More than 90 Haw Creek residents gathered last Thursday evening for a community forum featuring Asheville mayoral candidates Esther Manheimer and Kim Roney. Hosted by HCCA in partnership with The Friends of the East Asheville Library, the event gave residents an opportunity to hear the candidates discuss issues facing Asheville and to ask questions of their own.

Michelle Decker, president of HCCA, welcomed attendees and opened the evening’s discussion. HCCA board member Doug Baughman then introduced the candidates and served as moderator.

Esther Manheimer, the incumbent mayor, and Kim Roney each responded to a number of questions covering several issues of importance to Haw Creek residents, including development, homelessness, crime, and the city budget. After the prepared questions, Baughman invited audience members to participate, allowing residents to raise additional issues and hear directly from the candidates. The discussion provided a chance for attendees to compare the candidates’ perspectives on some of the challenges and priorities facing Asheville.

Both candidates stayed after the formal portion of the forum to mingle with residents and continue conversations informally. Attendees also enjoyed refreshments while visiting with neighbors and HCCA board members.

For Haw Creek residents, the forum offered a chance to participate in the civic process close to home while hearing directly from the two candidates seeking to lead Asheville.

The election on November 3 will determine Asheville’s next mayor and help shape the city’s leadership and direction. As presiding officer of City Council, the mayor leads council meetings and plays an important role in guiding the city’s legislative process. The mayor also serves as Asheville’s ceremonial head of government, representing the city at official events and in the broader community. Together, these responsibilities make the mayor a highly visible and important voice in Asheville’s city government.