Asheville-Buncombe Air Quality Board Meeting

Meeting Overview The Asheville-Buncombe Air Quality Board held its regular meeting on March 18, 2025, at the Buncombe County Permit Office. The agenda focused on budget adjustments, the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget, and ongoing recovery efforts related to Tropical Storm Helene.

Key Decisions The board unanimously approved the minutes from the January 23, 2025 meeting. The board also approved an amendment to the FY2025 budget ordinance to cover the cost of a new Ford Lightning electric vehicle. The vehicle’s actual cost was $62,900, exceeding the original $50,000 estimate; the board reallocated $16,500 from services/supplies and travel/training accounts to cover the difference. Additionally, the board approved permit renewals for Black Rock Crushing’s portable crusher and Morris Funeral Home’s crematory.

FY26 Budget and Funding Concerns The board discussed the proposed FY26 budget, which includes a total revenue projection of $1,065,400. Director Ashley Featherstone presented the budget, highlighting personnel changes, a $10,000 request for a file digitization project, and a decrease in grant funds due to the expiration of one-time Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) grants. Significant discussion centered on the potential impact of the current political climate on future EPA funding, particularly regarding environmental justice initiatives. Board members emphasized the need to carefully review wording in grant applications and website content to avoid potential issues. One board member expressed concern about potential funding cuts and suggested exploring options for raising fees. The board did not vote on the FY26 budget at this meeting; it will be presented again for a vote at the May 8, 2025 meeting.

Tropical Storm Helene Recovery The board received updates on recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Helene. Staff reported that approximately 130 asbestos and demolition permits have been issued since the storm, and fee charging for these permits resumed on January 1, 2025, after a temporary waiver expired. The agency is currently managing the use of Air Curtain Incinerators (ACIs) and open burning of storm debris, noting that open burning complaints have increased by approximately 50%. The agency is also participating in the Post-Helene Community Neighborhood and Built Environment Group to improve community outreach and data tracking.

Monitoring and Equipment The board discussed the expansion of the air quality monitoring network, including the installation of a new ozone monitoring site at the AB Tech campus, which is required by federal regulations. Staff also discussed the disposal of surplus ozone monitoring equipment. The board agreed to solicit interest from local institutions, including UNCA, Blue Ridge Tech, and Warren Wilson, regarding the donation of this equipment. A vote on the donation will be held at the next meeting.

Other Business and Next Steps The board noted that the agency is transitioning to a new .gov website and email system and will monitor this process. The Advisory Committee, which did not meet in February, is scheduled to meet in late April. The next board meeting is scheduled for May 8, 2025.