City Council Agenda Briefing (Virtual) (Jun 18, 2026)

City Council Agenda Briefing Recap: Preparing for a Busy Month of Decisions (June 18, 2026)

On June 18, 2026, the City Council held an Agenda Briefing to prepare for upcoming meetings on June 23rd and July 28th. This meeting, attended by all City Council members and key city staff, served as an overview of the items slated for discussion and potential action in the coming weeks. While no formal votes were taken, the briefing provided valuable insight into the city's priorities and challenges.

A significant portion of the discussion centered around upcoming meetings, particularly June 23rd which promises a demanding schedule. Council members and staff reviewed the agenda for that day, noting a joint meeting with the People & Environment and Infrastructure Recovery Boards, followed by policy, finance, and infrastructure work sessions. The July 28th meeting will focus on the French Broad River Park system, presenting concepts for a park extending from Carrier Park through Craven Street, and addressing Lenny's Law.

Beyond the schedule overview, several key policy updates were presented. Residents can expect a proclamation recognizing Asheville Parks & Recreation staff during July’s Parks and Recreation Month. A resolution is pending to transfer air quality management responsibilities to Buncombe County, a shift that will streamline permitting and inspections. Budget adjustments are also anticipated, including funding for insurance claims and a substantial $16 million adjustment to the Water Resources Fund. Contracts are being finalized for heavy equipment, a temporary skating rink (part of storm recovery efforts), and design work on Eagle & South Market Streets, slated for construction in 2027. The council also discussed ongoing design efforts related to storm recovery, improvements to Burton Street's stormwater system, and a contract for sidewalk improvements alongside resurfaced roads.

A major focus of the briefing was the ambitious Comprehensive Plan and UDO (Unified Development Ordinance) update. Planning & Urban Design Director Stephanie Monsendahl presented a detailed overview of the project, emphasizing its goal to modernize regulations and improve public access through digital tools. The city is currently in the process of selecting a consultant to lead this effort, with an announcement expected soon. The project is slated to begin internally in August 2026, with a public kickoff planned for September. Residents can anticipate the updated Comprehensive Plan by Fall 2027 and full UDO completion by the end of 2028.

The discussion surrounding Asheville’s participation in Opportunity Zones generated considerable debate and concern among council members. Concerns were raised about potential displacement of residents, particularly in vulnerable communities, and ensuring the program aligns with local goals. The council acknowledged challenges posed by using federal census tract boundaries, which often divide neighborhoods and don’t reflect local perceptions. After careful consideration, staff will recommend nominating only the downtown area for Opportunity Zone designation, with potential inclusion of Thompson Street and West Asheville. A final decision is required by June 21st, following further engagement with the State Commerce Department.

Beyond these major topics, the council briefly addressed a request to adjust pickleball court hours in West Asheville due to noise concerns, with Parks & Recreation tasked with providing an update. Discussions also included exploring deeper affordability options for the Oak Hill development project, and preparations for conditional zoning approval at a future meeting.

What's Next? Residents can expect significant action on these topics in the coming weeks. Key next steps include:

• Opportunity Zone Nomination: The city will finalize and submit its Opportunity Zone nomination by June 21st.
• Comprehensive Plan & UDO Consultant Selection: Negotiations are underway with a top-ranked consultant, and an announcement is expected soon.
• Upcoming Council Meetings: Mark your calendars for the busy June 23rd schedule and the July 28th meeting focusing on the French Broad River Park system.

This briefing highlighted a period of significant change and decision-making for the city, impacting everything from parks and recreation to housing affordability and long-term planning. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about these developments and participate in upcoming public forums as the city navigates these important issues.