Politics

The city of Hendersonville is saddened to share the passing of former City Council member Ron Stephens, whose years of dedicated service left a lasting impact on the community.  

Stephens served a total of 12 years on the Hendersonville City Council, including four years as mayor pro tem. He first served a four-year term on City Council from 2001-2004 and served two four-year terms from 2011-2019. His tenure was marked by a steadfast commitment to public service and a passion for enhancing the city’s infrastructure, economic development, and quality of life. 

Throughout his time in office, Stephens played a key role in numerous city projects and initiatives. He was instrumental in implementing a water and sewer rate structure and utility extension policies to provide more equitable funding of future utility projects, he helped implement the five-party agreement of the city, Henderson County, Wingate University, Blue Ridge Community College and UNC Health Pardee that resulted in the Health Sciences building on Sixth Avenue, was actively involved in preserving the Erle Stillwell Building at Hendersonville High School, supported the sale and redevelopment of the Grey Hosiery Mill and advocated for public safety and downtown amenities including the new police station, fire station and downtown restrooms. Stephens also championed improvements to city parks, the Oklawaha Greenway expansion, and initiatives to support local businesses. 

Beyond his work on the City Council, Stephens dedicated time to serving two terms on the city Planning Board, serving as chairman much of that time, chair of the Mud Creek District Advisory Council, Downtown Advisory Committee, Local Government Committee for Cooperative Action and Land-of-Sky Regional Council.  

“Ron’s service and dedication to Hendersonville will not be forgotten,” said Mayor Barbara Volk. “His contributions to the city will continue to benefit our community for generations to come. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this time.” 

Services have been scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Savannah, Georgia.