Asheville Reporter

City Council members unanimously took action on Tuesday, July 23, to finalize placing an $80 million General Obligation Bond Referendum on the November 2024 ballot for a public vote.

Council members solidified totals in four different categories:

Category | Funding Amount

--- | ---

Affordable Housing | $20 M

Transportation | $20 M

Parks & Recreation | $20 M

Public Safety | $20 M

Total GO Bonds | $80 M

Finance Director Tony McDowell provided examples of how bond funds could be used to address community needs in the categories listed above. The additional revenue from a bond referendum would allow the Council to prioritize projects planned for future years and address current and long-term community needs.

Next steps required by the Council prior to November include:

- May 28 – Intent to apply (Intent expressed at May 28 City Council Meeting)

- June 25 – Introduce bond orders and set public hearing

- July 23 – Hold public hearing, adopt bond order, and set referenda

City staff and City Council will provide educational information about the bond proposals with the community in September and October leading up to the November 2024 vote. Communications will include:

- Educational materials to inform the community about the Bond referenda including example projects

- Presentations to stakeholder groups, boards and commissions, neighborhood associations

The referendum vote is scheduled for November 5.