Committee discusses TDA appointment rules; council to vote tonight on two eligible nominees

Asheville — Committee members discussed Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority appointments at the Aug. 26 work session and agreed to leave the formal vote to the full City Council meeting later that night after receiving staff clarification on eligibility rules.

Assistant city clerk Alex Smith told the committee that only two applicants meet the specific seat requirements: Amy Kelly and Ron Mashburn. Committee members asked whether to interview candidates; councilmembers expressed differing preferences but did not take a committee vote. The official appointment was scheduled for the regular council meeting that evening.

Eligibility and residency questions Committee members asked whether city residency was required for the seat. The city attorney explained that TDA appointment eligibility is set by state statute and that the city may give preference to city residents under local policy but that statutory membership classifications (for example, accommodation operators with specified numbers of units) govern who qualifies for particular seats. The attorney said the city has waived residency preference in prior appointments and may do so again.

Applicant details and next steps Staff noted that Amy Kelly lists a primary residence outside Asheville but operates hotels locally; some councilmembers said her business ties make her a viable candidate. Because this work session was informational, the committee did not appoint either candidate; councilmembers expected to vote during the regular council meeting later the same evening.