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SPINDALE, N.C. — Spindale’s Board of Commissioners covered a wide range of business Tuesday night, from neighborhood revitalization and subdivision approvals to sewer fee adjustments, infrastructure projects, and the launch of a new town website. Read the agenda packet on my DocumentCloud for complete details.
What I witnessed
The meeting highlighted both immediate fixes—like correcting sewer billing errors—and long-term investments in infrastructure, housing, and community amenities. Leaders also praised town staff for their handling of recent heavy rains and maintenance issues at Spindale House, while planning for major upcoming events such as the town’s centennial celebration and the annual Cycling Across North Carolina ride. I was the only journalist there.
Top 10 Takeaways
Social District Expansion – Commissioners approved an ordinance allowing temporary social district zones during special events, giving the board flexibility to expand alcohol-permitted areas on Main Street when roadways are closed.
FY24 Audit Contract Amended – The board extended its audit contract with Gould & Killian to reflect a late submission caused by Hurricane Helene, though no costs changed.
Subdivision Approved – A 9.22-acre parcel on Spindale Street will be split into two lots (0.69 acres and 8.53 acres) after planning board review. Commissioners noted a floodplain at the rear of the property.
Neighborhood Revitalization Grant – Rutherford Housing Partnership presented a plan for new homes on Illinois Street. Commissioners voted to pursue a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and scheduled required public hearings for Sept. 15 and Oct. 20. Commissioner Jonathan Bland recused himself due to his service on the RHP board.
Fire Station Project – Commissioners adopted a resolution exempting survey and environmental work from state RFQ requirements, expediting planning for a new fire station site.
Sewer Fee Adjustments – The board corrected service availability charges on three properties with no sewer connection: 143 Eagle’s Nest Drive, 0 Center Street, and 0 Spindale Street. Refunds will be issued where eligible.
North Slope Skate Park – New signage and rules will be added, with hours set from dawn to 10 p.m. Lighting improvements and decorative signage are nearly complete.
Infrastructure Updates –
The pump station awaits final state approval.
U.S. EDA feedback on the Love’s Travel Stop utility project has been addressed.
A $1.2 million wastewater treatment plant rehab is in the works, with potential for state supplemental funding that includes up to $5 billion in forgiveness statewide.
New Website Coming – A redesigned CivicPlus site is set to go live Sept. 5, with easier access to agendas, minutes, and public notifications. Commissioners stressed the importance of keeping it regularly updated.
Community Events –
The R-S Central centennial celebration begins Sept. 18 with a wreath-laying ceremony featuring former Lt. Gov. Walter Dalton, a homecoming parade, and fireworks.
The “Mountains to the Coast” cycling event will pass through Spindale on Oct. 5, with State Highway Patrol support.
What’s next:
Commissioners will hold two public hearings this fall on the Illinois Street housing grant, review progress on wastewater funding applications, and prepare for a full slate of centennial and community events. Meanwhile, staff will address citizen concerns about blighted properties and seek solutions for additional trash receptacles downtown. Staff will continue to monitor potential issues from rain intrusion at Spindale House. Remediation is currently underway, with the side entrance temporarily closed.
