During the July 9, 2026 Town Council Meeting, Councilman Kimball brought it to our attention, that it was our own Mayor Shanon Gonce, that intentionally undermined the UDO in his personal talks with state rep. Tim Moffitt.

I take this personally. The steering committee & town staff have worked our asses off for almost 2 years to craft a beautiful nonpartisan piece of governance that slows the tide of over-development. Our community came out with overwhelming support.  And for the Mayor, to personally usurp the will of the community he serves. It is beyond disgusting. And far beyond disrespect.

I am openly calling for his resignation. Effective immediately.  This petition will be submitted to the Council on 8/13/2026.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for the ethical leadership Mills River deserves, and are standing up for transparency, accountability, and positive change. Let us come together as a united population to request that Mayor Shannon Gonce resign from office so that we can move forward towards a brighter, more inclusive future for Mills River and help pave the way for new, reflective leadership.