Commercial Hauler Rebate Program Terminated
Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution to terminate the Commercial Hauler Rebate Program, effective December 31, 2025.
Solid Waste Director Dane Pedersen noted the program was both underutilized and costly, having dispensed nearly $1.5 million in rebates over the last three years while benefiting only five out of 620 active commercial accounts. The decision aims to restore pricing fairness, promote competitive neutrality among all haulers, and increase revenues to support vital landfill operations. Critically, no changes to commercial tipping fees, schedules, or rates are currently recommended.
Grovemont Landslide Mitigation Project Moves Forward
The Board approved a crucial $794,200 contract with ECS Southeast, LLC for engineering and design services to address the significant landslide damage in the Village of Grovemont following Tropical Storm Helene.
Mitigating the nine identified landslides in this residential area is a priority under the County’s recently adopted Helene Recovery Plan. The project is fully funded by FEMA Public Assistance through NC Emergency Management (NCEM), requiring no County funds. The initial 10-month phase will involve aerial mapping, hazard modeling, and recommending mitigation strategies. NCEM will provide 75% of the funding upfront to begin work in early 2026.
Affordable Housing Program Revisions Approved
Commissioners approved revisions to the Affordable Housing Services Program (AHSP) guidelines to clarify rules for applicants and prioritize local needs.
Key revisions include:
Prioritizing affordable housing projects for Buncombe County residents permanently displaced by Tropical Storm Helene.
Allowing projects with Project Based Vouchers to use local Housing Authority rent standards, which may exceed Fair Market Rent.
Stipulating that awards from differing fiscal years may not be combined to surpass program maximums.
Clarifying that awards are reimbursement-based unless otherwise approved.
Longevity Pay Ends for New Employees
Following a public hearing, the Board voted to end longevity compensation payments for new and rehired Buncombe County employees hired on or after January 1, 2026. Current employees are vested in the existing longevity pay system and will not be affected by the change.
Early Childhood Education Update
Commissioner Martin Moore provided an update on the Early Childhood Education & Development Committee (ECE), which has a current budget of $3.97 million supporting 13 projects across the county. Funds are used for teacher pay, classroom supplies, and behavioral health support. Commissioner Moore highlighted a new Focused Investment Plan to maximize impact, with the FY2027 Grant application set to open on January 5, 2026.
WNCTimes