Asheville City Council Deliberates on Key Issues in September Meeting

September 11, 2024, Asheville, NC – The Asheville City Council convened on September 10th, 2024 for its customary assembly under the leadership of Mayor Esther E. Manheimer. Several vital issues were addressed in a meeting that featured calculated deliberations amongst the council members.

Meeting Overview

Out of the council members, all were present at the meeting, except Councilwoman Sheneika Smith. The council heard updates on the Human Relations Department Organizational Assessment Report and the Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report. Alongside these, the council held a public hearing on the City’s debt associated with the refunding of the $42 million 2022 Limited Obligation Bonds. The council also unanimously agreed to continue the discussions on amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance to revise the cottage development and flag lot standards to February 11, 2025.

Riverside Drive Project

One of the most contentious topics on the council’s agenda was the proposed amendment to a conditional zoning of 179 and 144 Riverside Drive. The suggested changes to the project conditions and site plans would allow for the construction of 240 residential units, thus removing commercial uses from the project. Despite skepticism from council members Kim Roney and Maggie Ullman, who voted “no,” the motion was approved with a 4-2 vote.

Planning & Zoning Commission Appointments

Pertaining to appointments to the Planning & Zoning Commission, the council orchestrated the reappointment of Geoffrey Barton, and newcomers Jane Margaret Bell, and Anna Zuevskaya were confirmed to serve on the commission.

Accessing Further Information

As specified in a press release from the City of Asheville, for those interested in obtaining detailed information about the council’s meeting, it is advisable to either view the official video or read the minutes of the meeting.

Council’s Next Meeting

The details of the next council meeting and the matters to be deliberated are subject to announcement by the City Clerk’s Office in due course.

Inclusive debates and voting on significant issues reflecting Asheville’s priorities mark the meeting’s core themes. The proceedings provided citizens a glimpse of their elected representatives’ commitment to community engagement and transparency.

For any further inquiry or if any clarification is sought from the council’s proceedings, citizens are encouraged to reach out to the City Clerk’s Office.

Noteworthy Decisions

The council’s decisions, especially about Riverside Drive’s developmental project and the appointments to the Planning & Zoning Commission, display their unwavering focus on Asheville’s growth.

Conclusion

As the city council continues to make decisions that shape Asheville’s future, the citizens are encouraged to participate actively in their governance process. The collective community efforts, coupled with the council’s commitment, can help berealize the vision for a more harmonious and prosperous city.

Note: This report does not provide action on ceremonial or non-substantive matters. Authority to carry out actions related to any council decision should be obtained through the usual departmental procedure.