City Council Meeting (Jul 23, 2024)

Asheville City Council Meeting Recap: July 23, 2024 – A Lot Happened!

The Asheville City Council had a busy meeting on July 23rd, tackling everything from infrastructure improvements to community programs and financial decisions. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:

1. Big Decisions & Votes:

• Bond Approvals – Investing in Our Future: Council approved a significant package of bonds totaling $80 million. This means the city will borrow money to fund improvements across key areas: housing, transportation (roads and sidewalks), parks & recreation, and public safety. While this will result in a slight increase to your property taxes over the next few years, it’s an investment aimed at improving our quality of life. A special election will be held in November to let residents vote on these bonds directly.
• Woolworth Landmark Status Secured: After a thorough review, the City Council voted to designate the historic F.W. Woolworth building as a Local Historic Landmark. This decision recognizes its architectural significance and important role in the Civil Rights movement, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
• Supporting Affordable Housing: The council approved a plan to spend $1 million in federal funds on affordable housing initiatives, including down payment assistance programs and supporting organizations working to address homelessness.
• McCormick Field Upgrades Moving Forward: The council approved a major contract to begin renovations at McCormick Field, home of the Asheville Tourists. These upgrades will bring the stadium up to MLB standards and allow for year-round use.
• Water System Improvements: The city is moving forward with upgrades to its water system, including smart meters and infrastructure improvements.

2. Discussion Highlights – What Was Talked About:

• Addressing the Housing Crisis: A significant portion of the meeting focused on strategies to address Asheville’s housing challenges. Discussions centered around increasing affordable options, preventing displacement, and ensuring equitable access to housing for all residents.
• Rankin Avenue Substation: Council discussed the closure of a right-of-way behind HCCA, necessary for rebuilding the Rankin Avenue substation.
• Traffic Concerns & New Development: A lengthy discussion centered on a proposed development at 767 New Haw Creek Road. Council members raised concerns about traffic impacts and the need for adequate infrastructure to support new housing.
• Civic Center Elevator Issues: Councilwoman Roney and Councilman Ullman brought up ongoing issues with the Civic Center elevator, requesting updates on repair efforts.

3. Community Input – Voices Heard:

• Woolworth Building Designation: Several residents spoke during the public hearing about the Woolworth building, sharing personal memories and emphasizing its historical significance.
• New Haw Creek Development: Residents living near the proposed development at 767 New Haw Creek Road expressed concerns about traffic, density, and potential impacts on the neighborhood.

4. Action Items – What Happens Next:

• Bond Referendum Vote: Residents will have the opportunity to vote on the $80 million bond package in November.
• Public Hearings Scheduled: Several key issues, including the Rankin Avenue Substation and the New Haw Creek development, will be revisited at future public hearings.
• Continued McCormick Field Construction: Work on the McCormick Field renovations will continue, with phased construction to minimize disruption.
• Staff Updates: City staff were directed to provide additional information and updates on traffic studies related to the New Haw Creek development, the status of elevator repairs at the Civic Center deck, and a review of the hotel overlay map.

5. Why This Matters to You:

These decisions will directly impact our community for years to come. The bond approvals will fund crucial infrastructure improvements, the Woolworth landmark designation preserves a vital piece of our history, and efforts to address the housing crisis aim to create a more equitable and sustainable Asheville for everyone. Stay informed by visiting https://www.ashevillenc.gov/ for agendas, minutes, and live stream recordings of meetings.

We hope this recap helps you stay informed about what’s happening in our city!