ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) —

Just days before City Council decision, police are investigating a case of vandalism that appears to reference a controversial plan to create a Business Improvement District, or “BID,” in downtown Asheville.

On Thursday morning a resident of Adams Street found that their BMW had been defaced with spray painted graffiti, including an anarchist symbol on the hood and the phrase “NO BID” scrawled on the side, according to a press release and photographs provided by the Asheville Police Department. The vehicle’s front tires also had been slashed, and police believe the damage occurred overnight.

Although the press release did not reference any potential connection to the political controversy, a spokesperson confirmed that the victim is a member of a committee that has been advocating for creation of a downtown Business Improvement District.

A vehicle was found damaged the morning of June 6, 2024, in downtown Asheville, police said. (Photo from Asheville Police Department.)
A vehicle was found damaged the morning of June 6, 2024, in downtown Asheville, police said. (Photo from Asheville Police Department.)

The issue has proven divisive over the past several months, as the Asheville City Council considers creating the district to collect property tax revenues to use toward public safety, cleanliness and hospitality in the center of the city.

The proposal has backing from many in the business community, who say it would be a “nimble” way of addressing issues downtown and help with economic development. But dozens of vocal critics have spoken in opposition at public meetings, raising concerns about the district’s governance, the role and training of planned downtown “ambassadors” and how they might interact with unhoused people downtown.

The City Council could make a final decision on creation of the BID when the council meets at 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 11, at the banquet hall of Harrah’s Cherokee Center, 87 Haywood St., Asheville.

Police are asking people with information on the case to call (828)252-1110, submit tips on the TIP2APD smartphone app or by texting TIP2APD to 847411.

PRIOR COVERAGE:

DOWNTOWN DISTRICT PLAN GAINS TRACTION, BUT WHO SHOULD BE IN CHARGE?

HOMELESSNESS DOMINATES DEBATE OVER DOWNTOWN ‘BID’ DISTRICT

ASHEVILLE COUNCIL VOTES TO ADVANCE DOWNTOWN DISTRICT PLAN