Council accepts Village Foundation’s benches and bike racks; proclaims Municipal Clerks Week

The Blowing Rock Town Council on April 14 approved acceptance of a donation from the Village Foundation of Blowing Rock to install five benches and five bike racks at town locations, and proclaimed May 3–9, 2026 as Municipal Clerks Week.

Gina Harwood, executive director of the Village Foundation, told council the gift would include five benches (one already purchased) and five bike racks, each designed to hold seven bikes. Donors — one family and four businesses — will pay for purchase and installation, and the foundation will provide small commemorative plaques. Proposed locations include Davant Field, Mayview Park, two locations at Blowing Rock School, and two in town; Parks and Recreation Director Jennifer Brown reviewed and supported the siting options.

“...we are requesting tonight that you will approve this is the exact bench... it won’t cost anything for the town. We will have everything installed,” Gina Harwood said, describing the bench and rack program.

Council member David Harwood recused himself from the item because his wife is the Village Foundation’s executive director; the recusal was noted before council moved and approved the donation by voice vote. Council thanked the donors and foundation volunteers for the contribution.

At the same meeting the council read and approved a proclamation recognizing Municipal Clerks Week (May 3–9, 2026) and praised Town Clerk Hillary for her work. The mayor also reported that this year’s Symphony will move from Chetola to App Ski Mountain.

The council concluded the public portion of the meeting by announcing a closed session under North Carolina General Statute 143‑318.11(a)(5).