HHS Board Meeting

Meeting Overview The Buncombe County Health and Human Services (HHS) Board convened virtually on March 27, 2026, to review committee reports, address public health updates, and approve financial guidelines for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting focused on operational complexities within the child care system, community safety services, and the management of a recent measles outbreak.

Key Decisions The Board took formal action to approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from the February board meeting, with both approvals passing unanimously. The primary substantive decision made during this session was the unanimous approval of the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 billing guide for services. This approval authorizes the implementation of updated fee structures and billing practices as outlined in the presentation.

Discussion Highlights Several committees provided updates on their respective areas of responsibility. The Community Opportunity Committee presented on the complexities of the child care subsidy system, highlighting difficulties families face in accessing programs due to a convoluted federal-state-county funding structure. Presenters noted concerns that the absence of a waiting list may not accurately reflect true need, as families might be foregoing or settling for less-than-ideal care options. Additionally, challenges for childcare providers regarding licensing and rating were cited as potential contributors to a shortage of quality care.

The Community Safety Committee offered a brief overview of mandated and supportive services, noting no major issues but remaining available for questions. The Community Health Committee provided an update on a recent measles outbreak, confirming that the county has exited the window for potential transmission. During this discussion, Director David recognized the dedication of public health nurses and communicable disease staff. Paul Watson, representing Finance, presented the Fiscal Year 2027 billing guide, detailing adjustments such as sliding fee scale updates based on federal poverty level increases, new fees for self-pay PrEP services, and billing for previously unbilled smoking cessation services. Paul emphasized the commitment to providing affordable access to PrEP, noting that patient assistance programs can often provide the medication at no cost.

Community Input No formal public comments were received during the meeting. However, board members engaged in internal discussion, sharing observations and asking questions regarding child care system complexities, vaccine costs, and various funding sources.

Follow-ups and Next Steps The Department will provide details regarding grant funding received for the WIC clinic’s farmer’s market prescription program, with this information to be shared in the meeting minutes. Additionally, new board members are required to attend an in-person orientation scheduled for April 20. The Board continues its search for a qualified, practicing engineer to join its membership.