Land-of-Sky Regional Council 2009 Annual Report

Regional Teamwork

2009 Annual Report

Coach McKinney “Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision…the ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.” - Andrew Carnegie Anyone who has competed in athletics on any level can attest to the excitement of being part of a team. Achieving a goal as an individual is certainly rewarding, but being part of a team gives a greater sense of accomplishment.

Land-of-Sky Regional Council (LOSRC) promotes the team concept as we work with Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, and Transylvania counties and their municipalities. We offer a forum for local government officials and community leaders to come together to address challenges that we face in Western North Carolina. For the past forty-three years, our organization has encouraged a spirit of regional teamwork that has remained true to our mission – to foster desirable social, economic, cultural, and ecological conditions in our region.

The 2009 LOSRC Annual Report highlights a few of our programs that have impacted the lives of many citizens in Western North Carolina. We trust it will give better insight into our organization and the spirit of cooperation that exists between our local governments.

We offer this report to our community as an opportunity to review this year’s accomplishments and celebrate our successes.

Executive Director Joe McKinney

Joe McKinney Executive Director

Council Executive Committee Chair Eddie Fox First Vice-Chair Letta Jean Taylor Second Vice-Chair Chuck McGrady Secretary Terry Bellamy Treasurer Jason Chappell At-Large Member Rodney Locks At-Large Member Holly Jones

Council Members Buncombe County Carol Peterson Holly Jones Denise Braine Henderson County Chuck McGrady Bill Moyer Madison County Eddie Fox Vernon Ponder Transylvania County Jason Chappell Kelvin Phillips City of Asheville Terry Bellamy Robin Cape Town of Biltmore Forest George Goosmann Charles Grimes

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Town of Black Mountain Carl Bartlett Rosalie Phillips

City of Brevard Jimmy Harris Joe Albright Village of Flat Rock Dave Bucher Jim Wert Town of Fletcher Bob Davy Mark Biberdorf City of Hendersonville Greg Newman Jeff Collis Steve Caraker Town of Hot Springs Johnny Norton Kenny Ramsey Town of Laurel Park Dona Menella James Ball Town of Mars Hill Darhyl Boone John Chandler Bob Zink

Town of Marshall Steve Garrison Luther Nix Lawrence Ponder Town of Montreat Letta Jean Taylor Bill Hollins Jack McCaskill Town of Rosman J.C. Chapman Roger Petit City of Weaverville Walt Currie Don Hallingse Town of Woodfin Jerry VeHaun Jason Young Aging Programs Representative Jack Roberts Volunteer Services Representative Carmella Watkins

Economic Development Representatives Transylvania County Mark Burrows Henderson County Larry Blair Buncombe County George Morosani Madison County Jerry Plemmons

Minority Representatives Transylvania County Rodney Locks Madison County Simone Bouyer Buncombe County Janet Bowman

Boomers and Beyond Summit Retired Players Impact the Economy In April 2009, Land-of-Sky Regional Council in partnership with AdvantageWest, the North Carolina Center for Health and Aging, the NC Center for Creative Retirement at UNC Asheville, and Western Carolina University (WCU) held a summit to introduce the concept of aggressively recruiting active retirees and older adults as an economic strategy. The Boomers and Beyond Summit attracted approximately 140 people from several Western North Carolina (WNC) counties.

The Summit informed attendees about retirement demographics in Western North Carolina and delivered tools, networking opportunities, and resources for supporting business development and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Harry R. Moody, Director of Academic Affairs for AARP, served as kickoff speaker and moderator for the event. He discussed the effects of the current economic downturn on retirement trends and explored the concept of Age Branding as a way to effectively market products and services to older consumers. He noted that businesses that focus on boomers’ financial security, health care, caregiving and spiritual connections will lead future economic development efforts.

Consultants who study the demographic shifts related to retiree relocation tell us there will be growing geographic dispersion in retiree settlement. The dominance of Florida and California as the destination of choice for retirees has been eroding since the 1970s. Research shows that “boomers” have a strong preference for small, often rural, communities that offer inter-generational social and recreational activities. As a result, WNC communities are experiencing an increase in the number of retirees impacting the demand for services. This in turn stimulates the local economy and provides entrepreneurial business opportunities.

During the summit, participants were provided information about demographics and the impact of retirees on the economies of communities in WNC. Chancellors from our local universities described the leadership role of their institutions in promoting and supporting economic development in our region.

The highlights of the summit were the presentations by local business owners on how they serve “silver” consumers. Mark Starr, owner of the takeout restaurant Chef Starr to Go in Hendersonville, shared that 40 percent of his customers are retirees who want a good meal without the hassle of cooking and cleaning dishes. Penny Bond and Kathy Austin recently opened a physical therapy practice based on a technique called biofeedback, which they believe helps their clients alleviate the aches and pains of aging. Many other business owners shared similar experiences reinforcing this changing economic trend.

A follow-up event is planned for 2010 which will offer specific marketing tips and business practices to attract older consumers.

Pictured from top to bottom: Attendees at the 2009 Boomers and Beyond Summit; Dr. Anne Ponder, Chancellor of UNC Asheville; David A. Woodcock, renowned entrepreneur and corporate leader; Dr. Harry R. “Rick” Moody, Director of Academic Affairs, AARP, Washington, D.C.

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Local Government Services New Head Coach for Local Government Services In 2009, Ron Townley became the new Director of the Local Government Services (LGS) department of Land-of-Sky Regional Council (LOSRC). With more than 20 years of public/private sector management experience, Ron was well prepared to take on this challenge. In his role, he supervises 17 employees who provide planning and technical assistance to our local governments and oversees a budget of $3.6 million.

Since 1998, Ron has won many awards for LOSRC, including an EPA Environmental Merit Award for the region’s Mobile Environmental Learning Center and a 2001 Carolina Recycling Association Award of Excellence for Household Hazardous Waste Programs. From 2003-2005, Ron served as Chair of the Board of Directors for the Carolina’s Recycling Association. While a Senior Planner, Ron helped create the Regional Brownfields Initiative, a nationally recognized redevelopment program which promotes economic development and environmental safety in our four-county region.

In his 11 years at LOSRC, Ron has served in many capacities including solid waste, recycling, and economic development. As the new Director of LGS, his experience and desire to improve the community and environment provide a solid background to lead our regional planning and development section.

Director of LGS Ron Townley

Marshall and Mars Hill Reel in Water System Improvements In 2007, North Carolina experienced a severe drought which resulted in the lowest stream flows recorded in more than 100 years. Thirteen municipalities in our four-county region were impacted by the drought. Two towns, Marshall and Mars Hill, were identified by the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NC DENR) as Tier-1 Drought Critical Need communities. Tier-1 systems are considered to be in a crisis mode or have less than 100 days of present supply remaining or are likely to be in a crisis if conditions persist because they lack interconnections for emergency water supply.

With the support of Land-of-Sky Regional Council (LOSRC) and local engineering firms, the towns of Mars Hill and Marshall developed plans and completed grant applications to address their water systems needs. The Town of Mars Hill will construct a water system interconnection with Weaverville in order to implement a long-term solution to the community’s drought crisis and forecasted growth. This emergency interconnection would allow Mars Hill to purchase up to 250,000 gallons per day of finished water from Weaverville on an as needed basis. The Town of Marshall will construct two new wells and a ground level storage tank which will increase their water capacity by 100,000 gallons per day.

Regional population growth trends and expanding tourism continues to strain public wastewater/sewer systems causing ever increasing water shortages. As a result, LOSRC’s Board of Directors unanimously voted in 2008 that a region-wide water and wastewater analysis report was a critical need for each of our region’s communities. This baseline report will assist each community in managing their individual system, enhancing regional communication, training and education, and developing a regional baseline database. In 2009, LOSRC received funding to begin Pictured left: Mars Hill Water Line conducting this analysis.

Interconnection Project - connection point with Town of Weaverville’s Water Line

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Pictured right: USDA-Rural Development and NC-DENR Team Reviewing the proposed well site off Hunter Creek Road L-R: Alderman Luther Nix (in background); Jim Adams, NC DENR; Dennis Ramsey, NC DENR Advisor; Brent Miller, USDA RD (behind truck); and Allen Wahab, NC DENR Advisor.

Taking a Team Approach to Transportation Planning Land-of-Sky Regional Council’s (LOSRC) staff worked in collaboration with the City of Asheville and local government members of the French Broad River Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization (MPO) for nearly a year to transition MPO lead planning agency responsibilities to LOSRC. On January 1, 2009, LOSRC began providing the MPO transportation planning assistance to local governments in the five-county region (Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, Transylvania, and Haywood), in addition to the Rural Transportation Planning Organization (RPO).

Due to this expansion of services, additional staff with a broad range of expertise was hired for the MPO and RPO. This allows for the staff to use a team approach to ensure quick responses for the emerging needs of member governments. The transportation team now consists of four primary members, with support from several other Local Government Services staff at LOSRC.

Transportation Team L-R: Natalie Murdock, Carrie Runser-Turner, Keith Bamberger, and Heather Strassberger

A sampling of team projects for the MPO and RPO thus far includes: updating Public Involvement Plans, identifying projects for stimulus funds, updating socioeconomic data for the MPO’s Long Range Transportation Plan, legislative updates for members, and redesigning the MPO and RPO newsletters and website. Plans also include completing a Locally Coordinated Public Transportation and Human Services Transportation Plan for the RPO. The transportation team brings together a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences and looks forward to working with our member governments, planning partners, and the general public to create a long-term vision for multi-modal transportation in our region.

LOSRC Pitches Mountain Ridge and Steep Slope Protection Strategies Report In July 2008, Land-of-Sky Regional Council’s (LOSRC) Mountain Ridge and Steep Slope Protection Advisory Committee released a report which documents findings and strategies related to ridge and steep slope development and protection. This effort is the result of a year and a half of research, strategy development and recommendations for government, non-profit and private sector organizations. The objective is to encourage organizations to implement these recommendations into their development practices.

Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation provided grant funding for the development and distribution of the Mountain Ridge and Steep Slope Protection Strategies report. It will require participation of many organizations to ensure safer and more sustainable development on mountain ridges and steep slopes. The report provides detailed steps to follow for those who have an interest in protecting our ridges and mountain tops.

Maggie Valley EMS - The need for emergency services access must be considered along with cost and other factors when designing roads and access points.

LOSRC staff has presented the findings and strategies of the report to more than 500 people and over 1,000 copies have been distributed. In March 2009, a workshop was held for Western North Carolina planners where they shared experiences with ridge top development. LOSRC also assisted local homebuilder and realtor associations to establish a new Developer Certification Program to train developers on sustainable building practices.

A copy of this report is available at www.landofsky.org.

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Area Agency on Aging CRC Develops A Game Plan Land-of-Sky Regional Council’s Area Agency on Aging, along with partners and organizations in aging and disability services within Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania Counties (Region B), have been engaged in a one-year $10,000 development grant awarded by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) in October 2008. The purpose of the grant is to explore the potential development of a system called Community Resource Connections for Aging and Disabilities (CRC) where consumers can access long-term care services and support through a “uniform portal of entry”.

During the year, over 75 consumers, families and provider organizations have been participating in interactive information and planning meetings within each county in Region B. Participants discuss the possibilities of CRC implementation by building on the NCDHHS conceptual model and making it fit for Region B.

Participants at the Buncombe County CRC meeting held at Land-of-Sky Regional Council.

North Carolina’s CRCs take the “no wrong door” approach to the “uniform portal of entry,” which promotes the concept that consumers will experience seamless access to information about services regardless where they encounter the system. A CRC is one of the primary vehicles to modernize long-term care systems, particularly by supporting individuals of all disabilities and incomes in making informed, cost-effective choices regarding the services they may need.

The initiative builds on existing community infrastructure and realigns systems for more efficient operations. It is important to note that CRCs are not about replacing existing organizations and networks. They are about building a better, more coordinated network.

Fighting Against Scams The Area Agency on Aging’s (AAA) Ombudsman Program at Land-of-Sky Regional Council is dedicated to raising awareness and prevention of Elder Abuse. Throughout the year, the Ombudsman Program supports efforts to educate the public about physical, verbal, sexual and mental abuses committed against older adults. A serious and increasing form of abuse affecting our community is Elder Fraud.

The Ombudsman Program, in partnership with AARP and the AAA, organized two events this year in Buncombe and Madison Counties to address concerns about crimes against elders. Scam Jams are half-day events, open to the public, and designed to educate the community about frauds and scams that target older adults. Speakers at the events included: Caroline Farmer, Deputy Director of the NC Attorney General’s Office; John Maron, of the NC Secretary of State’s Office; and Norma Messer, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Asheville.

Sherriff Van Duncan attended the Buncombe County Scam Jam and explained the dangers of phone solicitors. A representative from the Crime Stoppers Division of Law Enforcement warned attendees about scams currently under investigation in our region. At the Madison County Scam Jam, Sherriff John Ledford addressed participants on similar concerns. The events were successful, well attended and informative.

Important Numbers and Websites to Know

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NC Attorney General’s Office: 1-877-5-NO SCAM (1-877-566-7226) or www.ncdoj.com Investor Protection: 1-800-688-4507 or www.sosnc.com Do Not Call Registry: 1-888-382-1222 or www.DONOTCALL.gov

STHL Goes To Bat For Seniors In 1993, the state’s General Assembly created the North Carolina Senior Tar Heel Legislature (STHL) with the adoption of Senate Bill 479. The purpose of the STHL is to: • Provide information to senior citizens on the legislative process and matters being considered by the North Carolina General Assembly.

• Promote citizen involvement and advocacy concerning aging issues before the North Carolina General Assembly.

• Assess the legislative needs of older citizens by convening a forum modeled after the North Carolina General Assembly.

Each of the 100 North Carolina counties is entitled to one delegate and one alternate to the Senior Tar Heel Legislature. The delegates and alternates must be age 60 or older. Land-of-Sky Regional Council’s Area Agency on Aging (AAA) provides administrative support and consultation to our STHL delegates and alternates in Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania counties.

All delegates and alternates of the STHL meet in Raleigh three times per year to discuss current issues affecting the senior population. Each year, legislative priorities are established and used as talking points when meeting with legislators. For the past 16 years, the STHL has made a positive impact in raising awareness of senior issues across North Carolina.

LOSRC’s STHL Delegates and Alternate Buncombe County Charles Dickens - Delegate and Speaker Donald Lilenfeld - Alternate Henderson County Calvin Titus - Delegate Madison County Jack Roberts - Delegate Mary Evans - Alternate Transylvania County Delores Stroup - Delegate

Health Connections: An All-Star Network Health Connections: Aging Well Learning Network is a group of dedicated professionals working together to create opportunities for healthy aging in Buncombe, Madison, Henderson and Transylvania Counties. The goal of this Network is to share information about health promotion activities, programs, and initiatives that touch the lives of older adults in this region. Land-of-Sky Regional Council’s Area Agency on Aging hosts the Network which includes representation from 34 regional public and private organizations involved in research, policy and practice.

The Aging Well Learning Network’s purpose is to increase knowledge and awareness of existing programs, share resources, reduce program duplication, and leverage funding for collaborative projects. This interdisciplinary team has developed unique solutions to widespread issues. For example, in response to the identified need to improve communication and coordination among providers, the network developed a Health Connections WIKI. A WIKI is an interactive webpage that contains up-to-date county and regional events, programs and resources.

Visit the Health Connections WIKI by going to www. landofsky.org/aging and clicking on Health and Wellness for Older Adults

The WIKI is now being used by other health promotion organizations and initiatives. The Health Connections: Aging Well Learning Network has been dedicated to achieving its goals since its creation in March 2008.

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Regional Accomplishments LOSRC Regional Brownfields Initiative (RBI) was awarded a $400,000 grant from the US Environmental Protection Agency to conduct environmental assessments of sites in Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania counties. The RBI offers technical and financial assistance to prospective developers and has secured over $3,250,000 in grant funding for the region.

LOSRC assisted the French Broad River Metropolitan Planning Organization (FBRMPO) in programming $6.1 million in America Recovery and Reinvestment Act transportation funds to 20 local projects. The projects ranged in scope and scale from a 2,000 feet extension of a sidewalk in the Village of Flat Rock to a bridge replacement in the Town of Montreat. The funds were made available through the Surface Transportation Program and only counties and municipalities in the FBRMPO were eligible for funding.

LOSRC worked with NC Department of Transportation and other planning partners to facilitate stimulus funding for highway and transit projects. These projects included Park-and-Ride lots in Buncombe and Henderson counties, additional vans for the statewide Rural Vanpool Program, and vehicle fleet maintenance software for rural transit systems.

Family Caregiver Support Program provided a $30,000 contract with the Alzheimer’s Association Western Carolina Chapter for caregiver respite, and a $4,000 contract for caregiver case assistance for Region B. 31 caregivers were provided assistance.

Family Caregiver Support Program provided $10,000 to the Senior Companion Program for caregiver respite. Seven caregivers received respite.

In memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Volunteer Services Department promoted a canned food and blanket drive during the month of January. 30 blankets were donated and distributed. Over 115 pounds of food was collected for MANNA Food Bank, which provided 77 meals for local families.

LOSRC helped organize the annual Strive Not to Drive (SNTD) regional event. LOSRC Board Member and Asheville City Mayor, Terry Bellamy, led approximately 30 community leaders and other elected officials on a five-mile bike ride in central Asheville. The SNTD committee also coordinated the bike valet parking for the monthly Downtown After Five events.

LOSRC educated over 4,000 students and 32 teachers in recycling training courses using the Mobile Environmental Learning Center.

In May 2009, 180 LOSRC volunteers were honored for their accomplishments at the Volunteer Celebration held at the NC Arboretum. Asheville City Mayor, Terry Bellamy, recognized the contributions of all volunteers and encouraged the continuation of volunteerism in the community.

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LOSRC continued a two-year planning and business development project for clean energy and alternative fuels entitled, Planning and Entrepreneurship for a Clean Energy Future: Strategic Regional Planning and Business Development Project for Region B, NC. Funded by the NC Rural Economic Development Center, the project seeks to create new clean energy businesses and to help local governments plan for a robust energy future. Project partners include clean energy businesses, A-B Tech, Blue Ridge Community College, AdvantageWest, Sustainable Now, Green Opportunities, Waste Reduction Partners, and others.

Executive Director, Joe McKinney, gave a presentation entitled, Planning & Entrepreneurship for a Clean Energy Future: Strategic Regional Planning and Business Development Project for Region B, NC to the National Association of Development Organizations’ (NADO) Annual Training Conference in Anchorage, Alaska in October 2008. The presentation was designed to help other regional councils across the nation engage in regional clean energy/alternative fuels planning and business development.

LOSRC supported five school systems’ recycling programs in the region which diverted approximately 691 tons of recyclable material last school year.

Living Healthy Program has flourished across the region helping people with chronic health conditions learn to selfmanage and take charge of their health. 11 community members were trained as Living Healthy leaders, and there were 106 workshop participants.

LOSRC managed a regional planning project for conservation and development, entitled Linking Lands and Communities in the Land-of-Sky Region. Highlights of FY 2009 include the planning for public outreach, an implementation toolkit, and development of resource assessments which include suitability maps on Water Resources, Agriculture and Wildlife Habitat and Biodiversity. Funding for the project was provided

by The Community Foundation of WNC, Blue Ridge National Heritage area, Federal Highway Administration, The Lyndhurst Foundation, and Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation.

In May 2009, Volunteer Services Department, in cooperation with Buncombe County Citizen Corps, hosted a Disaster Contingency Planning Seminar for non-profits in the region. Local experts presented information including risk assessment, crisis communication, developing a contingency and business security plan, and computer/information security.

Local Government Services administered a Wastewater Discharge Elimination Septic Repair grant. The program spent $32,576 in repairing nine failing septic systems in Buncombe, Madison and Transylvania counties.

Buncombe County Accomplishments The City of Asheville was awarded a $400,000 grant from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to conduct environmental assessments of sites in the River District. LOSRC Regional Brownfields Initiative prepared the application and is managing the grant under the Regional Brownfields Initiative.

To date, seven sites in the Asheville River District have undergone environmental assessments.

Family Caregiver Support Program provided a $14,000 contract with the Council on Aging of Buncombe County, Inc. for caregiver respite and a $5,000 contract with them for caregiver case assistance. 23 caregivers were provided respite and 49 caregivers were provided case assistance.

Area Agency on Aging secured $1,600 in funding from Progress Energy which provided 20 fans and 11 air conditioners to older adults in need through the Fan Heat Relief Program.

These units were distributed by Council on Aging of Buncombe County, Inc. Regional Ombudsmen provided 700 hours of service in response to 143 complaintants regarding long-term care, responded to 540 technical assistance calls, and provided 29 education / training sessions. 39 Community Advisory Committee volunteers contributed 840 hours and made 211 visits to long-term care facilities. These volunteers provided a financial value of $17,010 in services to the county.

Home and Community Care Block Grant provided $1,362,605 in funding for 13 different services that helped support over 1,700 older adults living independently in their homes.

Through this funding, 400 older adults were given nutritional meals, 40 participated in Adult Day programs, 296 received in-home health care and home repair services, and 1,019 received transportation services.

LOSRC helped organize the Montreat Landcare Committee.

The Town of Montreat was able to obtain a $12,800 grant from NC DENR’s Mobile Source Emission Reduction program for purchase of an electric vehicle on behalf of the Town, Montreat College and the Mountain Retreat Association. The Town also received landscape design funding for its combined native plant garden and ecological restoration project.

LOSRC and Waste Reduction Partners assisted the City of Asheville, Mountain Mobility Community Transit System, Mission Hospitals, Biltmore Company, Public Service NC Energy, Asheville Regional Airport, WNC Regional Air Quality Agency, and Blue Ridge Biofuels with applying for more than $2 million in grant funding. The purpose of the funding is to develop alternative fuel or advance technology vehicle projects.

Senior Companion Program saved Buncombe County more than $1 million. 49 Senior Companion volunteers served over 52,963 hours to assist older adults with one-on-one care in their homes, assisted in Adult Day Care Centers and provided respite to family caregivers.

LOSRC worked with the City of Asheville, Buncombe County, and the Town of Black Mountain to restore funding that has supported intercity bus service between Asheville and the towns of Black Mountain and Weaverville. The intercity routes were originally developed through a collaborative process that involved LOSRC taking a lead role in the early planning, advertising, and evaluation of the services as they were originally instituted.

Senior Community Service Employment Program provided jobsearch training and part-time employment worth $115,061 to 35 older adults placed in 18 different organizations.

LOSRC coordinated efforts assisting the French Broad River Metropolitan Planning Organization (FBRMPO) in programming $4.8 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act – Direct Apportionment transportation funds to projects within Buncombe County. Mountain Mobility received funds for both compressed natural gas and propane fueled vehicles.

The City of Asheville will be able to improve bicycle and pedestrian travel due to new sidewalks and improved bicycle infrastructure. Black Mountain received funding to build the Flat Creek Greenway and extend the sidewalk along Highway 70, and the Town of Montreat will be able to replace the condemned bridge on Texas Road. Additional funding was programmed through the traditional Surface Transportation Program – Direct Apportionment money to build sidewalks on Hendersonville Road and New Leicester Highway.

RSVP saved Buncombe County more than $451,474 with 226 volunteers giving over 22,295 hours to local government and non-profit agencies.

LOSRC worked with NCDOT to facilitate stimulus funding for highway and transit projects. Highway projects include $9 million to resurface I-26, $13 million to rehabilitate Buncombe and Madison County bridges, and $12 million to rehabilitate I-40. Transit projects include over $2 million to the Asheville Transit System for replacement buses, shelters and technology upgrades. More than $200,000 was awarded to Mountain Mobility for lift-equipped vans and technology upgrades.

Foster Grandparent Program saved Buncombe County more than $1.2 million. 70 Foster Grandparent volunteers served over 63,326 hours to assist special needs or at-risk children achieve their short and long-term goals.

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Henderson County Accomplishments LOSRC coordinated efforts assisting the French Broad River Metropolitan Planning Organization (FBRMPO) in programming $1.8 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act – Direct Apportionment transportation funds to projects within Henderson County. The projects included a Compressed Natural Gas Fueling Station for Henderson County, the Cane Creek Greenway and St. Johns sidewalk in the Town of Fletcher, the Oakdale Cemetery Preservation Connector within the City of Hendersonville, and a 2,000 foot sidewalk extension in the Village of Flat Rock. Additional funding was programmed through the traditional Surface Transportation Program – Direct Apportionment money to build the Henderson County Transit Center.

Family Caregiver Support Program provided an $11,000 contract with Pardee Pavilion for caregiver respite and a $5,000 contract with Henderson County Council on Aging for caregiver case assistance. Seven caregivers were provided respite and 16 caregivers were provided case assistance.

Senior Community Service Employment Program provided job-search training and part-time employment worth $6,399 to five older adults placed in two different organizations. One participant was placed in unsubsidized employment.

Area Agency on Aging secured $839 in funding from Progress Energy and the Duke Foundation which provided 58 fans to older adults in need through the Fan Heat Relief Program. These units were distributed by Henderson County Council on Aging and Western Carolina Community Action – Hendersonville.

LOSRC completed the administration of a $250,000 Division of Community Assistance Small Cities Housing Development Grant to support Henderson County and the Henderson County Habitat for Humanity in the construction of waterlines and the roadway associated with the Shuey Knolls Housing Development.

Regional Ombudsmen provided 228 hours of service in response to 63 complaintants regarding long-term care, responded to 350 technical assistance calls, and provided six education / training sessions. 26 Community Advisory Committee volunteers contributed 1,096 hours and made 139 visits to long-term care facilities. These volunteers provided a financial value of $22,194 in services to the county.

LOSRC completed the administration of a $122,362 NC Housing Finance Agency Single Family Rehabilitation Grant which rehabilitated three Single Family Housing Units.

RSVP saved Henderson County more than $556,328 with 199 volunteers giving over 27,473 hours to local government and non-profit agencies.

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Home and Community Care Block Grant provided $716,598 in funding for 12 different services that helped support over 700 older adults living independently in their homes. Through this funding, 369 older adults were given nutritional meals, 22 participated in Adult Day programs, 172 received in-home health care and home repair services, and 159 received transportation services.

LOSRC administered a $9,999 NC Housing Finance Agency Housing Efficiency Loan Program provided by Duke Energy which assisted one single-family housing unit to become more energy efficient.

The Senior Companion Program saved Henderson County more than $160,218. 12 Senior Companion volunteers served over 7,912 hours to assist older adults with one-on-one care in their homes, assisted in Adult Day Care Centers and provided respite to family caregivers.

Foster Grandparent Program saved Henderson County more than $154,806. Seven Foster Grandparent volunteers served over 7,644 hours to assist special needs or at-risk children achieve their short and long-term goals.

LOSRC provided technical assistance for Pardee Hospital’s recycling program to become a community leader in recycling.

LOSRC offered educational resources and recommendations to make the recycling program convenient, visible, and efficient.

LOSRC and Waste Reduction Partners assisted the County Engineer, County Transit Director and the City of Hendersonville Fleet Manager in developing an initiative to convert a portion of their fleets to cleaner burning compressed natural gas vehicles. LOSRC assisted in identifying several grant sources and in applying to the US Department of Energy Clean Cities Program.

LOSRC administered a $6,831 NC Housing Finance Agency Housing Efficiency Lead Assistance Partnership Pool which assisted one single-family housing unit to become lead safe.

LOSRC assisted Henderson County in securing a $200,000 Department of Commerce Community Development Block Grant to assist one small business in expanding and creating eight new jobs.

LOSRC worked with NCDOT and other planning partners to facilitate stimulus funding for highway and transit projects. $4.5 million was allocated to rehabilitate five miles of US 176.

Transit Projects include a $263,970 allocation to Western Carolina Community Action Inc. for gas conversion vans.

Madison County Accomplishments LOSRC assisted the Town of Mars Hill in securing a $500,000 NC Rural Economic Development Grant, a $300,000 Appalachian Regional Commission Grant, a $600,000 NC Department of Commerce, Division of Community Assistance Urgent Needs Grant, and a $600,000 US Department of Agriculture loan to contribute to the construction of a waterline interconnection with the Town of Weaverville.

Family Caregiver Support Program provided a $9,000 contract with the Madison County Department of Community Services for caregiver respite. Ten caregivers were provided respite.

Home and Community Care Block Grant provided $229,271 in funding for nine different services that helped support over 600 older adults living independently in their homes. Through this funding, 340 older adults were given nutritional meals, 52 received in-home health care and home repair services, and 240 received transportation services.

Regional Brownfields Initiative adopted its first site in Madison County for environmental assessment assistance. Drover’s Rest, the former Chevrolet dealership, is being redeveloped by Songbird Development Group, LLC. LOSRC worked with Madison County staff, elected and appointed officials, and citizens to develop the Madison County Comprehensive Plan to guide future land use and development.

Senior Companion Program saved Madison County more than $292,674. Fourteen Senior Companion volunteers served over 14,453 hours to assist older adults with one-on-one care in their homes.

LOSRC assisted the Town of Marshall in securing a $300,000 Appalachian Regional Commission Grant, a $500,000 NC Rural Economic Development Center Grant, a $600,000 NC Department of Commerce, Division of Community Assistance Infrastructure Grant, and a $750,000 US Department of Agriculture loan to complete the construction of new wells, new storage tanks, and replacement of undersized and/or deteriorated waterlines.

RSVP saved Madison County more than $29,038 with 24 volunteers giving over 1,434 hours to local government and non-profit agencies.

LOSRC assisted Madison County in securing a $400,000 NC Department of Commerce, Division of Community Assistance, Single Family Scattered Site Housing Rehabilitation Grant. The project will rehabilitate two housing units, replace two housing units, and perform emergency repairs on six to eight housing units.

Foster Grandparent Program saved Madison County more than $58,806. Two Foster Grandparent volunteers served over 2,904 hours to assist special needs or at-risk children achieve their short and long-term goals.

LOSRC is working with two willing landowners to place conservation easements on a portion of their riverfront properties through the French Broad River Voluntary Buffer Partnership Program. A $139,000 grant from the NC Clean Water Management Trust Fund is funding work on these projects.

LOSRC completed the implementation phase of the $164,500 Business Area Redevelopment Plan project, which included National Historic District designation for the Hot Springs Business Area, loans to three building owners to rehabilitate their properties, and comprehensive planning assistance.

LOSRC wrote and administered a $40,000 NC Rural Economic Development Center grant for the Town of Marshall to complete a Water and Wastewater System Master Plan with a Capital Improvement Plan.

LOSRC administered and completed a $750,000 Division of Community Assistance Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Water System Infrastructure Grant for the Town of Marshall. The project will replace aging waterlines.

Senior Community Service Employment Program provided jobsearch training and part-time employment worth $23,331 to four older adults placed in three different organizations.

LOSRC wrote and administered a $25,000 NC Rural Economic Development Center grant for the Town of Mars Hill to complete a Water and Wastewater System Master Plan Update with a Capital Improvement Plan.

LOSRC secured and will administer a $200,000 NC Housing Finance Agency Single Family Rehabilitation Grant, which will rehabilitate four single family housing units in Madison County.

LOSRC RPO is working with NCDOT and a steering committee of Madison County leaders to develop a Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP) to address future transportation infrastructure needs.

LOSRC worked with NCDOT to facilitate stimulus funding for highway and transit projects. Highway projects include $13 million to rehabilitate Buncombe and Madison County bridges.

Transit projects include $102,525 allocated to Madison County Transportation Authority for vans and preventative maintenance for the Authority’s vehicle fleet. Additional funds were also provided to renovate and add spaces to an existing park-and-ride lot at the Mars Hill exit on I-26.

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Transylvania County Accomplishments LOSRC assisted Transylvania County in securing a $250,000 Department of Commerce Community Development Block Grant to assist two small businesses in expanding their businesses and creating ten new jobs.

Family Caregiver Support Program provided a $14,000 contract with Transylvania Regional Hospital Home Care for respite. These funds were shared with KOALA Adult Day Services thereby allowing caregivers to choose the type of respite desired. Transylvania Regional Hospital Home Care also received a $2,000 contract to provide case assistance for family caregivers. Ten caregivers were provided respite and ten caregivers received case assistance.

Senior Community Service Employment Program provided job-search training and part-time employment worth $15,038 to two older adults placed in two different organizations.

Foster Grandparent Program saved Transylvania County more than $58,933. Five Foster Grandparent volunteers served over 2,913 hours to assist special needs or at-risk children achieve their short and long-term goals.

Area Agency on Aging secured $394 in funding from the Duke Foundation which provided 23 fans to older adults in need through the Fan Heat Relief Program. These units were distributed by Western Carolina Community Action – Brevard.

Regional Ombudsmen provided 107 hours of service in response to ten complaintants regarding long-term care, responded to 27 technical assistance calls, and provided one education/training session. Eight Community Advisory Committee volunteers contributed 112 hours and made ten visits to long-term care facilities. These volunteers provided a financial value of $2,268 in services to the county.

Senior Companion Program saved Transylvania County more than $177,450. Seven Senior Companion volunteers served over 8,763 hours assisting older adults with one-on-one care in their homes, providing assistance at KOALA Adult Day Care, and providing respite to family caregivers.

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LOSRC RPO worked with the town of Brevard to develop a process to assess and prioritize small-scale transportation improvements needed in Brevard that can be addressed without going through the statewide Transportation Improvement Program process. This effort is ongoing and will ultimately result in a plan for future transportation within the City of Brevard with a prioritized list of recommendations for relatively inexpensive improvements.

Home and Community Care Block Grant provided $278,558 in funding for 11 different services that helped support over 300 older adults living independently in their homes. Through this funding, 110 older adults were given nutritional meals, 35 participated in Adult Day programs, 116 received in-home health care and home repair services, and 74 received transportation services.

RSVP saved Transylvania County more than $208,959 with 101 volunteers giving over 10,319 hours to local government and non-profit agencies.

LOSRC assisted Transylvania Community Hospital in developing a recycling program which included recommendations on implementation and education.

LOSRC assisted Transylvania County with the completion of the $250,000 Department of Commerce Community Development Block Grant. The construction of the Blue Ridge Business Incubator (BRBI) is the third phase of the Transylvania County Economic Recovery strategy. The BRBI has been constructed on the existing campus of Blue Ridge Community College.

LOSRC assisted the City of Brevard in the administration and implementation of a NC Department of Commerce Division of Community Assistance Small Cities CDBG Infrastructure Hook-up Grant. This $35,000 grant allowed three homes with failing septic systems to be tied into the City’s sewer system.

LOSRC worked with NCDOT to facilitate stimulus funding for highway and transit projects. Highway projects include $2.5 million allocated to US 276, from Pisgah Forest to Brevard, and $1.76 million to improve guardrails along NC 215. Transit projects funded include $70,350 for vehicle replacement.

Area Agency on Aging HBCCG Gives Seniors Home Field Advantage Older adults and their families often face a very complex and frustrating system of home and community care services at points of crisis brought about by health problems. The Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG) is designed to address, in part, these concerns by improving the planning, management, and coordination of in-home and community-based services provided to North Carolina’s older adults. The main purpose of the HCCBG is to provide services that allow senior adults to remain in their homes and out of nursing facilities where care is more costly.

HCCBG Services Adult Day Services Congregate and Liquid Nutrition Home Delivered Meals Housing & Home Improvements Legal Assistance In-Home Aide Information & Assistance Senior Center Operations Senior Companions Transportation

The Block Grant combines federal and state appropriations supporting home and community care for older adults which is administered by the Divisions of Aging and Adult Services. Land-of-Sky Regional Council’s Area Agency on Aging (AAA) disburses and monitors these funds to service providers in our four-county region.

Securing the funds and implementing the grant requires teamwork among several entities. Funding for these services begins with federal tax dollars which are allocated under the Older Americans Act to each state. The Senior Tar Heel Legislature, AAAs, NC Department of Health and Human Services, and NC Division of Aging and Adult Services then advocate for additional state funding to add to the federal funds. County governments also add funding to provide services for senior adults.

This comprehensive collaboration enables more senior adults to remain independent at home and enjoy a chosen quality of life.

New Senior Directories Help Navigate the Court Every day in our community older people and their families are facing the challenge of finding accessible resources and affordable long-term care services. In an effort to assist them in their search, Land-of-Sky Regional Council’s Area Agency on Aging (AAA) collaborated to produce two directories that provide invaluable information for consumers of aging services in our region.

In late 2008, the Ombudsman Program produced an updated regional Long-Term Care Housing Directory. The directory includes a full-page description of licensed nursing homes and adult care homes in Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania Counties. The updated version was expanded to include Continuing Care Retirement Communities, Multi-unit Assisted Housing with Services, and Independent Living for Seniors and Disabled Adults. Until sudden illness or chronic disability strikes, opportunities for support are often unknown. This directory offers navigational tools essential in the search for long-term care services.

Providing information about services that are available to support older adults and their caregivers is an important role of the AAA and the Family Caregiver Support Program. In 2008, AAA, Council on Aging of Buncombe County, CarePartners Health Services and United Way’s 2-1-1 of WNC developed the new Buncombe County Senior Services Directory. Funds raised by sponsorship covered the printing cost for 7,500 directories. The directory lists providers of services to senior citizens and is available free to the public at the Council on Aging of Buncombe County, Inc. and is also available online at www.coabc.org and www.landofsky.org/aging.

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Local Government Services RBI Scores a Brownfields Success in Henderson County Finding affordable housing in Western North Carolina can be challenging. According to the WNC Regional Multiple Listing Service, the average home sale in May 2009 was $230,000.

Summit Springs, a residential community located in East Flat Rock, was developed to provide quality, affordable homes to residents of Henderson County. Beautifully landscaped with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the community is located on what was once a working apple orchard. Intending to redevelop this property safely and protect human health and the environment, the developers chose to enter the North Carolina Brownfields Voluntary Cleanup Program.

Working with the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR) and the Land-of-Sky Regional Brownfields Initiative (RBI), the site owners participated in a process to ensure that there were no environmental issues for potential homebuyers. Various public meetings were held to guarantee that future homebuyers and nearby residents were satisfied with the plans for development.

Summit Springs entrance during construction.

Homeowners who purchase a home on the former Brownfield site not only buy an affordable home, they also receive an added bonus of a property tax break for five years through the NC Brownfields Program.

LOSRC Helps Rope in Livestock Market Since 2004, when the region’s livestock market in Asheville closed its doors, many of the 3,000 local cattle producers have been forced to truck their livestock to sales locations outside Western North Carolina (WNC). As a result, producers have experienced significant increases in time, labor and transportation costs, and safety concerns. This unfortunate turn of events has forced many to sell their family farms or consider other less profitable alternatives.

In response to this crisis, a feasibility study was conducted that showed establishing a reliable, modern, and adequatelysized facility would reduce or eliminate many of the unnecessary burdens and help stabilize and rebuild WNC livestock operations. Further, the study recommended a regional approach that would address the dynamics of our livestock market because county-level operations would be too small to be viable.

In 2008, the two organizations leading this effort, WNC Beef Cattle Commission and WNC Communities, approached Land-of-Sky Regional Council (LOSRC) to ask for assistance in preparing grant applications to secure funding for the proposed facility. In less than a year, LOSRC has helped these two groups secure more than $1.9 million in funds to help build and equip the state-of-the-art WNC Regional Livestock Center to be located in Haywood County. The new facility is scheduled to be completed by April 2010.

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The new WNC Regional Livestock Center site will be located in Haywood County.

WRP Makes a Big Splash at Givens Estate LOSRC’s Waste Reduction Partners (WRP) program recently completed an extensive water-efficiency assessment of one of the largest retirement communities in Asheville. This 250-acre community contains a variety of housing options for the 762 residents, including a nursing and adult care home, and a wellness center. The WRP assessment team consisted of four retired professionals, along with the facility’s project manager. Funding for this assessment, as well as other water-efficiency assessments, was provided by the Water Resources Department of the City of Asheville.

Research showed that in 2008 the retirement community consumed a daily average of 73,650 gallons of water at a cost of $234,289. WRP assessors identified 2,296,289 gallons of water that could be saved annually with a potential savings of $44,156. Significant savings could be achieved by simply installing meters in the water lines used for landscaping and cooling tower water, thus avoiding sewer charges.

The management and Board of Directors of Givens Estate wrote the following letter in response to WRP’s assessment:

WRP Assessor Ronald Ehlinger working in the Oxford Pool control room at Givens Estate.

I want to thank you and your team for the excellent work you did with the water reduction study for Givens Estates.

The information collected and recommendations made in the final written report will assist our community to reduce water use and help eliminate the waste of this increasingly precious natural resource. In addition, we have already implemented measures to track chiller water use separately so it is not subject to sewer charges, thereby reducing our charges in this area.

We are most appreciative of your team’s efforts in our behalf and value the work of Waste Reduction Partners. You are a tremendous asset to our community.

Sincerely, John Cowan

Tailgating with Local Farmers in WNC Saturday before dawn, hundreds of pick-ups emerge from farms across Western North Carolina, heading for dozens of tailgate markets. Fresh produce - straight from the farmer to the table - draws thousands of customers at an early hour in order to get the best selection. These markets are growing rapidly across the region, offering an opportunity to see friends, to get the freshest possible food, and to buy local, all in an effort to support family farms.

Land-of-Sky Regional Council’s Farm Prosperity Project is a collaboration of eight organizations working together to assist participating farmers find the niche that best fits their farm. With funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Small Farms Initiative through North Carolina State University, the project brought in farmland conservation experts to help find a way to keep farming affordable using conservation and other financial strategies.

The project offers a method for deciding which combination of farmland protection and high value crops will best support each farm and our regional agricultural economy.

Mars Hill Tailgate Market

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Volunteer Services Team RSVP Wrestles the Economy During 2008, our community experienced an economic downturn which resulted in many cuts to governmental and nonprofit programs. Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) met this challenge by recruiting 126 new volunteers bringing the total number in the program to 527. These volunteers provided support and assistance to over 120 local government and non-profit stations.

RSVP volunteers use their skills, experiences and talents to help address regional challenges. Areas of service include public safety, human services, health and nutrition, education, environment, community and economic development, housing, and disaster preparedness/response.

Top Five RSVP Stations Station Henderson County Sheriff Department Safe Inc. Interfaith Assistance Ministries Carolina Mountain Club Transylvania Sheriff Department

Hours 11,755 6,735 5,836 4,524 2,600

In total, RSVP volunteers provided services equivalent to 27 fulltime employees by contributing 56,754 hours. The Independent Sector values this service at $1,149,268. These volunteers are dedicated to supporting the region’s needs and making our community a strong and healthy place to live for all.

We cheer on RSVP and support them in their efforts to take on the tough issues facing our community. Thank you RSVP volunteers and stations for all you do to make our community a wonderful place to live, love and grow. GO TEAM!

Teaming up for Loretta Douglas In 2008, two Land-of-Sky Regional Council (LOSRC) Volunteer Services’ programs collaborated to provide assistance to a special volunteer, Loretta Douglas. LOSRC’s Senior Companion Program teamed up with the Foster Grandparent Program to lend a much-needed hand. Loretta has been a dedicated Foster Grandparent volunteer for over four years and has devoted more than 3,000 hours providing love, support and encouragement to children in need.

When Loretta was diagnosed with breast cancer this past fall, she knew she would need some assistance. With her family living out of town, she wasn’t sure to whom she could turn. Loretta called LOSRC to ask if there were any services that could assist her during this difficult time.

The Senior Companion Program was able to offer the perfect match. Carolynn Cohron, an experienced Senior Companion, was introduced to Loretta, and they immediately became fast friends. Carolynn prepared light meals, and drove Loretta to her daily treatments, the drugstore and the grocery store.

Most importantly, Carolynn gave Loretta emotional support, companionship and friendship. Loretta feels that her Senior Companion has been a lifesaver, and she has made a great friend for life.

L-R: Foster Grandparent volunteer, Loretta Douglas, with Senior Companion volunteer, Carolynn Cohron.

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AmeriCorps Volunteer Steps Up to the Plate Foster Grandparent Program (FGP), Senior Companion Program (SCP), Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and AmeriCorps are federally funded volunteer programs administered under the Corporation for National and Community Service. For more than 25 years, Land-of-Sky Regional Council (LOSRC) has sponsored FGP, SCP, RSVP programs, and on several occasions has hosted AmeriCorps volunteers.

In September 2008, LOSRC welcomed AmeriCorps volunteer Joan M. Walker, who was able to collaborate for the first time with the three Senior Corps volunteer programs. While at LOSRC, she focused her efforts on steep slope protection, clean air, waste reduction, and energy and water conservation within the Local Government Services (LGS) Department.

At a monthly SCP-FGP training, Joan gave a presentation on home energy conservation tips and provided an overview of her experiences as an AmeriCorps volunteer. The presentation enabled the volunteers to learn more about LGS programs and other ways LOSRC utilizes volunteers. The collaboration between AmeriCorps, LGS, and Senior Corps illustrates what cooperation and team effort can achieve.

AmeriCorps volunteer, Joan Walker, speaking to the SCP and FGP volunteers.

A Tribute...

Don Hollister On May 1, 2009, Don Hollister retired from Land-of-Sky Regional Council (LOSRC) after 15 years of volunteering and working in program administration for the Council’s Waste Reduction Partners (WRP) program.

Don assisted in leading the WRP program to serve over 1,000 businesses and organizations throughout Western North Carolina to become more competitive and environmentally sustainable through technical assistance provided by the volunteer retired engineers.

Before coming to LOSRC, Don led a distinguished engineering and business career working as an aeronautical research scientist for the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (the precursor agency to NASA), a Senior Technical Editor for Goodyear Aircraft Corporation, and the Director to Technical Support Services for Northrop Carolina, Inc. Don was also the owner of Graphic Associates, a small local business, for 20 years.

Although Don has retired from LOSRC, he is continuing to volunteer with the WRP program. His daily presence, good humor, and congeniality in the office are sorely missed.

Don Hollister

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LOSRC Staff Administrative Services Department

Back L-R: Brett Satz – Information Systems Specialist Bonnie Smith – Administrative Services Assistant Michelle Barber – Clerk to Council / Administrative and Marketing Coordinator Joe McKinney – Executive Director Seated: Danna Harrell-Stansbury – Director of Marketing and Administration

Area Agency on Aging

Back L- R: Rebecca Chaplin – Aging Program Specialist Lee Ann Smith – Regional Ombudsman Joe Connolly – Area Agency on Aging Director Margaret Stanley – Aging Program Specialist Barbara Hinshaw – Lead Regional Ombudsman Brenda DelaCruz – SCSEP Job Developer Seated L- R: Terry Collins – Regional Ombudsman Carol McLimans – Family Caregiver Resource Specialist Christina Giles – AAA Project Assistant / Purchasing Coordinator Jennifer Atkinson – SCSEP Coordinator Not Pictured: Linda Kendall-Fields – Community Resource Connections Coordinator Pat Hilgendorf – Alzheimer’s Demonstration Grant Coordinator

Finance Department

L- R: Wanda Clark – Accounting Assistant Rose Sabo – Accounting Specialist Peggy Barnes – Finance Officer Sherry Christenson – Accounting Specialist

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Local Government Services

Back L-R: Linda Giltz – Regional Planner Bill Eaker – Environmental Services Manager Carrie Runser-Turner – Senior Planner, Transportation Ron Townley – Director of Local Government Services Natalie Murdock – Regional Planner Holly Bullman – Regional Planner John Connell – Housing Specialist Tracy Wahl – Brownfields Project Manager, NC DENR Heather Strassberger – Regional Planner Kate O’Hara – Senior Planner, Brownfields Project Manager Terry Albrecht – Director of Waste Reduction Partners Karen Kiehna – Senior Planner, Housing Dee Hanak – Waste Reduction Partners Office Manager Seated L- R: Kristin Peppel – Conservation Planning Consultant Annie Sarac – LGS Project Assistant Jon Beck – GIS Planner Keith Bamberger – Regional Planner Jim Stokoe – Senior Regional Planner Julie Lawhorn – Planning Technician, Specializing in ARRA Not Pictured: Tom Elmore – Working Land Planning Coordinator / Consultant Russ Jordan – Energy Program Manager, WRP

Volunteer Services Department Back L- R: LeeAnne Tucker – Director of Volunteer Services Tracy Ash – Senior Companion Manager Stacy Friesland – Foster Grandparent Manager Vicki Jennings – RSVP Coordinator Seated: Patti Cameron – RSVP Lead Coordinator

Financial Summary FY 2009 Budgeted Revenues by Source* $9,337,003 Private/Local Contract $429,145 4.60%

Local Dues $257,265 2.76%

Interest $6,000 .06%

In-Kind $199,231 2.13%

State $2,986,335 31.98%

Federal $5,459,007 58.47%

FY 2009 Budgeted Expenditures by Function* $9,337,003 Aging $4,080,932

Local Assistance $128,783

Senior Volunteer Services $965,265

Transportation $630,600

Environmental $601,671 Housing and Community Development $591,260

Planning and Economic Development $2,338,492

*Does not include Revenue from Other Sources or Expenditures Used for Non-Program Purposes, each of the amount $10,000.

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Lending Our Support to the Region’s Communities Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Madison & Transylvania Counties

Land-of-Sky Regional Council 339 New Leicester Hwy. Suite 140 Asheville, NC 28806 Phone: 828-251-6622 Fax: 828-251-6353 www.landofsky.org

Mission Statement Work with local governments, the Region’s leadership, state and federal agencies, service providers, and volunteers to foster desirable social, economic, cultural and ecological conditions in Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania Counties.