Special Meeting: Community Reparations Commission (Virtual) (Aug 18, 2025)

Community Reparations Commission Concludes Historic Work, Presents Findings to City and County

This recap summarizes the final meeting of the Community Reparations Commission (CRC), held virtually on August 18, 2025. The CRC was established to address historical harms and explore potential reparations within Asheville and Buncombe County, marking a significant step in the community's ongoing dialogue about equity and justice. This meeting served as a culmination of their efforts, focusing on finalizing key processes and preparing to present their findings to both City Council and County Commissioners.

The meeting began with the approval of minutes from a previous session, followed by a thorough review of the CRC’s final report. Commissioners emphasized the importance of ensuring all voices and perspectives were accurately represented within the document, recognizing the individual contributions of each member. A significant portion of the discussion centered on crafting a concise and impactful presentation for City Council and County Commissioners, aiming to deliver key recommendations within a 10-minute timeframe. This presentation will be spearheaded by Dawana and Bobette, who were tasked with incorporating feedback from the meeting to ensure clarity and effectiveness.

Beyond the final report, commissioners also discussed ongoing efforts to establish a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Dawana will be reaching out to commission members to gauge interest in serving on the initial board, a crucial step toward securing funding and facilitating future community engagement. The discussion highlighted the need for finalized bylaws to support fundraising initiatives, underscoring a commitment to sustaining this important work beyond the CRC's formal dissolution. The complexities of securing funding through Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and Qualifications (RFQs) were also addressed, with City Attorney Brad Branham clarifying the legal requirements for utilizing public funds.

The CRC formally concluded its work with a unanimous vote, marking the end of this chapter in Asheville and Buncombe County’s journey towards reconciliation. Commissioners expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to participate in this historic effort, acknowledging the dedication and collaboration that defined their work. Recognizing the significance of their contributions, discussions were initiated regarding a potential commemoration, such as a plaque or other recognition, to honor the CRC's legacy.

What’s Next for Residents?

The next crucial step involves the presentation of the CRC's final report and recommendations to City Council and County Commissioners. Residents can anticipate these bodies reviewing the findings and considering potential implementation strategies based on the CRC’s work. The establishment of a 501c3 nonprofit will also be vital for ongoing community engagement and potential future initiatives. The CRC’s efforts represent a significant commitment to addressing historical harms, and residents should stay informed as City Council and County Commissioners consider how best to respond to the commission's findings.

Key Decisions & Actions:

• The final report was accepted, pending minor adjustments.
• A motion to formally conclude the CRC’s work passed unanimously.
• Dawana and Bobette will finalize the presentation for City Council and County Commissioners.
• Dawana will solicit interest from commission members to serve on the 501c3 board.
• City Council and County Commissioners will review and consider the CRC’s final report and recommendations.