POSITIVE
Clear Safeguards Can Strengthen Asheville’s HOME-ARP Plan
On September 22, the Asheville City Council held a public hearing on proposed changes to the HOME-ARP program, which would expand rental assistance and case management while giving preference to people experiencing homelessness, particularly those who first became homeless as a result of Hurricane Helene. Council discussed how people would access assistance and how funds might be divided between direct aid and nonprofit staffing, but it did not discuss our recommendations for clear prioritization rules and regular public reporting. We continue to support the amendment and encourage Council to approve it, while asking residents to contact Council before written comments close October 2 and urge members to put these safeguards in place before final approval.
SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY
What’s on the Ballot: A Nonpartisan Workshop
Join GAPavl and community partners on Wednesday, October 7 at 6 p.m. for a nonpartisan workshop about the races, bonds, and ballot measures Asheville and Buncombe County voters will decide this fall. GAPavl is co-sponsoring and helping lead the workshop, which will be held at the YWCA of Asheville, 185 S. French Broad Avenue. The event is also hosted by Just Economics, the Reparations Stakeholder Authority of Asheville, The People’s Place AVL, Common Cause North Carolina, the Asheville-Buncombe League of Women Voters, and WNC Votes.