ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Buncombe County’s finances remain strong heading into the final months of the fiscal year, with property tax collections, sales tax revenue and investment earnings all trending upward, according to a new quarterly financial report released by the county.
The report, covering the period ending March 31, shows General Fund revenues reached $384.9 million through the third quarter of fiscal year 2026. That marks a 7.5 percent increase compared to the same point last year.
Property taxes continue to make up the largest share of county revenue. Ad valorem tax collections climbed 7 percent to $282.5 million and accounted for more than 73 percent of total General Fund revenues during the quarter.
Sales tax revenue also saw a sharp increase. Collections rose to $28.8 million, up 27.1 percent from the previous year, a sign of continued consumer spending and tourism activity across Buncombe County.
While revenues increased, county spending remained mostly flat.
General Fund expenditures totaled $302.5 million through the third quarter, slightly below the $302.8 million spent during the same period last year.
The county’s financial report also highlighted a strong cash position. Buncombe County reported about $229.2 million in General Fund cash investments and approximately $4.4 million in investment earnings so far this fiscal year.
County leaders continue to manage several large-scale capital projects as well. Buncombe County’s capital projects budget stands at $154.3 million, with about $71.7 million spent to date. Those projects can include school construction, public safety improvements and county facility upgrades.
The report noted that capital spending often stretches across multiple years because of the size and scope of construction projects.
Solid waste operations also saw increased activity and costs during the quarter.
Revenue tied to landfill tipping fees and related services rose 4.1 percent compared to last year, while solid waste expenditures increased from $8.9 million to $10.8 million.
The county’s overall General Fund budget for the fiscal year is $438.1 million. The report noted only about $600,000 in appropriated fund balance was included in the budget, a sign the county is not heavily relying on reserves to support day-to-day operations.
Finance Director Melissa Moore said the report provides a snapshot of the county’s financial position through the third quarter of the fiscal year.
