HCCBG Advisory Committee Meeting | Nov. 19, 2025

HCCBG Advisory Committee Meeting Recap: November 19, 2025

The Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG) Advisory Committee of Buncombe County Government held a meeting on November 19, 2025. The primary focus of the session was the review and potential revision of the funding application process and scoring tools, alongside updates on ongoing service delivery and expenditure reports.

Key Decisions The committee took three formal votes during the meeting. The agenda was approved without modifications. The meeting minutes were also approved without revisions. Finally, the committee voted to amend the bylaws to add a Purpose section, with the motion passing by a vote of 6-0.

Discussion Highlights A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to refining how funding requests are evaluated. Suzanne Booth presented a revised version of the scoring tool, which proposes shifting from a numerical 1–5 scale to a binary (Yes/No) or categorical (High/Moderate/Low) evaluation method. The draft tool includes specific Yes/No questions regarding community need, program plan clarity, coordination with other agencies, and budget reasonableness. The committee discussed the logic behind these changes, noting that ultimate funding decisions rely on committee members’ subjective awareness of needs rather than an automated algorithm.

The committee also reviewed the draft application form for the FY 20XY Aging Services Program. Key topics included how prospective clients learn about services and navigate the application process. Concerns were raised regarding questions that ask applicants if they self-advocate versus having a caregiver, with members noting the potential for subjective scoring. The discussion emphasized the need for applicants to demonstrate how they are building capacity through coordination with other programs, particularly in light of potential funding reductions.

Updates on service delivery were provided for several programs. Mountain Aging Partners reported adding 44 additional transportation trips under supplemental aging funding, bringing them to approximately 64 filled trips, with more anticipated in the coming weeks. The committee discussed the Land of Sky Senior Companion program, which utilizes other funding sources before accessing HCCBG funds. Additionally, the committee reviewed expenditure reports for Units of Service and Buncombe County Supplemental Aging Funds (BCSAF), emphasizing the importance of timely invoicing for supplemental aging funds to avoid losing funding back to the county.

Follow-ups Susan Schiemer agreed to send a copy of the purpose statement from last month’s meeting to all committee members. The committee scheduled a follow-up meeting for December 17 to further discuss the application process and scoring tool, with a specific focus on aligning the tool with the HCCBG purpose. Committee members will continue to review and provide feedback on the revised application process.

Impact These discussions are significant for residents because they shape how older adults and caregivers access essential services such as transportation, in-home aide, and congregate nutrition. By moving toward a clearer, categorical scoring system and refining the application process, the committee aims to make the evaluation of funding requests more objective and aligned with the core purpose of the HCCBG. Ensuring that services are accessible and easy to navigate, particularly for older adults without caregivers, remains a central priority for the committee as it prepares for the next funding cycle.