Thriving Local Economy Archives - The City of Asheville

Thriving Local Economy

A Council Vision Focus Area

Asheville is unique in its locally-focused economy. Our local businesses are vibrant and, no matter where you are in the city, you see a diversity of customers, employees, and business owners. Our historic buildings are home to funky, eclectic businesses that reflect the character of the city, and a creative economy of artists, makers, and innovators is thriving. As an employer, the City values its workers by paying living wages and offering benefits that ensure both security and opportunity. Businesses of all types that share those values locate, start, and grow in Asheville, offering a wide range of career opportunities and economic mobility. Plentiful educational options, workforce development, access to capital, economic incentives, and a culture that values homegrown businesses make our economy strong. Our public and private partners have demonstrated a unity of purpose. If you do your part, you will find opportunity for success.

Note: Asheville operates on a fiscal year (FY) basis that runs from July 1 through June 30, with the fiscal year designated by the year in which it ends. For example, FY24 begins on July 1, 2023 and ends on June 30, 2024.

Work Supporting Thriving Local Economy

FY24

(July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024)

Contracting Disparity Study (Complete)(Began in FY23, Completed in FY24) Complete a full analysis of the availability and the City’s utilization of minority and women-owned businesses to assess our progress reducing disparities and provide direction on what can be done going forward.
Outdoor Dining Program Updates (In Progress)(Began in FY23, due to complete in FY24) Update the City’s outdoor dining program (as applied to public streets and sidewalks) including revised standards, fees and management practices that will help ensure accessibility and maximize public benefits.
McCormick Field In Progress(Began in FY24, due to complete in FY25) Re-invigorate McCormick Field with improved fan amenities and public spaces that will maintain the ballpark as a vital landmark sports and entertainment destination for Asheville and the entire region with the aim to regularly attract local and regional visitors to the city.

FY23

(July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023)

Contracting Disparity Study (Complete)(Began in FY23, Completed in FY24) Complete a full analysis of the availability and the City’s utilization of minority and women-owned businesses to assess our progress reducing disparities and provide direction on what can be done going forward.
Outdoor Dining Program Updates (In Progress)(Began in FY23, due to complete in FY24) Update the City’s outdoor dining program (as applied to public streets and sidewalks) including revised standards, fees and management practices that will help ensure accessibility and maximize public benefits.