Lake Lure Council Advances Storm Recovery, Zoning Changes Amid Funding Questions

The Lake Lure Town Council approved zoning changes, advanced major disaster-recovery projects and recognized a retiring police sergeant during its Jan. 13 regular meeting, while acknowledging unresolved federal decisions and long-term infrastructure limits that could shape the town’s future.

The meeting, held at the town’s temporary headquarters at The Landings, came as Lake Lure continues to recover from damage caused by Hurricane Helene and works to secure millions of dollars in state and federal aid. 

Storm recovery and infrastructure

Town officials reported progress on a long-planned cell tower off Boys Camp Road, intended to improve emergency communications. The tower is standing and powered, with AT&T and T-Mobile cleared to install antennas. Verizon has not yet applied for a permit.

Repairs to the Lake Lure dam’s tainter gates are underway, requiring the lake to remain about 15 feet below full pond until at least February. Officials said the lake will begin refilling once repairs are complete. Work has also started on rebuilding Washburn Marina, with a temporary facility planned for the 2026 season and full completion expected by mid-summer.

Shoreline debris removal is scheduled under the state’s SMART program, and mechanical dredging is planned in parts of the riverbed to reduce future sediment buildup.

Funding and FEMA decisions

Town leaders said 15 FEMA public assistance projects have been approved, with more than $4.2 million already reimbursed and additional payments pending. The town has also secured more than $12 million in state grants for sewer and water infrastructure, including funds for a new wastewater treatment plant outside the floodplain.

Still unresolved are FEMA determinations for the damaged Town Hall and Welcome Center, both of which may be demolished depending on federal guidance. Officials said those decisions remain under review.

Zoning and development

Council approved a rezoning request for a 2.94-acre undeveloped parcel on Whitney Boulevard, changing it from commercial neighborhood to residential-3 zoning. The change allows for up to five small homes on the property.

The Planning and Zoning Board had found the rezoning inconsistent with the town’s existing comprehensive plan but said it was reasonable and in the public interest. The approval comes as Lake Lure is in the midst of drafting a new comprehensive plan, with additional public input sessions scheduled.

Council also approved amendments to driveway entrance standards and tree clearing and replanting rules, giving staff more flexibility in administering development regulations.

Sewer system and economic recovery

In a key vote, council approved a resolution supporting an application to the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s disaster grant program to replace the town’s sewer system. Officials said the project is critical to public health, environmental protection and future economic development. Dogwood Health Trust has committed to covering the local match required for the grant.

Pickleball proposal declined

Council declined to pursue a state recovery grant for a proposed 14-court pickleball complex, citing a tight application deadline, uncertainty over location, competing infrastructure priorities and concerns about long-term operation of the facility.

Law enforcement recognition

Council unanimously approved a resolution awarding retiring Police Sgt. Carl Umphlett his badge and service sidearm upon retirement March 1, as allowed under North Carolina law. Umphlett has served nearly 15 years with the Lake Lure Police Department and received multiple commendations during his career.

Public comment

During public comment, residents raised questions about dam water releases and downstream safety, asked about permitting for new businesses and shared updates on local and state political developments, including discussions at the General Assembly on property tax reform.