City Council Meeting – July 28, 2026

The City Council of Asheville held a meeting on July 28, 2026, with significant focus on public transit and affordable housing initiatives. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of a $160,904 federal grant for drug trafficking enforcement and the presentation of a comprehensive operational analysis of Asheville Rides Transit, which proposed reallocating existing resources to increase bus frequency on key routes while reducing service in low-ridership areas. The council debated trade-offs between ridership and coverage, with public comments expressing concern over proposed route cuts affecting vulnerable populations and essential services. The council also considered zoning amendments for mixed-use and residential developments, including a conditional zoning request for affordable housing at 3862 Sweeten Creek Road and a rezoning request for the Asheville Mall property, which was ultimately approved to revert to regional business zoning to facilitate redevelopment. Additionally, the council approved a $3 million allocation from affordable housing bond funds for a home repair program aimed at anti-displacement, and adopted a resolution supporting a comprehensive approach to minimizing displacement with directives to develop measurable milestones in the city’s strategic plan. Public comments highlighted concerns about transit service cuts, affordable housing, park renovations, and community safety. The meeting concluded with general public comments and adjournment.