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Air program budget uncertain as EPA allocations fall short and FY26 funding remains unresolved
Summary
Staff told the board the program received about 88% of its expected FY25 EPA allocation and that FY26 federal funding is uncertain pending congressional action; county is considering fund-balance contingencies.
Buncombe County air-program staff told the Air Quality Board they have received about 88% of the federal fiscal year 2025 allocation from the Environmental Protection Agency and that the shortfall is creating planning uncertainty. Ashley said the program budget expected $233,000 but has received roughly $196,000 to date; other local air programs have reported similar partial allocations from EPA.
Staff said the county’s federal fiscal year 2026 allocation — which would be drawn down in Buncombe County’s fiscal year 2026 beginning in July — remains uncertain because Congress had not completed appropriations. Board members discussed contingency planning with county finance staff, including possible use of fund balance and delaying a planned retreat until funding clarity improves. County staff said they are analyzing worst-case scenarios and coordinating with other county departments that receive federal funds.
No formal budget action was taken at the meeting, but staff and county finance officials said they are preparing scenarios and will report back when allocations clarify.
