Letter writer: Lee supports governmental transparency

I support Rich Lee for Asheville City Council because he supports a transparent government and data-driven decision making.

To build an Asheville that works for everyone, we need community builders and forward-thinking individuals to develop 21st-century solutions to issues like jobs, affordable housing and tourism.

I appreciate Rich Lee’s honesty and willingness to engage in constructive debate so often absent from political discussions.

Tourism provides benefits and challenges to Asheville, yet we lack a strategy for sustainable growth. Rich supports directing tourism-related taxes to local needs, rather than using these funds exclusively for marketing purposes.

Rich also understands that an economic development strategy for Asheville must focus on the development of small businesses invested in our community, rather than handouts to a few large corporations.

When I organized a community event on affordable housing, Rich showed up with positive ideas. Rich advocates for the increased availability of accessory dwelling units and homestays, while regulating short-term rentals with a common-sense approach that protects the fabric of our neighborhoods.

On each issue, Rich has worked to bring the community together and discuss the facts, a refreshing break from the safe talking points we often hear from political campaigns.

— Patrick Conant
Asheville