POSITIVE
Clear Safeguards Can Strengthen Asheville’s HOME-ARP Plan
Asheville’s proposed HOME-ARP amendment could help more people move out of homelessness by expanding rental assistance and case management. We support the proposal and believe City Council should approve it. But the amendment will also determine who is first in line to draw from a limited assistance pool. We are asking the City to adopt two safeguards: (1) clear rules for balancing the needs of folks directly impacted by Helene with other urgent needs, and (2) regular public reporting that shows who receives assistance, who remains waiting, and whether the program is supporting those most in need. These details may sound technical, but implementation guidelines can determine whether a vulnerable family obtains housing or remains homeless or endangered.
REPORT BACKS
Deaverview Mountain Park could transform the neighborhood – but for whom?
The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the Deaverview Mountain master-planning and engineering contract without discussing the displacement concerns we raised or adding any related safeguards. Commissioners spoke positively about the project and the County’s plans for community engagement, but no one asked whether the investment could increase housing pressures or whether current residents will remain able to benefit from it.