Buncombe County, North Carolina, September 18, 2025 News Summary During a recent meeting, Buncombe County commissioners addressed critical issues such as school funding, property reappraisals, and acknowledged National Manufacturing Month. A significant budget amendment redirected over $4 million to local schools, and a grant was approved for the preservation of Deaverview Mountain. The meeting displayed the county’s commitment to education and local manufacturing, which plays a vital role in the economy by employing over 12,700 individuals. Additionally, federal grants for transportation were accepted, and a commemorative film on recovery efforts post-Tropical Storm Helene was shared. Buncombe County, North Carolina – During their meeting on September 16, Buncombe County commissioners addressed several significant local matters, including funding for schools, property reappraisals, and the acknowledgment of National Manufacturing Month. One of the primary resolutions involved the approval of the Schedule of Values, which will guide county property appraisers during the next real estate reappraisal set for January 1, 2026. Under state law, counties must reappraise real property at least every eight years. However, Buncombe County usually conducts reappraisals every four years, with the next instance planned for 2029. The reappraisal process was delayed by one year following Tropical Storm Helene. The commissioners also made a critical amendment to the budget, redirecting Article 39 sales tax revenue to fund school operations. This funding change will provide $4,092,419 to both Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools, responding to ongoing needs within the education sector. Further enhancing local education infrastructure, the commissioners approved a $4.47 million Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grant. This funding will assist in the purchase and preservation of the 343-acre Deaverview Mountain property. The county is partnering with the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy on an $8.95 million project for a new park, with master planning expected to begin in early 2026. In recognition of the local manufacturing sector, the commissioners declared October National Manufacturing Month. The manufacturing industry in Buncombe County employs over 12,700 individuals and contributed $850 million in wages last year. Employment in this sector has increased by 15 percent over the past decade, showcasing the growth and importance of manufacturing to the local economy. Additionally, the board approved the rezoning of two parcels of land totaling less than half an acre for Art Space Charter School, changing the designation from residential to neighborhood services. The county also accepted over $840,000 in federal and state grants for Mountain Mobility, its transportation partner. A local match of $115,454 will support administrative needs and the acquisition of four new vans. A commemorative short film highlighting the recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Helene was shared during the meeting. The film features contributions from first responders, local organizations, and community members. It will air daily on BCTV at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. throughout October, providing a reflective look at community resilience and recovery. These actions and acknowledgments at the meeting illustrate Buncombe County’s commitment to improving education funding, supporting local manufacturing, and addressing community needs in the wake of natural disasters. Frequently Asked Questions What is the purpose of the Schedule of Values approved by the commissioners? The Schedule of Values will guide the county’s property appraisers during the 2026 reappraisal. How much funding is redirected to Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools? The budget change will provide $4,092,419 for Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools. What grant was approved for the Deaverview Mountain property? The commissioners approved a $4.47 million Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grant to aid in the purchase and preservation of the 343-acre Deaverview Mountain property. How many people does the manufacturing sector employ in Buncombe County? The manufacturing sector in Buncombe County employs over 12,700 individuals. What funding was accepted for Mountain Mobility? Buncombe County accepted over $840,000 in federal and state grants for Mountain Mobility. Key Features Feature Details Schedule of Values Approval Guides property appraisers for the 2026 reappraisal. School Funding $4,092,419 redirected to Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools. Deaverview Mountain Grant $4.47 million grant for park property purchase. Manufacturing Employment Over 12,700 employed; $850 million in wages last year. Mountain Mobility Funding Over $840,000 in grants accepted for transportation. Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources UNC Asheville Women’s Volleyball Secures Key Victory UNC System Reports Record Enrollment Growth Asheville GreenWorks Hosts Hard 2 Recycle Event for Eco-Friendly Disposal Western North Carolina Prepares for Vibrant Autumn Foliage UNC Asheville Volleyball Triumphs Over N.C. Central Record Attendance and Community Spirit at North Carolina Mountain State Fair High School Football Action in Asheville Sunny Weather Returns to Asheville Area After Showers Asheville GreenWorks Launches Hard-to-Recycle Event Buncombe County Delays Government Offices Opening to Honor Storm Responders Additional Resources 828 News Now: Buncombe Commissioners Boost School Funds Wikipedia: Buncombe County, North Carolina 828 News Now: Disabled Vehicle Closes Lane on I-26 Google Search: Tropical Storm Helene News Observer: Local Business News Google News: Asheville North Carolina

Lead Levels Detected in Asheville Schools’ Water Supply
Asheville, October 27, 2025 News Summary Lead levels have been detected in the water supply at several schools in Asheville, raising serious concerns for student safety

