Board of Adjustment Meeting | Aug. 13, 2025

Buncombe County Board of Adjustment Meeting Recap – August 13, 2025

On August 13, 2025, the Buncombe County Board of Adjustment convened to address a significant proposal and review procedural matters. The meeting, attended by all board members, centered primarily on a proposed affordable housing development from Mountain Housing Opportunities (MHO) and included discussions about the Board's role in ensuring fair and impartial decisions. The meeting was conducted with a focus on upholding due process and recognizing the quasi-judicial nature of their responsibilities, emphasizing that all decisions must be evidence-based.

The main item on the agenda was a request from Mountain Housing Opportunities to build 35 smaller, single-story homes on a 40.31-acre wooded parcel off Case Cove Road. This development, designed as a long-term rental community, aims to provide much-needed affordable housing options for Buncombe County residents. While the project aligns with current zoning regulations (Open Use) and doesn't require any deviations, staff highlighted that future subdivision plans may need to be reviewed. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comment, where residents voiced concerns about potential increases in traffic on Case Cove Road impacting school bus routes, the preservation of wooded areas and neighborhood character, and the need for a designated area for pet waste.

Following public comments and staff recommendations, the Board engaged in discussion regarding these concerns, particularly focusing on mitigating traffic impacts and ensuring a positive integration of the development into the existing community. Staff recommended approving the project with conditions, including a commitment to providing ADA accessible access to the nearest bus stop and designating an enclosed area on the site plan for pet relief. After careful consideration, the Board unanimously approved the Mountain Housing Opportunities development with these conditions. This decision reflects a commitment to addressing the county’s affordable housing needs while acknowledging and responding to community concerns.

Beyond the MHO development, the Board also discussed a traffic impact study related to potential congestion and reiterated the importance of ensuring residents have access to public transportation. They also agreed that the development should provide a suitable area for service dogs, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity. Moving forward, Mountain Housing Opportunities is tasked with finalizing and submitting an amended site plan incorporating the approved conditions. County staff will continue to monitor compliance with these plans and regulations, ensuring that the development adheres to established guidelines. This meeting highlights a balancing act between providing affordable housing and addressing community concerns, ultimately shaping the future landscape of Buncombe County.