Health & Human Services Board Meeting | July 24, 2026

Buncombe County Health & Human Services Board Meeting Recap: July 24, 2026

On July 24th, the Buncombe County Health & Human Services Board convened to discuss a range of critical issues impacting our community, with a significant focus on the ongoing work and challenges surrounding the START program. The meeting also addressed board governance, upcoming assessments, and recognized important staff achievements. This recap provides a clear overview of the key takeaways for residents.

START Program: A Focus on Families and Facing Funding Challenges

The majority of the meeting centered on the START (Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Teams) program, a vital initiative aimed at supporting families facing substance use challenges and child maltreatment. START utilizes an evidence-based approach, prioritizing compassion and early intervention to keep children safe and families together. Since its implementation in 2017, the program has demonstrably improved outcomes, contributing to a reduction in children entering foster care – from 380 to 270 since its inception. The board celebrated these successes, noting the program’s national recognition and ongoing support for statewide expansion across North Carolina.

However, a significant challenge was highlighted: an unexpected 80% cut in state funding at the end of May. The board acknowledged this crisis and discussed ongoing efforts to adapt, including exploring opioid settlement funds, repurposing existing staff positions, and pursuing partnerships with Healthy Blue Care Together. Discussions centered on maintaining the program's effectiveness despite these financial constraints, emphasizing the importance of continued data collection through a partnership with UNC Chapel Hill. The board will be presented with budget amendments to address this shortfall in the coming weeks, demonstrating their commitment to finding a sustainable path forward for START.

Governance and Upcoming Assessments: Strengthening the Board & Understanding Community Needs

Beyond the START program, the meeting included important discussions about board governance. The role and responsibilities of the Executive Committee were clarified, emphasizing its function in reviewing agendas, recommending board members, and providing input on key issues. Residents interested in participating can contact Krista for meeting invitations.

Looking ahead, the board approved a presentation from Nathan Green on findings from the Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response (CASPER). This assessment will reveal ongoing mental health impacts related to the COVID-19 pandemic, providing valuable insights for addressing community needs.

Recognizing Excellence & Addressing Budgetary Realities

The board also took time to acknowledge the outstanding work of Economic Services trainers, who received a National Association of Counties award. This recognition highlights the dedication and expertise within our local Health & Human Services department. Finally, board members Dan Frayn and Greg rotated off the board, initiating a vetting process for new members. The board also acknowledged the broader impact of state budget changes, requiring potential adjustments to local funding streams and line-item transfers.

What's Next?

Several key action items emerged from the meeting:

• Continued Support for START: The board remains committed to supporting the statewide expansion of START and navigating the current funding challenges.
• Bridge Protocol Implementation: The program will continue to contribute to and refine the Bridge Protocol, expanding support to a wider range of CPS cases.
• Budget Amendments: Residents can expect to see proposed budget amendments addressing the START program funding shortfall in upcoming meetings.
• CASPER Presentation: Nathan Green’s presentation on the CASPER assessment findings will be a key topic at a future meeting.
• State Negotiations: The county is actively engaged in negotiations with the state to secure renewed funding and expand START's reach.

This meeting underscored the dedication of the Buncombe County Health & Human Services Board to addressing critical community needs, particularly supporting families facing complex challenges. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about these ongoing efforts and participate in future meetings.