FY2027 Budget Work Session | April 28 2026

The Buncombe County Government held a FY2027 Budget Work Session on April 28, 2026, focusing extensively on budget projections, adjustments, and strategic planning for the upcoming fiscal year. Key procurement-related discussions included the evaluation and proposed funding for the newly established Unified Fire Tax District, which consolidated 20 fire tax districts into one, with a proposed tax rate of 11.73¢ to fund a $69 million budget—representing a 28% increase over prior years. The session also covered capital improvement projects, including debt-funded public safety facilities and IT projects, and the use of PayGo funds for one-time expenditures. Additionally, the board reviewed proposed grant awards totaling several million dollars across affordable housing, early childhood education, behavioral health, and community partnerships, with specific allocations detailed and some requiring further board approval. The meeting included discussions on salary and benefit adjustments, including COLA considerations for state employees funded by the county, and the financial outlook projecting tax rate scenarios to maintain fund balance policies. Commissioners deliberated on budget balancing strategies involving expenditure reductions and potential tax rate increases. The session concluded with plans for upcoming budget presentations, public hearings, and adoption timelines.