Planning, Economic Development, & Environment Committee – July 21, 2026

The City of Asheville's Planning, Economic Development, and Environment Committee met on July 21, 2026, to discuss two main agenda items related to city operations and services. First, the committee reviewed and voted to recommend to the full council an amendment to Chapter 15 of the Solid Waste Management Ordinance. The amendment redefines "litter" to include nuisance motor vehicles, providing the sanitation department with enhanced enforcement tools to address long-term nuisance vehicles that pose sanitation and public health risks. This change aims to improve staff efficiency and streamline communication with residents. Second, the committee received a detailed update on the comprehensive operational analysis of the Asheville Rides Transit (ART) bus system. The discussion focused on a draft transit network plan that reallocates existing resources to increase ridership by improving frequency and reliability, particularly in underserved areas, while acknowledging some service cuts in lower-ridership routes. Committee members and public commenters emphasized the need for a dedicated, long-term funding and lobbying strategy to support transit improvements, with a motion passed recommending that staff bring the transit plan to council alongside a proposal for pursuing sustainable funding sources. Public comments reflected strong community engagement and support for enhanced transit service and funding strategies. No direct contract awards or procurement decisions were made, but policy recommendations were advanced that could influence future transit service contracts and funding allocations.