Buncombe County Considers Unifying Fire Tax Districts

Proposed changes could shift tax rates for residents across the county

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Buncombe County leaders are considering moving from 20 separate fire tax districts to a single unified district, a change they say could impact tax rates and how resources are distributed countywide. The goal is to create more consistency in funding and service standards across all fire departments, though officials say this would not merge departments or close stations.

Why it matters

The proposed changes aim to more evenly distribute fire department resources and funding across Buncombe County, which leaders say became especially important during recent emergencies like Hurricane Helene. However, the impact on individual taxpayers' rates remains unclear, with some districts potentially seeing higher taxes while others could see lower rates.

The details

Currently, Buncombe County operates with 20 separate fire tax districts, each with its own tax rate. The county does not run its own fire department, but instead contracts with and funds local fire departments and independent fire districts. Under the proposed model, the county would aim to maintain consistent staffing standards, including 22 firefighters on scene to effectively fight a 2,000-square-foot fire. County officials say the changes would not merge fire departments or close stations, but would create a shared vision and more even distribution of resources.

  • On March 17, county commissioners will receive a presentation on the proposed changes.
  • A public hearing is scheduled for April 21 to gather community feedback.

The players

Sybil Tate

Assistant Buncombe County Manager who said the goal is to create more consistency in funding and service standards across all fire departments.

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What they’re saying

“It would bring more even finances and resources to all the departments here in the county and we are also looking to have a shared vision around what our standards for fire service should be here in the county.”

— Sybil Tate, Assistant Buncombe County Manager (wlos.com)

What’s next

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