Planning, Economic Development and Environment Committee (Virtual) (Sep 16, 2025)

Recap of Planning, Economic Development and Environment Committee Meeting - September 16, 2025

The Planning, Economic Development and Environment (PEDE) Committee convened virtually on September 16, 2025, comprised of Council Members Ullman (Chair), Turner, and Roney. The meeting served as an informational session focused on the city's long-range vision, economic development initiatives, climate action efforts, and overall resilience. No formal votes or actions were taken during this meeting; rather, the focus was on receiving updates and presentations from various stakeholders.

A significant portion of the meeting centered around the Economic Development Coalition's (EDC) newly launched AVL 5x5 Strategic Plan. Clark Duncan from the EDC presented an overview, emphasizing the importance of collaborative partnerships to drive economic recovery and growth following a significant natural disaster. The plan outlines five key strategies, including building workforce capacity through an Innovation Hub, attracting diversified industry with a Resilience Showcase, evolving the entrepreneurial ecosystem via an Optimist Ventures Accelerator, expanding apprenticeship programs to address workforce needs, and leveraging data-driven decision making through a Business Feedback & Recovery Needs Survey. The EDC’s work has already facilitated $1.06 billion in new investment, resulting in 5,150 net new jobs and generating substantial tax revenue for the city, county, state, and federal government.

Urban Planner III Vaidila Satvika presented findings from the Patton Avenue Report, providing insights into ongoing planning efforts in that area. The committee also received updates on the city’s economic recovery, including a slight increase in unemployment (4.3% compared to 3.3% in July 2025), the approval of "Truck-It!! Food Truck Fridays," and progress on the Temporary Activation Program (TAP). Transportation updates included a completed GAP Plan report, operational status of the Downtown Business Improvement District (ADID), and ongoing design phases for various streetscape improvements. The committee also heard about the Harrah’s Cherokee Center's attendance trends and discussed challenges faced by the WNC Nature Center following storm closures.

The meeting highlighted a commitment to fostering a robust startup ecosystem, with discussions revolving around the Optimist Ventures Accelerator and its model of venture philanthropy. The importance of regional collaboration, particularly through organizations like the Carolina West Economic Development Partnership, was also emphasized. Future topics under consideration for committee discussion include data reports, neighborhood plan implementation, streetscape enhancements, small business support programs, resilience hubs, long-term recovery plans, arts and entertainment sector initiatives, and workforce development.

The next steps for the city include consideration of the Downtown Activation Package (including a social district pilot and noise ordinance adjustments) on October 14th, followed by consideration of the N. Lexington Sidewalk Restoration design contract. The College/Patton Improvements construction contract is slated for consideration on November 18th. Overall, the meeting conveyed a sense of optimism and a commitment to collaborative efforts aimed at building a resilient and thriving economy for Asheville and Buncombe County.