Swannanoa Small Area Plan Steering Committee Meeting

Swannanoa Small Area Plan Steering Committee Kicks Off Planning Process

On September 8, 2025, the Swannanoa Small Area Plan Steering Committee held its inaugural meeting to begin a vital planning process that will shape the future of the Swannanoa area for years to come. The meeting, attended by committee members, county staff (including Long Range Planning Division Manager Jillian Phillips and Assistant County Manager DK Wesley), and representatives from the Land of Sky Regional Council (consultants) and Mountain True, served as an introduction to the project and its goals. The ultimate aim is to develop a Small Area Plan that aligns with Buncombe County's broader planning efforts and addresses the unique needs of the Swannanoa community, particularly as it recovers from recent storm impacts like those caused by Hurricane Helene.

A significant portion of the discussion centered around defining the scope of the plan. Following a recent resident poll, the committee acknowledged Swannanoa Township as the primary focus area for initial data collection and planning efforts. The group then began preliminary discussions about creating a "policy map," which will delineate the specific geographic area where recommendations from the plan will apply. Committee members shared personal experiences and perspectives about living and working in Swannanoa, highlighting both challenges and opportunities within the community. Concerns were raised about specific areas like Lytle Cove and Riceville, emphasizing the need to consider their unique circumstances during the planning process.

The meeting also underscored the importance of community involvement throughout the entire planning journey. Committee members emphasized the need to incorporate input from various local groups, such as the Swannanoa Grassroots Alliance and Friends and Neighbors of Swannanoa. Discussions highlighted the need to consider resilience, hazard mitigation (particularly flood risk), and conservation efforts as integral components of the plan. Staff emphasized that data from various sources, including census information and Department of Transportation records, will be utilized to inform the planning process.

While no formal votes were taken during this kickoff meeting, several key action items emerged. Committee members are tasked with reviewing the "Steering Committee Handbook" and providing feedback on meeting etiquette and values. County staff will also share an interactive map link, allowing committee members to provide feedback and contribute to defining the policy map boundaries. The next meeting is scheduled for September 22nd, where the committee will review results from a recent "SWAT" poll and continue refining those boundaries.

This planning process is significant for Swannanoa residents because it offers a direct opportunity to shape the future of their community. The Small Area Plan will guide local government decisions related to land use, development, and resilience efforts, ensuring that the plan reflects the community's vision for a thriving and sustainable Swannanoa. As Jillian Phillips, Long Range Planning Division Manager, noted, the plan will be a crucial tool for guiding local government decisions and building community resilience. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in upcoming meetings and opportunities for public input as the planning process unfolds.