Henderson County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Henderson County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
FEMA Home Mitigation Buyout Program Updates
About 95 homeowner acquisition projects and 42 landslide stabilizations are with FEMA for Helene recovery; some Dana Road closings happened the day of the meeting, and 13 infrastructure projects including generators and warning sirens are pending.
Opposition to Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs)
Resident Aaron Black urged the board to review documented misuse cases of Flock license plate cameras before a planned public discussion, questioning whether the technology's benefits justify government tracking power.
Master Aging Plan and Senior Services
Nearly one in three county residents is 65 or older; adult services contacts have tripled since 2018, APS reports are up 58%, and Henderson County is one of only three NC counties without a senior center. Partners presented a new Aging Plan seeking county collaboration.
EMS Response Times and Infrastructure in Western County
A local fire assistant chief raised serious concerns about delayed emergency medical response times west of I-26, exacerbated by road construction and post-Helene infrastructure damage. Commissioners agreed to follow up with emergency services leadership to investigate potential mitigations.
Chronic Nuisance Property – Monteith
Staff asked for authorization to contract for remediation of a chronic nuisance property, addressing a problem site in the community.
Winter Storm Emergency
Hendersonville is under a state of emergency because of a winter storm, so stay home unless you absolutely have to go out. Check local weather and road advisories before trying to drive anywhere.
Emergency Declaration
Hendersonville and Henderson County officials declared a state of emergency and set a curfew ahead of an incoming ice storm. You can expect widespread closures, so it's best to stay off the roads.
Workplace Safety
Hendersonville got slapped with a $52,000 fine after a fatal accident in Public Works, proving that local government needs to step up its safety game. It's a wake-up call that our city workers deserve better protection on the job.