Whitesides: Reparations Committee Insults My Ancestors
When Buncombe County's Assistant Manager DK Wesley told the commissioners the Community Reparations Commission wanted to extend its life anywhere from eight months to two years, Al Whitesides said he had watched their meetings inasmuch he could tolerate them, and it was time to hand their responsibilities off to more capable hands.
Weaverville Annexes Developments Containing 700+ Housing Units
More than 700 new dwellings were approved for annexation and zoning in several developments at this month's Weaverville Town Council meeting.
Do Prices Justify Training a New Hauler?
Citing inflationary forces, Waste Pro has asked the Buncome County Commissioners to accept a change in their contract to allow incremental rate increases. The commissioners responded with a vote to open a request for proposals for upset bids. Waste Pro's representative, Chip Gingles, however, remains confident that the county will not find another hauler that knows the county and can provide the level of customization that Waste Pro can.
Town Says Goodbye To Three Council Members
For three members, Tuesday's council meeting was their last, as new members will be sworn in at the first of the December meeting
Energy Community Status Sways Council
Another multifamily residential development for Long Shoals Road came before Asheville City Council. Unable to promise members of council their eleventh-hour requests for solar panels, bike infrastructure, subsidized units, density, tree canopy, and more, the developer agreed to continuing the hearing until December 12.
Tourists to Fund Housing?
The City of Asheville cannot apply for Tourist Development Authority funds for the construction of affordable housing this year because it has no shovel-ready projects. Buncombe County, however, has requested $6 million from tourist tax revenues to help build the $210 million, 645-unit development planned for Ferry Road. Councilwoman Sage Turner was vehement. She wanted affordable housing to be a part of every TDA grant request moving forward.
From Dysfunction to Productivity: How Tod Leaven’s Approach Can Transform City Council
Tod Leaven, a centrist candidate for Asheville City Council, aims to foster unity, prioritize community needs, and provide support to those facing adversity while emphasizing the importance of essential city services and promoting inclusivity.
County Attacks APD for Arresting Street People
In a discussion about reducing the jail population, the Buncombe County Commissioners took shots at the Asheville Police Department for arresting low-level offenders among the homeless crowds.
City Council Spends-Yet Infrastructure Fails
Asheville City Council approves nearly $200 million in spending for neglected infrastructure and facilities repairs and improvements that should be self-supporting. This spending is far outside of the budget and will cost taxpayers.
Fire Risks in Buncombe
A state of emergency was declared for Buncombe County and the rest of Western North Carolina as conditions were ripe for wildfires as bad as the one that overtook Party Rock in 2016.