Rescheduled: Public Safety Committee (Virtual) (Jul 29, 2026)

Asheville Public Safety Committee Meeting Recap: July 29, 2026

The Asheville Public Safety Committee held a virtual meeting on July 29, 2026, focusing on critical issues impacting our community's safety and well-being. The meeting, attended by Chair Bo Hess, Vice Mayor Antoinette Mosley, Council Member Shanika Smith, and key city officials including Police Chief Jackie Steadman and Fire Chief Mike Pace, addressed concerns ranging from rising gun violence to firefighter wellness and disaster preparedness.

Addressing Gun Violence & Crime Concerns: A significant portion of the meeting centered on recent incidents of gun violence, including shootings on Biltmore Avenue and Haywood Road. The Asheville Police Department (APD) outlined their current strategies, which include partnerships with federal agencies like the FBI and ATF to investigate cases and prosecute offenders at the most appropriate level. APD is also actively working to address illegal firearm modifications, often referred to as "Glock switches." While overall crime remains below historical trends, the committee acknowledged a concerning rise in gun violence-related assaults and emphasized the need to address youth involvement. A key step forward is the addition of a fourth Community Resource Officer, strategically placed in high-traffic areas. The committee also discussed expanding collaboration with the Housing Authority of Asheville (HACA) to enhance safety measures in their properties.

New Mental Health Support Program Launched: A major highlight of the meeting was the launch of a new co-responder program, pairing APD and AFD officers with mental health professionals. This innovative approach aims to provide immediate support during crises, proactively engage with vulnerable individuals, and reduce reliance on emergency room visits. The program, funded by the Community Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC), will see embedded mental health professionals working alongside officers Monday through Friday, focusing on data collection to measure its impact and identify areas for improvement. Discussions also centered on establishing direct admission processes with local mental health facilities like Sweet Creek and ADAC, addressing licensing concerns at VIA Health to improve access to culturally competent care.

Planning for Disasters & Supporting Firefighters: The committee unanimously recommended the Buncombe-Madison Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan for adoption by full City Council. This plan outlines strategies to reduce the city's vulnerability to natural disasters, ensuring continuity of government operations and eligibility for vital FEMA funding. The committee also celebrated the implementation of a fourth shift for firefighters, reducing weekly hours and moving closer to a 40-hour work week – a significant step towards aligning with labor standards and improving firefighter well-being. The Fire Department presented its comprehensive wellness programs, including physical fitness training, nutrition guidance, and behavioral health support.

Community Voices & Future Directions: Councilwoman Smith highlighted the importance of hearing from young people and suggested exploring a "youth council" advisory group, as well as considering a “988 for violence” hotline. Discussions also touched on the possibility of implementing a curfew for underage youth, prompting debate about potential benefits and challenges. The committee agreed on the need for a unified message to reassure the community about ongoing public safety efforts, potentially through a joint town hall or press conference.

What Happens Next? Several key action items emerged from the meeting:

• APD will continue investigating recent shootings and collaborating with federal agencies.
• The committee will explore violence interruption programs, looking at successful models from other cities.
• Efforts are underway to address youth involvement through alternative opportunities and potential advisory groups.
• The feasibility of a curfew will be further examined, with consideration given to accountability measures for parents.
• The Buncombe-Madison Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan will be presented to the full City Council on August 25, 2026, for a final vote.

Why This Matters to You: The discussions and decisions made during this meeting directly impact the safety and well-being of our community. The focus on mental health support, disaster preparedness, and addressing gun violence demonstrates a commitment to creating a safer and more resilient Asheville for all residents. Your voice matters – stay informed, engage in community discussions, and let your elected officials know how they can best serve our city.

For more information or to provide feedback, please contact Talia Stepp at [email protected].