Special Meeting: City Council (Virtual) (Dec 5, 2025)

City Council Finalizes Leadership Transitions: Welcoming New City Manager, Appointing Interim

On December 5, 2025, the Asheville City Council convened a special meeting to finalize key leadership transitions within city government. The primary focus of the meeting was the selection and appointment of a new City Manager, following a comprehensive search process. The Council also addressed the temporary need for an interim City Manager to ensure continuity of operations during the transition period. The meeting, conducted virtually, was attended by all Council members: Mayor Manheimer, Vice Mayor Mosley, Councilman Hess, Councilwoman Ullman, Councilwoman Roney, and Councilwoman Turner.

The core decision of the evening was the unanimous (7-0) appointment of D'Keisha "DK" Wesley as Asheville’s new City Manager, effective January 12, 2026. Council members emphasized the rigorous and thorough nature of the search process, which included a nationwide recruitment effort, evaluation by community partners and state leaders, and a community survey designed to gather resident input. Vice Mayor Mosley highlighted the Council's desire for a City Manager who is "steady, thoughtful, and committed to the work," sentiments echoed by Mayor Manheimer who underscored the extensive effort undertaken to find the best possible candidate. DK Wesley, in a heartfelt statement, expressed her gratitude and commitment to collaboration with city staff and the community. She outlined her vision for operational excellence, workforce development, and building a stronger, more connected Asheville, thanking God, the council, city staff, and residents for their support. The Council also ratified DK Wesley’s employment agreement during the meeting.

Recognizing that DK Wesley currently holds a position in Buncombe County, the Council also addressed the need for an interim City Manager. Following discussion, they unanimously (7-0) appointed Ben Woody, the current Assistant City Manager, to serve as interim City Manager, beginning December 6, 2025. This ensures a seamless handover of responsibilities while DK Wesley prepares to assume her full-time role. The Council took a moment to acknowledge and thank Deborah Campbell for her service as departing City Manager, and Emily Provence, the HR Director, for her instrumental role in managing the extensive search process.

While no direct public comments were formally recorded during the meeting, Council members acknowledged that community input was a vital component throughout the City Manager search. The previously conducted community survey played a significant role in shaping their decision-making process, demonstrating the Council’s commitment to incorporating resident perspectives.

Looking ahead, several key action items have been identified. Ben Woody will officially assume his role as Interim City Manager on December 6, 2025. The Council will work closely with both DK Wesley and Ben Woody to facilitate a smooth transition of responsibilities leading up to DK Wesley’s official start date on January 12, 2026. Residents can expect to see ongoing communication from the City regarding these leadership transitions and their impact on city services. This meeting marks a significant moment for Asheville, as the city prepares to embark on a new chapter under the leadership of DK Wesley.