Downtown Commission – March 22, 2024

Downtown Commission Meeting Recap: Exploring a Business Improvement District and Addressing Downtown Safety – March 22, 2024

The Asheville Downtown Commission convened on March 22, 2024, for a meeting focused primarily on the potential establishment of a Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) and an update on ongoing downtown safety initiatives. The meeting, attended by Commissioners, City staff including Assistant City Manager Ben Woody and Police Chief Mike Lamb, and representatives from the BID Steering Committee, provided a valuable opportunity for discussion and information sharing regarding these important topics impacting downtown Asheville.

A significant portion of the meeting centered on a proposed Downtown Business Improvement District (BID). Michael Montgomery, representing the BID Steering Committee, presented detailed information outlining the purpose of the BID: to provide supplemental services that enhance downtown’s appeal, specifically focusing on safety, hospitality, and cleanliness. The proposed funding mechanism involves an assessment rate of $0.09 per $100 of taxable value, and the BID would operate as a non-profit entity in partnership with the city, overseen by an independent board of directors. Commissioners engaged in a robust discussion regarding representation on that board, emphasizing the need to ensure smaller businesses have their voices heard. Concerns were also raised about transparency and accountability in BID operations, particularly regarding financial management. While no formal vote was taken, the Commission expressed general support for further exploration of the BID proposal and directed city staff to gather additional data.

Beyond the BID discussion, the meeting included a comprehensive update on downtown safety from Assistant City Manager Woody and Police Chief Lamb. The presentation highlighted a slight increase in violent crime compared to the previous year, although significantly lower than 2022 levels. Property crime remains consistent with past years, primarily involving shoplifting and vehicle break-ins. The police department is shifting towards a more proactive approach, addressing code enforcement issues and working to establish a community responder program. Chief Lamb underscored the importance of community partnerships and proactive policing in improving downtown safety, while Woody emphasized the city's commitment to data collection and an interdepartmental approach.

While no formal public comments were received in advance, Commissioners actively engaged in discussion throughout the meeting, demonstrating their commitment to understanding the potential impacts of both the proposed BID and ongoing safety measures. This engagement reflected a genuine interest in ensuring that any decisions made align with the needs and concerns of downtown businesses, residents, and visitors.

Looking ahead, several key action items emerged from the meeting. The Commission was informed that City Council will be considering fees and charges on March 26th, a crucial step in the potential BID implementation. The proposal will proceed to public hearings and ultimately require a vote by City Council. The Commission itself will dedicate its entire meeting on April 26th to further discussion and consideration of the BID proposal, providing a deeper dive into its potential benefits and challenges. Finally, city staff will be compiling additional information on baseline city services to address concerns raised during the current meeting. The Asheville Downtown Association is also actively encouraging businesses and residents to sign a petition in support of the BID.

This meeting represents an important step forward in shaping the future of downtown Asheville, and residents are encouraged to stay informed as these discussions progress. The proposed BID, if approved, could significantly impact the services and vibrancy of our downtown area, while ongoing safety initiatives aim to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.