Ash County Board Discusses Tax Levy and Child Welfare Reforms

Ashe County officials gathered on August 18, 2025, to discuss key issues impacting the community, including tax collection, child welfare reforms, and health services funding.

A significant topic of discussion was the approval of the tax collector's charge for the fiscal year 2025-2026, which totals approximately $29.4 million. This funding is crucial for supporting local services, including fire departments, emergency medical services, and community programs. The board expressed optimism about collection rates and addressed any concerns from the public regarding the tax charge.

In child welfare, Tracy from the Department of Social Services highlighted the implementation of Ryland's Law, a new legislation aimed at enhancing child safety during custody reunifications. This law mandates supervised observations before a child is returned to a parent, following a tragic incident involving a child in Moore County. The law's provisions are now in effect, and Ashe County is actively participating in the required reporting and assessment processes.

Tracy also reported on the county's child support unit, which has received recognition for meeting all incentive goals, making Ashe County one of only 11 counties statewide to achieve this. The unit's success is vital for ensuring that children receive necessary financial support.

Zach from Via Health provided updates on Medicaid services, noting that 1,739 individuals in Ashe County are currently receiving support. However, he raised concerns about potential budget cuts from the state legislature that could significantly impact services, particularly for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The proposed budget lacks funding for essential programs like the Healthy Opportunities pilot, which assists residents with transportation and housing needs.

Lastly, Adam shared updates on various community projects, emphasizing the importance of ongoing development efforts in Ashe County.

The meeting underscored the county's commitment to addressing pressing community needs through effective governance and collaboration among local agencies. As Ashe County navigates these challenges, residents can expect continued efforts to enhance public services and support systems.