Multiple complaints about mold, rot, and other woes at a Merrimon Avenue apartment complex earlier this year casts doubt on the ability of local governments to deal with what many see as a serious health issue, leaving tenants feeling powerless to get their grievances addressed. And with the Asheville area having some of the highest housing costs in the state and one-third of its working population earning low wages, many local renters face similar issues.
Tag: housing
Showing 64-83 of 83 results
Buncombe Commissioners discuss development at Swannanoa meeting
Residents raised a variety of issues and concerns with Buncombe County commissioners during a July 16 community meeting in Swannanoa, including zoning, development and pedestrian safety.
No vacancy: Chestnut Street development pits preservation against housing crunch
An unassuming patch of ground on East Chestnut Street embodies a critical debate confronting Asheville: How does a rapidly changing city balance the unique virtues of local character and the pressing need for more housing?
No place like home: Child Watch Tour emphasizes need for affordable housing
Where a child or adult lives in Buncombe County may tell more about their location in life than a physical address ever could, according to locals who shared their experiences at Asheville’s May 10 Child Watch Tour. (Graphic by Nathanael Roney)
Asheville City Council preview: buildings and budgets
Developments in South Asheville and Tunnel Road are up for consideration at tomorrow night’s Asheville City Council meeting, along with (of course) the city’s ongoing budget crunch.
Local public hearing on Progress Energy rate hikes set for March 5
The North Carolina Utilities Commission wants to hear from you: On Tuesday, March 5, the commission will hold a local public hearing on Progress Energy Carolinas’ request to raise residential, commercial and industrial electricity rates by an average of 12 percent.
Demonstration will call for city to turn ice plant into housing for the homeless
In a demonstration and cookout on Saturday, Dec. 22, in the River Arts District, locals will call for the city of Asheville to do something positive with an abandoned property known as the Ice House. (Photo by zen Sutherland)
Big new apartment complex in the works for south Asheville
A national development company recently bought a 14-acre site in south Asheville and is hoping to build a major apartment complex there.
Bumping the BID
A debate over the future of downtown dominated the June 12 Asheville City Council meeting. Concerned about oversight, finances, Council delayed a vote on the controversial BID proposal till Fall.
Retreat and advance: Commissioners set priorities for 2012
The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners huddled with staff Jan. 31 to discuss past accomplishments and current priorities. Here’s a look at some of the considerable ground they covered during their four-hour retreat.
(Photo by Bill Rhodes)
Due to new state law, Asheville can’t require inspections for rental properties
Due to a new state law limiting local authority over housing codes, the city of Asheville can no longer require the inspection of rental properties before their occupation by tenants.
Buncombe County Commissioners: Crumbling walls, affordable housing, new parks and more
Here’s a summary of this evening’s Jan. 4 meeting of the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners.
Buncombe County Commissioners preview: New Year edition
During its first meeting of 2011, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners plans to consider a new work-force housing policy, a new park, a rezoning request and more.
The life you save has to be your own
I am writing regarding the letter "’Workforce Housing’ Leaves Most Workers in the Cold" [Dec. 8 Xpress]. Josh Mallernee mentioned that he is a city worker making less than $30,000 a year and that at that rate it is harder to find affordable housing to match. If you can't afford your rent, either find a […]
Reclaim legislative authority at the local level
In your article about a Montford homeowner under attack by the city for having “too many people” [“Sustainable For Whom,” Nov. 17, Xpress), Assistant Planning Director Shannon Tuch says, “This is all based on life-safety requirements. When you have eight related people living in a house, there's a head of household … who would act […]
Localism in Asheville a hoax?
Bernard Carman, who lives in an old eight-bedroom Victorian [in Montford], opened his empty rooms to the people who work, play and create in this city renowned for its vibrant musical, literary and performing-arts scenes [”Sustainable for Whom,” Nov. 17 Xpress]. He has helped his local community grow for 22 years simply by trying to […]
Buncombe County Commissioners preview: May the (work) force be with you?
At this week’s Nov. 16 meeting, Buncombe County Commissioners are scheduled to discuss a new workforce housing incentive proposal, take action on a conservation easement request, and hear a report on the county’s finances.
County looks to cancel tax revaluation
The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday will vote on a resolution that would cancel the upcoming property tax revaluation in the face of a declining economy, pushing it to 2014.
OnTrack: Bailed out
Staring a dire funding crisis in the face, the folks who run the nonprofit On Track Financial Education & Counseling are breathing easier these days. Recently, the agency was denied a $135,000 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development grant. But thanks to the state and some generous individuals and businesses, the shortfall will be […]
Who’s complaining now?
Michelle Copeland had lived in her apartment at 28 Broad St. for nearly two years when, just before Christmas, her kitchen caught fire. Water damage: A picture of the basement area at 28 Broad St. taken by one of the tenants after the communal washer and dryer were removed. “I’m in my kitchen washing the […]