WNC News — November 5, 2026: Voters in Buncombe and Henderson counties approved three bond measures totaling $95 million Tuesday, authorizing investments in affordable housing, public outdoor spaces and farmland preservation.
The results give both counties permission to borrow for the designated purposes, with repayment costs ultimately carried by taxpayers.
In Buncombe County, unofficial results show 58% supported a $40 million housing bond, while 64% approved a $30 million open space bond, according to WLOS.
The housing funding will support projects serving residents with low to moderate incomes. Buncombe’s broader housing goals through 2030 include supporting 1,500–1,850 rental units and 400 ownership units for households earning below 80% of the area median income. Those are countywide strategic goals, rather than a guarantee of how many homes this bond alone will produce.
The open space funding will support conservation, the protection of farms and scenic landscapes, and improvements to parks, greenways and trails. Buncombe’s strategic goals include conserving 20% of the county’s acreage and completing at least 3.5 miles of county-managed greenway projects by 2030.
What Homeowners Could Pay
Buncombe County estimates the average annual cost for its current median homeowner at $25 for the housing bond and $18 for the open space bond—a combined $43.
In Henderson County, unofficial results show 59% supported a $25 million Open Space Preservation Bond.
The money will support the county’s Farmland Preservation Program, which purchases development rights from willing landowners to conserve agricultural land. County officials estimate an average annual cost of $40.40 for a property valued at $400,000. These figures are estimates, rather than identical charges for every household.
What Happens Next
Voter approval authorizes financing; individual projects and spending decisions still require further action.
Buncombe County says commissioners must approve bond issuances and funding allocations. Its oversight process includes regular reporting to advisory boards and the General Obligation Bond Oversight Committee, annual audits and a public webpage tracking investments.
County programs will also seek outside funding to stretch bond dollars. Specific projects may change as planning, design and cost estimates develop.
The election results remain unofficial pending certification.