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August 2025 McDowell Board of Realtors Meeting Recap

  • Writer: Kelly
    Kelly
  • Aug 19
  • 3 min read

The McDowell Board of Realtors gathered this August for another insightful and productive monthly meeting. Members were treated to a wealth of valuable information, updates, and initiatives that directly impact our real estate community. Here's a recap of all the highlights:


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Guest Speaker: Billy Banks – Environmental Health Department Program Supervisor

Billy Banks joined us as our featured speaker to discuss the critical role that the Environmental Health Department plays in North Carolina real estate transactions—especially when it comes to well and septic systems.


Did you know? North Carolina’s Environmental Health Department operates under 17 different rule books-more than most states in the country. This speaks to the depth of oversight and protection the department provides to our land and water.


Why Well & Septic Knowledge Matters to Realtors

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  • Groundwater Protection: Realtors play a crucial role in protecting public health by understanding and guiding clients through proper well and septic procedures.

  • Critical in Unsewered Areas: In regions without access to public sewer systems, these systems are often the make-or-break factor in property transactions.

  • Avoiding Delays: Familiarity with the procedures can prevent costly and time-consuming closing delays.

Who Should Apply for Permits (and When)?

  • Lot Size Considerations:

    • Smaller lots (around 1 acre): Should apply before purchase due to limited space.

    • A 3-bedroom home requires 5,000 sq ft of septic area.

    • Larger lots: May allow for application after purchase.

  • Application Type:

    • Residential vs. Commercial

    • Government vs. Private (soil scientists/engineers): Private options can be more expensive but may offer different service levels.

Wait Times and Application Volume

  • Wait times are currently at 3 weeks, down from 8 weeks at this time last year.

  • Application volume has decreased, helping reduce delays.

Application Process Overview

Site Evaluation

  • Submit to County Environmental Health.

  • Required documents: 911 address, survey, site plan, and fee.

  • Pits must be dug before application.

  • Incomplete submissions or missing items can trigger a $200 revisit fee—so double-check everything!

Construction Authorization (CA)

  • Must be received before installation or obtaining a building permit.

  • Confirms an adequate area exists for a septic system.

Fun Fact: Commercial septic capacity is based on seats! A 52-seat restaurant’s system is equivalent to 16 two-bedroom cabins (32 bedrooms).

Soil Considerations

  • Sandy soil: Longer-lasting systems.

  • Clay soil: Shorter system lifespan.

Well Permit Process

  • Application must include: Site plan, proposed location, and access info.

  • Setbacks required:

    • 25 feet from structures

    • 50 feet from bodies of water

    • 50–100 feet from septic systems

  • Drilling & Inspection:

    • Inspected by Environmental Health

    • Water testing is required for final approval

Fun Fact: The traditional “perc test” hasn’t been used since 1977. Now, soil evaluations determine suitability and drainage.

Top Reasons for Permit Delays

  1. Incomplete applications

  2. Unclear property boundaries – please submit surveyed plats

  3. Obstructions – ensure site access

  4. Seasonal conditions – snow and rain can delay evaluations


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FEMA & Disaster Recovery Update

Adrienne Jones, Deputy Director of EMS, gave a brief update on FEMA-related progress:

  • 1.4 million cubic yards of debris removed from waterways.

  • Private roads & bridges are finally moving forward. Engineers are now evaluating, prioritizing areas with no bridge access.

Board Updates & Announcements:


RPAC Goal

  • We are currently $1,767 short of our RPAC fundraising goal.


Lockbox Goal

  • We’re also $1,565 short of meeting the lockbox initiative goal.


Upcoming Events

  • Bigfoot Festival: August 23, 10 AM – 5 PM

  • Operation Backpack: Thanks to all who donated school supplies and cash—donations are being delivered to local schools!


National Code of Ethics Day

  • Mark your calendars: August 21st

  • The session will be held virtually, featuring Leigh Brown as the presenter. Megan will send out the registration link soon.


Agent Spotlight

Jannell Peterson was this month’s featured agent in the spotlight. Congratulations, Jannell, and thank you for your dedication and hard work!


Door Prize Winner

Steve Jones took home this month’s door prize, generously donated by Rhonda Silver. Congrats, Steve!


That wraps up our August meeting. Thanks to everyone who attended and contributed. Let’s continue working together to stay informed, serve our clients well, and strengthen the McDowell real estate community.


See you in September!

 
 
 

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