Council considers $250K grant for affordable housing acquisition in Asheville

In the heart of Asheville's city hall, council members gathered to discuss a pivotal decision that could shape the future of affordable housing in the community. The June 18, 2025, City Council Agenda Briefing focused on a proposed $250,000 grant to the Asheville-Buncombe Community Land Trust (ABCLT) for the acquisition of two homes—one in Southside and another in East End. This initiative aims to bolster the city’s mission of creating permanently affordable homeownership opportunities.

Sasha Vertunski, a key presenter at the meeting, outlined the historical context of the city’s partnership with the ABCLT, emphasizing past investments and their impact. The discussion highlighted the challenges of maintaining affordable housing in a rapidly changing market, particularly in neighborhoods facing gentrification pressures. The proposed East End property, which had undergone extensive renovations by the Preservation Society, was noted for its high rehabilitation costs, raising questions about the financial viability of such investments.

Councilman Turner expressed his concerns regarding the financial implications of the grant. He pointed out that the renovation costs for the East End home exceeded $500,000, which he felt was disproportionate to the $200,000 purchase price. His apprehension centered on whether the investment would yield sufficient returns in terms of affordable housing stock, suggesting that the funds could potentially support multiple homes instead of just one.

The emotional weight of the discussion was palpable, particularly for Vice Mayor, who shared personal memories tied to the East End home, recalling the multi-generational family that once lived there. This connection underscored the importance of preserving not just the physical structure but also the community's history.

As the council deliberated, the overarching question remained: Would the ABCLT's acquisition of these homes effectively combat displacement and promote sustainable affordable housing? The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency, as council members recognized the delicate balance between financial prudence and the pressing need for affordable housing solutions in Asheville. The decision, set to be voted on in the coming weeks, will be a critical step in determining the future landscape of homeownership in the city.