With the Asheville city council elections on the horizon, it’s essential for voters to be informed about the candidates and the significant decisions made by the current council. This knowledge is crucial for understanding the potential directions our community might take.
Key Decisions by Current Council Members:
The Asheville City Council, composed entirely of registered Democrats and currently all female, has made several decisions that have sparked discussion within our community. Notably, Kim Roney and Sage Turner have made votes on key issues:
- Appointment to the Asheville City Schools Board: Turner and Roney voted for the appointment of a transgender activist to the Asheville City Schools Board. The same city council later appointed a BLM supporter to the school board.
- Funding Initiatives: Their votes were also cast to allocate millions of taxpayer dollars towards homeless initiatives and reparations.
- Vance Monument: Additionally, they voted in favor of removing the Vance Monument in downtown Asheville, a decision that has been a focal point of conversation about the city’s public spaces and historical representation.
Candidates Seeking Election:
- Charles “CJ” Domingo: As a candidate registered as a Republican, Domingo offers a platform focused on fiscal responsibility, safety, and educational values, contrasting with some of the recent council decisions.
- Roney and Turner: Incumbent council members.
- Additional Democratic Candidates: The ballot includes five other registered Democrats, each presenting their own visions for Asheville’s future, which promises a robust democratic process.
Note: Roney was endorsed in her 2022 mayoral run by the Democratic Socialists of America – Asheville Chapter (DSA). DSA also endorsed Taylon Breanne Breeden in her 2022 candidacy for the state Senate. Breeden is among the five Democrats on the Primary ballot for City Council.
DSA is actively working to recruit volunteer polling place greeters for Roney.
Your Role in Shaping Asheville’s Future:
The city council election is a pivotal moment for Asheville, offering an opportunity to influence the city’s direction. By casting an informed vote, each of us contributes to the shaping of Asheville’s future. Let’s approach this responsibility with the seriousness it deserves, ensuring our decisions are based on a comprehensive understanding of the candidates and their potential impact on our community.
