Housing and Community Development Committee (Virtual) (Jun 17, 2025)

Housing & Community Development Committee Meeting Recap: June 17, 2025

On June 17th, the City of Asheville’s Housing & Community Development (HCD) Committee met virtually to discuss critical initiatives aimed at addressing housing challenges and strengthening our community. Here's a breakdown of what happened, why it matters, and what’s next:

Big Decisions & Approvals:

The committee made several significant decisions that will impact Asheville residents:

• Supporting Affordable Housing at 319 Biltmore: The committee unanimously recommended that City Council approve a plan to develop 221 affordable apartments at the 319 Biltmore site (located at 3 & 4 John Walker Blvd.). A significant portion of these units (73%) will be designated as affordable, providing much-needed housing options for low-to-moderate income families.
• Investing in Permanently Affordable Homes: The committee voted to recommend funding for the Asheville-Buncombe Community Land Trust (ABCLT) to purchase and rehabilitate two homes in historic neighborhoods. This will ensure these properties remain affordable for generations to come, preventing displacement and preserving community character.
• Approving CDBG Funding Recommendations: The committee approved recommendations for allocating Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. These grants will support a variety of programs, including domestic violence intervention, financial literacy training, and assistance for small businesses.

What Was Discussed:

The meeting covered a range of important topics, including:

• Future Housing Funding Landscape: Committee members discussed the evolving funding landscape for affordable housing, recognizing that the city will likely play a larger role in providing subsidies and support due to changes at the county level.
• Prioritizing Community Needs: Discussions centered on ensuring that CDBG funding is used effectively and strategically to address the most pressing community needs.
• Community Land Trusts: The committee heard a presentation on how Community Land Trusts (CLTs) work and their role in creating permanently affordable housing, demonstrating strong support for this innovative approach.

What Did Residents Have to Say?

The meeting included an opportunity for public comment. A representative from Upwards, a local organization supporting childcare providers, urged the committee to consider funding their "Boost" program through CDBG funds. They argued that supporting childcare is an economic development strategy, creating jobs and enabling parents to work.

What Happens Next?

• City Council Review: The recommendations from the HCD Committee will now be presented to Asheville City Council for final approval.
• Continued Collaboration: Staff will continue working closely with Laurel Street Residential and the ABCLT to finalize agreements and move these projects forward.
• Consolidated Plan & Annual Action Plan: The City Council will also be reviewing and approving the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan, a five-year roadmap for how the city will use federal housing funds.

Why This Matters to You:

These decisions represent a significant step forward in addressing Asheville’s housing challenges. By investing in affordable housing, supporting community-led initiatives like CLTs, and strategically allocating CDBG funds, the city is working to ensure that Asheville remains a vibrant and inclusive place for all residents. The focus on preserving existing affordable housing is particularly important as rising costs put a strain on many families.

Stay Informed:

• Visit the City of Asheville’s website for more information on the HCD Committee and its initiatives: https://www.ashevillenc.gov/departments/housing-and-community-development