One of Western North Carolina's most closely watched legal disputes is moving closer to trial after a federal judge ruled that confidential financial details surrounding Mission Health's sale will remain under seal, setting the stage for a jury trial this September.

At the center of the case is a long-running disagreement between Mission Health and Buncombe County over how the hospital system's properties should be valued for tax purposes. County officials argue the properties are worth substantially more than Mission contends, a difference that could affect millions of dollars in property tax revenue over time.

During a recent court hearing, the judge denied Mission's request to make portions of the confidential purchase information public, allowing the records to remain sealed as the case proceeds. While many of the financial details will not be available before trial, both sides will continue preparing evidence ahead of the scheduled September 8 jury trial.

The dispute stems from the 2019 acquisition of Mission Health by HCA Healthcare and the subsequent assessment of the hospital system's real estate. Buncombe County maintains that the properties should carry a significantly higher taxable value, while Mission argues the county's assessment exceeds the fair market value of the facilities.

Because property taxes help fund essential local services, including schools, public safety, and county operations, the outcome of the case could have financial implications well beyond the hospital itself. County leaders have said accurate property valuations are important to ensuring all taxpayers are treated fairly, while Mission has maintained that its assessments comply with state law.

The trial is expected to draw significant attention across Western North Carolina, where Mission Hospital serves as the region's largest healthcare provider. Although the September proceedings will focus on legal and valuation questions, the final decision could influence future tax assessments involving large healthcare systems and other major property owners.

For now, both sides continue preparing their cases, with a jury expected to hear testimony and evidence beginning September 8. The outcome will help determine whether Buncombe County's assessments stand or whether Mission Health's valuation arguments ultimately prevail.