Secondly, Hensley says the state did not overstep its bounds in passing the law. He said a small town such as Old Fort cannot afford a $15 an hour minimum wage and it would hurt local businesses. He also cited “Dillon's Rule,” a legal precedent dating back to a 1868 case which affirmed a state's preeminence over any municipality within its borders. Thirdly, Hensley affirmed that while, “God loves everyone, but at the same time, He does not condone the sin you live in.”

Alderman Wayne Stafford added that he supports HB 2 “100 percent” and Alderman Andrew Carlton stated that it is, “Our responsibility to protect the public.”

A resolution to support Gov. McCrory and House Bill 2 passed unanimously. The vote came hours before Gov. Pat McCrory said he wants to change parts of the law, such as the section eliminating discrimination cases from state court. He said he did not want to change bathroom limitations.

In other business, Hensley reported that the Asheville engineering firm of McGill Associates has been signed to a $2,800 retainer to complete the first two phases of repair and restoration of the Andrews Geyser. The planned restoration and beautification of the geyser is expected to take two to three years .

In addition, the aldermen: