Helene People & Environment Recovery Board - August 3, 2026

The City of Asheville's People and Environment Recovery Board convened on August 3, 2026, to discuss ongoing recovery and resilience efforts following Tropical Storm Helene. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the urban forest master plan, presented by consultant Mindy Moorman of Urban Canopy Works. The board reviewed draft goals and strategies emphasizing tree conservation, community engagement, and equitable access to urban canopy benefits, particularly noting the importance of private property trees. Discussions included enforcement of tree protection ordinances, potential incentives for private landowners, and the need for robust partnerships with local nonprofits. The board also received an update on the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) infrastructure program, which offers a once-in-a-lifetime funding opportunity for physical infrastructure investments to support resilience hubs across the city. The board provided input on funding allocation priorities, accessibility for smaller organizations, and the importance of geographic and demographic equity in funding decisions. Public comments highlighted concerns about mature tree protection, canopy measurement accuracy, and the intersection of urban forestry with housing development. The meeting concluded with scheduling of upcoming joint meetings and a call for continued public engagement on recovery projects.