Buncombe County -- June 6, 2026: The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) has unveiled a proposed $27.05 million operating budget for the 2026–27 fiscal year. Presented by Ed Silver, Vice President of Business Development for Explore Asheville, the spending plan pivots financial strategy toward regional economic recovery following Tropical Storm Helene. The proposal represents an increase from the previous year’s $25.9 million budget, placing an aggressive emphasis on rebuilding the region's hospitality sector.
Core Budget Allocations
Total Operating Budget: $27,052,042
Marketing and Promotions: $18.35 million (more than two-thirds of the total budget, dedicated to targeted media campaigns to restore visitor confidence)
Salaries and Benefits: $5.05 million (reflecting adjustments for rising healthcare and insurance costs)
Business Development & Convention Recruitment: $2.1 million
Destination Management & Administration: Approximately $326,000
Revenue Projections and Reserve Drawdown
Projected Net Occupancy Tax Revenue: $23 million (reflecting the storm's ongoing impact on local lodging)
Funding Deficit: $4.05 million
Reserve Strategy: The BCTDA will draw down $4.1 million from its accumulated fund balances to bridge the gap, keeping essential marketing campaigns fully funded without cutting services.
Specialized Tourism Funds
The board also reviewed separate, specialized accounts that are strictly restricted by North Carolina law for specific community and product developments:
Earned Revenue Fund: $427,632 (funded via non-tax sources and interest)
Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF): $30,000
Legacy Investment From Tourism (LIFT) Fund: $20,000
Public Hearing and Timeline
Public Hearing: Scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, at 9:00 a.m. at the Explore Asheville board room (27 College Place).
Final Vote: The BCTDA Board will vote on formal adoption immediately following public feedback.
Effective Date: The approved budget ordinance takes effect at the start of the new fiscal year on July 1.