# Board of Commissioners Meeting **Body:** Buncombe County Government — Buncombe County Board of Commissioners **Date:** June 16, 2026 5:00 PM EDT (2026-06-16T17:00:00-04:00) **Location:** Commission Chambers, 3rd Floor, 200 College St, Asheville, NC, 28801 **Link:** https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744 ## Summary On June 16th, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners held a busy regular meeting addressing a wide range of issues impacting our community. Here's a breakdown of what was discussed, decided, and what it means for you: **Significant Decisions & Investments:** The Commissioners made two major financial decisions that will directly impact our community. First, they approved a **$40 million housing bond**, aimed at increasing the availability of affordable housing options throughout Buncombe County. This is a significant investment, projected to cost taxpayers approximately $5.50 per $100,000 in property valuation over the life of the bond. Secondly, they approved a **$30 million open space bond**, demonstrating a commitment to preserving our natural environment and recreational areas. Both proposals will be on the ballot for voters in November – your voice matters! **What Was Discussed: Addressing Community Concerns & Planning for the Future** Beyond these major financial decisions, several important topics were on the agenda. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to **public comment**, where residents voiced concerns and suggestions. Notably, Mr. Gary Brunold detailed a dispute with the Buncombe County Permits and Inspections department regarding construction framing, prompting discussion about streamlining the permitting process. David Greenson from the Government Accountability Project (GAP AVL) advocated for a comprehensive anti-displacement strategy, highlighting the need to proactively address housing affordability challenges. The Board also discussed and adopted the **2026 Buncombe-Madison Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan**, a crucial document that outlines strategies for preparing and responding to natural disasters. Lessons learned from recent events like Tropical Storm Helene are incorporated, with a focus on flood resilience, landslide risk reduction, and wildfire preparedness. The Board also approved a contract for the **Garen Creek Landslide mitigation project**, addressing eight predominant slide areas within a 72-acre disturbed area. **Recognizing Local Heroes & Streamlining County Operations:** The meeting wasn’t all about serious issues. The Board took time to **recognize and thank several local volunteers** who have made significant contributions to our community. Jennifer, Lyndell Noyes-Brownwell, Betsy White, Chris Medic, and Annie [Last Name Unclear] were presented with Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards. The Board also approved revisions to several county policies, including those related to overtime pay, sustainable fleet management (focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions), and PCI compliance. These updates aim to improve county operations and ensure efficiency. **What Happens Next: Action Items & Important Dates** Several key action items emerged from the meeting, impacting residents directly. The Board will consider a request for an administrative review of Buncombe County Permits and Inspections’ handling of Mr. Brunold's case, potentially leading to a reevaluation of the framing method and facilitated mediation. Discussions regarding developing a comprehensive anti-displacement strategy will continue, addressing housing affordability concerns. Here are some important dates to remember: * **November 3, 2026:** Voters will have the opportunity to vote on both the housing and open space bond proposals. * **July 21st:** The next Board of Commissioners meeting is scheduled, providing another opportunity to stay informed and engage in local government. **Why This Matters to You:** The decisions made at this meeting will shape the future of Buncombe County. The investments in affordable housing and open space will directly impact our quality of life, while the Hazard Mitigation Plan ensures we are better prepared for future challenges. By staying informed and participating in local government, you can help ensure that our community thrives. ## Agenda - [Approval of the June 2, 2026 Combined Meeting Minutes](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11681) - [Approval of the Home and Community Care Block Grant Agreement and Funding Plan](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11682) - [Resolution Approving Pyrotechnic Experts for Firework Displays](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11683) - [Budget Amendment for the Digital Opportunities Initiative 2026 Grant (Buncombe County Public Libraries)](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11684) - [Resolution Creating a Local Air Quality Program and Buncombe County Air Quality Advisory Council](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11685) - [Public Comment](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11686) - [Good News](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11687) - [Manager's Report](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11688) - [Presentations](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11689) - [Public Hearings on General Obligation Bond Order & Resolution Setting a Special Bond Referendum for Open Space and Housing](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11690) - [Approval of Policy Updates: Overtime Pay; Sustainable Fleet; PCI Compliance](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11691) - [Resolution Approving the Design and Engineering Contract for the Garren Creek Landslide with ECS Southeast, LLC](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11692) - [Resolution to Adopt the Hazard Mitigation Plan](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11693) - [Budget Amendment for Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Compliance](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11694) - [Budget Amendments for Debt Activity](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11695) - [Board Appointments for June 16, 2026](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11696) - [Board Updates](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11697) - [Announcements](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11698) - [Closed Session](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744/item/11699) ## Video & Transcript - Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qj9ZUoD7VjM - Transcript: https://sunshinemeetings.org/transcript/1967/segments - Transcript: https://sunshinemeetings.org/transcript/1968/segments ## Documents - [agenda_2026-06-16.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744?document=9239) - [agenda_packet_2026-06-16.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744?document=9271) - [agenda_packet_2026-06-16.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/2744?document=9496) ## Sources - [CivicClerk](https://buncombeconc.portal.civicclerk.com/#!/events/3622)