Last updated or reviewed on October 4, 2023
In January 2016, Asheville City Council created a 20-year vision for the city. This Council vision reflects Asheville’s unique character and the aspirations for the community. While recognizing that portions of the vision are not in direct control of local government and resources may be constrained, Council plans to use the vision as a guide when developing policies and priorities.
View Annual Council Priorities
Asheville continues to be a leader in innovative technologies and conservation efforts in response to global climate change. The City is powered by locally-generated, clean sources of energy, and air quality problems have disappeared. Views of surrounding mountains have regained clarity unknown since the late 1800s. Clean energy is not the only priority when preserving our high quality of life. Recognized as a Tree City USA for decades, streets, greenways, and parks embody an urban forest. Emphasis on local resilience spurs the use of municipal land for gardening, farming, and urban orchards.
Known as a food destination city, most restaurants serve locally grown foods. Thanks to an extremely high-quality water source nestled in the gentle folds of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville continues to attract companies that depend on clean water – from breweries to high tech start-ups to restaurants and food manufacturers. Our modern transportation system has increased options that reduce carbon emissions. Successful waste, recycling, and curbside composting programs have greatly reduced the city’s landfill needs.
We pride ourselves on building and growing partnerships – with regional and state governments, nonprofits, the private sector, and neighborhood associations to name a few – to achieve our vision. If you live, work, or play here, you want to be involved and you have a voice. When you join a citizen board or commission, the City provides training and support. Diverse interest groups work together to tackle problems, and neighborhood engagement enables residents to express thoughts, visions, and concrete plans that build a collective and harmonious community. City leaders, officials, and staff members are trusted. City government is transparent, and we use the latest technologies and methods to communicate with, engage, and empower community participants. When you live in Asheville, you belong and are valued.
Tropical Storm Helene Recovery Resources