BUNCOMBE COUNTY, N.C. (WLOS) — Homeowners in Buncombe County are concerned about potential tax increases as new property valuations settle in and county leaders review a proposed budget roughly 15% higher than last year.
Rising costs are a major factor. The sheriff’s office reports higher expenses for jail healthcare, food, and supplies, including a possible $1 million increase in its jail health contract. Overall jail costs could rise by nearly $6 million, according to documents submitted for finance department review, driven in part by staffing, healthcare, and legally required services.
County finance officials say inflation is also contributing, noting the highest five-year inflation rate since 1991…