Planning, Economic Development and Environment Committee (Virtual) (Jan 20, 2026)

Asheville's Planning, Economic Development & Environment Committee Meeting: A Recap for Residents

On January 20th, Asheville’s Planning, Economic Development & Environment (PEDE) Committee met virtually to discuss key initiatives impacting our city's economy, climate resilience, and community well-being. Here’s a breakdown of what happened and why it matters to you:

Supporting Local Businesses & Recovering from Storm Impacts:

A major focus was on supporting our local businesses, many of which were significantly impacted by Tropical Storm Helene in 2024. The committee unanimously approved a plan to recommend City Council authorize agreements with four organizations – Mountain BizWorks, Venture Asheville, Arts AVL, and Eagle Market Streets Development Corporation. These groups will receive funding to provide grants and support services directly to small businesses, helping them recover and thrive. Why this matters: This investment will help our local economy rebound, preserving jobs and the unique character of Asheville’s business community.

Building a More Resilient Community:

The committee also discussed the city's ongoing work to establish "Resilience Hubs" - community spaces designed to provide support during emergencies and climate-related events. Staff provided updates on mapping efforts, exploring resilient power systems, and engaging with the community to identify key priorities. Why this matters: Resilience Hubs will create safer, more connected neighborhoods that can better withstand challenges like storms and climate change impacts.

Advocating for a Cleaner Energy Future:

A significant portion of the meeting centered on Duke Energy’s Carbon Plan Integrated Resource Plan (CPIRP). The committee voted to collaborate with Buncombe County as an intervener, aiming to influence Duke Energy's energy generation strategy and advocate for a more aggressive transition to renewable energy. Why this matters: This action demonstrates the city's commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future and aligns with our broader climate action goals. Staff will return to council with a draft comment before submitting formally, ensuring community input is considered.

What Did Residents Have to Say?

One public commenter, Rachel Cohen from Sunrise Movement WNC, emphasized the importance of getting funding out to support resilience hubs and urged the committee to strongly oppose Duke Energy's current plans. Her comments highlighted concerns about prioritizing profit over community needs and delaying the transition to renewable energy sources.

What Happens Next?

• Small Business Support Program: The City Council will consider the PEDE Committee’s recommendations on January 27th.
• CPIRP Intervention: Staff will work with Buncombe County to finalize comments on Duke Energy’s plan, aiming for submission by March 30th.
• Resilience Hub Funding: Staff will explore funding options for infrastructure improvements related to resilience hubs and report back to the committee.

Overall, this meeting showcased a commitment to supporting our local economy, building community resilience in the face of climate challenges, and advocating for a cleaner energy future. Your voice matters – stay informed and engaged as these important initiatives move forward!

You can find more detailed information on the City of Asheville's website: https://www.ashevillenc.gov/government/city-council-committees/planning-and-economic-development-committee/