The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce has endorsed the City of Asheville general obligation bond referendum and will be organizing an initiative to support passage of the bonds in the fall election, Asheville Chamber president Kit Cramer announced Thursday, August 18th.
The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce has endorsed the City of Asheville general obligation bond referendum and will be organizing an initiative to support passage of the bonds in the fall election, Asheville Chamber president Kit Cramer announced Thursday, August 18th.
“The bonds are a great opportunity for us to come together in support of our community,” Cramer said. “The Asheville Chamber will be serving as the backbone for this campaign, but collaboration is key. Other organizations, community groups, parents and individuals who care deeply about Asheville all have a part to play in spreading the word about the importance of these bonds and encouraging Asheville voters to vote yes.”
The general obligation bonds would secure $74 million for public improvements in housing; parks and recreation; and streets, sidewalks and bike lanes. The bonds would enable the city to complete significant projects that otherwise would not be complete within the next 5-10 years, if not later.
The proposed projects adhere to the strategic focus areas adopted by the Mayor and the City Council and would work in addition to programs and projects that are already in place in the city.
Financial experts agree that general obligation bonds are a smart way to build a city. Interest rates are historically low, making this the opportune time to undertake this initiative.
“Asheville’s infrastructure should reflect our community’s success. Our residents deserve good roads, sidewalks, bike paths, greenways and parks as well as housing options that are within reach,” Cramer said. “This is the time. This is our city. Let’s make our mark.”
About the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce
The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce is a member association of businesses and organizations. The Chamber and its members collaborate with community organizations and coalitions to support the community and each other with the mission of building community through business. The Chamber is home to the Asheville Visitor Center which welcomes over 200,000 visitors per year. www.ashevillechamber.org.
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Media Contact: Erin Leonard, Director of Communications, 828-258-6131, editor@ashevillechamber.org