City Council Meeting (Jun 23, 2026)

Okay, here's a comprehensive recap of the City Council Meeting held on June 23, 2026.

Meeting Overview and Context:

The Asheville City Council convened on June 23, 2026, for a meeting encompassing both procedural matters and substantive discussions on various city initiatives. The agenda included proclamations, resolutions, public comments, votes, and action item assignments, reflecting a broad range of priorities for the city. The meeting was attended by all members of the City Council, alongside relevant staff and concerned citizens.

Key Discussions, Decisions, and Outcomes:

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a brief comment from the Mayor regarding national anthems during the World Cup. The Council reiterated chamber decorum rules, emphasizing respectful conduct and adherence to presiding officers' instructions. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing July as Asheville Parks and Recreation Month, honoring long-standing employees within the department. A proclamation was also issued acknowledging the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and emphasizing equitable access to parks as a fundamental right.

A notable segment focused on the "Leonard Antonelli, Jacob Hill, and Alex Rosos Bicycle Safety Zone Act" (Lenny's Law). The Council approved a resolution supporting the act, following public comments from Maddie Brando (fiancée of Lenny Antonelli) and Adam Smith advocating for increased safety measures. The council also approved a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute cooperative contracts (through Charlotte Cooperative Purchasing Alliance (CCPA), OMNIA, or Sourcewell) for Axon Fleet purchases exceeding $90,000.

The council engaged in extensive discussion regarding a potential moratorium on new data center development, driven by concerns about utility impacts (electric and water), noise pollution, and the lack of current regulations. Following public comment expressing similar concerns, the council directed planning staff (Chris Collins & Brad Branum) to lead a four-phase process, implementing a one-year moratorium while developing regulations and zoning classifications for data centers.

The council also considered a development project involving 42 affordable townhomes on city-owned property at 29 Oak Hill Drive, which includes a $1.6 million construction loan and down payment assistance for eligible households. Following public comment from Oak Hill Drive residents, the City Manager will negotiate and enter into a development and sales agreement with 29 Oak Hill LLC, while investigating whether the land qualifies as a brownfield and connecting with the Housing Authority (HACA) to explore homeownership voucher programs.

A resolution authorizing a substantial amendment to the CDBGDR action plan, reallocating funds from affordable multifamily housing construction to a single-family home repair program was approved. The council also approved several board and commission appointments, including those for the African American Heritage Commission, Asheville-Buncombe Riverfront Commission, and Planning & Zoning Commission. Christina Dupicable (Asheville Pickleball Association) provided an update on the association's activities, thanking council for funding pickleball courts.

Finally, a resolution was passed supporting the repair of infrastructure damaged by Tropical Storm Helene, approving a contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates for $3.8 million to provide design and engineering services, and a budget amendment of $4.46 million for the project. The council also approved a contract with Catawba Valley Engineering & Testing, PC. for $5.3 million to perform similar services related to landslide recovery projects.

Next Steps, Future Meetings, and Important Dates:

Several action items were assigned to city staff, including exploring opportunities to implement bicycle safety zones and collaborating with state agencies. The City Council will continue discussions regarding the data center moratorium, with planning staff tasked with developing regulations during the one-year pause. The hearing for 3 S. Tunnel Road rezoning will be continued to July 28, 2026. The City Council meeting is scheduled to continue on a regular basis.

The council approved an amendment to the Interlocal Agreement with Buncombe County for air quality management, and a resolution supporting the mutual aid agreement between Asheville and Buncombe County. The council also approved an amendment to Hagarty Consulting's contract for storm recovery, and accepted funding from Buncombe County for the Historic Resources program.