“Over 2,000 residents and community members have expressed extreme concern for its lack of consideration for connectivity, the natural environment, affordability and infrastructure impact.”
New Stories
Council moves BID public hearing to larger venue
A public hearing on another controversial topic — rezoning for a large development at 767 New Haw Creek Road — has been postponed until Tuesday, June 11.
Conserving Carolina seeks photo contest entries
Conserving Carolina’s fifth annual Habitat at Home spring photo contest is underway. Plus: Hendo Earth Fare returns to Hendersonville; G5 Trail Collective adds 10 new miles; and more!
Woodfin Town Council shoots down de-annexation request
Council members voted 6-0 on April 16 to oppose the request, which bubbled up after the town implemented a stormwater fee last summer to comply with the state-issued permit it was in danger of violating.
Local theaters get creative sourcing sets, props and costumes
Behind-the-scenes players from Asheville Community Theatre, Flat Rock Playhouse and N.C. Stage Co. talk shop.
Four of a Kind: Logan Hall shares insights on local visual arts scene
The graphic designer talks new projects and the city’s visual arts scene.
Unplugged: Academy strives to keep kids outside, offline
COVID-19 was the impetus for an off-the-grid academy that shows children that there are lessons all around them.
Sustaining community: A conversation with Asheville City Council candidate Tod Leaven
“There are a host of things the city and county could do to help small businesses thrive, but for a start the city and county can simply do their jobs,” says Tod Leaven, who is one of six candidates vying for three open seats on Asheville City Council.
ACS puts mental health support at top of budget priority
As state funding falls with enrollment and $1 million in COVID-era federal funding ends, the district is facing a $5.7 million gap before new funding requests and projected savings are considered, Superintendent Maggie Fehrman reported to the board April 15.
Around the region: Local nonprofits use community focus to achieve results
Many nonprofit groups throughout Western North Carolina find that focusing their efforts on specific communities is the most effective way to get results.
After 10 years, alternative education in ACS may be returning to Montford
It’s been 10 years since Asheville City Schools displaced its once successful majority-Black alternative program from its home on Montford Avenue. At least one longtime educator calls that the worst decision the district has made this century.
County trash rates could increase with new provider
If the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners approves a contract next month with global waste management company FCC Environmental Services, whose U.S. headquarters is in Texas, residents will see an almost $5 a month increase on their trash bills next year.
Four of a Kind: Leah Solita Mangum talks local pottery scene
The potter talks new projects and the city’s craft scene.
Sustaining community: A conversation with Asheville City Council candidate Roberto ‘Bo’ Hess
“A common misconception about Asheville City Council is that members are distant from everyday community concerns. In truth, Council members are community members too, deeply invested in Asheville’s well-being,” says Roberto “Bo” Hess, who is one of six candidates vying for three open seats on Asheville City Council.
What would BID safety ambassadors bring to downtown?
Safety and hospitality ambassadors for a downtown Asheville business improvement district would be perceived as a welcome addition by some — additional “eyes and ears” on the street. But others aren’t sure that such a program is a priority.