Briefing | Board of Commissioners | June 16, 2026

The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners held a briefing on June 16, 2026, covering a range of topics including transportation, disaster recovery, public safety, environmental regulation, and growth management. Key procurement-related discussions included support for a $28 million state appropriation to secure federal matching funds for rail corridor improvements aimed at restoring passenger rail service between Asheville and Salisbury. Updates were provided on disaster recovery projects funded through FEMA Public Assistance and various grant programs, with $38 million obligated and $23 million received to date. The board reviewed progress on multiple capital improvement projects such as the Owen Park rebuild, landslide mitigation, and affordable housing initiatives, highlighting ongoing grant applications and contract awards, including the selection of RKK for a multi-slide mitigation project. Additionally, the board discussed the transition of the Air Quality Program from a joint city-county entity to a county-managed program, including regulatory updates and the establishment of an advisory council. The meeting also featured presentations on growth impact strategies aligned with the county’s comprehensive plan, emphasizing planning tools, anti-displacement policies, and economic development efforts that support affordable housing. No formal votes were recorded during the briefing, but consensus was reached to add the rail support letter to the consent agenda.