Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Local Government topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Ashville council unanimously approves holiday fee waivers, water and sewer rate increase and FY2026 budget
Summary
On Nov. 17, 2025, the City of Ashville Council unanimously approved Ordinance 2025-012 waiving business license and permit fees for the city’s Christmas events, adopted Ordinance 2025-013 to raise water and sewer rates, and approved the FY2026 budget; all motions passed on unanimous votes.
The City of Ashville Council on Nov. 17 approved a set of measures that city leaders said will clear the way for holiday events, adjust utility rates and set spending for the coming year.
Mayor Derrick Mostella called the meeting to order at 6:21 p.m. The council unanimously approved a motion to suspend the rules and consider Ordinance 2025-012, which waives business license and permit fees for the city’s Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas on the Square. Councilmember Robin Bowlin moved to adopt Ordinance 2025-012; Councilmember Denise Williams seconded. The ordinance passed on a unanimous vote: Councilmember Shirley Smith — yes; Councilmember Denise Williams — yes; Councilmember Adam Abernathy — yes; Mayor Derrick Mostella — yes; Councilmember Robin Bowlin — yes; Councilmember Edward Roscoe Lane — yes.
The council also suspended the rules to consider Ordinance 2025-013, a water and sewer rate increase. Councilmember Edward Roscoe Lane moved to approve Ordinance 2025-013; Councilmember Adam Abernathy seconded. The ordinance was approved unanimously.
Councilmember Edward Roscoe Lane moved and Councilmember Adam Abernathy seconded adoption of the FY2026 budget. The council voted unanimously to adopt the budget. The council then approved payment of bills due after a motion by Councilmember Lane and a second by Councilmember Abernathy.
Business owner Holli Smith was recorded as present to ask the council to consider allowing Sunday sales; the transcript records her presence but does not include any recorded remarks or any council action related to that request during the meeting.
The council announced its next regular meeting is scheduled for Dec. 1, 2025, at 6 p.m., with a 5:30 p.m. work session. City Hall will be closed Nov. 27–28 for the Thanksgiving holiday. Councilmember Denise Williams moved to adjourn; Councilmember Shirley Smith seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
All vote counts and motions described above reflect the transcript of the Nov. 17, 2025 City of Ashville Council meeting.
