Woodfin – The Woodfin Town Council convened recently to discuss several pressing issues, including community engagement, police department performance, and new development projects. The meeting featured interviews for advisory committee appointments and a detailed report from the police chief, shedding light on the town’s current challenges and future directions.
Prioritizing Community Engagement in Advisory Committees
The council began by adjusting the agenda to prioritize interviews for the Parks and Greenway Advisory Committee (PGAC) and the Planning Board of Adjustment. Adam Smith, a candidate for the PGAC, expressed his commitment to enhancing recreational opportunities in Woodfin. “I want to give back to the community through my experience and passion for recreation, specifically in our area,” he stated, drawing on his background in Asheville and professional experiences in Colorado and California.
Councilman Hazel Thornton probed further into Adam’s qualifications, asking how his experience could benefit the committee. Adam responded, “I think cleaning that area up and then looking ahead to the future, how can we rebuild and revegetate that area in a more resilient way to potential storms?” His focus on environmental resilience highlighted a proactive approach to community challenges.
Following Adam’s interview, Melissa Drennan also presented her qualifications, emphasizing her long-standing connection to Woodfin and her passion for promoting green spaces. Ken Khan inquired about her specific experiences that would benefit the committee. Melissa shared her involvement with community garden initiatives, reinforcing the importance of local engagement in enhancing public spaces.
The council ultimately decided to appoint all three candidates, recognizing their diverse experiences and commitment to community service. This decision reflects a broader goal of fostering collaboration between residents and local government.
Police Department Annual Report Highlights Challenges and Achievements
The meeting continued with Police Chief Jacqui Boykin presenting the annual report for the Woodfin Police Department. The report revealed key statistics, including a 22% increase in calls for service compared to previous years. “Your 20-man police department did it with just two-thirds of their staff because they carried about six vacancies for the whole second half of the year,” Chief Boykin noted, emphasizing the department’s resilience amid staffing shortages.
Despite these challenges, the crime rate remains lower than state averages, showcasing effective policing strategies. Chief Boykin stated, “I think it’s really important for officers to be out and engaged in the community. Proactive work needs to be taking place in between the calls for service.” This commitment to community engagement is crucial for building trust and improving public safety.
The chief also addressed the impact of Hurricane Helene on police activity, noting that increased calls for welfare checks were a direct result of the storm’s aftermath. “The increase in 2024 has a lot to do with Helene; some of it certainly more welfare checks and security checks as a result of the storm,” he explained. This acknowledgment highlights the dynamic nature of law enforcement work and the need for adaptability in response strategies.
Council members raised concerns about ongoing staffing shortages affecting response times and community engagement efforts. Chief Boykin reassured them that recruitment efforts are underway to address these vacancies. “I think it’s important for me to get to know this community… I’ll spend time riding with Patrol and such,” he added, demonstrating his commitment to understanding local dynamics better.
The council concluded this segment by discussing strategies for enhancing community outreach and support for local law enforcement initiatives. The importance of maintaining strong relationships between officers and residents was emphasized as a key component of effective policing.
New Development Projects Approved
In addition to community engagement and police reports, the council reviewed a major subdivision application for a 19-lot development aimed at providing affordable housing options. The planning staff presented details about the proposed layout and compliance with zoning regulations. After thorough discussion, the council voted unanimously to approve the application, recognizing its alignment with community goals.
Concerns about potential traffic impacts from increased area density were raised, with questions regarding whether the existing infrastructure could support new development. However, council members praised the developer for engaging with neighbors during the planning process, which helped alleviate some worries. They reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and ensuring new developments align with community values.
This decision is a significant step toward addressing housing needs while preserving Woodfin’s character. The meeting ended with council members thanking the public for their participation and collaboration, emphasizing their dedication to community needs and local governance. Looking ahead, the council will address staffing issues at their next meeting on March 15th and prepare for a community cleanup event to encourage resident involvement in maintaining the town.
In summary, this meeting highlighted key issues facing Woodfin, including community engagement through advisory committees, police department challenges, and new development projects aimed at addressing housing needs. As Councilman Philip Cohen aptly put it during discussions, “I think it’s important to evaluate data over time… I will never just look at last year and say we’re up just from last year.” This perspective underscores the importance of continuous improvement and accountability in local governance.