At the April 14 City Council meeting, Council members took action and were presented information on multiple agenda items related to public safety, web accessibility, and ordinance amendments. Each demonstrated the Council’s focus on transparency, accountability, and thoughtful decision-making.
Complete details on all agenda items and actions are available in the official meeting materials available on the City of Asheville website and a complete recording of the session is available on the City of Asheville YouTube channel.
Budget Worksession
Prior to the official City Council meeting, a Budget Worksession was held. This session focused on providing further details regarding next year’s projected spending, the potential effects on property tax rates, and forecasts for capital project investments.
“We’ve made a lot of progress towards closing the budget gap.” said Finance Director Tony McDowell. “We’ve enlisted every department in identifying budget savings, we’ve looked at where it is most appropriate to raise fees, and we’ve revised projections based on new information. We are getting close to a balanced budget.”
View the English version of the budget presentation
Council Agenda
Public Safety
“This proactive step by CEO Santos and her team speaks volumes to our collaborative efforts to enhance public safety in some of the most vulnerable neighborhoods seeing some of the highest rates of violent crime in our city,” said Interim Police Chief Jackie Stepp.
Water System
Finance Director Tony McDowell stated, “The issuance of Water System Revenue bonds reflects a planned and strategic step in financing critical water system infrastructure projects that support our community’s long term needs. By issuing the bonds we can cover current and upcoming expenses while maintaining the flexibility to invest in other eligible system improvements. Also by refinancing water bonds that we issued in 2015 the City will reduce future debt payments and save water ratepayers dollars in the future.”
City of Asheville Web Accessibility
Manager’s Report – Digital Accessibility
“While the recent Department of Justice ruling will have implications for how we share information across the City’s digital platforms, our team will continue to prioritize transparency and access to information for our community. These initial adjustments are just the beginning and our approach will evolve as additional guidance and legal interpretations emerge,” stated Communication and Public Engagement Director Dawa Hitch.
Ordinance Amendments
View presentation for ordinance amending graffiti definition
“This ordinance update brings existing City regulations into alignment with current constitutional interpretations and modern standards, ” said City Attorney Brad Branham. “The intent is to better balance the City’s goals of cleanliness and upkeep while also preserving first amendment rights and common sense.”
View presentation for ordinance amending Chapter regarding abandoned structures
“The amendment to this ordinance fills a gap in current regulations and allows for alternative measures of compliance,” said Development Services Director Mark Matheny. “This change allows staff to pursue compliance measures like the repair, closure, or demolition of a building that is not classified as unsafe, but is abandoned and unused, and has become a community nuisance.”
C. Resolution updating the lease agreement with Dewine Seeds Silver Dollar Baseball LLC for McCormick Field. APPROVED
View presentation for McCormick Field lease amendment
“Asheville is proud of its continued relationship with the Tourists baseball team, said Chris Corl, Director of Community and Regional Entertainment Facilities. “The naming rights secured by the Asheville Tourists organization ensures minor league baseball remains a vibrant part of our city and Asheville’s culture.”