# City Council Meeting (May 27, 2025) **Body:** City of Asheville — City Council **Date:** May 27, 2025 5:00 PM EDT (2025-05-27T17:00:00-04:00) **Link:** https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831 ## Summary The City Council held a busy meeting on May 27th, tackling key decisions that will shape Asheville's future. Here’s a breakdown of what happened and why it matters to you: **1. The Big Picture: Approving the FY 2025-26 Budget** The biggest news of the day was the Council's approval of the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26. This means a **3.26 cent increase in your property taxes**. While that might sound like a lot, the Council explained it's necessary to address rising costs and ensure our city services remain strong. This increase will primarily fund compensation adjustments for city employees, particularly first responders (police and fire), recognizing their dedication and ensuring fair pay. The budget also includes funds for recovery efforts related to Tropical Storm Helene, demonstrating the city's commitment to rebuilding and resilience. **2. What Else Was Decided? Key Decisions Made:** Beyond the budget, Council approved several other important items: * **McCormick Field Upgrades:** Funding for significant improvements to McCormick Field, our local baseball stadium, was secured. These upgrades will bring the facility up to modern MLB standards and enhance the fan experience. * **Affordable Housing Boost:** An additional \$607,000 was approved to support the Fairhaven Summit affordable housing development. This project will provide much-needed homes for families across a range of income levels, addressing the critical need for affordable housing in Asheville. * **Parking Garage Improvements:** Council approved a contract to repair and restore the Wall Street and Rankin Avenue parking garages, ensuring these vital transportation hubs remain safe and functional. * **Emergency Response Contracts:** Several contracts were approved to support emergency response efforts, including repairs to the water treatment plant following Hurricane Helene. **3. Lively Discussions: What Were People Talking About?** * **I-26 Connector Design:** Council members engaged in a discussion about the I-26 connector project, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and exploring cost-effective design options. They are urging NCDOT to reconsider certain aspects of the current plan and prioritize community input. * **Fairhaven Summit Funding:** There was a brief discussion about the Fairhaven Summit project, ensuring that it aligns with the city's goals for affordable housing and community development. * **Fire Department Shift Structure:** The budget includes funding to establish a supervisory structure within the Asheville Fire Department's 4th shift. Future council discussions will determine the pace of implementation based on available resources. **4. Voices from the Community: Public Input & Citizen Participation** The public hearing on the budget provided an opportunity for residents to share their thoughts and concerns. While specific comments aren't detailed in the available documents, it’s clear that citizen engagement is valued and considered as part of the decision-making process. **5. What Happens Next? Action Items & Impact on You:** * **Final Budget Adoption:** The City Council will formally adopt the FY 2025-26 budget on June 10th. * **McCormick Field Construction:** Work will begin at McCormick Field to bring it up to modern standards. * **Fairhaven Summit Development:** Construction of the affordable housing development will continue, providing much-needed homes for families. * **Parking Garage Repairs:** Work on the Wall Street and Rankin Avenue parking garages will commence, improving their functionality and safety. * **Continued I-26 Connector Discussions:** The Council will continue to engage with NCDOT regarding the design and implementation of the I-26 connector, ensuring community voices are heard. **Why This Matters to You:** These decisions will directly impact your daily life in Asheville. The budget ensures our city services remain strong, the McCormick Field upgrades will enhance recreational opportunities, and the affordable housing development addresses a critical need in our community. By staying informed about these decisions, you can better understand how your city government is working to build a vibrant and thriving Asheville for all. For more detailed information, you can review the meeting agenda and documents at [https://www.ashevillenc.gov/government/city-council-meeting-materials/](https://www.ashevillenc.gov/government/city-council-meeting-materials/). ## Agenda - [Resolution ratifying an emergency contract with Herc Rentals, Inc. for the Mills River Water Treatment Plant Emergency Response for Tropical Storm Helene.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8861) - [Technical budget amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024-25 General Fund budget in the amount of $42 million to account for the refunding of debt.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8862) - [Resolution approving the documentation and authorizing officers of the City to pursue on behalf of the City debt financing associated with the issuance of the up to $35 million 2025 Limited Obligation Bonds (LOBs) for McCormick Field improvements.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8863) - [Resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a new one-year contract for bond counsel legal services with Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein, LLP with two one-year renewal options.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8864) - [Resolution amending the North Carolina Cashflow Loan Agreement and Promissory Note; and authorizing the City Manager to execute the associated documents.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8865) - [Resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with The FMRT Group, LLC for continuing Before-Hire and After-Hire Psychological and Medical Support Services for the Asheville Police Department.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8866) - [Resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with Zips Car Wash, LLC for continuing Vehicle Automated Washing Services for the Asheville Police Department.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8867) - [Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease agreement with Art Garden AVL LLC to lease a portion of 43 Wall Street to use as an art studio and gallery space.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8868) - [Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with Clark Nexsen for the Malvern Hills Park Improvements Project.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8869) - [Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with Smart Builders Construction, LLC. for the Weaver Park Improvements (lower side) Project.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8870) - [Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with HBA Worldwide LLC d/b/a GenX Security Systems for the project known as Debris Site Solar Security Trailers.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8871) - [Resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with Exterior Diagnostic Services, LLC, for the Parking Garage Capital Improvements Fiscal Year 2025 Project; and further authorizing the City Manager to execute any change orders that may arise during the project up to the contingency amount.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8872) - [Resolution approving ABC Board request to exclude proceeds of sale of property from income, and to use said proceeds for planned improvements.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8873) - [Motion amending the 2025 City Council meeting schedule to (1) include a Policy, Finance & Infrastructure (PFI) Worksession, every other 4th Tuesday beginning in June, (except no meetings on June 24, 2025, and December 23, 2025) at 3:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, located on the 2 nd Floor of City Hall.; (2) include a special meeting of the PFI on June 10, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, located on the 2nd Floor of City Hall.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8874) - [Manager's Report - Program Recognition Heard Report](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8875) - [Letter to the N.C. Dept. of Transportation regarding I-26 Connector Project Discussed](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8876) - [Public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget. Hearing](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8877) - [Public hearing to consider a rezoning request for property located at 46 Green Hill Ave from Commercial Industrial District and RS-8 Residential Single-Family High Density to RS-8 Residential Single-Family High Density.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8878) - [Resolution approving a request by Commonwealth Development for an additional $607,000 in Housing Trust Fund loan funds with 2% interest, deferred payments for a period of 20 years, for the purpose of developing affordable housing at Fairhaven Summit at 1 Waymon Blvd. (3124/3130 Sweeten Creek Road).](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831/item/8879) ## Votes - Resolution approving the documentation and authorizing officers of the City to pursue on behalf of the City debt financing associated with the issuance of the up to $35 million 2025 Limited Obligation Bonds (LOBs) for McCormick Field improvements. — Passed, 7-0 - Resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a new one-year contract for bond counsel legal services with Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein, LLP with two one-year renewal options. — Passed, 7-0 - Resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with The FMRT Group, LLC for continuing Before-Hire and After-Hire Psychological and Medical Support Services for the Asheville Police Department. — Passed, 7-0 - Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease agreement with Art Garden AVL LLC to lease a portion of 43 Wall Street to use as an art studio and gallery space. — Passed, 7-0 - Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with Clark Nexsen for the Malvern Hills Park Improvements Project. — Passed, 7-0 - Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with HBA Worldwide LLC d/b/a GenX Security Systems for the project known as Debris Site Solar Security Trailers. — Passed, 7-0 - Resolution approving ABC Board request to exclude proceeds of sale of property from income, and to use said proceeds for planned improvements. — Passed, 7-0 - Motion amending the 2025 City Council meeting schedule to (1) include a Policy, Finance & Infrastructure (PFI) Worksession, every other 4th Tuesday beginning in June, (except no meetings on June 24, 2025, and December 23, 2025) at 3:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, located on the 2 nd Floor of City Hall.; (2) include a special meeting of the PFI on June 10, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, located on the 2nd Floor of City Hall. — Passed, 7-0 - Resolution approving a request by Commonwealth Development for an additional $607,000 in Housing Trust Fund loan funds with 2% interest, deferred payments for a period of 20 years, for the purpose of developing affordable housing at Fairhaven Summit at 1 Waymon Blvd. (3124/3130 Sweeten Creek Road). — Passed, 7-0 - Resolution ratifying an emergency contract with Herc Rentals, Inc. for the Mills River Water Treatment Plant Emergency Response for Tropical Storm Helene. — Passed, 7-0 - Technical budget amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024-25 General Fund budget in the amount of $42 million to account for the refunding of debt. — Passed, 7-0 - Resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with Zips Car Wash, LLC for continuing Vehicle Automated Washing Services for the Asheville Police Department. — Passed, 7-0 - Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with Smart Builders Construction, LLC. for the Weaver Park Improvements (lower side) Project. — Passed, 7-0 - Resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with Exterior Diagnostic Services, LLC, for the Parking Garage Capital Improvements Fiscal Year 2025 Project; and further authorizing the City Manager to execute any change orders that may arise during the project up to the contingency amount. — Passed, 7-0 - Resolution amending the North Carolina Cashflow Loan Agreement and Promissory Note; and authorizing the City Manager to execute the associated documents. — Passed, 7-0 ## Video & Transcript - Recording: https://www.youtube.com/live/r_sQ0JXpYyA?si=3mQEp95-5OkItDLI - Transcript: https://sunshinemeetings.org/transcript/650/segments - Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8t8xfvMYQA - Transcript: https://sunshinemeetings.org/transcript/396/segments ## Documents - [Consent K - Weaver Park Impvts.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1956) - [Consent C -Technical Amendment LOBs debt refunding.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1967) - [Consent I -43 Wall St Art Garden Lease.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1946) - [Consent N - ABC Proceeds.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1952) - [agenda_2025-05-27.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1903) - [Consent D - McCormick LOBs approving resolution.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1965) - [New A -Fairhaven Summit- HTF Request.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1954) - [Memo - Follow-Up.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1918) - [Public Hearing B - 46 Green Hill Ave.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1931) - [Consent M - Parking Garage Cap Impvts.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1948) - [Consent L - Debris Site Solar Security Trailers (1).pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1950) - [minutes_2025-05-27.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1908) - [Consent J - Malvern Hills Park Impvts.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1958) - [Agenda - Spanish.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1941) - [Consent E - Bond Counsel Legal Services Contract.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1964) - [Consent B - Mills River WTP Emergency Contract .pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1966) - [Presentations B - Letter to NCDOT re I-26 Connector.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1943) - [Agenda.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1944) - [Consent H - APD Vehicle Car Wash.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1960) - [Public Hearing B - Presentation - Rezoning 46 Green Hill Ave.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1935) - [Public Hearing A - Presentation - Budget.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1937) - [New A - Presentation - Fairhaven Summit .pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1939) - [Public Hearing A - Budget Public Hearing (3).pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1968) - [Consent F - Helene Cash Flow Loan Amendment.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1963) - [Consent G - APD Psychological and Medical Support.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1962) - [Presentations A - Manager's Report - Program Recognition.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1928) - [Consent A - Minutes.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/831?document=1969) ## Sources - [City of Asheville WordPress](https://www.ashevillenc.gov/government/meetings/city-council-meeting-may-27-2025-2/) - [Agenda Briefing](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1oL-aPTnHCoUfLBqun4VXl7DY66W9D7zT?usp=drive_link) - [Resolutions](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wN3lWeRQaGxF_ej2Ml8FnQh4nvYPLo4P/view?usp=drive_link) - [Ordinances](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GNTFVrBDBccmkq00gpW3fllxf2PWsTIT/view?usp=drive_link) - [Public Input](https://publicinput.com/g1267) - [City Council agenda page](https://www.ashevillenc.gov/government/city-council-agenda/)