Henderson County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Henderson County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Project Press economic development incentives
The county approved a retention incentive to keep an existing manufacturer's $62.8 million expansion and 95 jobs (average wages $70,501) from moving to one of five competing locations. The incentive returns about half the company's own tax payments over seven years.
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.
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.
City Council Election
After nearly 40 years, Hendersonville is finally getting a new mayor because longtime leader Barbara Volk isn't running again. Voters now have to choose between candidates Hensley and Smith to see who will take over the massive leadership role.
Town Council Election
Election season is underway in Laurel Park, where candidates are clashing over local road projects. If you live in town, your ballot will directly shape who manages our local infrastructure.
Farmland Preservation General Obligation Bond Referendum
The board discussed the potential timeline and process for putting a general obligation bond referendum for farmland preservation before voters.
Solid Waste Enterprise Fund Funding Plan and Flow Control
The county's solid waste fund is running consistent operational deficits that require taxpayer subsidies from the general fund. Staff presented "flow control" as a potential fix, which would force all county trash to go to the Stony Mountain facility and allow higher tipping fees, though haulers warn it could raise garbage bills for residents.
Community Infrastructure Grant Applications
Emergency Management was slated to seek authorization to chase federal and state infrastructure grants for Helene recovery, with no local match required.
Cryptocurrency Mining and Data Center LDC Text Amendment
The county considered text amendments to the Land Development Code to clarify regulations surrounding cryptocurrency mining operations and data centers.
Election
Early voting for the March 3 primary has officially started in Henderson County, giving locals a chance to help decide who makes it onto the final ballot. If you want a say in which candidates represent you in upcoming local and state races, now is the time to head to the polls.
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.
Election Filings
Local candidate filings for the 2026 primary elections are officially underway, meaning it's time to see who wants to run your local government. Checking out who is running lets you get a jump on the candidates shaping Henderson County's future.