Homelessness Up, Crime Down
The COVID era was a time of pivoting for agencies caring for the homeless. Despite millions in federal funding, with innovations in non congregate care, and growth in permanent supportive housing, the local homeless population increased 21% from January 2021 to January 2022.
D.A. Murray, Open Judge Seat Up for Election
Hayes-Hudson is for a new judgeship, while Mary Ann Hollocker again challenges the incumbent D.A.
Mike Edney, State House Seats 117, 113 On Ballot
Longtime commissioner Mike Edney is once again challenged, while the N.C. House District 117 seat is wide open.
Commissioners Puzzle Over Gov. Funds
The Buncombe County Commissioners flexed their powers to spend federal money on affordable housing and Pre-K, local taxpayer dollars on an aggressive bond program for affordable housing & green spaces, as well as tourists' dollars on basic government services.
LAF Highlights Asheville’s Candidates for Mayor
Leadership Asheville Forum held a forum to present the positions by the candidates of the ongoing race for the mayor of Asheville. Four of the five candidates introduced themselves and answered questions on their points of view.
Strong 2021 Spurs Airport Expansion
Lew Bleiweis, executive director of the Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority, presented the airport’s 2021 annual report with the Buncombe County Commissioners and reviewed future plans.
Town Losing Fire Chief, Firefighters, Again
Poor pay wages have forced a mass exodus of qualified and experienced firefighters out of the Weaverville Fire Department.
Council Adds to a Packed Budget
Possibly softened by recent windfalls like the sale of Mission Hospital, COVID relief funds, and the opioid settlement, the majority on Asheville City Council wanted to spend their final budget worksession of the year adding more expenses.
Asheville Adopts Legislative Agenda
Asheville City Council adopted a legislative agenda for the short session of the NC General Assembly. Items included a request for state and federal reparations and a quarter-cent municipal tax for transit.
Town Continues Unofficial Water Moratorium
The Town of Weaverville Council stops second development from advancing after no-action on a water requests. Also, opposition revealed for a traffic calming measure at Lake Louise.