Planning Board Meeting

Buncombe County Planning Board Meeting Recap: October 20, 2025

On October 20, 2025, the Buncombe County Planning Board convened to discuss key land use planning and development matters impacting our community. The meeting, attended by board members and open to the public, focused primarily on proposed changes to the county's exterior lighting ordinance and an update on the Swananoa Small Area Plan.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a thorough review and discussion surrounding proposed amendments to Buncombe County's exterior lighting ordinance. Board members engaged in a detailed conversation about various aspects of outdoor lighting, including the color temperature (measured in Kelvin) and its potential effects on wildlife and human health. Concerns about light pollution were a central theme, with discussion revolving around how to best balance the need for adequate lighting with minimizing negative impacts on residents and local ecosystems. The board also explored different measurement standards, like lumens versus foot candles, aiming to ensure clarity and ease of understanding for the public. Specific areas under scrutiny included regulations surrounding canopy lighting, performance venues, and animated signs. While extensive discussion took place, the board ultimately decided to postpone any formal votes on these amendments and will continue deliberations at a future meeting. Staff has been tasked with investigating the definition of "performance areas" and arranging a presentation from a lighting vendor to provide further insights into Kelvin ratings.

The meeting also included valuable community input. During the public comment period, Nashville resident Bernard Argyar passionately addressed the board regarding the proposed lighting ordinance changes. He advocated for using lumens as a more accessible measurement, emphasized the need for a timeline for existing non-compliant fixtures to comply with new regulations, and highlighted best practices from neighboring municipalities like Asheville and Hendersonville. His comments underscored the importance of addressing floodlights and aligning with broader regional efforts to reduce light pollution.

Beyond the lighting ordinance, the board received an update on the Swananoa Small Area Plan. This collaborative effort, involving partnerships with organizations like the Land of Sky Regional Council and Mountain True, aims to develop a comprehensive plan focused on resilience measures within the Swananoa community. The board highlighted their commitment to public engagement, noting several events held to gather resident input through polls and other forums. Currently, the steering committee is working on crafting a vision statement for the plan, which will guide future policy recommendations.

What's Next & Why It Matters:

The Planning Board’s ongoing review of the lighting ordinance will directly impact regulations governing outdoor lighting throughout Buncombe County, potentially affecting property owners and businesses. Residents can expect further opportunities to engage in the process as discussions continue. The Swananoa Small Area Plan, once finalized, will shape development and resilience strategies within the Swananoa community, ensuring a more sustainable and prepared future for residents. The Planning Board encourages all interested parties to stay informed about these developments and participate in upcoming public hearings related to both initiatives. Details on future meetings and opportunities for engagement will be posted on the Buncombe County website.