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

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

On April 7, 2026, the Housing and Community Development (HCD) Committee held a virtual meeting to discuss key initiatives impacting our community, particularly regarding housing and neighborhood development. Here's a breakdown of what was discussed and decided:

A Vision for Deaverview: Planning a Vibrant Community

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the ongoing planning process for a 60-acre site in the Deaverview community, encompassing properties at 65 Ford Street and 16 acres at Cedar Hill. This ambitious project aims to create a mixed-income housing development alongside a new campus for Asheville Peak Academy, recreational spaces, and green areas. The committee heard about the history of this effort, dating back to 2020, and emphasized the importance of community engagement throughout the planning process. While a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been established between the city, the Housing Authority (HACA), and Asheville Peak Academy, it’s important to note that this MOU doesn't commit the city to any specific land exchanges or funding decisions – those will be decided in future City Council meetings. The ultimate goal is to create a thriving community where everyone can prosper, aligning with the needs and desires of Deaverview residents.

Supporting Our Community: CDBG Funding Decisions

The committee also made important decisions regarding the allocation of funds from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. After a discussion, they approved recommendations to support vital services for low-income residents:

• $500,000 to Asheville Water Resources Department: This will fund the replacement of lead service lines, benefiting approximately 142 households.
• $237,163.40 to Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity: This will provide home repair assistance for approximately 9 households.
• $100,038 to Helpmate Housing Services: This will support a case manager assisting tenants with rental assistance, benefiting approximately 6 households.

In an amendment to the original proposal, the committee redirected $60,000 from Habitat for Humanity’s funding to Pisgah Legal Services, providing crucial eviction protection services.

What Happens Next?

These CDBG funding recommendations will now be presented to the People and Environment Recovery Board on April 13th, followed by a final vote by City Council on April 28th. The committee is also beginning the process of drafting the 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan, which will include both CDBG and HOME program funding. Finally, the committee will continue to monitor progress on the Lead Service Line Replacement Project and discuss ongoing funding needs.

Community Voice & Why This Matters to You

While no public comments were made during the meeting, the committee emphasized their commitment to incorporating community feedback throughout the Deaverview master planning process. These decisions, particularly regarding CDBG funding, directly impact residents by supporting essential services like lead pipe replacement and eviction prevention. The Deaverview master planning process promises to bring much-needed affordable housing, educational opportunities, and recreational spaces to the area. The city is dedicated to ensuring that these developments benefit all residents and create a stronger, more equitable community.

Stay Informed:

• For detailed information on the Deaverview Master Planning process, visit [City Website Link - to be added]
• For more information on the CDBG program and Annual Action Plan, visit [City Website Link - to be added]