The Latest
Mike Lamb Appointed as Police Chief
On February 20, City Manager Debra Campbell announced that Mike Lamb, who was serving as the Interim Police Chief since December, had accepted the permanent position of Police Chief. Chief Lamb has served the Asheville community for more than 26 years. More information about the announcement is available here.
APD Collaboration with Buncombe County Sherriff's Office
On February 9th, the Asheville Police Department and Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office launched a collaborative effort of joint patrols within downtown. These patrols will continue from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays as part of the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office Downtown Initiative.
New 24/7 Downtown Public Restroom to be Installed
At the February 13 City Council meeting, council members approved resolutions authorizing staff to move forward with the purchase and installation of a prefabricated restroom outside of the Rankin Avenue garage. The construction of the facility, along with improvements to the Rankin and College public space such as landscaping and area security cameras, create not only additional facilities in downtown Asheville but also an opportunity to enhance the look, function, and safety of the area.
Parks Department maintenance staff will monitor the restroom and be available to clean 7 days/week during business hours. The initial cleaning frequency will start with 2 cleanings per day and include restocking supplies, cleaning surfaces, trash removal and general maintenance. The frequency of cleaning will be adjusted according to the needs. Responsive cleaning during working hours will be possible. Security will be supplemented with routine checks by the new 24/7 garage security contractor.
Construction of the project is slated to begin in Spring 2024. More information about the project can be found on the project page here. A map showing existing public restroom facilities is viewable here.
Parking Security Enhancements Underway
Contracted services with Walden Security began on February 1 to provide 24/7 security coverage at the City's four downtown parking garages and ten surface parking lots. Parking Services will spend up to $481,834 for the first year of the contract.
City Parking Services has also completed the installation of 13 security cameras within the Harrah's Cherokee Parking Garage. Staff is continuing to test the camera and software systems, and taking steps to install cameras in the other City parking garages.
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