Regular meeting of the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners on May 20, 2025

Buncombe County Board of Commissioners Meeting Recap: May 20, 2025

On May 20, 2025, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners convened for their regular meeting, focusing primarily on recognizing county staff and a crucial discussion surrounding the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year (FY26). The meeting was well-attended, with a significant number of residents participating in the public hearing to share their perspectives.

Recognizing Excellence & Proclaiming Older Americans Month: The meeting began with well-deserved recognition for several county employees. Amy Cortez from Public Safety Communications received the prestigious "Peer Team Member of the Year" award, and the entire County team was lauded for their support during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. Nagy Fox from Election Services also received two "Cleries" awards for outstanding communication and contingency planning related to the 2024 elections. In a separate, celebratory moment, the Board formally proclaimed May as Older Americans Month, acknowledging the vital contributions of Buncombe County residents aged 60 and over.

Facing a Budget Challenge: Proposed FY26 Adjustments: The bulk of the meeting centered on the proposed FY26 budget, a topic generating considerable discussion and public comment. The county is facing a significant challenge: a projected $11.4 million revenue decrease compared to the previous fiscal year, largely due to evolving economic conditions. To address this shortfall and maintain a balanced budget, the proposed plan includes $4.6 million in reductions to operating budgets and $7.5 million through a salary budget freeze, impacting open positions. A particularly sensitive point of discussion was the potential impact on Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools, with proposed funding reductions sparking concern about staffing levels and program availability. To help offset these cuts, the budget proposes a 3.26 cent increase in the property tax rate per $100 of assessed value – an estimated additional $114 annually for a home valued at $350,000. Notably, the proposal does not include any new “pay-as-you-go” (PAYGO) capital projects, and allocates $5.7 million to community investments, prioritizing early childhood education and support for artists affected by Hurricane Helene.

Community Voices Heard: Public Hearing Highlights: The public hearing portion of the meeting saw a robust turnout, with residents passionately sharing their thoughts on the proposed budget. A clear theme emerged: strong support for fully funding public schools and concerns about potential cuts to educational programs. Several speakers also voiced worries regarding the proposed property tax increase, emphasizing its impact on household finances. One resident passionately advocated for increased investment in climate initiatives, framing it as a crucial long-term investment in the community's well-being.

What’s Next & Why It Matters to You: The Board did approve revisions to the county personnel ordinance, streamlining policies related to benefits, position classification, and workplace safety. However, a final vote on the FY26 budget is scheduled for two weeks from now. Residents are encouraged to attend a public forum specifically focused on the education budget, which will be held on May 27th at AB Tech. The county manager is also continuing to search for a location to host the North Carolina APCO-NINA chapter meeting in July. The decisions made regarding the FY26 budget will directly impact county services, school funding, and property taxes for all Buncombe County residents. Stay informed and engaged as the Board finalizes these critical decisions that shape our community’s future.

This recap aims to provide a clear and accessible overview of the meeting for all residents, ensuring everyone understands the key discussions and their potential impact.