Affordable Housing Committee Meeting

Affordable Housing Committee Meeting Recap: June 3, 2025

On June 3rd, 2025, the Buncombe County Affordable Housing Committee convened to discuss ongoing efforts and address pressing challenges related to affordable housing within the county. The meeting focused on several key areas, including supporting local organizations facing hardship, streamlining committee operations, and coordinating recovery efforts following recent storms. This recap outlines the key decisions made, topics discussed, community input received, and what residents can expect moving forward.

A significant portion of the meeting centered around supporting Mountain Housing Opportunities (MHO), a vital organization providing affordable housing options in Buncombe County. MHO’s President and CEO, Jeffrey Barton, presented an update highlighting the significant damage to their properties due to recent flooding – particularly at the Flora Weight Depot in the River Arts District – and increased financial strain on residents struggling to pay rent. As a result, MHO requested consideration of a one-year loan deferral from the county. The committee agreed to consider this request, alongside other potential projects needing assistance, at their next meeting on March 4th.

Beyond addressing immediate needs, the committee also took steps to improve its own operations. A key decision was made to amend the committee's bylaws, removing a requirement that mandates representation from specific county districts (1, 2, and 3). Commissioners noted that these district lines had caused voter confusion. Eliminating this requirement will allow for more flexible appointment of committee members based on their expertise and interest, ensuring a broader range of perspectives. Staff was directed to research best practices from other county committees regarding community member appointments and present options at the March 4th meeting.

The committee also received a detailed overview of the Housing Recovery Support Function, established in response to recent storms. Matthew Cable presented on this initiative's role in coordinating housing recovery, collecting data on storm damage and response efforts, and supporting programs like rental assistance and home repair. Jonathan further outlined how the Affordable Housing Service Program (AHSP) can be leveraged to address storm-related housing needs, exploring options like contract modifications and program adjustments.

During the public comment period, Jeffrey Barton reiterated MHO’s challenges and request for support. Written comments were also acknowledged as received and considered. Several commissioners emphasized the importance of serving all residents of Buncombe County, regardless of district affiliation, and expressed a desire to quickly appoint new committee members.

Looking Ahead: Several action items emerged from the meeting, impacting residents directly:

• Staff will research and present options for community member appointments to the committee at the March 4th meeting.
• The committee will further evaluate MHO’s loan deferral request and other potential projects needing assistance at the March 4th meeting.
• An updated report on the Lakeshore Villas and Maribel projects will be issued, detailing their completion.
• The Housing Recovery Support Function will continue collecting and analyzing data to inform housing strategies, particularly regarding the impact of recent storms.

This meeting demonstrated a proactive approach from the Affordable Housing Committee to address current challenges and adapt policies for greater flexibility. The decisions made, particularly regarding streamlining committee operations and supporting MHO, will contribute to a more responsive and effective affordable housing system for all Buncombe County residents.