The Waxhaw Board of Commissioners met Tuesday, March 10, to consider recognitions, transportation initiatives, and updates from the town’s annual retreat. The agenda was amended at the start of the meeting to add a discussion regarding Waxhaw water supply safety.
Public Comments
Residents raised several issues during public comments.
One speaker thanked town departments and community volunteers for recent cultural and historical programs.
Another resident raised safety concerns about the pedestrian crosswalk near Crossroads Coffee House at North Broome Street and McDonald Street, noting that the slope of the road can make pedestrians difficult for drivers to see. The resident suggested installing flashing pedestrian crossing lights.
A resident from Alma Village also asked the town to complete the removal of Bradford pear trees that are damaging sidewalks in the neighborhood.
Commissioners acknowledged the concerns and said staff would review the issues.
Consent Agenda
The board unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included meeting minutes, a proclamation supporting National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a resolution regarding state legislation affecting local zoning authority, acceptance of an offer to sell property at 7815 Red Oaks Trail, establishment of a grant project fund for Broome Street improvements, and approval of the town’s participation in the 2027 Urban Archery Season.
Community Recognitions
The board honored Sergeant Detective Ronnie Horne upon his retirement after 25 years in law enforcement, including 11 years with the Waxhaw Police Department. He served in patrol, narcotics enforcement, and criminal investigations, and was a member of the department’s Special Response Team. The board authorized him to retain his badge and service weapon in recognition of his service.
Commissioners also recognized the Cuthbertson High School Boys and Girls Indoor Track & Field teams for winning the 2025 North Carolina state championships. The girls team captured its eighth indoor title, while the boys team earned their third.
Sculpture Walk Update
The Public Art Committee presented plans for the 2026 Sculpture Walk, an outdoor art exhibit along the Serpentine Walk in downtown Waxhaw. Six sculptures will be installed in April and remain on display through April 2027.
Annual Retreat Report
Town Manager Scott Dadson summarized the Board’s annual retreat held February 26–27. The board discussed long-term priorities including growth management, infrastructure capacity, fiscal sustainability, economic development, and preserving Waxhaw’s character.
Further discussion of priorities will take place at the board’s March 24 work session.
Transportation Grants and Projects
The board approved a resolution allowing staff to pursue federal funding through the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program for potential pedestrian and roadway safety improvements totaling about $7.5 million. The program would require a 20 percent local match if the grant is awarded.
Commissioners also approved a contract with the North Carolina Department of Transportation related to the Helms Road Extension project.
Waxhaw Water Supply Safety Discussion
Commissioner Richard Daunt added a discussion item regarding Waxhaw water supply safety, noting that several residents had recently raised concerns about the continued use of silica fluorides in the town’s drinking water.
Waxhaw receives its drinking water from the Lancaster County Water and Sewer District in South Carolina, unlike the eastern portion of Union County, which receives water from the Yadkin system (see map below). Two years ago, Union County commissioners voted to discontinue the addition of silica fluorides at the Yadkin facility, meaning residents served by that system no longer receive fluoridated water.
Silica fluorides are an industrial byproduct that is commonly used for water fluoridation, however, the primary benefits of fluoride are related to topical dental exposure rather than ingestion. Studies have also linked excessive fluoride exposure to dental fluorosis and bone disease, and almost all Western European countries have rejected the practice.
Because Waxhaw does not operate its own water system, the town has no direct authority over water treatment practices. However, the town could still use its voice to advocate for change. Possible actions discussed include:
Expressing support for legislation in North Carolina and South Carolina that would end the practice of adding silica fluorides to public water supplies.
- Communicating concerns directly to the Lancaster County Water and Sewer District, and to the Governor of South Carolina, who directly appoints the members of the Lancaster Water Board.
- Coordinating with other nearby municipalities that receive water from the same source.
Despite the efforts of liaison members of the Union County BOCC, the Lancaster water board has been reluctant to change the practice without direction from higher authorities such as federal regulators.
The board discussed the possibility of working with other towns in the Western Union Municipal Alliance (Marvin, Mineral Springs, Weddington, Wesley Chapel, and Stallings), to present a regional position on the issue.
After brief discussion, the board agreed to revisit the topic at a future work session so commissioners could review draft resolutions and additional information before considering any formal action.
