LIVE @ City of Asheville Led Community Meeting at Trinity United Methodist Church 08/09/19

Community Voices Heard at 610 Haywood Neighborhood Meeting: A Recap

On August 9, 2019, the City of Asheville facilitated a community meeting at Trinity United Methodist Church to discuss issues surrounding 610 Haywood Street and the broader neighborhood. Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes were dedicated to open discussion, followed by informal conversation, with the goal of fostering understanding and connection within the community. The meeting, facilitated by the Mediation Center, provided a platform for residents, organizations, and city officials to share their perspectives on challenges and opportunities within the area.

The meeting centered around a range of concerns, with needle litter and public safety emerging as the most prominent. Residents voiced anxieties about discarded needles, public urination, and a general lack of safety within the neighborhood. Alongside these concerns, strong support was expressed for organizations like Kairos West, 12 Baskets Cafe, Firestorm, and Steady Collective, which provide vital services to vulnerable populations including those struggling with addiction and homelessness. A recurring theme throughout the discussion was a desire for a safe, inclusive community where everyone feels valued and respected. While some residents expressed frustration with the city's response to these issues, particularly regarding zoning and regulations, there was a shared commitment to addressing the root causes of challenges rather than simply focusing on symptoms. Notably, one resident suggested a more radical approach, including questioning the city’s zoning policies and even referencing “white flight,” which sparked considerable debate.

While no formal votes or decisions were made during the meeting, a significant portion was dedicated to gathering community input. Residents actively participated by sharing their experiences and concerns, both through verbal comments and written feedback displayed throughout the room. Several key organizations presented their work: Kairos West & 12 Baskets Cafe highlighted their role as community hubs, Firestorm and Steady Collective addressed challenges related to harm reduction and syringe access programs, and the City of Asheville emphasized its commitment to community dialogue. The Asheville Poverty Initiative also shared their work through 12 Baskets Cafe, emphasizing its role in fostering connection and breaking down social barriers.

Following the open discussion, several action items were identified as next steps. Residents are encouraged to continue sharing their thoughts and suggestions, and a system was established for individuals seeking further engagement with organizations or city officials through follow-up forms. The meeting concluded with a clear call for continued dialogue and collaboration within the community, emphasizing that this event was just a starting point. The city is expected to address zoning issues and explore options for supporting harm reduction programs, including syringe disposal. Residents were also encouraged to participate in neighborhood clean-up efforts and support organizations like Steady Collective.

This meeting is significant for residents because it provided a crucial opportunity to voice concerns directly to city officials and organizations working in the area. The discussions highlighted a shared desire for a safer, more inclusive neighborhood where vulnerable populations receive necessary support and community members feel heard. The outcome emphasizes the importance of ongoing communication, collaborative problem-solving, and holding city officials accountable for addressing the concerns raised. Residents can expect to see continued dialogue and action as the community works together toward a shared vision for 610 Haywood and its surrounding neighborhood.