ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Asheville city officials are looking for more input on what’s been a controversial subject among many residents.

The downtown Business Improvement District or “BID” will collect special property taxes in order to help with public safety and cleanliness efforts in a specific area downtown.

Advocates for the BID, mostly business groups and owners, have said they hope it will bring an extra layer of protection. Critics have said they’re afraid it will target and push more unhoused people out from the area.

Asheville City Council voted to approve creation of the BID on June 11. Now, city officials are asking for more input from those who live, work and visit downtown.

A release from the city said it wanted the community to chime in on the issue in order to help further shape the service needs and priorities for the BID based on the following focus areas:

  • Safety & Hospitality: Ensuring a welcoming and secure environment for everyone
  • Enhanced Cleaning: Keeping our downtown clean and well-maintained
  • Special Projects: Undertaking initiatives that enhance the downtown experience

The city plans to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to contract with a service provider who will deliver these supplemental services within the defined district. To see the map of the district, click here. Survey input will be used to help inform the services outlined in the RFPs.

“Community input is critical to the success of the BID,” said Assistant City Manager Ben Woody in the city’s press release. “The survey is an opportunity for staff to better understand and incorporate the needs and priorities of all those impacted by the additional tax.”

CLICK HERE for more information on the BID.

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