Reparations Commission Completes Voting, Recommends 38 Policies
Asheville and Buncombe’s Community Reparations Commission has completed its recommendations, passing 38 suggested policies and programs. After more than two years of research, reckoning, debate and dialogue, the Asheville and Buncombe Community Reparations Commission held its final vote, approving the last of its 38 policy recommendations for local government to address some of the systemic wrongs created by racism.
The Recommendations
The 25-member group finalized plans for a range of proposals including monetary reparations for urban renewal harm, a Black-led economic development center, and universal early childhood education for Black children.
Monetary Reparations for Urban Renewal Harm
At the June 17 meeting, members approved a proposal that would pay settlements of $148,000 to families and businesses negatively impacted by urban renewal. The money seeks to address the downturn that once-thriving Black neighborhoods – StumpTown, East-End, Hill Street, and Southside – experienced as a result of the City of Asheville’s urban renewal policies in the late 1960s and 1970s which changed the housing code and, in some cases, seized and demolished property from Black owners.
Other Approved Recommendations
Eight other recommendations were approved at the June 17 meeting, including multi-year funding and business grants for Black-owned businesses, establishment of an annual fund for no-cost health insurance or health care subsidies for community members, and a system of ongoing accountability to ensure support for Black-led businesses and organizations through economic development initiatives.
Legal Questions
Despite voting on the recommendations to move forward, several commission members raised concerns about the legal implications of the proposed policies. Asheville City Attorney Brad Branham cautioned that explicitly providing funding and programs for Black residents could raise legal issues. Commission members debated the need to ensure compliance with all statutes before finalizing the recommendations.
Timeline Extension
Commission members called for an extension to refine the language in the policies to ensure legal compliance. Officials from the city council and county commission will hear that request in mid-July. Last October, the commission asked for an extension through December 2024, but the city and county granted an extension only through June 30.
Conclusion
The completion of the recommendations by the Asheville and Buncombe Community Reparations Commission marks a significant step towards addressing systemic wrongs and supporting Black communities in the region. The approved policies aim to provide restitution for past injustices and promote economic development, health equity, and environmental justice for Black residents.
