Asheville, NC, October 14, 2025

News Summary

A new proposal for a social district in Asheville’s South Slope aims to boost the local economy through five scheduled events. Unlike traditional social districts, alcohol can be sold by local businesses during these events. The proposal has received 75% support from community surveys, although some city council members express concerns about environmental impact and community engagement. The Asheville City Council will vote on the initiative on October 14.

Asheville Leaders Propose Event-Based Social District to Support Local Businesses in South Slope

A new proposal for a social district in the South Slope area of downtown Asheville, NC, aims to boost the local economy through a series of scheduled events. Unlike traditional social districts, this initiative is strictly event-based, allowing local businesses to sell alcohol during specified festivities.

The Asheville Downtown Association’s executive director, Hayden Plemmons, reported that city council members reached out to the association to explore strategies to enhance downtown Asheville’s economy. In February, a survey revealed that 75% of respondents were enthusiastic about the prospect of a social district.

The proposed social district will feature five key events: the Mardi Gras Parade, the Chai Pani Holi Celebration, Independence Day, Weenie Walk, and Oktoberfest. The unique model allows businesses near the event sites to sell alcohol, instead of the nonprofits that usually manage such sales. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase drinks from these businesses and enjoy them within the event area, which will include entertainment such as music and vendors.

Despite the changes, the general public is not expected to see significant alterations to the current operation of the area. The Asheville Downtown Association has committed to continually funding police presence and upholding existing signage prohibiting alcohol consumption beyond designated areas.

This initiative forms part of ongoing recovery efforts for the local economy following the effects of Hurricane Helene. Local businesses, including Bear’s Smokehouse Barbecue, have expressed support for the proposal, highlighting its potential economic benefits. However, some city council members are expressing mixed sentiments about the plan. Vice Mayor Antanette Mosley has raised concerns about community engagement and the city’s image, referencing the often jokingly referred term “Trashville.”

Bo Hess, a city council member, views the social district as a crucial chance to generate revenue and offer support for local businesses without imposing new taxes or reducing essential services. Currently, the proposal remains in the preliminary phase with a pilot program intended only for special events.

The Asheville City Council plans to hold a public safety committee meeting to address community concerns and encourage feedback on the proposed social district. Some local business owners have voiced worries regarding infrastructure inadequacies, staffing challenges, potential environmental impacts related to plastic cups, and the necessity for transparency about survey findings. A vote on this proposal is set for October 14.

Key Points of the Proposal

• Location: South Slope area, downtown Asheville, NC
• Event-Based: Focus on five specific events
• Business Participation: Alcohol sales by local businesses, not nonprofits
• Survey Insights: 75% support for social district
• Community Engagement: Further discussions planned before final vote

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Additional Resources

• WLOS: Asheville Considers Event-Based Social District
• Mountain X: Letter on Social District Burden
• Carolina Journal: Social Districts on the Rise
• WLOS: Asheville Leaders Propose Alcohol-Friendly District
• Wikipedia: Event-Based Social District

Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER

The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.