Affordable Housing Advisory Committee – March 7, 2024

Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Meeting Recap – March 7, 2024

On March 7, 2024, the City of Asheville’s Affordable Housing Advisory Committee convened to discuss ongoing initiatives and strategies aimed at addressing the critical need for affordable housing within our community. The meeting, attended by committee members and city staff, focused on program updates, future planning, and exploring innovative solutions to housing challenges. This recap summarizes the key discussions, decisions, and next steps for residents interested in learning more about these efforts.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to understanding and reviewing existing programs. Dennis Newburn from Community Development provided a detailed historical overview of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, highlighting its long-standing role in supporting housing and community development projects. Updates were also provided on the Housing Trust Fund, with several projects like Haywood Street and Star Point Apartments nearing completion. The committee also examined the Land Use Incentive Grant (LUI) program and discussed incorporating community feedback into the upcoming Affordable Housing Plan through the Connect Committee. A newer, potentially groundbreaking discussion centered on exploring Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI) as a possible tool to support housing stability by providing direct cash assistance.

While no formal votes were taken, the committee engaged in robust discussions surrounding several key issues. Concerns regarding source of income discrimination – specifically the difficulties faced by voucher holders in finding housing – were a prominent focus. Committee members emphasized the need to actively address these discriminatory practices and ensure equitable access for all residents. The committee also acknowledged the importance of fully staffing city departments to effectively utilize available federal funds, a point echoed by public commenters.

Community input played an important role in the meeting. Cassidy Moore from Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity urged the committee to prioritize concrete, actionable deliverables in the Affordable Housing Plan and emphasized continued advocacy against source of income discrimination. Lexi Aaron from Disability Partners powerfully underscored the necessity for greater accessibility in affordable housing developments, particularly for individuals with disabilities. These perspectives highlighted critical considerations that the committee will need to address moving forward.

Looking ahead, several key action items emerged from the meeting. The committee is actively recruiting new members to join the Connect working group, which will play a vital role in shaping the Affordable Housing Plan. A crucial meeting with Enterprise Community Partners is scheduled for March 27th to review and provide feedback on the draft plan, followed by a subsequent discussion within the committee. The exploration of Guaranteed Basic Income will continue with consideration given to scheduling a presentation on this topic in the coming months. Finally, the committee reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for policies that combat source of income discrimination and address staffing needs within the Community Development Division.

This meeting demonstrated a continued commitment from the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee to proactively address Asheville’s housing challenges. Residents can expect further engagement opportunities as the Affordable Housing Plan develops, and ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access to safe and affordable housing for all members of our community.