Board of Elections Special Meeting | June 29, 2026

Board of Elections Special Meeting Recap: Planning for Upcoming Elections and Expanding Early Voting Access

On June 29, 2026, the Board of Elections held a special meeting to discuss preparations for upcoming elections and address ongoing communication challenges. The meeting, attended by all board members, focused primarily on refining the early voting plan and ensuring equitable access for all Buncombe County residents. This recap provides a clear overview of the key discussions, decisions, and next steps for voters.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing and finalizing the early voting plan for the upcoming general election. Following feedback gathered from an online survey, Elections Staff presented a revised proposal recommending 12 early voting sites. A notable addition to the plan is the inclusion of a first Saturday (October 17th) as an early voting day, alongside existing Sundays and mandated Saturdays. The Friendship Center was also designated as the 12th site based on survey results, demonstrating a commitment to responding directly to community input. Board member Nagy passionately advocated for adding a site in Upper Harmony, citing population growth and the need to better serve residents in that area. While concerns were raised regarding its remote location, staffing challenges, and historical low turnout (potentially due to lack of awareness), the Board ultimately voted unanimously to approve Upper Harmony as a 13th early voting site. This decision reflects the Board's commitment to ensuring access for all voters, even in less populated areas.

Beyond site selection, the Board engaged in a robust discussion about accessibility and serving all voters effectively. The possibility of utilizing a mobile voting unit was explored, but concerns were raised about storage, observer placement, and potential bottlenecks. The importance of locating sites along established transit routes was also emphasized as a key factor in maximizing voter turnout. Throughout the discussion, Board members consistently highlighted the need to balance providing convenient voting options with budgetary constraints and logistical challenges.

The meeting concluded with a clear outline of next steps. The Board will now proceed with planning for 13 early voting sites, including the newly approved location in Upper Harmony. Staff will continue efforts to improve communication with other county boards and the State, currently awaiting responses to a public records request. The next regularly scheduled Board meeting is set for July 14th at 3:30 PM, where further updates and discussions are expected.

This expansion of early voting options aims to provide greater flexibility and convenience for Buncombe County voters, ensuring a more accessible election process. The Board’s decision to add the Upper Harmony site underscores their dedication to reaching all residents, regardless of location. Residents are encouraged to visit the Board of Elections website or contact their office for more information on upcoming elections and early voting opportunities.