It may be cuffing season, but when we talk engagement, we’re not looking for a ring. Instead, we mean the frequent opportunities for engagement with the City of Asheville and Buncombe County — chances to speak up, speak out, and have a say in the future of the community.
Here are just a few ways to offer your input over the next few weeks:
Board of Education electoral redistricting
The Buncombe County Board of Education is holding a public hearing on the proposed electoral redistricting options, based on the new House Bill 66 requirements for six electoral districts and one at-large seat. On Thursday, Feb. 15 at 5 p.m., the plans will be on display in the Maple Room at Entrance B, and the hearing will follow at 6 p.m. in the Buncombe County Schools Minitorium (175 Bingham Rd.).
If you’re interested in speaking, you’ll need to arrive no later than 5:45 p.m. to go through the security screening and sign in. And since brevity is the soul of wit — you’ll have to keep your comments to three minutes.
Coxe Avenue affordable housing development
50-52 Coxe Avenue is one of three sites given priority by Buncombe County for potential development as part of an initiative to convert underutilized County-owned properties into affordable housing. The County and the Development Finance Initiative will present on proposed plans for the site during two sessions — in person on Thursday, Feb. 22 and virtually on Saturday, Feb. 24 — and then they need you. They want your feedback on which plan best serves the community.
If you can’t attend either session, don’t worry. An online survey will be shared along with a short informational video.
Let’s Talk Elections
The 2024 primary election is fast approaching, and you may still have some questions before you go to the polls. Buncombe County’s Communications and Engagement team will be hosting a conversation with Election Services Director Corinne Duncan, focusing on community questions. The question survey is now closed, but you can stream the talk on the website or Facebook on Friday, Feb. 16 at 1 p.m.
Malvern Hills Park pool
After an announcement that the 90-year-old pool can’t be restored, Asheville Parks and Recreation will host a meeting to discuss the decision on Wednesday, Feb. 21 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Lucy S. Herring Elementary School. Keep an eye out for public engagement opportunities in March about the Recreate Asheville: Shaping Our City’s Parks plan, which will guide the future of Malvern Hills Park and the other local recreational facilities.
Budget Priorities Survey
The City of Asheville is seeking your input as it creates the budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25. Answer questions about City services, investments, and infrastructure to help guide the planning process. Take the survey before Friday, Feb. 23.