of applications and permits for high-density residential developments in the city. The motion passed 11-1; Alderman Evans cast the only vote against the ordinance.

Supporters said the moratorium will give the city time to review impact fees, infrastructure needs and related capital projects before additional high-density projects move forward. Alderman Sassy, a co-sponsor, told the board the pause is a “critical step” to protect traffic, parks, emergency services and stormwater systems and to complete an impact-fee study so new projects align with the city’s vision.

Opponents, including developer David Lucky and Alderman Evans, said the moratorium risks sending a message that Hendersonville is difficult to work with and could discourage investment. Lucky, who identified himself as a local property owner and developer, said the…