Housing and Community Development Committee (Virtual) (Apr 7, 2026)

Housing and Community Development Committee Meeting Recap: April 7, 2026

On April 7, 2026, the City of Asheville’s Housing and Community Development (HCD) Committee held a virtual meeting focused on key initiatives impacting housing, community development, and support services for residents. The committee, comprised of Council members and advisors, plays a crucial role in shaping policies and allocating funds related to these vital areas. This recap summarizes the key discussions, decisions, and next steps for those interested in learning more about these developments.

A significant portion of the meeting centered around a collaborative planning effort for the Deaverview community, involving the Housing Authority (HACA) and Asheville Peak Academy. This ambitious project aims to transform approximately 60 acres at 65 Ford Street and 16 acres at Cedar Hill into a vibrant, mixed-income community. The plan envisions not only affordable housing options but also a new campus for Asheville Peak Academy, recreational areas, and green spaces. Committee members expressed enthusiasm for the project's potential to create a thriving community hub, with Councilwoman Turner and Vice Mayor Mosley highlighting its transformative possibilities. The committee was presented with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining the partnership principles, emphasizing that while it establishes shared goals, it does not yet commit the city to specific land exchanges or funding. The ultimate goal is a master plan that incorporates robust community feedback, ensuring the project meets the needs of current and future residents.

Beyond the Deaverview planning discussion, the committee addressed Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding recommendations. After careful consideration and debate, the committee unanimously approved a set of funding allocations for various programs aimed at supporting low-income residents. The approved recommendations include $500,000 for the Asheville Water Resources Department to replace lead service lines (benefiting approximately 142 households), $237,163.40 for Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity to provide home repair assistance, and $100,038 for Helpmate Housing Services to assist tenants with rental assistance. Notably, the committee amended the original proposal by reallocating $60,000 from Habitat for Humanity to Pisgah Legal Services, providing additional support for eviction protection services. This adjustment reflects a commitment to addressing the critical need for legal assistance in preventing housing instability.

While no members of the public provided direct testimony during the meeting, the committee stressed its commitment to incorporating community feedback throughout the Deaverview master planning process. The meeting was streamed live and offered phone-in options for public comment, demonstrating the city's efforts to ensure transparency and accessibility.

Looking ahead, several key action items were identified. The CDBG funding recommendations will be presented to the People and Environment Recovery Board on April 13th, followed by a final review and vote by City Council on April 28th. Staff will proceed with executing the Deaverview MOU and procuring a master planning firm once CDBG funding is secured. Furthermore, the committee will begin drafting the 2026-2027 annual action plan, encompassing both CDBG and HOME program funding. Residents can stay informed about these developments by visiting the City of Asheville’s website and accessing meeting recordings. This ongoing work represents a significant investment in affordable housing, community development, and vital support services for Asheville residents.