president of the Biltmore Village Merchants Association. Council member Smith, however, countered that food trucks have been around in some capacity since the 1890s. And Davis, recalling his own initial reaction to food trucks downtown, said: "I was wrong; it's gone very well. I think it contributes to the area instead of takes from it.� The resolution, with an expanded definition of food trucks including those serving drinks only, was approved 6-0.
school safety Mayor Terry Bellamy kicked off the meeting by discussing the city's response to the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings. Staff, she revealed, had met with the Buncombe County commissioners, the Sheriff's Office and emergency management teams last month. "Behind the scenes, our Police Department, Sheriff's Department and Fire Department are constantly working with our school system to make sure our schools have the most up-to-date plans when it comes to safety and emergency management," she said, noting that this wasn’t the first time these groups had gotten together. "Finding solutions to all these problems is going to have to include mental illness, not just gun safety," added Bellamy. "I hope that, as we talk about these issues as a Council, we will look at them in a holistic manner, not just a single shot."
other busIness Council members also unanimously approved the following items: • a conditional-use permit requested by the new developer of the former Thoms estate in north Asheville. The permit will allow various changes in the subdivision plan, including community amenities and a parking lot. • allowing outdoor speakers in the central business and River Arts districts. Complaints will be covered by the city’s noise ordinance. • a franchise agreement for Amazing Pubcycle, a tour business featuring humanpowered trolley vehicles. X Caitlin Byrd can be reached at 251-1333, ext. 140, or at cbyrd@mountainx.com.
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mountainx.com • JANUARY 16 - JANUARY 22, 2013 13