Board of Equalization and Review Meeting

Board of Equalization and Review Meeting Recap: June 16, 2025

On June 16, 2025, the Buncombe County Board of Equalization and Review convened to address several key issues related to property values, board procedures, and fairness in appeals. The meeting was attended by Board Chair Randall Barnett, along with Preston Edwards, Glenda Weinert, Bill Blake, and Katerina Leeger. This recap summarizes the key discussions, decisions, and next steps for residents to understand how these actions may affect them.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on recently implemented property value adjustments, impacting a large number of properties across Buncombe County – over 16,000. Staff explained that these adjustments largely reflect increased building activity and proactive assessments following hurricane damage. While the number of informal appeals was notably lower than usual, staff emphasized that property owners who made improvements or experienced hurricane damage should ensure their properties are included in the assessment. Should residents have questions about their property’s valuation, staff will provide an exact count of adjustments upon request.

The Board also approved revised bylaws designed to streamline the document and enhance clarity. The updated bylaws, now reduced from nine to seven pages, replace "Board of Equalization" with simply “Board” and clarify language for greater precision. A new section was added to define "good cause" in proceedings, particularly relevant when dealing with circumstances like natural disasters or family emergencies. This update aims to provide a more robust and legally sound framework for the Board's operations.

A lively discussion centered on procedures for hearings, specifically regarding the presentation of new evidence during appeal processes. The Board is considering a requirement that appellants submit all relevant documents to the board seven days prior to scheduled hearings, aiming to prevent surprises and ensure fairness. The Board is also exploring how to handle situations where new evidence arises during a hearing, potentially through tabling the hearing or allowing it at the chair’s discretion. Finally, recognizing the Board's small size, a change was approved eliminating the requirement for a second motion.

There were no public comments during this meeting, but Board member Katerina Leeger raised a question about potential time limits for testimony during hearings. Staff advised against strict time limits due to concerns regarding due process, suggesting that the chair should use discretion to guide discussions.

What’s Next?

Several action items emerged from the meeting, impacting residents in the coming weeks:

• Property Value Adjustments: Staff will provide an exact count of property value adjustments if requested by residents.
• Appellant Document Submission: Staff will email board members an amendment to the bylaws regarding appellant document submission, for a vote at the next meeting.
• Hearing Procedures: The Board will further consider procedures for handling new evidence presented during hearings, potentially through a separate document outlining hearing procedures.

These decisions and discussions reflect the Board’s commitment to ensuring fair and consistent property valuations for all Buncombe County residents. The streamlining of bylaws and the consideration of updated hearing procedures demonstrate a dedication to efficient processes while upholding due process rights. Residents are encouraged to contact the Board’s office with any questions or concerns regarding their property assessments.