A native Ashevillian, working mother, and community advocate running for City Council to bring accountability, accessibility, and investment back to local government.

About Nina

Hi Asheville! I’m Nina Ireland, a second-generation native, mother of four, entrepreneur, and a hospitality worker. In other words… I look and work like the everyday Ashevillian.

I grew up here graduating from SILSA at Asheville High School and UNC Asheville. I continue to work and serve across this city—from salons, event spaces, community organizations, and nonprofit spaces. I juggle multiple jobs to raise my family here. I live the reality of how challenging it is for working people to remain in the place they love.

I’m new to politics, but I’m deeply connected to Asheville and the day-to-day experiences of the people who live and work here. I’m running because I believe our city works best when leadership reflects the real lives of its residents—not just those with access, influence, or spare time.

This campaign is about listening, showing up, and working together to build a city that is accountable to its people, accessible to its neighborhoods, and invested in its future.

I’m running for Asheville City Council because this city raised me—and I’m committed to helping it work better for all of us.

With gratitude and commitment.

-Nina

Why I’m Running

Decisions made at City Hall deeply affect the daily lives of those who live and work here. We need leadership that reflects the lived experiences of everyday Asheville residents.

With significant funding coming into our region through Hurricane Helene recovery and I-26 construction, it is critical that those dollars stay rooted in our local economy and strengthen our community.

I'm running to ensure the people who live and work here have a seat at the table. Asheville must invest in its people and keep recovery and growth dollars rooted in our local economy.

PRIORITIES

Accountability

City decisions should be directed by and reflective of community needs - not just special interests. I support public meetings and check ins, participatory budgeting, transparency in spending and prioritizing public input.

Accessibility

Our government should be reachable, understandable, and present in our neighborhoods. As Helene recovery continues and the I-26 connector project begins, now is a crucial time for decision makers to look out for those who live and work here.

Investment

Asheville must invest in people - not just profit. I support investment in economic sustainability, housing solutions that prioritize people who live and work here, youth programs and workforce development.