Another interest opposing the Asheville BID is the Buncombe County Fire Chiefs’ Association. Sales tax revenues are split among all taxing entities in Buncombe County. Since the BID would be a new taxing entity, it would intercept funds currently directed toward local fire departments. According to Buncombe County Emergency Services Director Jerry VeHaun:
The diversion of such funds during the present economic climate would necessarily cause tax payers in other parts of Buncombe County to pay higher taxes or fees or to forego services.
Supporters of the BID, however, argue the BID will increase business by leaps and bounds, far exceeding any diversionary losses.
