# Public Safety Committee (Virtual) (May 28, 2026) **Body:** City of Asheville — Public Safety Committee **Date:** May 28, 2026 11:00 AM EDT (2026-05-28T11:00:00-04:00) **Link:** https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485 ## Summary The Public Safety Committee convened virtually on May 28, 2026, led by Chair Council Member Bo Hess. While technical difficulties prevented live public comment (residents were able to submit feedback via [public safety committee at public input.com](mailto:public%20safety%20committee%20at%20public%20input.com)), the meeting provided valuable updates on animal welfare, emergency preparedness, and flood warning systems – all crucial components of keeping Asheville safe. A significant portion of the meeting focused on enhancing our city’s ability to respond to emergencies, particularly in light of lessons learned from Tropical Storm Helena. Committee members received an update on the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP), both being revised to incorporate those lessons. The city is actively pursuing substantial funding from FEMA – nearly $500,000 through the Public Assistance Program to replace damaged flood gauges and approximately $2 million via a Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. This funding, if secured, will enable the installation of 22 additional flood monitoring sites, significantly expanding our early warning system and improving our ability to provide timely evacuation notices during flooding events. This expansion aims to create a more comprehensive system, enhancing safety and security for all residents. Beyond emergency preparedness, the committee received a detailed presentation from Animal Services outlining their operations and enforcement actions. The discussion clarified that Animal Services officers are civilian staff, working closely with the Asheville Police Department and Buncombe County agencies. A key point was the bite response system, which details protocols for warnings and potential animal seizure in cases of repeated incidents. The Asheville Humane Society plays a vital role, providing shelter and making decisions regarding rehoming or euthanasia of seized animals. Council Member Smith raised a question about bat calls, and Animal Services confirmed they respond to trapped bats but refer infestations to licensed professionals. The committee unanimously approved the minutes from their previous meeting on March 26, 2026. Following up on the presentations, staff will continue working to resolve technical issues with public input channels and a follow-up presentation on supporting Animal Services is planned in the coming months. The city's ongoing efforts to secure FEMA funding for flood gauge replacement and expand the early warning system are key priorities. Finally, the committee will schedule a deep dive into the co-responder program (pairing Asheville Police and Fire) at their next meeting, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement in public safety strategies. **Why This Matters to You:** These updates directly impact the safety and security of our community. The planned improvements to our early warning system will provide residents with more time and information during flood events, potentially saving lives and protecting property. The ongoing work to refine our emergency response plans ensures that essential city services can continue during disruptions, and the focus on supporting Animal Services reflects a commitment to responsible animal welfare practices. These efforts demonstrate the city's dedication to building a more resilient and prepared Asheville for all its residents. ## Agenda - [Welcome and Roll Call](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485/item/331) - [Approval of Minutes](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485/item/332) - [Draft March 26, 2026 Minutes](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485/item/333) - [Item #1 Animal Welfare Calls and Enforcement Actions Update](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485/item/334) - [Item #2 Emergency Operations and Continuity of Operations Plan Update](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485/item/335) - [Item #3 Early Warning Systems](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485/item/336) - [Public Comment](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485/item/337) - [Adjournment](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485/item/338) ## Video & Transcript - Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suzHCAsrU0I - Transcript: https://sunshinemeetings.org/transcript/1911/segments ## Documents - [Presentation.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485?document=8576) - [Presentation.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485?document=8575) - [agenda_2026-05-28.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485?document=8194) - [minutes_2026-05-28.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2485?document=13173) ## Sources - [City of Asheville WordPress](https://www.ashevillenc.gov/government/meetings/public-safety-committee-virtual-may-28-2026/)