Planning, Economic Development and Environment Committee (Virtual) (May 20, 2025)
May 20, 2025 at 1:00 PM
Event Recap
Planning, Economic Development & Environment Committee Meeting Recap: Charting a Course for Asheville's Future (May 20, 2025)
On May 20th, the Planning, Economic Development & Environment (PEDE) Committee held a virtual meeting to kick off its work following a period of transition and in the wake of recent recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene. This meeting served as an important foundation for how the committee will guide Asheville's growth, resilience, and sustainability in the years to come. Here’s a breakdown of what was discussed and decided:
Laying the Groundwork: Scope, Priorities & Processes
The meeting centered on defining the committee's role and ensuring it aligns with City Council’s priorities. Assistant City Manager Ben Woody presented an overview of the committee's four core areas: People, Housing, Infrastructure, and Economy. A key discussion revolved around prioritizing these goals within the context of ongoing recovery efforts. Committee members emphasized a need for clear priorities, particularly regarding policy development and budget decisions – ensuring the committee’s actions directly support Council's vision. A draft scope for the committee was presented, outlining key areas like land use, transportation policy, economic development (focused on recovery), and environmental sustainability. While no formal votes were taken at this stage, the discussions highlighted a commitment to clarity and ensuring adequate staff support. The committee also discussed streamlining the process for adding agenda items, aiming to improve communication and ensure open meetings compliance.
Community Voices Heard: Climate Action & Equitable Development
The public comment period provided a valuable opportunity for residents to share their perspectives. Two members of the Sunrise Movement spoke passionately, advocating for bold climate action, equitable economic development, and robust community engagement. Their comments underscored a desire to see the city aggressively pursue renewable energy goals, diversify its economy beyond tourism, and prioritize living wages for all residents. These points resonated with the committee members, highlighting a shared commitment to creating a more just and sustainable Asheville.
What's Next: Prioritization, Work Plans & Alignment
The meeting concluded with a clear outline of upcoming action items and future engagements. The PEDE Committee will participate in a facilitated discussion on June 10th, led by Found Works, to prioritize Council goals and align them with the city's recovery efforts. Following this, on June 17th, they will further develop a work plan for the upcoming fiscal year. Importantly, the committee also committed to exploring ways to better synchronize their work plans with advisory boards and community partners. Staff will also provide a legal review of the committee’s operations, ensuring compliance with open meetings policies. Finally, they will revisit a micro mobility policy recommendation on June 17th.
Why This Matters to You:
The PEDE Committee plays a vital role in shaping the future of Asheville. This meeting marked an important step towards establishing clear priorities and processes that will guide decisions related to our city's economy, environment, housing, and overall quality of life. The committee’s focus on recovery efforts, coupled with a commitment to community engagement and sustainable practices, promises a more resilient and equitable Asheville for all residents. Keep an eye out for updates on the June 10th prioritization discussion and the development of the FY26 work plan – your voice matters in shaping these important decisions!
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