Town Council — Boone, NC
Date: 2025-04-23

Town of Boone
 Town Council Regular Meeting
 6:00 PM, April 23, 2025
 Town Council Chambers
 1500 Blowing Rock Road


 I. Call to Order

 II. Moment of Silence

 III. Approval of Proclamations and Resolutions

 1. Consideration of Proclamation - Resilient and Thriving Communities Week
 For Action

 2. Consideration of Resolution - T. D'Agostino
 For Action

 IV. Listening Session for Constituent Concerns Regarding the Current Federal
 Administration
 The Boone Town Council invites its constituents who would like to share concerns
 about the current federal administration and how it is directly affecting them and/or the
 community.

 V. Public Comment

 VI. Announcements

 VII. Tentative Agenda Adoption

 VIII. Requested Appearances

 1. Monica Caruso and John Arnaud - Watauga County Public Library
 For Information and Action

 IX. Work Session

 1. Discussion Regarding Various Items - Town Attorney
 For Information and Action

 X. Approval of Items on Consent Agenda

 1. Approval of Grant Items - Boone Jaycee Park
 For Action

 2. Consideration of Resolution - Howard Street Grant
 For Action

 3. Award of Bid - Greene's Construction (Hickory Ridge Accessible Sidewalk
 Project)
 For Action
Town of Boone Town Council April 23, 2025
 1
 4. Approval of Minutes
 For Action

 5. Consideration of Restaurant Week Mailer
 For Action

 XI. Planning Matters

 1. Reconsideration of Case A24-0940 Estep-Rivers Annexation Resolution Fixing
 Date of Annexation Public Hearing
 For Action

 2. Consideration of Cases from the March 24, 2024, Public Hearing.

 XII. Council Matters

 1. Request to Direct HPC to Prepare Boone/Kraut Creek Historical Marker
 For Action

 XIII. Closed Session
 1. N.C. Gen. Stat.§ 143-318.11(a)(1), to review, approve and seal closed session
 minutes from Council's prior closed session(s).

 2. N.C. Gen. Stat.§ 143-318.11(a)(3), to consult with the Town Attorney in order to
 preserve the attorney-client privilege between the attorney and the Town Council, and
 obtain legal advice,
 consider and/or give instructions to the attorney concerning one or more potential legal
 claims.

 3. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 143-318.11(a) (6) To consider the qualifications, competence,
 performance, character, fitness, conditions of appointment, or conditions of initial
 employment of an individual public officer or employee or prospective public officer or
 employee; or to hear or investigate a complaint, charge, or grievance by or against an
 individual public officer or employee.

 XIV. Potential Action Following Closed Session

 XV. Adjournment




Town of Boone Town Council April 23, 2025
 2

MINUTES – BOONE TOWN COUNCIL
 APRIL 23, 2025
 1500 BLOWING ROCK ROAD

CALL TO ORDER

A regular meeting of the Boone Town Council was held on Wednesday, April 23, 2025,
at 6:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers located at 1500 Blowing Rock Road in
Boone. Mayor Pro-tem Dalton George presided. Council members present included
Virginia Roseman, Edie Tugman, and Eric Plaag. Town staff present included Town
Manager Amy Davis, Town Clerk Nicole Harmon-Church, Grants Coordinator Laney
Wise, Planning Director Jane Shook, Commercial Zoning Administrator Amy Snider,
Sustainability and Special Projects Coordinator George Santucci, Public Works Director
Todd Moody, Sergeant Jake Harkey, Finance Director Guy Miller, Interim Police Chief
Daniel Duckworth, Major Shane Robbins, Downtown Boone Development Coordinator
Lane Moody (remote), and Human Resources Director Dale Presnell. Town Attorney
Allison Meade was also in attendance.
MOMENT OF SILENCE

A brief moment of silence was observed.

APPROVAL OF PROCLAMATIONS AND RESOLUTIONS

Upon a motion by Council Member Plaag, seconded by Council Member Tugman,
Council voted to approve the following:

 1. Proclamation – Resilient and Thriving Communities
 2. Resolution – T. D’Agostino

 VOTE: Aye: Plaag, Tugman, Roseman, George
 Nay: None
 Absent:Carter


Council Member Plaag read the following resolution into the record and presented it to
Kellie Bass, Prevention Outreach Manager with OASIS.
 Resilient & Thriving Communities Week 2025
 PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, resilient and thriving communities are vital to our state's future health,
success, and prosperity to ensure a strong foundation for everyone at all ages and
stages of life; and
WHEREAS, the science is clear that resilience is built, and that communities and
systems play a key role in promoting safe, secure, nurturing environments for all; and
WHEREAS, adverse childhood and life experiences, adverse community environments,
and adverse climate events impact overall quality of life and well-being of an entire
community; and
WHEREAS, Healthy North Carolina 2030: A Path Toward Health by the North Carolina
Institute of Medicine, in partnership with the North Carolina Department of Health and
Human Services, Division of Public Health, identifies reduction of adverse childhood
experiences by 25% by 2030 as a goal; and
WHEREAS, it is our collective responsibility to collaborate in a nonpartisan fashion to
promote positive experiences, secure relationships, and supportive environments to
buffer stress and adversity, and to support local resilience coalitions, collaboratives,
task forces, and initiatives across the Town of Boone; and
WHEREAS, investing in policies, programs, and strategies that address adversity and
strengthen community resilience is essential to the health of our community; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Boone encourages individuals and all sectors, public and
private, early childhood through post-secondary education, faith-based organizations,
healthcare systems, justice systems, social service systems, businesses, and elected
leaders to collaborate to strengthen our communities;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Boone Town Council, do hereby proclaim April 27 through
May 3, 2025, as “Resilient & Thriving Communities Week” in our community, and
commend its observance to all citizens.

Next, Mayor Pro-Tem George was thrilled to present a Key to the City to Mr. Trenton
D’Agostino in recognition of his outstanding accomplishments at the Special Olympics in
Turin, Italy. He noted that Trenton had represented the United States, the Town of
Boone, and Watauga County on the international stage, winning two gold medals in Italy
earlier this year. It was highlighted that the Council had not awarded a Key to the City
since the 1980s, during the tenure of Mayor Hadley Wilson, making this presentation
particularly significant.
Mayor Pro-Tem George explained that because it had been so long since the last
presentation, staff had worked hard to determine the proper way to bestow the honor.
Council members expressed their excitement and appreciation for Trenton's
achievements and noted the significance of the occasion. Sergeant Jake Harkey, who
had coached Trenton, expressed that he was proud of Trenton for his accomplishments
in the Special Olympics and thanked Council for its support. Mayor Pro-Tem George
then read the resolution into the record.
 RESOLUTION AWARDING A KEY TO THE CITY TO TRENTON D’AGOSTINO FOR
 HIS ATHLETIC ACCOMPLISHMENTS AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL
WHEREAS, the Town of Boone, North Carolina, wants to celebrate and recognize the
accomplishments of Trenton D’Agostino, as he recently represented our community on
the world stage in the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy; and
WHEREAS, Trenton D’Agostino is an accomplished athlete in many respects, but won
two gold medals, one in the intermediate giant slalom snowboarding competition and
another in the intermediate super G in the World Winter Games; and
WHEREAS, Trenton D’Agostino is a resident and native of Watauga County, student of
Hardin Park and Watauga High School, and community member of the Town of Boone;
and
WHEREAS, the effort, practice, and talent required to win a gold medal at the highest
level is remarkable, representing the United States at the highest level of the sport and
is befitting of the recognition from the Town of Boone; and
WHEREAS, while Trenton was celebrated in Turin, Italy, the Town of Boone wanted to
celebrate his accomplishments in his home community; and
WHEREAS, keys to the city are rarely given out and are reserved as one of the highest
honors in the Town of Boone, awarded to individuals who have gone above and beyond
to represent and contribute to our Town; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the members of the Boone Town
Council, celebrate and recognize Trenton D’Agostino’s accomplishments by awarding
him a Key to the City and wish him more success in his athletic journey; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be presented to Trenton
D’Agostino and his family as a testament to his diligent training, talent, and dedication to
representing his home community of Boone, North Carolina.
****************************************************************************************************
LISTENING SESSION FOR CONSTITUENT CONCERNS REGARDING THE
CURRENT FEDERAL ADMINISTRATION
There were no speakers signed up for this topic.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There were no speakers signed up for public comment.
TENTATIVE AGENDA ADOPTION
Council Member Plaag made a motion to approve the agenda as presented, except to
remove Item X1 – Approval of Grant Items – Boone Jaycee Park from the Consent
Agenda to discuss during Council Matters. Council Member Tugman seconded the
motion.
 VOTE: Aye: Plaag, Tugman, Roseman, George
 Nay: None
 Absent:Carter


REQUESTED APPEARANCES
SHAUNA LEWIS AND JOHN ARNAUD – WATAUGA COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
Shauna Lewis, a Watauga County Public Library employee, addressed the Council to
speak about the library’s history and current needs. She shared that she grew up in
Boone, spending much of her childhood at the old library, and recalled helping move
books to the current facility during the "Carry the Load" event when the new library was
built. She noted that Boone’s population had grown by 35% since 1990, increasing the
community’s demand for library services.
Ms. Lewis explained that with support from the Friends of the Library and the
community, a strategy had been developed to better serve the growing population
through a series of interior renovations estimated at $1.5 million. She outlined key
issues the renovations would address, including the lack of meeting space, which limits
programming opportunities for youth and older adults, and safety concerns caused by
poor visibility and layout challenges within the building.
She requested the Town’s assistance with a contribution of $47,000 to fund a glass
patio entrance, which would enhance safety, particularly around the children’s area, and
support the revitalized donors' patio. Ms. Lewis emphasized that the request was part of
a larger fundraising effort, noting that the library had already secured a $125,000 Rural
Downtown Economic Development Grant from the North Carolina Department of
Commerce and that further private fundraising efforts were underway.
John Arnaud, the architect working with the Watauga County Public Library, addressed
the Council to provide an overview of the proposed renovations and how the Town's
funding request fits into the broader project. He explained that about a year ago, he met
with the library team to discuss immediate improvement needs, as the services provided
by the library had outgrown the current facility.
Mr. Arnaud noted that past studies had explored larger-scale expansions, but the library
team sought quicker, more practical solutions. They identified key issues, including poor
visibility, lack of meeting space, and inadequate work areas for staff. Mr. Arnaud and
the library team reviewed the library’s recent needs assessment, surveyed library users,
and met with staff to prioritize a low-impact renovation strategy focused on the building’s
interior without major infrastructure changes.
He outlined that the improvements would include reconfiguring the back-of-house areas
to create better staff and volunteer workspaces, expanding meeting room capacity, and
enhancing visibility throughout the library. Plans also included improving adult services,
expanding digital and technology access, enhancing youth services and story time
spaces, and relocating quieter activities such as reading areas and local history
resources to the back of the building.
Mr. Arnaud further explained that one of the improvements, as mentioned by Ms. Lewis,
included enhancements to the door leading to the patio area. He referenced a rendering
of the project plans, noting that the addition of the glass patio entrance would bring
more natural light into the building, define the space, and support the overall
reorganization strategy for the library. He emphasized that the funding request for the
patio door was just one of several small changes that would collectively positively
impact the library’s ability to serve the community.
Council Member Roseman sang praises of the library and referenced the lasting impact
it has had on she and her family.
Council Member Plaag expressed concerns regarding the Town’s ability to provide
funding for improvements to the Watauga County Public Library, noting that
municipalities in North Carolina were limited to expending tax dollars on services
authorized by their charters. He stated he was not certain of the specific provisions of
Boone’s charter without further review, but believed there may be a legal impediment to
funding improvements for a county-owned property. Additionally, Council Member Plaag
raised concerns about the issue of potential double taxation, explaining that Boone
residents could effectively be asked to pay twice—once through Watauga County taxes
and again through Town of Boone tax contributions—for the same facility.
Council Member Tugman expressed appreciation and support for the library, but was in
agreement with Council Member Plaag that, according to their training, she was unsure
the Town could legally support the library in this way.
Mayor Pro-Tem George expressed his support for the library project but acknowledged
the complications arising from the library being a county-owned facility. He noted that
while the Town had previously supported the Friends of the Library, the situation was
different when funding requests came directly from the County. Mayor Pro-Tem George
emphasized that, with the Town entering the budget season, there would be continued
discussions and difficult decisions ahead, especially given the increasing needs of
nonprofit partners affected by reduced federal funding.
Attorney Meade offered clarity by indicating that towns were explicitly authorized to
expend property taxes to “establish and maintain public libraries”. She thought it raised
a question about supporting a county facility monetarily and offered to research the
matter further. Council Member Roseman asked that Attorney Meade complete her
research prior to the May 22 budget meeting. Other Council members supported this
research, with Council Member Plaag noting that his hesitance was strictly from a legal
perspective and that he supported these renovations from a personal perspective.
WORK SESSION
DISCUSSION REGARDING VARIOUS ITEMS BY TOWN ATTORNEY
Attorney Meade provided an update on recently introduced bills in both chambers of the
North Carolina General Assembly that would require local governments to prohibit
camping on public property and rights-of-way. The bills would also allow citizens to sue
municipalities that allegedly fail to enforce the prohibition and seek attorneys' fees.
Attorney Meade expressed strong concern over the legislation, characterizing it as an
overreach and noting that requiring towns to enforce specific codes under threat of
citizen lawsuits was a new and troubling development.
Attorney Meade referenced the recent Grants Pass Supreme Court decision, clarifying
that the Court merely ruled that local governments may prohibit camping on public
property without violating the Eighth Amendment, but did not mandate that they must do
so. Attorney Meade concluded by emphasizing that the proposed legislation went far
beyond what the Supreme Court had determined.
Attorney Meade continued the legislative update by explaining that while towns could
designate a space for public camping under the bills, doing so would involve extensive
requirements, effectively institutionalizing homeless encampments. She stated that the
proposals were inconsistent with traditional conservative principles of localism – that is,
local control of local regulation.
Attorney Meade also referenced recent alerts from the North Carolina League of
Municipalities regarding several proposed land use bills, which would further restrict
towns’ ability to regulate zoning and local development. She urged Council members
and citizens to actively reach out to legislators to oppose the bills, warning that they
would severely erode local control.
Mayor Pro-Tem George echoed these concerns, expressing frustration over the
ongoing attacks on municipal authority. He emphasized the importance of empowering
local governments to address challenges creatively and effectively. He pointed out that
while municipalities like Boone were often blamed for issues such as a lack of
affordable housing, many of their efforts were constrained by state-imposed limitations.
Council members strongly encouraged citizens to contact their legislators and advocate
for the protection of local decision-making authority.
APPROVAL OF ITEMS ON CONSENT AGENDA
Upon a motion by Council Member Roseman, seconded by Council Member Tugman,
Council voted unanimously to approve the following items on the Consent Agenda:
 1. Resolution – Howard Street Grant
 2. Award of Bid – Greene’s Construction (Hickory ridge Accessible Sidewalk
 Project)
 3. Minutes
 a. March 3, 2025 Special Town Council Meeting (Boone Next Discussion)
 b. March 10, 2025 Special Town Council Meeting (Boone Next
 Discussion)
 c. March 31, 2025 Special Town Council Meeting (Boone Next
 Discussion)
PLANNING MATTERS
RECONSIDERATION OF CASE A24-0940 ESTEP RIVERS ANNEXATION
RESOLUTION FIXING DATE OF ANNEXATION PUBLIC HEARING
Council reconsidered a resolution setting the date for a public hearing regarding the
annexation of the Estep-Rivers property. Planning Director Shook reported that the
required advertisement was not submitted to the newspaper in time, necessitating a
delay of the public hearing until the May Council meeting. Council was also informed
that the related zoning case for the property would need to be tabled until May as well.
Property owners had been notified of the change. Upon a motion by Council Member
Plaag, seconded by Council Member Tugman, Council unanimously approved the
Resolution Fixing the Date of Public Hearing for the Estep-Rivers property for May 14,
2025 at 9:00 a.m.
 RESOLUTION FIXING DATE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON QUESTION
 OF ANNEXATION PURSUANT TO G.S. 160A-31
 (Sairung Estep & Matthew Rivers)

 WHEREAS, a petition requesting annexation of the area described herein has
been received; and
 WHEREAS, the Town Council has by resolution directed the Town Clerk to
 investigate the sufficiency of the petition; and
 WHEREAS, certification by the Town Clerk as to the sufficiency of the petition has
been made;
 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Town Council of the Town of
Boone, North Carolina that:
 Section 1. A public hearing on the question of annexation of the area described
 herein will be held at Council Chambers at 9:00 a.m. on May 14,
 2025.
 Section 2. The area proposed for annexation is described as follows:


 Point of Beginning
 Beginning at an existing iron pin located in the eastern right of
 way of Highland Hall Road and at the southwest corner of
 Watauga Association Inc. property as described in deed book
 2106 page 511 in the Watauga County Register of Deeds, said
 point also being the northwest property corner of subject
 property as described in deed book 2368 page 800. Thence from
 the beginning along the southern line of Watauga Association
 Inc. South 85º 59’ 24” East for a distance of 150.16’ to an existing
 iron pin in the western property line of Stacy Eggers as
 described in deed book 942 page 523. Thence along the western
 property line of Stacey Eggers as described in deed book 942
 page 523. Thence along the western property line of Stacy
 Eggers South 08º 00’ 00” West for a distance of 100.92’ to an
 existing iron pin at the northeast corner of David Hayes property
 as described in deed book 2224 page 164. Thence along the
 northern property line of David Hayes North 85º 59’ 24” West for
 a distance of 150.16’ to a calculated point in the eastern right of
 way of Highland Hall Road. Thence along the eastern right of
 way of Highland Hall Road North 08º 00’ 00” East for a distance
 of 100.92’ to the point of beginning containing 0.347 acres as
 surveyed September 19, 2024 by Charles E. Mar�n, PLS L-4502,
 Job number 24028.


 Section 3. Notice of the public hearing shall be published in the Watauga
Democrat, a newspaper having general circulation in the Town of Boone, at least ten (10)
days prior to the date of the public hearing.


CONSIDERATION OF CASES FROM THE MARCH 24, 2025 PUBLIC HEARING


In light of the previous matter, Planning Director Shook asked that Case A25-0164 Estep
and Rivers – General Use Zoning Map Amendment be tabled. Upon a motion by Council
Member Plaag, seconded by Council Member Tugman, Council voted unanimously to
table the Estep-Rivers case.
CASE A25-0105 THE VIEW APARTMENTS – CONDITIONAL DISTRICT ZONING
MAP AMENDMENT
Commercial Zoning Administrator Amy Snider presented the above-mentioned case.
Council Member Plaag made an editorial comment regarding the pending case, noting
that while it would not affect the vote, he wished to offer advice to the applicant. He
referenced prior discussions about addressing the issue of the floor being less than two
feet above the base flood elevation by installing sleepers to raise the interior floor.
Council Member Plaag urged the applicant to carefully consider the long-term risks,
explaining that if a flooding event occurred, water could accumulate between the
original floor and the raised floor, potentially creating worse problems than a traditional
basement. He encouraged the applicant to consult with their builder and consider the
potential long-term costs, even though raising the entire floor would be more expensive
upfront. The applicant acknowledged these concerns, as well as acknowledged that she
agreed to the conditions set forth in the packet.
Council Member Roseman made a motion that the proposed amendment to the Town’s
zoning map is consistent with the Town’s comprehensive plan and any other adopted
plans of the Town that are applicable because of:
Comprehensive Plan Policy 2.1.1 Economic Development
A. The Town shall protect and enhance a high quality of life, image, cultural amenities,
and natural beauty as the most effective, long term component of an economic
development strategy.
D. Economic development efforts shall encourage the revitalization and reuse of
currently unused or underutilized structures, sites and infrastructure in appropriately
located areas.
Comprehensive Plan Policy 2.3.3 Housing and Neighborhoods
A. The protection and rehabilitation of viable neighborhoods shall be encouraged to
ensure their continued existence as a major housing source and as a reflection of the
area’s image as an attractive, highly livable community.
H. The overall housing unit density for proposed infill residential development or
redevelopment should be compatible with the average density of existing areas.
The approval is subject to the following conditions:
1. Where there is a conflict between the application information and the plans (dated
received on February 6, 2025), the plans shall control. Insignificant deviations may be
permitted to comply with the requirements of the UDO.
2. Any commitments and representations concerning the proposed development made
by the applicant or her representatives at the public hearing shall also become a
condition of the permit, and a basis for a stop work order and/or permit revocation if
violated.
3. The applicant shall submit the necessary applications, plans, details and
specifications which meet the requirements of the Town Code, UDO, Building Code and
any other applicable codes for review and approval necessary to issue Zoning and
Building Permits.
4. The applicant will add appropriate signage that informs people upon entering the
parking lot that they are entering a flood zone.
5. The applicant will not market the units as student housing.
6. The applicant will rent the dwelling units by the unit, not by the bedroom.
Council Member Tugman seconded the motion.
 VOTE: Aye: Roseman, Tugman, George, Plaag
 Nay: None
 Absent:Carter

Council Member Roseman made a second motion to approve Ordinance A25-0105, and
that approval is reasonable and in the public interest because of the improvement to the
neighborhood and extended growth of housing units within the Town of Boone. Council
Member Tugman seconded the motion.
VOTE: Aye: Roseman, Tugman, George, Plaag
 Nay: None
 Absent:Carter


APPROVAL OF GRANT ITEMS – BOONE JAYCEE PARK
Grants Coordinator Laney Wise reported that she had been tasked with monitoring
potential grant opportunities for upgrades to Jaycee Park and had identified one
particular grant that could serve as a good community-building opportunity. However,
she noted that pursuing this grant was optional and that staff would continue to look for
additional opportunities.
Council Member Plaag raised concerns not with the grant request itself, but with
broader issues related to Jaycee Park. He noted that the park appeared to have been
created around 1962, but records verifying the land’s acquisition by the Town were
limited, as the property was not taxable and the tax card was blank. Council Member
Plaag explained that locating the original deed may require extensive research through
historical records, although he had identified a potential deed reference (Deed Book 79,
Page 69) that might cover the park property, possibly along with Strawberry Hill.
Council Member Plaag also raised questions regarding parking arrangements at the
park, noting that half of the parking spaces were currently designated for either Town
use or Hampton's use. He expressed concern about the lack of clarity on whether a
formal rental or use agreement existed, when it may have been made, and whether it
remained valid. Council Member Plaag stated his belief that the park property ended at
the parking lot, while the adjacent grass area belonged to Hampton, and that there was
historically an agreement allowing mutual use of these areas during overflow events
such as those at Daniel Boone Gardens. He continued by stating that while upgrades to
Jaycee Park were underway, locating any existing agreement with Hampton regarding
shared use of the parking lot would be important or, if necessary, negotiating a new
agreement. Council Member Plaag emphasized that the real reason for raising the issue
was the substantial need for parking along the Blowing Rock Road corridor, particularly
near businesses such as Noble Kava and Parallel Brewing. He explained that after 5
p.m., parking at these businesses became extremely limited, with patrons often parking
at the Alumni Center lot when available. However, if events were being held at the
Alumni Center, patrons had few alternatives aside from paid parking across the street,
which could deter business.
Council Member Plaag noted that he had discussed with staff the possibility of metering
spaces on the southwest end of the Jaycee Park parking lot, away from the playground.
He felt that metered parking could generate revenue during the day, while spaces would
remain free to the public after 5 p.m., similar to other metered locations in town. He
further suggested allowing parking in the lot from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. at no cost, while
maintaining the prohibition on overnight parking, as a way to open up more accessible
parking options for nearby businesses.
Council Member Roseman noted that historical paperwork regarding the Jaycee Park
property and its relationship with Hampton Funeral Home was likely stored at the
Southern Appalachian Historical Association (SAHA) office. She explained that the
original property owner, Ralph Winkler, had donated the land to the Town with an
understanding that a portion would remain undeveloped for potential overflow parking,
especially for funeral services. She added that this informal agreement remained in
place when the property was sold to Hampton Funeral Home.
Mayor Pro-Tem George expressed appreciation for the discussion and noted the high
level of use Jaycee Park continued to receive from families, despite its age. He
commented that the park’s popularity rivaled that of newer facilities like the Tot Lot and
affirmed the value of investing in its improvements. Mayor Pro-Tem George further
expressed interest in formally incorporating the adjacent grassy area into the park if
possible, depending on what historical agreements or documentation could be located.
He also shared an idea of adding a splash pad to the park as a future enhancement,
stating that it would create a community asset that could rival other area facilities.
Council Member Plaag noted that the Jaycee’s organization no longer existed in town,
and suggested that the Town consider a future renaming opportunity for the park.
Council Member Roseman proposed that, if the park were to be renamed, it should be
called Winkler Park in recognition of the Winkler family, who originally donated the land
to the Town. She emphasized that without the Winkler family’s contribution, the
community would not have the valuable green space that exists today. Upon a motion
by Council Member Plaag, seconded by Council Member Tugman, Council voted to
approve the item as presented initially within the Consent Agenda.
 VOTE: Aye: Plaag, Tugman, Roseman, George
 Nay: None
 Absent:Carter
REQUEST TO DIRECT HPC TO PREPARE BOONE/KRAUT CREEK HISTORICAL
MARKER
Council Member Plaag reported that recently, members of the Cultural Resources
Advisory Board had raised the possibility of a historical marker honoring Boone/Kraut
Creek and its connection to the “Kraut Factory”/North State Canning Company
operations at the current site of the Watauga County Agricultural Extension office on
King Street. He then made a motion to direct the Historic Preservation Commission to
begin preparation for a historical marker report on that topic and for funding in FY26 or
FY27 for the cost of the marker. Council Member Tugman seconded the motion.
Mayor Pro-Tem George expressed appreciation to Council Member Plaag for his
expertise related to cemetery panels and began a related discussion regarding Clawson
Burnley Park. He explained that a student had recently interviewed him about the
importance of town signage, particularly how many Town-owned facilities were not
widely recognized as being managed by the Town or connected to local history. As an
example, the Mayor Pro-Tem George mentioned Clawson-Burnley Park, which was
named in honor of two former female mayors who had a significant impact on the
community at a time when it was uncommon for women to hold such leadership roles in
the South. He indicated that the student had remarked that she wished she had known
that history, suggesting that visible markers would be valuable. This feedback prompted
the Mayor Pro-Tem George to look into the possibility of recommending to the Historic
Preservation Commission (HPC) the installation of a marker or sign at Clawson-Burnley
Park. He suggested that even simply designating the space as "Mayor’s Park" at the
entrance would help honor the legacy of the two women leaders and better inform the
public of the park’s historical significance. Hearing consensus from the attending
Council members, Mayor Pro-Tem George indicated he would bring the item forward in
a formal fashion at a later date. A vote was then taken on the Boone/Kraut Creek
Historical Marker.

 VOTE: Aye: Plaag, Tugman, Roseman, George
 Nay: None
 Absent:Carter

CLOSED SESSION

Upon a motion by Council Member Roseman, seconded by Council Member Tugman,
Council members voted at 7:04 p.m. to enter into closed session pursuant to:
1. N.C. Gen. Stat.§ 143-318.11(a)(1), to review, approve and seal closed session
minutes from Council's prior closed session(s).
2. N.C. Gen. Stat.§ 143-318.11(a)(3), to consult with the Town Attorney in order to
preserve the attorney-client privilege between the attorney and the Town Council, and
obtain legal advice, consider and/or give instructions to the attorney concerning one or
more potential legal claims.
3. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 143-318.11(a)(6) To consider the qualifications, competence,
performance, character, fitness, conditions of appointment, or conditions of initial
employment of an individual public officer or employee or prospective public officer or
employee; or to hear or investigate a complaint, charge, or grievance by or against an
individual public officer or employee.
Upon a motion by Council Member Roseman, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem George, the
Council voted to exit closed session at 7:57 p.m.
 VOTE: Aye: Roseman, George, Tugman, Plaag
 Nay: None
 Absent:Carter

ADJOURNMENT

Mayor Pro-Tem George adjourned the meeting at approximately 8:00 p.m.


_______________________________ ______________________________
Nicole Harmon-Church, Clerk Tim Futrelle, Mayor