Readers had a lot to say in 2022 about a host of local issues — from our region’s growth and development to the environment, homelessness and more.

Readers had a lot to say in 2022 about a host of local issues — from our region’s growth and development to the environment, homelessness and more.
“In this economy, it takes a lot of nerve to even mention increasing taxes.”
“Our wealthiest households are not paying their fair share now, and these bonds will simply add to the inequity, asking disproportionately assessed lower-income households to continue to shoulder more than their fair share of the burden.”
“Our community faces two mounting crises that we must address in concert — housing affordability and climate change. We can do this by providing a wider range of housing options in and around Asheville and our other municipalities, while not contributing to sprawling development patterns that clear forested land, feed gridlock and increase auto emissions.”
“Together, land conservation and affordable housing lessen the need for expensive new road infrastructure in the more rural areas of Buncombe.”
“By structuring most of the affordable apartments to leverage housing tax credits, our community investment of $40 million will likely leverage around $80 million in additional funds for Buncombe County.”
“I see a strong relationship between affordable housing and open space because families who live in affordable housing need nearby and carefully designed open spaces.”
“Can we build affordable housing while we protect our rural communities? We can and should find ways to pursue both of these endeavors.”
“For the equivalent expenditure of about $20 per family per year, we can leave a land legacy of which our children and grandchildren will be both thankful and proud.”
“Please vote ‘Yes’ for the housing bond, which will support affordable homes for people serving our community.”
“Thanks to our representative Terri Wells’ leadership, we can make our voices heard on the matters of land conservation and affordable housing.”
The forum, hosted by the Council of Independent Business Owners, gave the candidates the opportunity to stake out their positions on a range of issues central to Buncombe County residents.
“Using very simple math, you can see how unrealistic these goals are!”
“We do have to stay vigilant as the money is distributed.”