During a recent government meeting, officials discussed critical strategies to address the pressing need for affordable housing in the community. The discussions were informed by community feedback collected in March, which highlighted the construction of affordable for-sale and rental housing as top priorities.

Key proposals included enhancing existing city tools and increasing awareness of available resources to help residents understand their rights and options. The city plans to implement regulatory incentives to boost housing production, such as density bonuses and requirements for developments receiving city funding to accept rental assistance.

The meeting also emphasized the importance of expanding home repair resources as an anti-displacement strategy. Officials noted that many homeowners struggle to afford necessary repairs, which can lead to unsafe living conditions and displacement. Collaborating with local organizations like the Asheville Regional Coalition for Home Repair was suggested to broaden the scope of assistance available.

Additionally, the city aims to support down payment and mortgage subsidy programs, invest in community land trusts, and align housing development with capital improvement planning to maximize efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Extending tenant protections and providing emergency rental assistance were also highlighted as essential measures to keep residents in their homes.

The discussions underscored the need for collaboration among various stakeholders, including potential joint sessions with county commissioners to align housing priorities and funding. The meeting concluded with a call for feedback on these strategies, particularly the urgent need for home repair initiatives to prevent displacement and support legacy residents in the community.