Environment & Safety Committee – June 25, 2024

Environment & Safety Committee Meeting Recap – June 25, 2024

The Asheville City Council’s Environment & Safety Committee convened virtually on June 25, 2024, to discuss key initiatives aimed at improving public safety and enhancing community spaces. The meeting was open for public listening via phone and the city's online engagement hub, ensuring transparency and accessibility for residents. This recap summarizes the key discussions, decisions, and next steps taken during this important meeting.

A primary focus of the meeting was a review of the city's solicitation ordinance, which went into effect in the fall of 2023. Police Chief Mike Lamb presented data demonstrating a significant 40% reduction in calls for service related to panhandling since the ordinance's implementation. The data also highlighted common locations for solicitation, particularly in commercial areas and high-traffic corridors like Patton Avenue, Tunnel Road, and near interstate exits. Notably, a correlation was observed between these solicitation locations and pedestrian/motor vehicle collisions on streets like Haywood Road and Merriman Avenue. While officers have found clarification of the ordinance language – distinguishing between verbal solicitation (prohibited in high-traffic zones) and sign holding (permitted) – helpful, the committee engaged in a discussion regarding potential expansion of these “high-traffic zones” to include sections of Mayorman Avenue and South Slope. While no formal vote was taken on this matter, the discussion indicated support for further consideration of these adjustments. One public commenter, Patrick Conant, raised concerns about the data supporting the expansion and suggested prioritizing other public safety issues.

Beyond public safety, a significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to an overview of the draft 10-Year Parks & Recreation Comprehensive Plan, "Recreate Asheville," presented by Dee Tyrell McGirt, Director of Parks and Recreation. The plan identifies five key focus areas: maintaining parks for all, improving access and connectivity, promoting community health and wellness, creating gathering spaces, and ensuring resilient natural environments. A core principle of the plan is prioritizing investments in equity-focused zones based on social determinants of health, with a goal to ensure every resident lives within a 10-minute walk of a park. The plan outlines both short and long-term goals for park upgrades, redevelopment projects, the creation of new parks, and the addition of special amenities. The committee acknowledged that a stormwater engineer has been hired to support these efforts, demonstrating the city’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges alongside recreational improvements. The committee unanimously approved the minutes from their previous meeting on May 20th, 2024.

Throughout the discussion, several officials offered valuable perspectives. Councilwoman Shanika Smith emphasized the importance of viewing the solicitation ordinance within a broader context of affordable housing and social service needs. Vice Mayor Sandra Kilgore praised the committee's prioritization approach, particularly its focus on equity investment zones. City Manager Deborah Campbell underscored the importance of collaboration between city departments and external partners to effectively address complex community challenges.

Looking ahead, the committee will continue reviewing data related to the solicitation ordinance and considering potential adjustments to high-traffic zones. The draft 10-Year Parks & Recreation Comprehensive Plan will be presented to City Council in August for potential adoption. Staff will also continue working on the stormwater plan, with an update expected soon. Finally, the committee plans to revisit discussions surrounding the climate justice initiative, parks plan, and fiscal year budget in July. These ongoing efforts demonstrate a commitment to creating a safer, more equitable, and vibrant Asheville for all residents.