Asheville Prepares for City Council Elections: What You Need to Know
Hey there, Asheville! As we settle into the crisp air of fall, we can’t help but notice that the upcoming November elections are just around the corner. It’s an exciting time for our mountain town as we gear up to elect new members to the Asheville City Council. With a blend of fresh faces and familiar names, it’s important to get the scoop on who’s running and what they stand for, especially since a few council members are wrapping up their terms.
A Quick Overview of the City Council
The Asheville City Council plays a crucial role in shaping our city, consisting of seven seats in total. One of these is reserved for our mayor, and the remaining six positions are filled by council members elected to staggered four-year terms. This year, there are three council seats up for grabs, with six candidates vying for election. The candidates will join the current council members including Mayor Esther Manheimer, Antanette Mosley, Sheneika Smith, and Maggie Ullman.
As we look ahead, it’s worth noting that Sandra Kilgore has decided not to pursue reelection, opening up one of those coveted seats. Let’s dive into who the candidates are and what issues matter most to them!
Meet the Candidates
Domingo, a vault operations supervisor at Loomis Securitas, is focused on pressing matters like infrastructure and public safety. He’s all about ensuring that our fire, police, and medical services are up to par. Domingo believes that transparency and accountability are vital to the city’s leadership and wants to create more job opportunities for local residents.
Next up is Frazier, who serves as the Executive Director for WCU’s Programs in Asheville at Biltmore Park. He’s not just about education; Frazier is passionate about responsive leadership and creating a reasonable cost of living for residents. He’s also a founder of Asheville by Foot and the Well Played Board Game Cafe, showcasing his commitment to community engagement and environmental issues.
Hess, a clinical social worker and adjunct professor at WCU, is running with a strong focus on economic security and mental health. With a background in addiction care, Hess emphasizes that infrastructure improvements, environmental stewardship, and strategies to tackle crime and safety are crucial for our city’s future.
On the legal front, we have Leaven, a founding partner at Leaven Law Firm. His priorities include enhancing public safety, making housing affordable, and ensuring our city parks are well-preserved. Furthermore, he’s keen on improving public transportation and ensuring employees receive a living wage.
Then there’s Kim Roney, a small business owner and community radio producer who has been on the council since 2020. Roney is focused on making Asheville affordable, tackling issues around housing and commuting, while also prioritizing public safety and climate resilience. It’s clear she cares deeply about the community she serves.
Finally, we have Sage Turner, who also has council experience dating back to 2020. As a finance and project manager, her agenda includes boosting community safety and ensuring that the basic services and infrastructure our residents rely on are well taken care of.
What’s Next?
So, as the election approaches, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on what matters most to you and how these candidates align with your vision for Asheville. Whether it’s improving infrastructure, enhancing public safety, or making sustainable choices for our environment, every voice matters.
Make sure to stay informed, get out to the polls, and participate in shaping the future of our beautiful city. Here’s to a thrilling election season and getting to know more about the candidates who want to represent us!
