Greetings from BRCA 28605.  Here are some items of interest this week.  There is a Board of Adjustments (BOA) video that anyone concerned about Short Term Rental should view.  It shows the process “in motion.”  We also want to mention the new Windmoor Hotel, Bubba’s Gas & Grill and recent large structure fires and suggested safety considerations.

Appeal for Short Term Rental Denied

There was an appeal of a recent BOA decision held on January 29, 2026.  The meeting is some 2.5 hours long; the voting takes place late in the meeting.   The BOA voted unanimously to decline the request for short term rental at a condo unit located at 439 Chestnut Drive.  Short term rental ranks as one of our member’s most important issues.  You can view the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xlZ_GTQFT0

Windmoor Hotel Opens

The new boutique 18-room Windmoor Hotel located at 125 Sunset is now operational.  You can view this beautiful and luxurious new hotel here:  https://www.windmoorhotel.com

Council Winter Retreat Wraps Today

Blowing Rock Town Council Winter Retreat wraps up this afternoon.   We will provide highlights in a later communication.   Yesterday’s retreat video is available for view here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K10POTiXYq4

Bubba’s Gas & Grill Open

There has been a lot of positive chatter about this new eating establishment at the corner of 321 and Sunset.  Long known as Keith’s Citgo it now serves gas and burgers (and more)!  You can view it here: https://www.bubbasnc.com

Structure Fires & Preparations in Winter

Most are aware of the recent fire at Bistro Roca. The Chamber fund for employees and families affected by the fire is now over $100,000.  Last weekend the Town had another large house fire.  In both instances the weather was brutal.  We applaud our fire department for the valiant efforts in impossible conditions.  It serves as a reminder of precautions recommended during winter and when away from home.  With a forty-six-year career as an insurance broker and risk manager we had standard recommendations for our clients regarding safety for your homes and businesses.  They include most of all knowing your broker and making sure you know your coverages.  Companies are not all the same.  Your recovery will be significantly impacted by the type of insurance you purchase.  Many insurers do provide discounted rates based on how well your property is protected.  Items to consider:

Central station monitored alarm systems
Sirens and voice alarms identifying verbally the issue when it occurs
Sensors for smoke, fire, gas, & carbon dioxide
Sensors on all exterior doors to identify when they are opened
Security cameras that record and retain events on property
Surge protection for your home or business
Water flow management to protect from leaks and broken pipes connected to your security system
Backup generators for power failure (whole house preferrable)
Water sensors in drip pans under furnaces to detect moisture
Ting to detect electrical arcing in wiring
Both types of fire extinguishers in your kitchen
Escape ladders for upper floor bedrooms
Flex steel hoses on all toilets, ice makers, and washer lines
Alway turn your water off and drain lines when you are away from home
Exterior key safe with extra key for First Responder access

There can always be things added to the list, but this is a standard recommendation package for protection.  Hope this helps as you consider safety and protection of your property.

Blowing Rock Watauga Voter Information



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