City Council regular meeting — July 29, 2025

​ At the June 24, 2025, City Council meeting, City Council held the public hearing for this matter and continued it to this date. ​ Principal Planner Will Palmquist said that this is the consideration of an ordinance to rezone 99999 Trade St from River Arts Form District

• Neighborhood Transition (RAD-NT) to RM-8 Residential Multi-Family Medium Density District. This public hearing was advertised on June 13 and 20, 2025. Project Location and

Contacts:

• ​ The rezoning petition consists of one property totalling 0.27 acres and located at 99999 Trade St (PIN 9638-98-2953).
• ​ Owner: Brunos LLC. Summary of

Petition:

• ​ The applicant requests a rezoning of one property to the Residential Multi-Family Medium Density (RM-8) district. ​ ​
• ​ The property is currently zoned River Arts Form District
• Neighborhood Transition (RAD-NT).
• ​ The property is currently vacant.
• ​ The subject property is designated “Traditional Neighborhood” on the city’s Future Land Use (FLU) Map. A change to the FLU Map is not required.

Staff Recommendation:

• ​ Staff recommends approval of this rezoning request based on the reasons stated below.
• ​ At the previous City Council meeting on this matter, a neighboring property owner raised questions about the ownership of a small portion of the property which is a subject of this rezoning, claiming that it is a public right of way.
• ​ This matter has been discussed with the Applicant and it has been agreed that this Rezoning Ordinance, if approved, shall not become effective until this ownership issue has been resolved.

Comprehensive Plan Consistency:

• ​ The proposed rezoning supports a number of goals in the Living Asheville Comprehensive Plan including: -​ Increase and Diversify the Housing Supply
• by promoting zoning policies to encourage more housing. -​ Celebrate the Unique Identity of Neighborhoods Through Creative Placemaking
• by continuing to support contextually appropriate infill development and a variety of housing types.
• ​ The proposed rezoning is compatible with the Future Land Use designation of “Traditional Neighborhood” which is described, in part, that “The types of housing can vary and often include a mix of housing types such as single family with accessory dwelling units, duplexes, townhomes and multifamily apartments usually located seamlessly together”.
• ​ Residential Multi-Family High Density (RM-8) is cited as an appropriate zoning district within the “Traditional Neighborhood” Future Land Use category.

Compatibility Analysis:

• ​ The purpose of the Residential Multi-Family Medium Density (RM-8) district is, “to permit a full range of medium density multi-family housing types along with single-family detached and attached residences.
• ​ This district is intended to provide a transitional area between high density single-family and multi-family areas, and to permit medium density multi-family development in areas where existing conditions make higher density development inappropriate.
• ​ Non-residential development normally required to provide the basic elements of a balanced and attractive residential area is also permitted.” (UDO Sec. 7-8-6).
• ​ The proposed rezoning petition is compatible with the surrounding land uses, including: -​ Residential Medium-Family Medium Density (RM-8) zoned property to the east and south of the subject property. -​ River Arts Form District
• Neighborhood Transition (RAD-NT) zoned property to the west and south of the subject property. Committee(s): ​ ​
• ​ Planning & Zoning Commission (PZC)
• June 4, 2025
• Recommended Approval (Vote 6:0) Pro(s):
• ​ Provides zoning regulation consistent with the larger WECAN neighborhood, which is already zoned Residential Multi-Family Medium Density (RM-8). Con(s):
• ​ A reduction in the diversity of allowed land uses.
• ​ Removal of the form-based code elements in the RAD-NT district which promotes a more urban and walkable development pattern.
• ​ Reduction in maximum height of adjacent RAD-NT-zoned properties to the north and west as they would now be adjacent to residentially-zoned properties and limited to 3 stories and 45’ in height, instead of the maximum 4 stories and 55’ in height. UDO District Comparison UDO Provision River Arts Form District
• Neighborhood Transition (RAD-NT) RM-8: Residential Multi-Family Medium Density Allowed uses: ●​ Townhouse
• ​ Multi-Family
• ​ Accessory Dwelling Unit
• ​ Limited public, institutional, recreational, commercial, and retail uses
• ​ Single-Family Detached
• ​ Duplex
• ​ Townhouse
• ​ Multi-Family
• ​ Accessory Dwelling Unit
• ​ Cottage Development
• ​ Limited public, institutional, and recreational uses Density: 8 units per acre 2 units / 4,000 s.f., plus 1 more unit for each 1,000 s.f. Structure Size: n/a MF: 4,000 max s.f. footprint, 12,000 s.f. max total size Lot Size Minimum: n/a Min. 4,000 s.f. Lot Width Minimum: Min. 100’ Min. 40’ Building Height: 4 stories/55’ OR 3 stories/45’ if adjacent to RS/RM zoning Max. 40’ Building Setbacks: Front: 0’ min, 10’ max Front: 15’ Parking None required for residential uses Standard (1 per unit typically) Bike parking 0.5 per unit (short & long) 0.1 per unit Build-to-Zone 70% primary street n/a Transparency 20% residential OR 50%/20% non-res n/a ​ ​ Sidewalks 8’-wide primary, 6’-wide side Only required if 20+ houses ​ Mr. Palmquist reviewed the existing and proposed zoning, the aerial imagery and the future land use map. The Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously to approve the project. On June 24, 2025, City Council voted to continue to allow time to investigate property ownership matters. He provided a zoning district comparison between the two districts. He reiterated the pros and cons of the rezoning. Regarding the compatibility analysis, he said the purpose of the Residential Multi-Family Medium Density (RM-8) district is, “to permit a full range of medium density multi-family housing types along with single-family detached and attached residences. This district is intended to provide a transitional area between high density single-family and multi-family areas, and to permit medium density multi-family development in areas where existing conditions make higher density development inappropriate. Non-residential development normally required to provide the basic elements of a balanced and attractive residential area is also permitted.” (UDO Sec. 7-8-6). The proposed rezoning petition is compatible with the surrounding land uses, including: Residential Medium-Family Medium Density (RM-8) zoned property to the east and south of the subject property; and River Arts Form District
• Neighborhood Transition (RAD-NT) zoned property to the west and south of the subject property. He then explained how the project was consistent with the Living Asheville Comprehensive Plan. He said that staff concurs with the Planning & Zoning Commission and recommends approval of the rezoning. ​He noted that the rezoning ordinance, if approved, shall not become effective until this ownership issue has been resolved. ​ In response to Councilwoman Turner, City Attorney Branham said that the downzoning restriction is on City Council itself without approval or agreement of the property owner. The applicant can downzone its own property if they wish. ​ Councilwoman Roney said that she was not inclined to downzone property less than a half mile from some of the most frequent and late night transit service in the City, and removes the sidewalk requirements. ​

​ ​ Background:

• ​ The City of Asheville is re-envisioning the use of the historic Walton street pool area and the pool house. The goal of this effort is to integrate modern amenities while respecting the historic nature of the pool and bathhouse in service of the surrounding neighborhood and for the enjoyment of generations to come.
• ​ The park was designated as a Local Historic Landmark in October 2022 and subsequently listed in the National Register of Historic Places in December 2023. These accolades followed a great deal of community engagement in conjunction with the proposed improvements to the rest of the park.
• ​ In the Summer of 2024, the Southside United Neighborhood Association (SUNA) organized a steering committee in a formal agreement with the City of Asheville to collaborate on a community-driven engagement effort focused on re-envisioning the historical pool area within the park. After delays from Helene, a community led preference survey was relaunched on March 31st, to gather ideas, preferences and evaluate use patterns for the old pool site and building. The survey concluded on May 31, 2025, with findings posted at https://publicinput.com/walton. A community-shared vision statement endorsed by SUNA will be available July 31, 2025.
• ​ A Request for Qualifications to solicit design teams for design and engineering of the Walton Street Park Project was advertised Thursday, March 20, 2025. Four firms submitted design qualifications for this project: Progressive Architecture Engineering P.A., CHA Consulting, Peacock Architects and Urban Design Partners. A team of City representatives reviewed the teams and ranked them based on qualifications.
• ​ The design team led by Progressive Architecture Engineering P.A., with offices in Asheville, Charlotte, and Raleigh, was selected as the most qualified firm to provide design services. Additionally, one of the Progressive team subconsultants is local to Asheville.
• ​ Progressive Architecture Engineering P.A.’s design fee proposal has been reviewed and negotiated to $140,000.00
• ​ The scope for this design contract includes: planning, budgeting, design documents, public meeting attendance, preparing construction documents, and construction oversight with a goal to improve public space use with a cohesive and inspired design for the historic Walton Street Park pool area.
• ​ Extensive community engagement was done for this project, led by the community with assistance from the City.
• ​ Anticipated schedule is for design to start Summer 2025 with design wrapping up in mid- 2026. Construction is anticipated to begin mid-2026 and be complete by mid- 2027.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ Staff performed outreach to minority and women owned businesses through solicitation processes which included posting on the State’s Interactive Purchasing System. Two of the subconsultants are minority owned.
• ​ All A/E design firms on the City’s MWBE list were emailed prior to advertising the project to inform them of upcoming City of Asheville Design Projects. ​ ​ https://publicinput.com/walton Committee(s):
• ​ None Pro(s):
• ​ By providing an adaptive reuse of the historic Walton pool space, it will celebrate and honor its historic past and provide a space and / or activity area informed by community input. Con(s):
• ​ None

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ Funding for this contract is included in the adopted 2024 GO Bond Capital Budget and is budgeted under Project Y2503.

​ ​ Background:

• ​ The City of Asheville is re-envisioning the use of the historic Walton street pool area and the pool house. The goal of this effort is to integrate modern amenities while respecting the historic nature of the pool and bathhouse in service of the surrounding neighborhood and for the enjoyment of generations to come.
• ​ The park was designated as a Local Historic Landmark in October 2022 and subsequently listed in the National Register of Historic Places in December 2023. These accolades followed a great deal of community engagement in conjunction with the proposed improvements to the rest of the park.
• ​ In the Summer of 2024, the Southside United Neighborhood Association (SUNA) organized a steering committee in a formal agreement with the City of Asheville to collaborate on a community-driven engagement effort focused on re-envisioning the historical pool area within the park. After delays from Helene, a community led preference survey was relaunched on March 31st, to gather ideas, preferences and evaluate use patterns for the old pool site and building. The survey concluded on May 31, 2025, with findings posted at https://publicinput.com/walton. A community-shared vision statement endorsed by SUNA will be available July 31, 2025.
• ​ A Request for Qualifications to solicit design teams for design and engineering of the Walton Street Park Project was advertised Thursday, March 20, 2025. Four firms submitted design qualifications for this project: Progressive Architecture Engineering P.A., CHA Consulting, Peacock Architects and Urban Design Partners. A team of City representatives reviewed the teams and ranked them based on qualifications.
• ​ The design team led by Progressive Architecture Engineering P.A., with offices in Asheville, Charlotte, and Raleigh, was selected as the most qualified firm to provide design services. Additionally, one of the Progressive team subconsultants is local to Asheville.
• ​ Progressive Architecture Engineering P.A.’s design fee proposal has been reviewed and negotiated to $140,000.00
• ​ The scope for this design contract includes: planning, budgeting, design documents, public meeting attendance, preparing construction documents, and construction oversight with a goal to improve public space use with a cohesive and inspired design for the historic Walton Street Park pool area.
• ​ Extensive community engagement was done for this project, led by the community with assistance from the City.
• ​ Anticipated schedule is for design to start Summer 2025 with design wrapping up in mid- 2026. Construction is anticipated to begin mid-2026 and be complete by mid- 2027.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ Staff performed outreach to minority and women owned businesses through solicitation processes which included posting on the State’s Interactive Purchasing System. Two of the subconsultants are minority owned.
• ​ All A/E design firms on the City’s MWBE list were emailed prior to advertising the project to inform them of upcoming City of Asheville Design Projects. ​ ​ https://publicinput.com/walton Committee(s):
• ​ None Pro(s):
• ​ By providing an adaptive reuse of the historic Walton pool space, it will celebrate and honor its historic past and provide a space and / or activity area informed by community input. Con(s):
• ​ None

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ Funding for this contract is included in the adopted 2024 GO Bond Capital Budget and is budgeted under Project Y2503.

Background:

• ​ The approved 2024 Public Safety Facilities Bond measure includes a new fire station in the East Asheville neighborhood of Oakley. The new fire station will replace the 1960s era Fire Station #9 at 749 Fairview Road.
• ​ The new fire station will be located at 711 Fairview Road–one block from the existing station–on the site of the current East Asheville Police Resource Center.
• ​ Once the new fire station is complete, the old Fire Station 9 will be renovated to be the new East Asheville Police Resource Center.
• ​ As per Council Resolution 07-91, the new fire station will be designed to achieve LEED Silver certification.
• ​ The project will strive for LEED Gold certification if an energy savings payback period of less than ten years is achieved for the LEED Gold standard. ​ ​
• ​ A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) seeking design professionals was issued April 4, 2025, and qualifications were received May 1, 2025. Fourteen design teams submitted qualifications:
• ​ ADW Architects
• Charlotte, NC
• ​ Altura Architects
• Asheville, NC
• ​ ARCA Design
• Asheville, NC
• ​ Clark Nexsen
• Asheville, NC
• ​ Craig Gaulden Davis
• Greenville, SC
• ​ Creech & Associates
• Charlotte, NC
• ​ Davis Kane Architects
• Raleigh, NC
• ​ DP3 Architects
• Greenville, SC
• ​ Legerton Architecture
• Asheville, NC
• ​ Masters Architecture
• Asheville, NC
• ​ Michael Graves
• Charlotte, NC
• ​ Passero Engineering & Architecture
• Charlotte, NC
• ​ Peacock Architects
• Hendersonville, NC
• ​ Stewart Cooper Newell Architects
• Gastonia, NC
• ​ A committee of City Staff across various departments evaluated the submissions, and ADW Architects was ranked the most qualified for the project.
• ​ NC general statutes require that municipalities select architectural and engineering firms on the basis of the best qualified firm for the project. Cost of services is part of contract negotiations after the selection process.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ Staff performed outreach to minority and women owned businesses through solicitation processes using the NC electronic Vendor Portal (eVP); and requested that submitting firms outreach to Minority & Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) service providers for subconsultant services.
• ​ No MWBE subconsultants were included in the design team with this architect. Committee(s):
• ​ None Pro(s):
• ​ This project fulfills one of the Public Safety expectations established in the 2024 bond referendum.
• ​ The new fire station will provide a healthier and more functional facility for the City’s firefighters, improved response times, and a greater resource for the community.
• ​ The project will advance the City towards its sustainability goals. Con(s):
• ​ The new facility will displace the current Oakley Police substation. Once construction starts the police substation will need a temporary space to operate.

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ Funding for this contract is included in the approved 2024 Public Safety Facilities Bond.

Background:

• ​ The City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department serves 156,720 customers in Buncombe and Henderson Counties.
• ​ The Mills River, North Fork and William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plants (WTP) have a rated production capacity of 43.5 million gallons/day, and provide the drinking water for the City of Asheville’s water system.
• ​ This system also has connections with Hendersonville, Black Mountain, Biltmore Forest and Woodfin, and provides water to supplement these systems and their customers.
• ​ The North Fork Water Treatment Plant has a capacity to produce 31 million gallons of drinking water per day, and provides approximately 70% of the City of Asheville’s drinking water.
• ​ The North Fork WTP is essential for the City of Asheville’s water system and must remain in operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year to provide drinking water.
• ​ Due to the pristine nature of the watershed, the City of Asheville water system relies heavily on sedimentation control through the erosion control that takes place naturally in a healthy ecosystem.
• ​ The turbidity of the reservoir during Helene was a clear indication that weather events can have a devastating and unpredictable impact on erosion in the watershed and sedimentation in the reservoir.
• ​ Throughout the events following Tropical Storm Helene, it became abundantly clear that measures must be maintained to ensure there is always a direct filtration system in the water that can be scaled quickly when weather events overwhelm the watershed's ability to manage erosion.
• ​ Following Tropical Storm Helene, FEMA assigned the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) with a direct federal assistance (DFA) mission to provide a temporary pretreatment system for the North Fork Water Treatment Plant to reduce turbidity of the water before entering the treatment plant.
• ​ The USACE Temporary Pretreatment System provides needed redundancy to the North Fork Water Treatment Plant and the ability to continuously treat and provide potable drinking water to the City of Asheville water distribution system and surrounding municipalities.
• ​ The USACE’s DFA mission to manage the Temporary Pretreatment System will end on August 9, 2025
• ​ This contract would allow the City of Asheville to assume management of a temporary pretreatment system.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ CDM Smith Inc., was chosen by the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department’s Water Production Division to provide services for this project. ​ ​
• ​ The Water Production Division utilized the RFP process to provide a competitive opportunity for qualified firms and companies.
• ​ CDM Smith Inc., was the only qualified construction company that provided a proposal for the project.
• ​ No further outreach was undertaken. Committee(s):
• ​ N/A Pro(s):
• ​ Maintains the ability of the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department to continue to provide core services for our customers.
• ​ Maintains the ability of the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department to treat drinking water at the North Fork WTP.
• ​ Provides the North Fork WTP with ability to treat water if the quality has been significantly changed by storm or flooding events.
• ​ Protects the City of Asheville and Buncombe County from prolonged periods of time without water due to storm events. Con(s):
• ​ N/A

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ Estimated cost is approximately $3,075,465.30 per month for year one, with an estimated year one total of $36,905,583.60. The contract will end upon completion of the North Fork WTP Permanent System.
• ​ The City has applied for funding through FEMA-Public Assistance and once approved the cost share will be 90/10 Federal/State.

​ ​ Background:

• ​ The City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department serves 156,720 customers in Buncombe and Henderson Counties.
• ​ The Mills River, North Fork and William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plants (WTP) have a rated production capacity of 43.5 million gallons/day, and provide the drinking water for the City of Asheville’s water system.
• ​ This system also has connections with Hendersonville, Black Mountain, Biltmore Forest and Woodfin, and provides water to supplement these systems and their customers.
• ​ The William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plant has a capacity to produce 5 million gallons of drinking water per day, and provide approximately 17% of the City of Asheville’s drinking water.
• ​ The William DeBruhl WTP is essential for the City of Asheville’s water system and must remain in operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year to provide drinking water.
• ​ Due to the pristine nature of the watershed, the City of Asheville water system relies heavily on sedimentation control through the erosion control that takes place naturally in a healthy ecosystem.
• ​ The turbidity of the reservoir during Helene was a clear indication that weather events can have a devastating and unpredictable impact on erosion in the watershed and sedimentation in the reservoir.
• ​ Throughout the events following Tropical Storm Helene, it became abundantly clear that measures must be maintained to ensure there is always a direct filtration system in the water that can be scaled quickly when weather events overwhelm the watershed's ability to manage erosion.
• ​ Following Tropical Storm Helene, FEMA assigned the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) with a direct federal assistance (DFA) mission to provide a temporary pretreatment system for the William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plant to reduce turbidity of the water before entering the treatment plant.
• ​ The USACE Temporary Pretreatment System provides needed redundancy to the William DeBruhl Treatment Plant and the ability to continuously treat and provide potable drinking water to the City of Asheville water distribution system and surrounding municipalities.
• ​ The USACE’s direct federal assistance (DFA) mission to manage the Temporary Pretreatment System will end on August 18, 2025
• ​ This contract would allow the City of Asheville to assume management of a temporary pretreatment system.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ Bering-Weston JV, LLC was chosen by the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department’s Water Production Division to provide services for this project.
• ​ The Water Production Division utilized the RFP process to provide a competitive opportunity for qualified firms and companies.
• ​ Bering-Weston JV, LLC was the only qualified construction company that provided a proposal.
• ​ No further outreach was undertaken. Committee(s):
• ​ N/A Pro(s): ​ ​
• ​ Maintains the ability of the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department to continue to provide core services for our customers.
• ​ Maintains the ability of the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department to treat drinking water at theWilliam DeBruhl WTP.
• ​ Provides the William DeBruhl WTP with ability to treat water if the quality has been significantly changed by storm or flooding events.
• ​ Protects the City of Asheville and Buncombe County from prolonged periods of time without water due to storm events. Con(s):

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ Estimated $1,566,854.40 per month in year 1, with an estimated year one total of $18,802,252.80. The contract will end upon completion of the William DeBruhl WTP Permanent System.
• ​ The City has applied for funding through FEMA-Public Assistance and once approved the cost share will be 90/10 Federal/State.

Background:

• ​ The City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department serves 156,720 customers in Buncombe and Henderson Counties.
• ​ The Mills River, North Fork and William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plants (WTP) have a rated production capacity of 43.5 million gallons/day, and provide the drinking water for the City of Asheville’s water system.
• ​ The North Fork and William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plants have a combined capacity to produce 36 million gallons of drinking water per day, and provide approximately 80% of the City of Asheville’s drinking water.
• ​ The North Fork and William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plants are direct filtration plants that rely on stable low turbidity water from the Burnette and Bee Tree Reservoirs to produce high quality drinking water for the City of Asheville water distribution system.. ​ ​
• ​ In late September 2024, the City of Asheville experienced unprecedented rainfall both from Tropical Storm Helene and a predecessor heavy rain event. A state of emergency covering Asheville was declared on September 25th, 2024 in relation to Tropical Storm Helene.
• ​ The North Fork and William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plants, water transmission lines, watersheds, and reservoirs, were severely impacted resulting in the loss of water service to much of the City of Asheville and surrounding communities.
• ​ The Treatment Improvements project will provide the North Fork Water Treatment Plant and staff with the ability to respond quickly to rapidly changing water quality issues much like those that were experienced during Tropical Storm Helene.
• ​ The Treatment Improvements project will provide sedimentation to the North Fork Water Treatment Plant, which will provide resilience for the water treatment system and in doing so will provide added reliance for the customers of the City of Asheville water system.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ CDM Smith Inc.Company was chosen by the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department to provide professional engineering services for this project.
• ​ The Water Production Division utilized the RFQ process to provide a competitive opportunity for qualified engineering firms.
• ​ CDM Smith Inc.Company was the most qualified of the six engineering firms that provided proposals and interviewed for the project.
• ​ No further outreach was undertaken due to the unique and technical aspects of the required services provided. Committee(s):
• ​ N/A Pro(s):
• ​ Maintains the ability of the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department to continue to provide core services for our customers.
• ​ Maintains the ability of the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department to treat drinking water at the North Fork Water Treatment Plant.
• ​ Provides resilience and robust treatment technologies to provide quality drinking water in all circumstances.
• ​ The CDM Smith Inc.Company provides expertise in design, installation , and project management, which requires less time of City of Asheville staff. Con(s):
• ​ None

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ The contract with CDM Smith Inc. is estimated at $6,205,000, including a $500,000 unspecified additional services contingency for a total of $6,705,000.
• ​ The cost is expected to be reimbursed with a combination of FEMA-Public Assistance and State of NC funding, with the 90/10 cost share.

Background:

• ​ The City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department serves 156,720 customers in Buncombe and Henderson Counties.
• ​ The Mills River, North Fork and William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plants (WTP) have a rated production capacity of 43.5 million gallons/day, and provide the drinking water for the City of Asheville’s water system.
• ​ The North Fork and William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plants have a combined capacity to produce 36 million gallons of drinking water per day, and provide approximately 80% of the City of Asheville’s drinking water.
• ​ The North Fork and William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plants are direct filtration plants that rely on stable low turbidity water from the Burnette and Bee Tree Reservoirs to produce high quality drinking water for the City of Asheville water distribution system..
• ​ In late September 2024, the City of Asheville experienced unprecedented rainfall both from Tropical Storm Helene and a predecessor heavy rain event. A state of emergency covering Asheville was declared on September 25th, 2024 in relation to Tropical Storm Helene.
• ​ The North Fork and William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plants, water transmission lines, watersheds, and reservoirs, were severely impacted resulting in the loss of water service to much of the City of Asheville and surrounding communities.
• ​ The Treatment Improvements project will provide the William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plant and staff with the ability to respond quickly to rapidly changing water quality issues much like those that were experienced during Tropical Storm Helene.
• ​ The Treatment Improvements project will provide sedimentation to the William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plant, which will provide resilience for the water treatment system and in doing so will provide added reliance for the customers of the City of Asheville water system.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ Garver USA Company was chosen by the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department to provide professional engineering services for this project.
• ​ The Water Production Division utilized the RFQ process to provide a competitive opportunity for qualified engineering firms.
• ​ Garver USA Company was the most qualified of the six engineering firms that provided proposals and interviewed for the project.
• ​ No further outreach was undertaken due to the unique and technical aspects of the required services provided. ​ ​ Committee(s):
• ​ N/A Pro(s):
• ​ Maintains the ability of the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department to continue to provide core services for our customers.
• ​ Maintains the ability of the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department to treat drinking water at the William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plant.
• ​ Provides resilience and robust treatment technologies to provide quality drinking water in all circumstances.
• ​ The Garver USA Company provides expertise in design, installation , and project management, which requires less time of City of Asheville staff. Con(s):
• ​ None

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ The contract with Garver USA Company is estimated at $3,078,069.00, including a $248,399.03 project management and construction contingency for a total of $3,326,468.03.
• ​ The cost is expected to be reimbursed with a combination of FEMA-Public Assistance and State of NC funding, with the 90/10 cost share.

Background:

• ​ In late September, the City of Asheville experienced unprecedented rainfall both from Tropical Storm Helene and a predecessor heavy rain event. A state of emergency covering Asheville was declared on September 25th in relation to Tropical Storm Helene.
• ​ The damage caused by Helene required an immediate response by the City to secure public safety, provide aid to the community, and secure public infrastructure. ​ ​
• ​ In responding to this crisis, the City of Asheville is engaging outside assistance to address the needs of the community as those needs exceed the capacity of City staff.
• ​ North Fork Auxiliary Spillway is designed to allow excess water from the Burnette Lake to pass over the fusegates (8) and if necessary sacrifice the fusegates to ensure the integrity of the earthen dam.
• ​ The large amount of precipitation from TS Helene activated the North Fork Auxiliary Spillway.
• ​ The second step in the activation is for fusegate four (4) to tip / break apart. This allows a larger volume of water to pass from the Burnette Lake while maintaining the integrity of the earthen dam.
• ​ The Auxiliary Spillway operated as designed.
• ​ This contract is for design, construction bidding and administration services to return the structures to their original functions.
• ​ Assistance with requirements and correspondences of NC Dam Safety.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ On March 13, 2025, An emergency RFQ was sent to engineering firms with specialties associated with earthen dams (geotechnical, structural, contract administration, construction oversight, etc.).
• ​ Two firms submitted proposals.
• ​ Schnabel Engineering South “Schnabel” was chosen as the most qualified.
• ​ The cost of the proposed contract is $160,700.00 with $16,070.00 contingency for a total amount not to exceed $176,770.00
• ​ Scope of work covers these main areas:
• ​ Design services for fusegate replacement at the North Fork Dam
• ​ Assistance with bidding for services
• ​ Assistance with requirements and correspondences with NC Dam Safety
• ​ Construction services Committee(s):
• ​ None Pro(s):
• ​ Allows the City to quickly address an emergency without delay. Con(s):
• ​ None

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ The cost $160,700.00 with $16,070.00 contingency for a total of $176,770.00
• ​ Funding is available in the Water Capital Projects Fund. All costs are expected to be reimbursed by FEMA.

Background:

• ​ The City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department serves 156,720 customers in Buncombe and Henderson Counties.
• ​ The Mills River, North Fork and William DeBruhl Water Treatment Plants (WTP) have a rated production capacity of 43.5 million gallons/day, and provide the drinking water for the City of Asheville’s water system.
• ​ This system also has connections with Hendersonville, Black Mountain, Biltmore Forest and Woodfin, and provides water to supplement these systems and their customers.
• ​ The North Fork Water Treatment Plant has a capacity to produce 31 million gallons of drinking water per day, and provides approximately 70% of the City of Asheville’s drinking water.
• ​ The North Fork WTP is essential for the City of Asheville’s water system and must remain in operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year to provide drinking water.
• ​ During the immediate aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, the City of Asheville received aid through NC Water Warn, to help repair and restore damaged water infrastructure. The town of Fayetteville provided staff, resources and equipment to assist Asheville in our restoration, which helped our community and made our recovery possible.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ Mutual aid was solicited through the NC Water Warn Network after the devastation from TS Helene. Several utilities responded to assist. This agreement is with the Fayetteville PWC who assisted during this time. Committee(s):
• ​ N/A Pro(s):
• ​ Repaired the City of Asheville’s Water Resources Department to continue to provide core services for our customers. Con(s):
• ​

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ The cost of the mutual aid totalled $342,321.57.
• ​ The services were for the purposes of Tropical Storm Helene-related recovery efforts and are expected to be fully reimbursed with FEMA-PA funds.

Background:

• ​ The Fire Department utilizes third-party software to manage a high volume of critical records, including incident responses, training and certifications, asset management, fire inspections, and personnel data.
• ​ To improve data management and analytical capabilities, the department initiated a formal evaluation of records management system vendors.
• ​ An interdepartmental committee evaluated the proposals and selected ImageTrend, LLC as the highest-ranked vendor.
• ​ This Software as a Service (SaaS) solution was procured through a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process.
• ​ Vendor proposals were scored based on several variables, which included the vendor’s ability to meet the City's technical requirements, their implementation plan, overall experience, and cost-effectiveness.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ Staff performed outreach to minority and women-owned businesses in the solicitation process, which included posting of the RFP on the State’s Electronic Vendor Portal System.
• ​ Staff attempted to identify MWBE vendors offering this service in the City’s database, but none were present. Council Vision 2036 Focus Area(s):
• ​ Connected and Engaged Community Committee(s):
• ​ N/A Pro(s):
• ​ The new system is intended to make the process of recording information simpler, faster, and more accurate; increasing consistent data collection and saving staff time.
• ​ The system will provide better tools to analyze the thousands of records being managed. This allows the fire department to better identify trends, measure performance, and make data-driven decisions to improve public safety. Con(s):
• ​ None

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ The contract is for three years with two one-year options to renew. The contract cost by year is Year 1
• $89,999.00, Year 2
• $77,521.50, Year 3
• $82,948.01, Optional renewal 1
• $88,754.37 and Optional renewal 2
• $94,967.17. The total contract price, including the optional renewals, is $434,190.05.
• ​ Funding for this contract is available in the Fire Department operating budget.

Background:

• ​ The City of Asheville owns real property at PIN #9648-56-7004 and 9648-55-8749, whose address is 166 Reservoir Road. The City owns a telecommunications tower that is located on the site, known as the Lower White Fawn Tower.
• ​ The tower is used for public safety equipment, and vacant space is leased to telecommunications companies for cellular antennas and associated equipment.
• ​ Verizon Wireless has an existing license agreement on the tower, which is not scheduled to expire until 2028. It may be renewed for five years after that date.
• ​ Verizon Wireless has submitted an application to the Real Estate Office to install additional equipment on the tower.
• ​ Verizon Wireless was required to perform a structural analysis to determine whether the tower could support the additional equipment, and it has confirmed that the modifications are allowed.
• ​ Based on the proposed additional equipment to the tower and market research of telecom rental rates, City staff recommends an increase in rent in the amount of $475 per month.
• ​ Currently, Verizon pays $3,843.36 per month, and Verizon has agreed to this increase. Committee(s):
• ​ None Pro(s):
• ​ Additional loading on the tower will increase City revenues.
• ​ The long-term commitment from Verizon is a secure future revenue stream for the City.
• ​ Replace outdated equipment while increasing communication resilience as a service.
• ​ The tower weight increases from 1177.9 lbs to 1706.9 lbs, a 45% increase compared to the weight of the Licensee's existing tower equipment. Total tower and foundation capacity are at 80%, well within range. Con(s):
• ​ The City will not be using this additional weight for its own public safety purposes.

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ Revenues will increase by 3% per year to be recorded in the General Fund. ​ ​

Background:

• ​ The City of Asheville is the designated Lead Agency for the Asheville-Buncombe Continuum of Care (CoC). The CoC oversees homelessness response in Asheville and Buncombe County.
• ​ The CoC has been invited to participate in a 3-year pilot initiative on homelessness prevention called Right at Home. Right at Home is seeking to pilot prevention services (e.g. rental assistance, case management) in 10 communities across the country and has selected Asheville-Buncombe for inclusion in the pilot.
• ​ The CoC Board unanimously approved this opportunity at its May 8, 2025 meeting.
• ​ The City as the CoC’s Lead Agency submitted the planning grant as authorized by the CoC Board and by City Council on June 10, 2025, and the grant has been approved.
• ​ The City as the CoC’s Lead Agency will manage the planning grant on the CoC’s behalf by entering into an agreement with Destination Home SV, a 501(c)3 organization, which serves as the fiscal manager for the Right at Home partnership.
• ​ The planning grant will add a funded staff position to the Homeless Strategy Division in the Community and Economic Development Department for project management of the initiative during both the 6-12 month planning phase and the 3-year implementation period to deliver homelessness prevention services as developed during the planning phase, contingent on final approval from the CoC Board and Right at Home.
• ​ Planning is expected to conclude by June 2026 with implementation to begin in July 2026.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ N/A Committee(s):
• ​ Asheville-Buncombe Continuum of Care Board
• May 8, 2025
• unanimous approval to submit a planning grant to participate in the Right at Home initiative Pro(s):
• ​ Secures new resource for homelessness prevention
• ​ Adds funded project management capacity in Homeless Strategy Division Con(s):
• ​ None noted ​ ​

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ This amendment will add $275,000 to the Special Revenue Fund.
• ​ Matching funds will not be required for this grant.

Background:

• ​ The Tropical Storm Helene Hazard Mitigation Program (HMGP) is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The program uses a state-centric model. Program priorities are managed at the state level, and funds are distributed to the state as the primary applicant. Subapplicants (local governments, state agencies, etc.) apply to the state for project approval, and grant reimbursement.
• ​ The state level program is managed by the NC Division of Emergency Management for both property acquisition and community infrastructure mitigation projects.
• ​ HMGP is a competitive process open to the entire state with priority given to areas affected by tropical storm Helene.
• ​ Mitigation project priorities will focus on risk reduction, resilient infrastructure, and future mitigation planning.
• ​ The deadline to submit letters of interest (LOI) to NCEM is October 31st, 2025, and the window to apply for specific types of subapplication grants will be opened at various times as dictated by the state.
• ​ To date, the city has submitted nine LOIs for initial review for projects aligned with the above mitigation project priorities.
• ​ City staff will submit all grant subapplications for projects based on the readiness of each submittal.
• ​ Projects funded by this program are required to meet strict eligibility criteria, and most of the projects must demonstrate cost effectiveness as measured by the FEMA benefit cost analysis.
• ​ Mitigation projects that lead to construction are anticipated to have a lengthy FEMA review process, between one to three years. Staff will continue with design and planning activities to prepare for construction once a letter of award is received.
• ​ The period to complete the project is 48 months, starting at the receipt of a letter of award.
• ​ Future formal action for City Council, related to awarded projects, will come in the form of a Budget Amendment to receive the funding, and adjust the CIP. Council Goal(s) and Priorities: ​ ​
• ​ Clean, Safe and Healthy Environment
• ​ Financially Resilient
• ​ Thriving Local Economy
• ​ Well-planned and Livable Community Committee(s):
• ​ Policy, Finance & Infrastructure Worksession Pro(s):
• ​ Allows the City to participate in the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, and pursue projects that mitigate potential hazards caused by natural disasters, or improve resiliency measures.
• ​ Matching funds are expected to be paid by the State.
• ​ The scale of funding available provides an opportunity to make significant inroads towards mitigation and resiliency efforts, which may overlap with the City’s broader goals. Con(s):
• ​ Program performance schedules are aggressive and will require significant staffing, and resources to meet deadlines.
• ​ Mitigation projects that lead to construction are anticipated to have a lengthy FEMA review process, leading to a long waiting period between design and construction.

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ No action at this time. A budget amendment will be presented to City Council for each individual project grant award.
• ​ All projects will be reimbursement based.
• ​ FEMA requires a 25% match for HMGP community infrastructure mitigation projects. The City expects that matching funds are to be paid by the state of North Carolina.

​ ​ nine holes of the Asheville Municipal Golf Course; and approval of a budget amendment in the amount of not to exceed $1,586,695 to add federal and state funds to the General Capital Projects Fund. Background:

• ​ The contract is for design and engineering services to provide stormwater design, golf course design, resiliency measures and construction administration to reconstruct the front nine holes of the Asheville Municipal Golf Course.
• ​ The property is on the National Historic Registry of Places.
• ​ The golf course was designed by Donald Ross, a “Golden Age” golf course architect who recognized the importance of providing affordable and accessible golf opportunities to the public.
• ​ The Asheville Municipal Golf Course is home to the Skyview Golf Tournament. The Skyview Golf Association was founded in 1959 in an effort to promote golf competition among Black golfers throughout the United States. The tournament has been held annually since 1960 and is a legacy in the golf community.
• ​ The golf course was damaged due to flood waters caused by tropical storm Helene resulting in the loss of use of the front nine holes, and associated loss of revenue. The damage was documented with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and is included as a project under the Public Assistance program. Contracting Process and

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ This is a qualifications based selection process.
• ​ Staff performed outreach to minority and women owned businesses (MWBE) through solicitation processes using the NC electronic Vendor Portal (eVP)
• ​ Staff also contacted 12 MWBE vendors directly with notification of upcoming City of Asheville professional services opportunities, this project being one of the opportunities on the list
• ​ 11 firms responded to the RFQ, Biohabitats was selected by staff as the best qualified firm to deliver the requested services. Council Goal(s) and

Priorities:

• ​ A Clean, Safe and Healthy Environment Committee(s):
• ​ N/A Pro(s):
• ​ Restoration of a local asset using FEMA funding
• ​ A revenue source for the city is restored
• ​ Opportunity to design for resiliency Con(s):
• ​ Longer project delivery time with FEMA requirements and review

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ The amount of the design fee contract with a 10% contingency is $1,586,695. It is expected to be reimbursed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency
• Public Assistance (FEMA-PA) program at 90% and the remaining 10% is expected to be paid by the state.

Actions Requested: Adoption of a resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with United Casualty and Surety Insurance (“the Surety”) to complete the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) funded Transportation Improvement Project (NCDOT EB-5790) Southside Connectivity Improvements project, with the Completion Contractor, Patton Construction Group, LLC. Background:

• ​

Prior Contractor Defaulted:

• ​ On June 8, 2024, a request for bids for construction of an accessibility improvement project including sidewalk widening along Buchanan Avenue, Biltmore Avenue and Southside Avenue was advertised with bids due on July 25, 2024.
• ​ Three bids were received, and DanGrady Company, LLC was the lowest responsive bidder.
• ​ DanGrady Company, LLC met NCDOT responsibility requirements through the NCDOT prequalification process and was awarded the contract (City Council

​ ​ Background:

• ​ In October 2022, the Asheville City Council adopted the GAP Plan. The updated Greenway Master Plan identifies natural surface trails as a new greenway typology. Typology assignment defines the experience, width, easement requirements, and other design characteristics.
• ​ The Asheville Unpaved Guidebook, part of the GAP, provides a framework for partnerships, construction guidelines, and accessibility requirements for this typology that will connect users to their natural environment, as well as to other neighborhoods, transportation hubs, and commercial districts, for a fraction of the cost of traditional greenway design and construction.
• ​ The AVL Unpaved Alliance (“Alliance”) is a consortium of community partners: Asheville on Bikes, Connect Buncombe, and Pisgah Area SORBA. Since March 2018, these nonprofit partners have collaborated with City staff on natural surface trail projects located on City-owned or City-controlled properties.
• ​ The Alliance has raised the necessary funds for these projects, including a TPDF grant of $188,355 awarded by the Tourism Development Authority in 2022.
• ​ This pilot project initiative will utilize property controlled by lease or ownership by the City of Asheville to promote connectivity and equitable access to alternative transportation and recreation opportunities throughout the city.
• ​ The two trails are:
• ​ French Broad River West Trail, located near the French Broad River Greenway, and
• ​ Azalea Park Trail, located in Azalea Park
• ​ The Alliance will hire a professional trail builder through an external Request for Proposal (RFP) process to construct the trails, under the project management of the Alliance, with oversight from City staff.
• ​ Once built, the Alliance will provide three years of trail maintenance. If both parties agree, the agreement can be renewed for an additional three years. When this agreement expires, the City will maintain the trails.
• ​ The trails will be natural surface (dirt) and built to the highest professional trail-building standards, providing sustainable trails with minimal environmental impact. The trail construction will also include trailhead kiosks.
• ​ This pilot project initiative will utilize property controlled by lease or ownership by the City of Asheville and will activate City-controlled properties that are currently not managed.
• ​ During the planning stage for these trails, the City conducted public outreach to adjacent property owners and neighborhood groups where the trails will be located. The top concerns of attendees of these meetings were encampments in the woods and impacts on wildlife.
• ​ Both trail projects were viewed favorably by attendees of the sessions.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ N/A. No City funds are being provided for the construction or the first three years of maintenance for the natural surface trails. All work will be performed by the AVL Unpaved Alliance (Alliance). It is expected that the Alliance will conduct a Request for Proposals (RFP) or Bidding process to construct the trails. Committee(s):
• ​ Planning & Economic Development Committee, June 12, 2023
• informational item as part of an update on the GAP Plans.
• ​ Multimodal Transportation Commission, June 28, 2023
• informational item as part of an update on the GAP Plans.
• ​ Greenway Committee, June 1, 2023
• informational item as part of an update on the GAP Plans.
• ​ Planning and Zoning Commission, June 1, 2022
• presented as part of the adoption of the GAP Plans
• voted unanimously in support of adopting the GAP Plans. Pro(s):
• ​ The Alliance will construct the natural surface trails on city-owned or controlled property at no expense to the City and maintain them for a period of three years. Con(s):
• ​ The City will assume responsibility for maintaining the trails upon the expiration of the agreement.

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ There is no initial fiscal impact. The Alliance proposes constructing all the proposed natural surface trails and maintaining them for three years following construction for no cost.
• ​ After three years, the agreement may be extended or modified, which may include the trails being included in the Parks and Recreation maintenance inventory.

Background:

• ​ Over the course of September 26-29, 2024, the City of Asheville experienced unprecedented rainfall both from Tropical Storm Helene and a predecessor heavy rain event, resulting in catastrophic damage, primarily from the ensuing flooding and landslides.
• ​ A state of emergency went into effect in Asheville on September 25th in relation to these damaging storms.
• ​ The equipment and staffing capacity needed for recovery efforts exceeded that which was available of the City’s internal capacity, rendering it necessary to contract for these services.
• ​ Contracted services will consist of the hauling and removal of disaster debris. ​ ​
• ​ General Services Contract 92500520 was executed on June 16, 2025, with Southern Disaster Recovery, LLC, with a Not-To-Exceed limit of $6,000,000, for the purposes of Tropical Storm Helene-related recovery efforts.
• ​ This contract was executed under NC State Contract 19-IFB-015120-DAD.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ General Services Contract 92500520 with Southern Disaster Recovery, LLC, was completed under NC State Contract 19-IFB-015120-DAD, thus no outreach efforts were conducted by the City. Committee(s):
• ​ None Pro(s):
• ​ Public Works will be able to continue to contract for services needed to complete Tropical Storm Helene-related recovery efforts, which exceeds the department’s internal capacity. Con(s):
• ​ None.

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ The fiscal impact will vary depending upon utilization, but the contract has a Not-To-Exceed limit of $6,000,000.
• ​ Services rendered will be paid from the funds allocated to Public Works for the purposes of Tropical Storm Helene-related expenses.
• ​ The contracted services are for the purposes of Tropical Storm Helene-related recovery efforts and are expected to be eligible for reimbursement at 90% from FEMA and the remaining 10% from the State.

Background:

• ​ Over the course of September 26-29, 2024, the City of Asheville experienced unprecedented rainfall both from Tropical Storm Helene and a predecessor heavy rain event, resulting in catastrophic damage, primarily from the ensuing flooding and landslides.
• ​ A state of emergency went into effect in Asheville on September 25th in relation to these damaging storms. ​ ​
• ​ The equipment and staffing capacity needed for recovery efforts exceeded that which was available of the City’s internal capacity, rendering it necessary to contract for these services.
• ​ General Services Contract 92500474 was executed with DebrisTech, LLC, for a total authorized not-to-exceed limit of $500,000 for the purposes of Tropical Storm Helene-related recovery efforts.
• ​ Contracted services consisted of debris monitoring services to oversee the following processes:
• ​ Remove titled property from City right-of-ways, private property, City property, or other areas within City limits as directed; and
• ​ Document towing, storage, and disposal processes in accordance with state and federal regulations, and provide all requested documentation to the City of Asheville.
• ​ There are now several general debris removal projects being conducted under FEMA’s Public Assistance Program that will require monitoring, including Richmond Hill Park, Reed Creek Greenway, Depot Street Box Culvert, and remaining public property punch list items.
• ​ To account for the monitoring costs associated with these additional projects, the not-to-exceed limit of the contract is being increased from $500,000 to $1,200,000.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ General Services Contract 92500474 with DebrisTech, LLC, was completed under NC State Contract 19-IFB-015120-DAD, thus no outreach efforts conducted by the City. Committee(s):
• ​ None Pro(s):
• ​ Public Works will be able to contract for services needed to complete Tropical Storm Helene-related recovery efforts, which exceeds the department’s internal capacity. Con(s):
• ​ None.

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ The fiscal impact will vary depending upon utilization, but will not exceed the limit of $1,200,000.
• ​ Services rendered will be paid from the funds allocated to Public Works for the purposes of Tropical Storm Helene-related expenses.
• ​ The contracted services are for the purposes of Tropical Storm Helene-related recovery efforts and are expected to be eligible for reimbursement at 90% from FEMA and the remaining 10% from the State.

Background:

• ​ In 2023, City Council adopted resolutions authorizing the City Manager to enter into 2 contracts for the Litter and Cleanliness Program for a total combined project amount not to exceed $500,000.
• ​ The Litter and Cleanliness Program contracts are with WNC Landscaping for roadside and hotspot litter collection and Steri-Clean of NC for biohazardous waste collection.
• ​ The original $500,000 for the program was provided via ARPA grant funding and has been expended.
• ​ In FY25, additional general fund savings were added to the contracts to extend the service through the remainder of FY25, bringing the total project amount to $618,640.
• ​ For FY26, $110,000 will initially be added to the WNC Landscaping Roadside Litter and Hot Spot Collection contract.
• ​ For FY26, $90,000 will initially be added to the Steri-Clean of NC biohazardous waste collection contract
• ​ As with the original project resolution, the new resolution will authorize the City Manager to execute any amendments and change orders to adjust the total amount of each individual contract, as well as change orders for individual contract renewals, within the new total project not-to-exceed amount of $818,640.

Vendor Outreach Efforts:

• ​ Original funding for this project was provided through a federal grant (ARPA), and followed federal outreach guidelines for the contracting process. Committee(s):
• ​ N/A Pro(s):
• ​ Allows for continuation of litter collection services throughout the City of Asheville. Con(s):
• ​ Requires utilizing general fund dollars to supplement the original ARPA-funded program.

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ $85,000 from ARPA funding and $115,000 from Public Works Sanitation Division’s FY26 general fund budget

​ Each year the N.C. ABC Commission, in compliance with Chapter 18-B700, Article 7, g (2), requires its 167 ABC boards to get annual approval of board travel policies from their appointing authorities. Section g (2) of 18B-700 states, “The local board shall annually provide the appointing authority’s written confirmation of such approval…”. The ABC Board approved the current policy on January 26, 2016. In 2021, the ABC Board incorporated all the elements to changes in the City’s Travel Policy, and we made no changes to the current policy. ​ The ABC Board formally requests the City of Asheville’s written confirmation of the Asheville Board of Alcoholic Control Travel Policy. ​ U.​ RESOLUTION NO. 25-166

• RESOLUTION REAPPOINTING JACK IGELMAN TO THE MILLS RIVER PARTNERSHIP BOARD OF DIRECTORS Summary Jack Igelman is appointed as a member of the Mills River Partnership Board of Directors, to serve a three-year term, term to expire June 19, 2028, or until Jack Ingelman’s successor has been appointed. ​ ​ ​ V.​ MONTHLY MUNICIPAL PROPERTY TAX REFUNDS OR RELEASES PER N.C. ​ ​ GEN. STAT. SEC. 105-381

Background:

• ​ Buncombe County currently bills and collects City property taxes
• ​ At the August 22, 2023, meeting, City Council approved an addendum to the existing tax collection agreement with Buncombe County to ensure that it fully conforms to the provisions of Chapter 105 of the North Carolina General Statutes, entitled The Revenue Act.
• ​ As part of that compliance, the City Council must, on a monthly basis, approve all property tax releases and refunds that have been approved by the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners.
• ​ City of Asheville refunds and releases for May and June 2025 are included in the document.     Pro(s):
• ​ Ensures compliance with provisions of Chapter 105 of the North Carolina General Statutes, entitled The Revenue Act. ​ ​ Con(s):
• ​ None

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ None.

Suggested Motion:

• ​ Motion to adopt City of Asheville property tax refunds and releases for the month of May and June 2025. ​ Mayor Manheimer asked for public comments on any item on the Consent Agenda, but received none. ​ Mayor Manheimer said that members of Council have been previously furnished with a copy of the resolutions and ordinances on the Consent Agenda and they would not be read. ​

Summary Jack Igelman is appointed as a member of the Mills River Partnership Board of Directors, to serve a three-year term, term to expire June 19, 2028, or until Jack Ingelman’s successor has been appointed. ​ ​ ​ V.​ MONTHLY MUNICIPAL PROPERTY TAX REFUNDS OR RELEASES PER N.C. ​ ​ GEN. STAT. SEC. 105-381 Background:

• ​ Buncombe County currently bills and collects City property taxes
• ​ At the August 22, 2023, meeting, City Council approved an addendum to the existing tax collection agreement with Buncombe County to ensure that it fully conforms to the provisions of Chapter 105 of the North Carolina General Statutes, entitled The Revenue Act.
• ​ As part of that compliance, the City Council must, on a monthly basis, approve all property tax releases and refunds that have been approved by the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners.
• ​ City of Asheville refunds and releases for May and June 2025 are included in the document.     Pro(s):
• ​ Ensures compliance with provisions of Chapter 105 of the North Carolina General Statutes, entitled The Revenue Act. ​ ​ Con(s):
• ​ None

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ None.

Suggested Motion:

• ​ Motion to adopt City of Asheville property tax refunds and releases for the month of May and June 2025. ​ Mayor Manheimer asked for public comments on any item on the Consent Agenda, but received none. ​ Mayor Manheimer said that members of Council have been previously furnished with a copy of the resolutions and ordinances on the Consent Agenda and they would not be read. ​

Background:

• ​ Buncombe County currently bills and collects City property taxes
• ​ At the August 22, 2023, meeting, City Council approved an addendum to the existing tax collection agreement with Buncombe County to ensure that it fully conforms to the provisions of Chapter 105 of the North Carolina General Statutes, entitled The Revenue Act.
• ​ As part of that compliance, the City Council must, on a monthly basis, approve all property tax releases and refunds that have been approved by the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners.
• ​ City of Asheville refunds and releases for May and June 2025 are included in the document.     Pro(s):
• ​ Ensures compliance with provisions of Chapter 105 of the North Carolina General Statutes, entitled The Revenue Act. ​ ​ Con(s):
• ​ None

Fiscal Impact:

• ​ None.

Suggested Motion:

• ​ Motion to adopt City of Asheville property tax refunds and releases for the month of May and June 2025. ​ Mayor Manheimer asked for public comments on any item on the Consent Agenda, but received none. ​ Mayor Manheimer said that members of Council have been previously furnished with a copy of the resolutions and ordinances on the Consent Agenda and they would not be read. ​