Haywood County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Haywood County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Planning Board vacancies
The Planning Board has an open at-large seat and a farmer position that has gone unfilled for months because no applicants applied specifically for the farmer role. The Board interviewed seven candidates to move toward filling the seats.
Code of Ordinances recodification and higher civil penalties
Two public hearings are set for February 2: one on HUD housing consortium action plans and one on amendments to the full county code ahead of recodification. Chapter 150 (Building Regulations) will be voted on for adoption February 16.
Data center and crypto-mining restrictions
A resident proposed strengthening the county's high-impact development ordinance — adding farm protections, noise limits, public hearings, and transparency rules around data center non-disclosure agreements.
Campaign sign placement on private property
Chairman Ensley reminded candidates that state law requires permission before placing signs on private property, and property owners can remove unauthorized signs. Several constituents had called unsure of their rights.