Special Meeting: City Council Closed Session (In-Person) (Nov 13, 2025)

City Council Conducts Closed-Session Meetings Regarding City Manager Search

On November 13, 2025, the Asheville City Council convened two special meetings held in closed session to discuss confidential legal matters and personnel issues, specifically focusing on the ongoing search for a new City Manager. The meetings, one beginning at 10:55 AM and the second at 2:00 PM, were conducted in accordance with North Carolina General Statute sections 143-318.11(a)(1), (5) and (6), which permit closed-door discussions on privileged information and personnel matters. All council members present participated in both meetings, demonstrating a unified approach to this important process.

The primary focus of the closed sessions was legal justification for discussing confidential personnel matters, specifically related to the qualifications and potential appointment of a City Manager. Councilman Hess initiated a motion to enter closed session, which was seconded by the Mayor and approved unanimously. The Council then dedicated a significant portion of the afternoon session to interviewing candidates for the City Manager position, a critical role responsible for overseeing city operations and implementing council policies.

It is important to note that due to North Carolina law, details regarding the specific discussions and deliberations held within the closed sessions are not publicly available. This legal protection ensures confidentiality surrounding personnel matters, including candidate evaluations and discussions about employee performance or contracts. While there were no opportunities for public comments or community input during these closed sessions, the Council’s commitment to a thorough and legally sound process underscores their dedication to finding a qualified individual to lead the city.

Following the interviews, all motions to exit closed session were approved unanimously, signifying the completion of these focused discussions. While no specific action items beyond conducting interviews were publicly disclosed, residents can expect that the Council will now move forward in evaluating candidates and ultimately selecting a City Manager. Further updates on this process, including the announcement of the selected candidate, will be provided to the public as appropriate and in accordance with applicable laws.