Special Meeting: City Council (in person) (Jan 8, 2026)

City Council Welcomes New City Manager, DK Wesley

On January 8, 2026, the Asheville City Council convened a special in-person meeting to formally welcome and swear in DK Wesley as the city's new City Manager. The event, attended by council members, city staff, community leaders, and family of the new manager, centered around a celebratory ceremony marking this significant transition in city leadership. The meeting served as an opportunity to introduce Ms. Wesley and hear her initial vision for the city's future.

The primary focus of the meeting was the official swearing-in ceremony, led by Mayor Esther Manheimer and Judge Jacqueline Grant. Following the oath of office, Ms. Wesley delivered an inaugural address emphasizing her commitment to a resident-focused approach to city management. She outlined a vision of "leadership that listens," prioritizing thoughtful decision-making and organizational excellence to address the needs of Asheville's residents. Acknowledging the challenges facing the city – including housing affordability, infrastructure improvements, climate resilience, and public safety concerns—Ms. Wesley expressed her ambition to move Asheville "from good to great" through collaborative partnerships with community organizations, the business sector, residents, and regional partners. She also recognized the ongoing recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Helene, underscoring the need for a resilient and adaptable approach to city management.

While no formal votes were taken during the ceremony, Mayor Manheimer praised the Council’s unified decision in selecting Ms. Wesley, highlighting her extensive experience and leadership qualities. The meeting concluded with an invitation to a reception at PAX Tavern, allowing attendees to celebrate Ms. Wesley’s appointment and welcome her to the role.

Importantly, this meeting signaled a fresh start for Asheville’s city management team. Residents can expect Ms. Wesley to prioritize addressing key challenges like affordable housing and infrastructure upgrades, with a focus on data-driven decision making and community engagement. Her commitment to collaborative partnerships suggests an open approach to problem-solving, potentially leading to more inclusive and effective solutions for the city’s ongoing issues. The focus on moving Asheville "from good to great" sets a positive tone for the future, and residents are encouraged to engage with Ms. Wesley and her team as they begin implementing their vision for the city.