(Part 2 of 2) LIVE @ 2020 Get There AVL Candidates Forum 02/28/20

Asheville City Council Candidate Forum Recap: Transportation, Equity, and Community Voice

On February 28th, 2020, residents had the opportunity to hear directly from six of the nine candidates vying for three seats on the Asheville City Council during Part 2 of a candidate forum. This session, focused on community and city/county-led initiatives, provided valuable insights into the candidates' platforms and their perspectives on key challenges facing Asheville. While no formal votes or decisions were made during the forum itself, the discussions highlighted crucial areas of concern and potential paths forward for our city.

A central theme throughout the forum was Asheville’s ongoing struggle with transportation challenges. Candidates repeatedly addressed concerns about traffic congestion, pedestrian and cyclist safety, and the difficulty of coordinating with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (DOT) on road improvements. Candidate Saif Cherm presented data illustrating a stark reliance on individual car travel (77% of residents drive alone), with low transit usage (1.7%), and emphasized the need to explore alternative transportation options, challenging attendees to "think about not doing that tomorrow." Discussions also centered on the complexities of implementing bike infrastructure, with Kim Rody referencing ongoing challenges in West Asheville. A recurring point was the frustration surrounding coordination with the DOT, with Cherm suggesting a more proactive approach by placing someone familiar with DOT operations within city government.

Beyond transportation, candidates addressed critical issues of gentrification and equitable development. Kim Rody highlighted the impact of rising housing costs on historically underserved neighborhoods, emphasizing the need for development that benefits long-term residents. She pointed to a city model used in Southside as an example of how to approach development with equity in mind. The discussion also touched on the potential for leveraging the Tourism Development Authority to fund community projects like greenways and a downtown circulator, demonstrating a desire to explore diverse funding sources. Christine Goldsmith underscored the importance of investing in transportation and infrastructure, stating, "We can’t afford not to."

The forum provided a platform for residents to voice their concerns and engage directly with the candidates. Audience members questioned the timelines for completing projects, clarified roles of various agencies (city, county, DOT), and explored the impact of safety messaging on cycling participation. This demonstrated a strong desire for transparency and accountability in local government, with Keith Young repeatedly emphasizing the importance of citizen voices and encouraging residents to attend council meetings.

Following the forum, several action items emerged organically from the discussions. Candidates encouraged residents to connect with them directly through their websites, emails, and phone numbers. Saif Cherm’s call to consider alternative transportation methods resonated with the audience, while Kim Rody's focus on equitable development highlighted a critical need for inclusive planning. The meeting concluded with a reminder to support Ashland Bikes, an organization dedicated to promoting cycling in the community.

Ultimately, this forum provided a valuable opportunity for residents to learn more about the candidates and their visions for Asheville. The discussions underscored the importance of addressing transportation challenges, prioritizing equitable development, and actively engaging citizens in local government decision-making. As the election approaches, residents are encouraged to continue participating in civic dialogue and consider how each candidate's platform aligns with their priorities for the future of our city.