This is a watershed year for Lake Junaluska as it celebrates 100 years as a religious retreat known throughout the world.

But the community may be facing a big change if it becomes part of its larger neighbor, Waynesville.  The idea of consolidation came from Lake Junaluska.

Soon after assuming the role of executive director of the United Methodist Church conference and retreat center, Dr. Jack Ewing challenged his staff to begin working on a strategic plan for the community's future.  That plan included the Lake Junaluska Assembly Public Works Preliminary Report on the Municipal Status of Lake Junaluska which identified four options:  remain as it is, incorporate into its own town, ask to be annexed by Waynesville, or transfer control of the water and sewer infrastructure.

Involuntary ...