One of the biggest concerns we hear about from people is the increased level of development on the steep slopes. A meeting held two weeks ago about the topic drew 250 people. Primary concerns include the visual impacts of scarred mountainsides, mudslides, and stormwater pollution runoff that impacts neighboring property owners and water quality.

City Council has directed our planning department to review our existing steep slope development ordinance and identify ways to protect property owners and water quality from inappropriate development on steep slopes.

For more information about the proposed ordinance and opportunities for public input, visit http://www.ci.asheville.nc.us/STEEP%20SLOPE%20AND%20RIDGETOP%20REGULATIONS.htm  We expect a final draft of the proposed ordinance to come before City Council in January. I would welcome feedback about the proposed policy.