Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority Board

Buncombe County TDA Overview

As a public authority with a vital public purpose, the members of the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority carry on a long and proud legacy that started in 1983 and has inspired economic growth in Asheville, Buncombe County, and Western North Carolina for nearly 40 years.

The 11 volunteers who serve as members of the BCTDA board are appointed according to legislated criteria to provide professional expertise that ensures effective use of the occupancy tax for the people who live here.

• Four members are appointed by Asheville City Council, four by the Buncombe County Commission, and one by the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce.
• Seven members, including one vacation rental owner or vacation rental management owner, represent accommodations that collect the tax.
• Two members represent non-lodging, tourism-related businesses; one executive from a ticketed tourist attraction and one restaurant, brewery, distillery, or wine owner, or executive director of a ticketed arts organization.
• One member of the Buncombe County Commission and one member from City Council serve as non-voting, ex-officio board members.

The members of the BCTDA oversee the work of the Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau to execute an extensive promotional program designed to attract visitors to Buncombe County. The Buncombe County TDA and Explore Asheville also manage the Tourism Product Development Fund, which provides grants to community projects.

Meet the Members of the BCTDA Board

Matthew Lehman, Vice Chair
The Grand Bohemian Asheville
City Appointed
First hospitality job:
Bartender

Lucious Wilson
Wedge Brewery
City Appointed
First hospitality job:
Busboy

Himanshu Karvir
Virtelle Hospitality
County Appointed
First hospitality job:
Front desk agent

Commissioner Terri Wells
Buncombe County Commission
Ex-Officio Member