The Asheville City Council’s recent decision has halted a major housing development in Haw Creek, leaving community members divided over the project’s implications. The denied zoning amendment sought to pave the way for 49 single-family homes and 35 townhomes along New Haw Creek Road, featuring a bridge over Haw Creek that would navigate through a floodplain.
Developers had envisioned an entrance from New Haw Creek Road, accompanied by a bridge designed to align with or surpass the 100-year floodplain base flood data. However, the initial access was planned via Sleepy Hollow Drive in the Happy Valley neighborhood, a decision that was met with legal challenges from residents questioning their neighborhood covenants, as reported by the Citizen Times.
Despite support from city staff and a unanimous planning and zoning commission recommendation, the council was swayed by significant opposition from the community, including concerns about the bridge’s potential environmental impact. Mindy Mahar, a science teacher and local resident, argued the bridge would disrupt the natural floodplain functions that help manage water flow and filter pollutants. “The Haw Creek flood plain and wetlands are functioning exactly as they should,” Mahar stated.
On the other side of the debate, Joel Schuman, a member of the advocacy group Asheville for All, highlighted the development’s potential to alleviate the city’s housing crisis, expressing frustration over the delay. “This delay worsens Asheville’s affordability crisis,” Schuman commented, noting the lengthy process new projects face.
Mayor Esther Manheimer acknowledged the dilemma faced by the council, noting the absence of a “clear path to bring a complete consensus.” The developers now face the challenge of exploring alternative routes for approval.
Other Developments from the Council Meeting:
- Mayor Manheimer presented a joint statement addressing potential federal immigration enforcement, emphasizing local non-cooperation with such operations.
- Council member S. Antanette Mosley discussed a resolution proposed by Kim Roney, which aimed to prohibit federal immigration enforcement from using city properties. The resolution saw support from community members but lacked sufficient council backing.
- The council voted 5-2 to remove Jared Wheatley from the planning and zoning commission, citing concerns over his conduct. Wheatley, a Cherokee Nation citizen, expressed gratitude for his service, despite the contentious decision.
- Discussion on relocating the West Asheville Police station was postponed, with concerns raised about its impact on the community and police presence on Haywood Road.
Regular Asheville City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at City Hall, 70 Court Plaza, at 5 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for December 9. Details and recordings from past meetings can be accessed here.
