Even as Asheville city leaders prepare for potential cuts to community services, Buncombe County is considering expanding local government services in the coming fiscal year, according to Blue Ridge Public Radio (BPR). This divergence emerged as both entities held budget work sessions on March 24. The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners reviewed a "first pass" budget for fiscal year 2026-27 that proposes more than $504 million in general fund spending, BPR reported. That figure represents a m