Press release from the city of Asheville:

ASHEVILLE – Mayor Esther Manheimer announced on Friday the formation of a development task force established to make recommendations promoting sound growth and development within the city.

The mayor’s announcement came during Friday’s City Manager’s Development Forum, a biannual event that invites developers to hear from city staff on changes and initiatives that affect development in Asheville.

“We certainly want to encourage local business growth, development has to happen in a way that takes into consideration the wants and needs of the city’s diverse population.” Manheimer said.

Development permitting and construction in Asheville are at their highest point since 2008, according to Development Services Director Shannon Tuch, who was one of several city staff to present to the group. The task force will be charged with identifying barriers to private investment in the city and opportunities like public-private partnerships.

The group is expected to be operating within the next two months, selection of members will come with the help of local stakeholders.