During the recent Home and Community Care Block Grant Advisory Committee meeting held on September 24, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding the lack of funding and support for aging services in Buncombe County. Committee members highlighted that many service providers are currently not utilizing available resources, primarily due to financial constraints.

A recurring theme in the discussions was the urgent need for an active aging center in the community. Members expressed frustration over the fragmented nature of aging services, which complicates access for seniors and their families. The idea of consolidating services into one location was previously proposed, with plans for an active aging center on the University of North Carolina Asheville campus. However, this initiative appears to have stalled, with committee members noting that it may take five to ten years for any progress to be made due to competing priorities and funding challenges.

The estimated cost to establish the active aging center was around $27 million, a figure that underscores the scale of the investment needed to improve services for the aging population. As the committee reflects on its mission, there is a clear call for better coordination and capacity building within the community to address these pressing needs.

The discussions at this meeting underscore the ongoing challenges faced by Buncombe County in supporting its aging residents. As the committee continues to seek solutions, the hope remains that a renewed focus on funding and collaboration can lead to meaningful improvements in the lives of seniors in the area.