Black Mountain council adopts No Mow May, library, inclusivity and Earth/Arbor Day resolutions; approves budget and signage items

The Black Mountain Town Council unanimously adopted four resolutions at its April meeting recognizing No Mow May, affirming support for libraries and freedom of expression, proclaiming a municipal commitment to inclusivity, and declaring Earth Day and Arbor Day observances.

No Mow May: The council adopted a resolution encouraging residents to delay lawn mowing during May to support early-season pollinators. The resolution directs staff not to issue correction notices for grass or weed height violations for the month of May, while preserving mowing at intersections and other safety-sensitive locations. The resolution cites the town code's existing height restrictions (Town Code of Ordinances, chapter 20, article 5, section 20-203) and points residents to the town's information page for guidance.

Library resolution: The council approved a resolution affirming freedom of speech and recommitting municipal partnership with Buncombe County Libraries during National Library Week (April 6—12). The resolution acknowledged the volunteer Friends group and local library staff and encouraged residents to support the Black Mountain Tyson Public Library.

Inclusivity resolution: Councilmember Doug Haye presented and the council adopted a resolution affirming that all persons, regardless of sexual orientation, gender, ethnicity, religion, national origin, race, ability, socioeconomic status or age, are welcomed and valued in Black Mountain. The resolution calls on the council to continue policies that promote equal access to services and community resources.

Earth Day and Arbor Day: The council proclaimed April 2025 as Earth and Arbor Day in Black Mountain and announced an April 26 tree giveaway at 304 Black Mountain Avenue in conjunction with Arbor Day activities.

Votes at a glance (formal actions recorded at the meeting)

- Resolution recognizing No Mow May: Motion to adopt made and approved by voice vote; outcome: approved (voice vote; individual member tallies not specified in the record).

- Resolution affirming freedom of speech and library partnership: Motion to adopt made and approved by voice vote; outcome: approved (voice vote; individual member tallies not specified).

- Inclusivity resolution: Motion to adopt made and approved by voice vote; outcome: approved (voice vote; individual member tallies not specified).

- Earth Day/Arbor Day resolution and tree giveaway recognition: Motion to adopt made and approved by voice vote; outcome: approved (voice vote; individual member tallies not specified).

- Consent agenda (minutes, tax collector report, calls for public hearings on stormwater code amendments and voluntary annexation, rezoning call and park project closure): Motion to adopt consent agenda made and approved by voice vote; outcome: approved (voice vote; individual member tallies not specified).

- Removal of advisory board member from Historic Preservation Commission for exceeding absence threshold: Motion to remove the member was made and approved; outcome: approved (voice vote; individual tallies not specified). The transcript identifies the member by the surname Pedrin in the staff presentation; the council moved to remove the member due to excessive absences and authorized re-advertisement for the remainder of the term.

- Approval of permanent signage for the Black Mountain Radio Sailing Club at Lake Tomahawk Park: Motion to approve the signage as presented was made and approved by voice vote; outcome: approved (voice vote; individual tallies not specified).

- Budget/project ordinance amendment to recognize a $67,000 donation from a Presbyterian church for Veterans Park and additional insurance proceeds for vehicles/equipment (reported as roughly $38,732), increasing the project by approximately $105,007: Motion to adopt the amended grant project ordinance and budget amendment was made and approved by voice vote; outcome: approved (voice vote; individual tallies not specified). Staff said the amendment reallocated line-item expenses and recognized the donation and insurance proceeds.

Council discussion on these items was brief and largely procedural; staff and council members urged residents to consult the town's published materials for details and next steps.