Board of Elections Meeting

Buncombe County Board of Elections Meeting Recap - October 28, 2025

The Buncombe County Board of Elections held a meeting on October 28, 2025, focusing primarily on preparations for the upcoming November 3rd election and addressing recent changes to school board procedures. The meeting was attended by all Board members, along with Aaron Bell, who was formally welcomed as the new Absentee Coordinator, set to begin on November 17th. Mr. Bell’s experience at both state and county levels in Georgia will be a valuable asset to the Board.

A significant portion of the meeting centered on ensuring a smooth election process. The Board noted that early voting is progressing well, with nearly 200 voters already participating, and confirmed that Buncombe County will not be affected by recent changes to North Carolina House districts. A second early voting site is scheduled to open at the Weaverville Community Center this Friday, and machine deliveries are expected next week. The Board also approved 15 civilian absentee ballots and one overseas ballot after a detailed review process, emphasizing their commitment to accuracy. A special board meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 3rd at 5:30 PM to process absentee ballots received on Election Day.

The Board engaged in a thoughtful discussion regarding the practice of publicly announcing voter names during absentee ballot review. Concerns were raised about potential impacts on voters and the need to ensure adherence to legal requirements. Ultimately, the Board decided to maintain current procedures – not announcing names publicly – while awaiting clarification from the state on this matter. The Executive Director will be seeking that clarification, ensuring all actions align with legal guidelines. Another important reminder was given regarding the exemption for near relatives to request absentee ballots on behalf of voters who are ill or disabled, a window that closes on November 3rd.

Community input was provided by Marianne, who inquired about the partisan nature of school board elections. The Board clarified that these elections are non-partisan, a key point for voters to understand as the school board election process undergoes changes. Due to recent legislation, filing deadlines are now in December, necessitating a primary and general election cycle. The Board confirmed ongoing communication with the school board and voters regarding these changes, emphasizing transparency and voter awareness.

Looking ahead, several key action items were identified. The Executive Director will prioritize obtaining clarification from the state regarding the policy on publicly announcing voter names during absentee ballot review. Voters interested in running for the school board should be aware of the upcoming December filing deadline. Finally, the Board will continue to monitor and process overseas UACAVA ballots, adhering to established deadlines. Residents should remember that absentee ballots must be returned by 7:30 PM on Election Night, November 3rd. This meeting highlighted the Board’s dedication to a fair and accessible election process, keeping residents informed of important dates and procedures.