Reaction to Possible Asheville Business Improvement Scheme

TL/DR –

The Asheville City Council has held a public consultation about the possibility of a Business Improvement District (BID) downtown. A BID could improve safety and cleanliness, increase pressure washing, graffiti removal and trash collection for business and property owners. The council will potentially make a decision on the topic during two scheduled readings on 14 May and 11 June.

Asheville City Council Assessing Potential for Business Improvement District

The Asheville City Council is engaging the public on the potential benefits of establishing a Business Improvement District (BID). The Asheville Downtown Association aims to educate local business owners and community members about the advantages a BID could offer.

“A BID could address safety and cleanliness, providing increased pressure washing, graffiti abatement, and more frequent trash pickups,” explains Association Director Hayden Plemmons. “It’s versatile and adaptable, able to swiftly tailor to community needs.”

Qualities and Costs of a Business Improvement District

While a BID can bring numerous benefits to a city, it would be the property and business owners who bear the cost for these services. City Council and residents are actively discussing the potential BID.

In the last nine months, the downtown association has led nine town halls and other events to gauge public opinion. These efforts are aimed at shaping their proposal for an Asheville BID.

“Community conversations have helped shape the framework of what was presented at council last month and this month,” Plemmons said. “We’ve made many changes based on community feedback and through these discussions.”

BID Details and Drawbacks

The proposed district is bordered by Interstate-240, Clingman Avenue, McCormick Field, and Tunnel Road. The BID would assess 9 cents per $100 of value for downtown property owners.

“The obvious drawback is the cost,” said Celeste King, The Chocolate Fetish Owner. “That’s a non-negotiable for businesses. Everybody gets charged.” But the potential for added resources in safety and hospitality could balance out these costs.

“Safety is a concern for my employees during winter. A BID could provide added safety benefits, affecting the cost of doing business in a positive way,” King added.

Expected City Council Readings on the BID

The city council is expected to have two readings on the BID on May 14 and June 11. For more information on what a Business Improvement District is, click HERE.

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