Public Meetings - Gastonia, North Carolina

Mayor Franks called an emergency meeting on July 3, 2025, to address what he described as a breakdown in the city's response to providing a cooling shelter for unhoused residents during extreme heat. The meeting featured heated debate among the mayor and two council members, with accusations of political interference, failure by the lead agency (HealthNet Gaston/Continuum of Care), and insubordination by the city manager. Discussion Items - Mayor Franks' Opening Statement: The mayor expressed anger over the city manager not following the council's Monday consensus to open the Salvation Army building as a cooling center. He stated that the fire department cleared the building on Friday, but the city manager and assistant city manager blocked its use. He accused the Continuum of Care (HealthNet Gaston) of failing as the lead agency, noting they received $1.5 million in January but provided inadequate planning. He praised Tasha White, Dickie Spargo, and local churches for stepping in with volunteers and supplies. - Councilwoman Littlejohn's Remarks: She supported the mayor, stating that the fire department inspection report cleared the building and that the city manager's vacation absence without proper notification created confusion. She criticized the planning as poor, citing that the cooling station's setup (tents outside) was unacceptable and that the city manager's actions were petty and political. She said the fire department and Gyms (county) should not be blamed. - Councilwoman Step's Remarks: She urged a calmer approach, emphasizing that other council members do care and that the failure was not intentional. She noted that the county had handled cooling stations in the past, but this year planning fell through. She stressed safety concerns beyond fire inspections, including lack of procedures and law enforcement. She called for collaboration among all parties to find a long-term solution. - Exchange with Assistant City Manager Quentin McFadder: The mayor and Councilwoman Littlejohn questioned McFadder, who confirmed that he and the city manager made the decision not to use the building. The mayor stated that a majority of council had a consensus to open it, but the city manager overruled it. McFadder deferred to the city manager, who was on vacation but still in charge. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the meeting was a discussion only. - Mayor Franks threatened to call emergency meetings daily until a quorum is present and said he would hold a press conference to release more information. - The mayor called for accountability, suggesting the lead agency for homelessness should be changed. - The council did not take any action to resolve the cooling center issue during the meeting; the Salvation Army building remained closed as of the meeting's end.

The Gastonia City Council met on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Gaston County Courthouse Public Forum Room. The meeting included recognition of summer interns and Citizens Academy graduates, a proclamation for Canine Companions LTD, a presentation on the Fourth of July celebration, public comment, committee reports, and the adoption of the FY 2026 budget and fee schedule. Consent Calendar - Approved 12 consent agenda items unanimously, including: - Proclamation for National Pollinator Week (June 16-22, 2025) and recognition as BEE CITY USA affiliate. - Final recording plat for Wilson Subdivision Map 1. - April 2025 monthly financial report. - Resolution to sell an easement to NCDOT for $500. - Recognition of asset-forfeiture funds ($26,590 total) with budget amendment. - Budget amendment for GASB compliance ($1,156,785). - Revenue recognition from surplus sales and insurance ($174,395). - Engineering contract with Kimley-Horn for Safe Streets 4 All grant ($435,000, 80% federal, 20% local). - Amendment to litter removal contract with Staff 360. - Agreement with Commonwealth Development for LIHTC development Enclave at Forest Heights using HOME funds ($375,000). - Amendment with Asplundh Tree Expert ($500,000 for FEMA debris clearing from Hurricane Helene). - Five-year contract with Toshiba Business Solutions for printer services ($91,500/year, total $457,500). Public Comments & Testimony - Stephanie Franks (resident, CFO of King Law, CPA and real estate broker) criticized the FY 2026 budget, stating the city does not have a revenue problem but a spending problem. She noted a 57% increase in the budget since 2019 while population grew 10%, and highlighted her own property tax increase from $2,700 (2019) to over $4,000 (2024). She urged more transparency, earlier public review, and called for cuts. She cited a response from Councilman Curlin acknowledging the need for earlier budget access. - Mike Cambrella thanked council for postponing the budget vote and commended them for questioning the manager's wish list. He suggested further cuts beyond the proposed $1 million, and questioned whether the city actively seeks more sponsorships for events like Fourth of July. Discussion Items - Proclamation for Canine Companions LTD (Item E.1): Recognized organization for supporting veterans with service dogs. Presented by Councilwoman Stepp. Accepted unanimously. - Introduction of Summer Interns (Item F.1): Six interns introduced: Paxton Ballard (UNCC civil engineering), Mason McVeety (UNC Chapel Hill MPA/MSW), David Stewart (App State public administration), Ben Bogle (UNC Chapel Hill MPA, Gastonia native), Michelle Thomas (UNC Wilmington marketing). Working on fire department history, senior advisory council research, schematic digitization, and economic development mapping. - Recognition of Citizens Academy Graduates (Item F.2): 20 graduates recognized. Several spoke about their positive experiences, learning about city operations, and becoming engaged citizens. Participants included Dorjine Vela, Mary Tiselina, Zion McKenzie, and Gordon Scott. - Fourth of July Celebration Presentation (Item F.3): Event Planner Christine Ingle outlined event: Friday July 4, 5-9:30 PM, fireworks at 9:30 PM (15 min). Live music (Beth Gatlin, Emerald Empire Band). 17 food trucks, 50+ vendor booths, free activities. Street closures. Caromont Health sponsorship ($10,000 total for July 4th and Christmas in the City). Estimated 10,000-15,000 attendees. Food truck fee $35, vendor fee $25. - Committee Reports: - Central City Revitalization & Housing Committee (Chair Stepp): Creation of senior advisory committee (staff to bring back recommendations on membership). Discussion of in-con service policy; attorney to bring options for modification. No action taken. - Personnel Committee (Chair Barber): Considering facilitated performance evaluations for city manager and attorney. Heard from consultants Martha Page and Janice Jackson (Developmental Associates); will request at least two more proposals before selecting. - Citizen Committee Appointments (Item J.1): Appointed Lamar Burroughs for Ward 4 Recreation Advisory Commission; other appointments already confirmed at previous meeting. Approved unanimously. - FY 2026 Budget Adoption (Item J.2): Extensive debate. Mayor Franks raised concerns about lack of time to review the budget, questioned specific line items (e.g., communications contracts, training cuts, car allowances). He argued public safety training was cut and that the budget was being rubber-stamped. Councilwoman Stepp defended the process, stating staff was available for questions. Councilman Curlin presented facts: city population grew from 66,277 (2000) to 86,218 (2025), while full-time employees remained at 956 (one less than 25 years ago). He noted Charlotte's new budget sets minimum wage at $24/hour, and 326 Gastonia employees earn less than that. He argued for full compensation as proposed. Budget passed: motion to adopt manager's recommended budget (May 6 version) with 3.5% across-the-board salary increase effective July 1, 2025, and an additional 1% available January 1, 2026 for career development program (first phase of compensation study). Vote: unanimous. - FY 2026 Consolidated Fee Schedule (Item J.3): Motion by Casupia for 2.5% water/sewer rate increase for residential in-city customers, and 5% increase for other municipalities and commercial customers. Passed 5-1. - Update to 2025-2027 Goals and Objectives (Item J.4): City manager reported on progress; no presentation needed. One question about runway extension funding (still waiting on state fund release). No further action. - City Attorney Report: Eric Edgerton noted ongoing code review; omnibus package of corrections expected next month or August. - City Manager Report: Highlighted microtransit record of 845 rides in one day. Thanked budget staff. Recognized Dale Denton's retirement after 38 years. - Council Reports: Councilwoman Barber thanked staff for arranging Dream Center tour; attended ribbon cutting for Fairhaven Place affordable housing (200 units, accepting Section 8 vouchers). Councilwoman Stepp also attended Fairhaven ribbon cutting; noted developer from Oshkosh, WI, connection to photographer Lewis Hine. Warned about Senate Bill 205 potentially including harmful zoning provisions. Announced she will seek re-election for Ward 5. Councilman Gallagher recounted an F3 ruck event. Mayor Pro Tem Curlin recognized Alan May (34 years at SHIEL Museum) and new company Premix (Finnish) at Apple Creek that donated $10,000 to nonprofits. Councilman Casupia thanked county for joint meeting, thanked budget staff, announced he will run for re-election in Ward 1. Mayor Franks closed with announcements including Juneteenth Festival, July 4th event, next meeting July 15. Key Outcomes - FY 2026 Budget adopted unanimously (mayor voted yes). Compensation: 3.5% ATB July 1, 2025 + 1% Jan 1, 2026 for career development (first phase of compensation study). - Fee schedule passed 5-1: residential in-city water/sewer increase 2.5%; commercial and out-of-city 5%. - Consent agenda approved unanimously (12 items). - Citizen committee appointments approved: Lamar Burroughs for Ward 4 Recreation Advisory Commission. - Proclamation for Canine Companions LTD approved. - Upcoming: Next regular meeting July 15, 2025 (only one meeting in July due to holiday). Now format as JSON. Ensure newlines escaped.json {

The Gastonia City Council met on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Gaston County Courthouse Public Forum Room. The meeting included a presentation on the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan, public comments on the FY2026 budget and Juneteenth equity, approval of a stormwater ordinance update, a contract for Juneteenth events, and a contentious debate that resulted in tabling the FY2026 annual budget vote to the June 17 meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: minutes of May 20, 2025; agreement with HealthNet Gaston for Continuum of Care funding ($65,000 from CDBG); HOME Consortium renewal; contract with Schneider Electric for enterprise license ($96,000); contract amendment with KCI Associates for Hurricane Helene assessment ($29,659); cancellation of the July 1, 2025 council meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark (budget critic): Argued the budget is not lean due to spending on apparel, meals, travel, and ballpark operations while local groups are denied support. Called for delaying the vote, reopening the public hearing, and adopting a budget that reflects community priorities. Referenced TriBridge Residential incentives and a developer’s comment about resident apathy. - Mr. Tamborella: Questioned whether proposed changes (tax rate cut, utility rate freeze, salary hold) were reflected in the budget. Noted that a one-cent tax cut is only 0.25% of the budget and urged the council not to vote that night. - Leonard Martin: Criticized the mayor’s language at a prior meeting and accused Councilwoman Barber of moving community events to her own ward for personal gain. Raised concerns about a street repair issue on Dauphin Lane in Ward 4 and alleged unfair contracting with Tasha White. - Tasha White (Health Carolina founder): Thanked council for absorbing in-kind costs for Thursday, June 19 (Juneteenth), but noted Health Carolina still owes $9,270 in city staffing fees for the Saturday, June 14 parade and festival, plus $5,500 for fireworks. Argued that black-led nonprofits face barriers compared to city-sponsored events. - Paul Lawrence: Urged the council to delay the budget vote, stating the process has been rushed and lacks clarity. Questioned whether the council has provided clear direction to staff on budget expectations. - Highland Festival representative: Requested fair treatment and fewer required police officers for long-standing community events with no incident history. Presentations - E.1 – 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan and 2026 Annual Action Plan (HUD): Presented by Zsuzsi Kadar and Jessica Fisch. Overview of needs assessment, community engagement (83 survey responses, 19 stakeholder interviews, 3 focus groups, 2 public hearings). Five-year goals include safe/affordable housing ($1.8M CDBG, $3.1M HOME), homeless assistance ($400K CDBG), demolition, public facilities, and services. Year 1 resources: $570K CDBG + program income, $690K HOME + program income. Councilmembers Gallagher and Littlejohn questioned outcomes, accountability, and youth funding. Councilman Walker raised concerns about administrative costs (20% of allocation) and ineffective homeless spending. The plan was approved 5-2. Committee Reports - G.1 – Arts Committee (Jennifer Stepp): Update on grant guideline revisions, completed public art projects, rotating showcase at Rotary Pavilion, and event budgets. No actionable items. - G.2 – Recreation Advisory Commission (Donyel Barber): Report on maintenance operations covering 700+ acres of parks with 41 employees. Highlighted savings from in-house work. Encouraged resident partnership on litter control. Discussion Items - I.1 – Juneteenth Festival Contract (HELP Carolina): City Attorney Eric Edgerton sought direction on scope (one day vs. two days) and whether to cover only in-kind services or also expenses like fireworks. Councilwoman Littlejohn moved to cover both days and all expenses (including fireworks up to $5,500) this year, with future years as a single-day city event. Councilwoman Stepp seconded. After discussion (Councilman Gallagher preferred one day, in-kind only; compromise reached to cover in-kind for two days and fireworks up to $5,500), the motion carried unanimously. - I.2 – Stormwater Ordinance Update (Chapter 14): Stormwater Administrator Danon Lawson presented amendments: redefining redevelopment credits (post-2008), clarifying low/high density, increasing detention requirements from 2/10-year to 2/25-year storm (27,000 gallons per impervious acre), allowing stormwater control measures in floodplains with conditions, and improving operation/maintenance guidance. Council members asked about enforcement (180-day compliance period, teeth via fee schedule), maintenance of retention ponds, and impact on future development. Approved unanimously. - I.5 – Condemnation Proceedings at 2465 South New Hope Road: City Attorney Edgerton requested authorization to acquire right-of-way for a turn lane as part of a traffic impact analysis; developer will cover costs. Approved unanimously. - I.3 & I.4 – FY2026 Annual Budget and Consolidated Fee Schedule: City Manager Michael Peoples presented the amended budget reflecting council’s May 20 direction: tax rate cut to 46 cents (lowest since 1994), suspension of 5% water/sewer rate increase. Reductions include $1.13M total (salary increase from 4% to 3% + 1% career development, cuts to planning, arts, travel, etc.). Multiple council members debated. Councilman Gallagher and Councilwoman Barber favored passing the budget that night, citing staff effort and due diligence since January. Councilman Casupius called for a delay to request line-item budgets and reopen the public hearing. Councilwoman Stepp and Councilwoman Littlejohn supported delaying, noting citizen concerns and need for more detail. A motion to table items I.3 and I.4 until the June 17 meeting, with council to submit specific questions to the budget officer by 5:00 PM June 4, passed 5-2. Key Outcomes - Consolidated Plan (E.1): Approved 5-2 (motion by ?, second by ?). - Consent Agenda (H.1–H.5): Approved unanimously. - Juneteenth Contract (I.1): Approved unanimously as amended: city covers in-kind services for both June 14 and June 19, plus fireworks up to $5,500; future years to be single-day city event. - Stormwater Ordinance (I.2): Approved unanimously. - Condemnation (I.5): Approved unanimously. - FY2026 Budget & Fee Schedule (I.3 & I.4): Tabled to June 17, 2025. Motion to reopen public hearing and continue discussion passed 5-2. Councilmembers must submit specific information requests to the budget officer by 5:00 PM on June 4, 2025. A special meeting may be called if needed to approve the budget before July 1. Other Reports - City Attorney’s Report (J): Brief update on contracts for Juneteenth and senior advisory commission. Noted his family has moved into Gastonia. - City Manager’s Report (K): Announced population estimate of 85,535, a 1.54% increase. - Council Reports (L): Councilmembers shared community events, ride-alongs, and Mayor Pro Tem Curlin announced he will not seek re-election in fall 2025. - Announcements (M): Upcoming meetings include a joint city-county meeting June 17, Citizens Academy graduation, and Juneteenth celebrations June 14 and 19.

The Gastonia City Council met on May 20, 2025, at 6:00 PM at the Gaston County Courthouse. The meeting featured numerous public comments on the city's in-kind services policy, discussions on a major zoning case, adoption of the budget for FY2025-2026, and several recognitions. Council voted to make Juneteenth a city-sponsored event and tabled a controversial rezoning for further traffic impact analysis. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: - Final plat for Sierra Ridge Map 2 Subdivision. - Fourth Amendment to solid waste and recycling contract with Republic Services. - Demolition ordinance for 1142 Perkins St. - Contract amendments for Duhart Pump Station sewer project ($335,000 total). - NCDOT agreement for utility relocation on US-74 ($1,034,300). - Recognition of asset‑forfeiture funds ($81,072 total with budget amendment). - Recognition of insurance proceeds ($177,932 with revised budget amendment). - Fire truck purchase ($1,787,496) from fund balance. - VMware software license agreement. - CATS 85X Gastonia Express Route interlocal agreement. - Speed Hump Policy (renamed from Traffic Calming Policy) amendments. - Disaster recovery management services contract ($177,298). - CPACE financing consent for Trenton Mill project – with discussion on lien priority. Public Comments & Testimony 19 speakers addressed the council during public expression (extended from 30 to 57 minutes by a 4‑2 vote). Key themes: - Tasha White (Help Carolina/Juneteenth organizer): Requested equitable treatment for Juneteenth. Noted that in-kind services previously absorbed by the city now cost her event $15,630 (32 officers + 6 supervisors for 1st day, 16 for 2nd) while larger city events like July 4 receive fully subsidized staffing. Called for policy consistency and fairness. - Robin Connor (community worker, Ranlo commissioner): Invited Juneteenth to move to Ranlo if Gastonia cannot support it. - Loretta Thomas (Zeta Phi Beta, NAACP): Urged reinstatement of in-kind services for Juneteenth. - Peter Dingle (Highland Festival co‑chair): Requested city financial support for the Highland Festival, aligning with the city's "Great Promise, Great Place, Great People" vision. - Mike Works (community member): Supported Highland Festival and noted the volunteer effort behind it. - Gerald Tate (Toys for Tots Motorcycle Run chair): Criticized the elimination of in-kind services for minority‑led events, argued the policy change was inequitable, and stated his event does not need in‑kind but supports others. - Cheryl Littlejohn (Councilwoman, speaking as citizen): Voiced anger over public safety in Ward 4 (four murders), lack of speed bumps, the budget process, and the city’s purchase of a $2.2M building without a plan. Opposed “affordable” housing priced $250k–$350k. Stated she will continue to fight for Ward 4. - Deanna Graham (NAACP VP): Asked for scrutiny of the 259‑page budget, questioned the $2.2M building purchase, and noted affordable housing prices are out of reach for many. - Sean Bates (NAACP President): Advocated for accountability and noted the budget's complexity; urged council to use $2.2M for community needs. - Rita Bates-Jones (Gastonia resident): Highlighted homelessness, housing insecurity, and the closure of the Salvation Army shelter; called for action. - Mike Tamburello (resident): Criticized the budget as a “wish list,” questioned the $2.2M building purchase, and urged fiscal restraint. - Ephraim Winkfield (community advocate): Alleged racial disparities in in-kind services and called for transparency and equity. - Cynthia Stitt & Shay Adams (parks advisory board): Supported Juneteenth and suggested reallocating funds from underperforming city events to restore in-kind services. - Jason (last name unclear): Supported reducing costs for Juneteenth and other community events. - Multiple other speakers echoed concerns about inequity and the need for city support. Discussion Items Briar Oak Annexation & Rezoning (Items I2/I3) - Request to annex 83.37 acres and rezone from county RS‑12 and R‑1 to city PD‑RRDD for a 222‑unit single-family subdivision (Northway Homes). - Staff recommended approval; planning commission recommended approval. - Mayor Franks raised concerns about Penny Park Drive’s inability to handle traffic and noted the lack of a Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) upfront (policy changed in Jan 2025, but this application was filed before). - Councilwoman Stepp worried about stormwater impacts in a flood‑prone area. - Councilman Gallagher opposed the high density and called it a “vinyl village.” - Developer Kyle DiPertoro confirmed they will comply with any TIA requirements; offered to table the item for 45 days. - After a 3‑3 tie vote on approval (motion failed), council voted unanimously to continue the item to the August 19, 2025 meeting to allow completion of the TIA. Fairview Drive Annexation & Rezoning (Items I4/I5) - 1.179 acres, two lots, to be rezoned from RS‑12 county to RS‑12 CD city for two single‑family homes. - No public opposition. Unanimously approved. Linwood Springs Park Phase I Construction (Item I6) - Contract awarded to Eagle Wood, Inc. for $5,539,383.34 (down from $7.09M after cost‑cutting: city will self‑perform bridge repairs and parking lot grading, saving $1.56M). - Project includes RV campsites, paved trails, utilities, and a vehicular bridge. Completion expected spring/summer 2026. - Approved unanimously. In‑Kind Services Policy & Juneteenth (Items I8 and earlier discussion) - Councilwoman Littlejohn moved to suspend the Jan 2, 2024 policy and revert to prior in‑kind services policy. Motion failed 3‑3. - Councilman Gallagher then moved to make Juneteenth a city‑sponsored event and contract with Tasha White to produce it. The motion passed unanimously. - Council also agreed to send the creation of a senior citizens committee to the June 2 Central Cities Committee for development of bylaws. Discussion of Proposed FY2025‑2026 Annual Budget (Item I7) - Council did not vote but expressed majority consensus on four points (stated by Mayor Franks and affirmed by each member): 1. No council pay raise. 2. No manager pay raise until evaluation is completed. 3. No 5% increase in water/sewer rates. 4. Reduce property tax rate from $0.47 to $0.46 per $100 valuation. - Councilwoman Stepp and others noted the need to balance fiscal responsibility with infrastructure needs. - Councilman Gallagher and Mayor Pro Tem Kirlin argued against the tax rate cut, warning it would only postpone necessary increases. - Council asked for additional detail on budget line items (e.g., contracted services, travel investigators, fund balance) and will continue discussion at the June 3, 2025 meeting. Other Items - Council approved creation of a senior citizens advisory committee, to be further developed in committee. - Recognitions: Former City Attorney L. Ashley Smith received the Order of the Longleaf Pine from Governor Stein’s office. Employee awards presented (Customer Service: Chip Esposito; Extraordinary Service: Cassie Moss; Leadership: Helen Alexander; Stronger Together: Donna Smith; Safety: Mars Elliott). Proclamations for ALS Awareness Month (Shannon Waters) and Juneteenth (Tasha White). Key Outcomes - Approved: Consent agenda; cul‑de‑sac closure; Fairview Drive annexation/rezoning; Linwood Springs Park contract; Juneteenth as city‑sponsored event; senior citizens committee referral; proclamations and recognitions. - Failed (3‑3): Motion to reinstate previous in‑kind services policy. - Continued to August 19: Briar Oak annexation/rezoning for TIA completion. - No vote taken: Budget discussion; council will adopt at June 3 meeting. - Next steps: Budget adoption on June 3, 2025; committee meeting on June 2 for in‑kind services and senior committee; closed session held for attorney‑client privilege.

The Gastonia City Council met on May 6, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The meeting included proclamations, a community presentation, public expression, committee reports, approval of a consent agenda, and several regular agenda items including a major economic development grant, transportation betterments, and a resolution opposing state legislation. The meeting also featured the introduction of new City Attorney Eric Edgerton. Proclamations - Council unanimously approved a proclamation recognizing May 11–17, 2025 as Economic Development Week, presented to Director of Economic Development Kristy Crisp by Councilman Koutsoupias. - Council unanimously approved a proclamation recognizing May 4–10, 2025 as Municipal Clerk Week, presented to City Clerk Suzanne Gibbs by Councilwoman Littlejohn. - Council unanimously approved a proclamation recognizing May 18–24, 2025 as National Public Works Week, presented to Director of Public Works Dale Denton and Assistant City Manager Brian Potocki by Mayor Pro Tem Kirlin. Presentation - Ms. Alexandra Mazique and Ms. Tuneko Purnell of Grace and Mercy Establishment presented on their organization's work in healing, youth empowerment, and mental health services. They cited a 25.9% increase in suicide in Gaston County (2023-2025), 283 registered sex offenders in 2025, and that 3 out of 4 youth in North Carolina would attend an afterschool program if offered affordably. They requested volunteers, partnerships, and city support to expand services. Councilwoman Littlejohn praised their work and suggested partnering with local organizations. Public Comments & Testimony - Clark Simon (311 West 10th Avenue) spoke about an animal abuse case involving a police officer, alleging that despite reports made on October 1, 2024, the abuse continued for six months until the officer was arrested. He requested a review of communications and policies to prevent such failures. - Norman Valles (new owner of Gaston Pickers Antique Mall and Auctions) reported that under new ownership, the business has increased traffic from outside the county by over 50% (3,500 people per visit), hired 3 more employees, plans to purchase the building, and supports approximately 115 families in earning extra income. He expressed satisfaction with city interactions and hopes for future assistance. Committee Reports Central City Revitalization & Housing / Community Engagement Committee (Councilwoman Stepp, Chair): - 2.A: Gastonia Springs Carnival Event at Eastridge Mall – Resolution approved unanimously to permit the carnival May 22–June 1, requiring off-duty police at the event's expense. - 2.B: Updates to Facade and Architecture Grant Program – This item generated extensive discussion. Key changes include requiring wet signatures, work commencing within 90 days, completion within 12 months, and attaching permits. The main debate was whether 501(c)(3) nonprofits should remain eligible. Staff noted only three nonprofits are in the Municipal Service District (MSD), and nonprofits pay the MSD property tax if they own the building. The committee voted to keep nonprofits eligible. Council approved the resolution 5–2 (Councilman Gallagher and one other opposed). - 2.C: Sale of City-Owned Property at 608 N. York Street – Sold for $204,900, with the buyer receiving $25,000 in city down-payment assistance plus other state/ federal assistance totaling approximately $89,500, reducing the financed amount to $126,280. Approved unanimously. - 2.D: Highland Community East Proposals – The committee recommended accepting a proposal from Oak and Willow Builders, who offered resale prices of $230,000–$300,000 with a 20–30 year affordability period. Councilwoman Littlejohn opposed, arguing the prices are not affordable for current Ward 4 residents and that the developer does not offer nontraditional financing or a grocery store, unlike another bidder. Council approved 6–1 (Littlejohn opposed). Mayor Pro Tem Kirlin and Councilwoman Stepp noted the need to respect staff's scoring criteria and communicate expectations earlier. Utilities Committee (Councilwoman Stepp, Acting Chair): - Arcadia Subdivision Reimbursement Agreement – The committee approved a revised agreement eliminating a water line loop requirement; instead, all structures must have improved fire sprinkler systems (reducing fire flow requirement from 1,000 to 500 gallons per minute). The city will reimburse the developer for the cost of upsizing an on-site sewer pump station and off-site force main (up to $1.5 million) to serve future development in the drainage basin. Payment is due within 60 days of completion. Approved unanimously. Consent Calendar All 10 items were approved unanimously: - I.1: Tax collection contract with Gaston County - I.2: March 2025 financial report - I.3: FY 25-26 budget for Gastonia Conference Center - I.4: Final plat for Nolen Farm Phase 4 Map 1 - I.5: Work authorization for airport wildlife perimeter fence - I.6: Sole source vendors for utility equipment - I.7: Annexation petition for 83.37 acres on Briar Oak Drive and Penny Park Drive (public hearing May 20) - I.8: Annexation petition for 1.179 acres on Fairview Drive (public hearing May 20) - I.9: Traffic ordinance amendments (stop signs at Queensgate/Nottingham and Titus Green/Eighth Avenue) - I.10: Revenue recognition of $24,000 from athletic league fees Discussion Items - I.1 Question – Mayor Pro Tem Kirlin asked whether the county's ad valorem tax collection fee (0.9%) is the same for all municipalities; staff confirmed it is. Regular Agenda - J.1: Project Nexus – Level 4 Economic Development Grant – Director of Economic Development Kristy Crisp presented a proposal for a manufacturing facility in the Trinity Building (875,000 sq ft, shell built by Trinity Partners for $61 million). The company plans to invest $268 million in machinery/equipment and create 701 new jobs at an average salary of $52,000 (Gaston County average). The city's grant is a 10-year tax reimbursement, paid upfront by the company. Gaston County approved unanimously; the state is also pursuing a JDIG grant. Council approved the resolution and closed the public hearing unanimously. - J.3: Municipal Agreement with NCDOT for I-85 Widening and Cox Road Betterments – Transportation Director Randi Gates presented a $2,660,610.42 agreement for aesthetic betterments on six structures (3 interchanges, 3 overpasses) in Gastonia. The total cost is $7,103,350, with $2.8 million from NCDOT participation and $2.5 million from prior geo-bond funds for Union Road widening, leaving the city's share at $2.66 million. Betterments include brick veneer, medallions, street name signs, black railing, and enhanced landscaping. Construction on Section A (through Gastonia) is expected to be complete by 2033. City will pay upon project completion from second issuance of geo-bonds. Approved unanimously. - J.4: Resolution Opposing House Bill 765 – City Attorney Eric Edgerton explained that HB 765 would preempt local zoning by mandating at least 5 units per acre, increase municipal liability in developer lawsuits, and is opposed by the League of Municipalities. Council unanimously approved the resolution. - J.2: FY 2025-2026 Proposed Budget Presentation – City Manager Michael Peoples presented a proposed budget of $333.55 million (down $12.65 million from current), with a tax rate of $0.47 per $100 (lowest in over 20 years), no use of fund balance, a 4% compensation increase effective January 2026, and a 5% increase in water/sewer fees ($4.28/month average). The public hearing was opened and closed without public comment; adoption is scheduled for June 3, 2025. A brief discussion ensued about keeping the public hearing open until the next meeting, but the council voted to close it (motion carried). Key Outcomes - Decision/Resolution: Approved carnival permit at Eastridge Mall (unanimous) - Decision/Resolution: Approved Facade Grant Program updates with nonprofits eligible (5 in favor, 2 opposed) - Decision/Resolution: Approved sale of 608 N. York Street for $204,900 (unanimous) - Decision/Resolution: Approved Highland Community East proposal from Oak and Willow Builders (6 in favor, 1 opposed) - Decision/Resolution: Approved Arcadia Subdivision utilities reimbursement agreement (unanimous) - Decision/Resolution: Approved Project Nexus Level 4 Economic Development Grant (unanimous) - Decision/Resolution: Approved I-85 widening betterments municipal agreement for $2,660,610.42 (unanimous) - Decision/Resolution: Approved resolution opposing House Bill 765 (unanimous) - Next Step: Budget adoption scheduled for June 3, 2025; council to review and ask questions before then. - Referral: Councilwoman Littlejohn requested that beautification projects promised for cut-through streets (Davidson, Pryor) be revisited; city manager took note. City Attorney's Report - Eric Edgerton noted two other bills the League is tracking; will update council if needed. City Manager's Report - Michael Peoples warned about the federal

The Gastonia City Council met on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the Gaston County Courthouse Public Forum Room. The meeting featured student achievement recognitions, multiple proclamations, a presentation on the county emergency operations plan, and a public hearing to amend the Unified Development Ordinance to define and allow murals. The consent agenda was approved after a deletion, and all regular agenda items were passed unanimously. Recognitions & Proclamations - Student Achievement Awards: Seven students from local schools (Ashbrook High, Greer Middle, Highland School of Technology, Southwest Middle, Webb Street School, and Yorchester Middle) were recognized for academic and community accomplishments. Each student received a plaque and shared future plans. - Mayor's Youth Leadership Council Senior Recognition: Nine seniors were honored for their service. The council president Lily Friday reported that 27 members from 10 schools participated in volunteer events including a fall carnival, Thanksgiving luncheon, Christmas parade, toy drive, and more. - Proclamation – 65th Anniversary of Eta Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.: Councilmember Donyel Barber presented the proclamation, noting the chapter's service activities including voter registration drives, cleanups, and distributing $13,000 in scholarships since 2021. - Proclamation – 50th Anniversary of Gaston Residential Services: Councilmember Demetri Koutsoupias recognized the organization's support for 83 persons with disabilities in Gaston County. - Proclamation – National Peace Officers Memorial Week (May 11–17, 2025): Councilmember Koutsoupias read a proclamation noting that 162 peace officers nationwide and seven from North Carolina were killed in the line of duty in 2024. Police Chief Trent Conard accepted. - Proclamation – Community Development Block Grant Week (April 21–25, 2025): Councilmember Cheryl Littlejohn recognized the CDBG program's role in funding housing and community development. Director of Housing and Community Engagement Danette Dye requested continued support amid federal funding uncertainty. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public signed up to speak. The public expression period was closed. Presentation – Gaston County Emergency Operations Plan Update Scott Hunter (Gaston County Emergency Management Director) and Assistant Fire Chief Matthew Young presented a four-year update to the county’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). The plan is built on 15 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) and includes a new section on active violence. A key component is a pre-authorization mechanism: once all mayors sign, the county can declare a state of emergency on behalf of municipalities, speeding resource requests. Each municipality can opt out later. Future phases will add sections on cyber terrorism and provide detailed ESF books and training. Councilmembers asked about nuclear plant emergencies and commended coordination during a recent scrap yard fire. Discussion Items - Unified Development Ordinance Amendment – Murals (File 202500127): Senior Planner Jordan Tubbs presented a definition of mural as “a sign displaying only a non-commercial message painted or drawn on a building wall” and added standards requiring weather-resistant paint, downtown design review in certain districts, and a carve-out for incorporating a name. The amendment does not allow supergraphics (vinyl advertisements) – those remain regulated as wall signs. Councilmembers discussed clarifying rules for historic murals and potential future amendments for supergraphics. They also asked about commercial messages (e.g., a business mural) – staff clarified that would be treated as a sign. The public hearing was closed and the amendment was approved unanimously. A separate motion to adopt a statement of consistency with the 2025 Comprehensive Plan also passed unanimously. - Consent Agenda: Originally nine items. Councilmember Koutsoupias requested deletion of item H.5 (a parking ordinance amendment). The modified consent agenda (items H.1–H.4 and H.6–H.9) was approved unanimously by voice vote. Key items included: awarding the FY2025 audit contract to Martin Starnes & Associates, accepting portions of Pine Trace Subdivision for maintenance, a resolution supporting NC 279 widening, a resolution urging reinstatement of federal Reconnecting Communities Pilot grant funding, purchases of an automated refuse truck ($355,337) and an automated leaf truck ($299,393), recognizing mutual aid proceeds from Tropical Storm Helene ($110,092), and a contract for network firewalls ($197,939) using homeland security grant funds. City Manager’s Report City Manager Michael Peoples reported on state legislation: House Bill 765 (local government development regulations omnibus) and efforts to include Gastonia in an electronic notification authority bill. He noted that federal BRIC grants (including a $7 million project for Duhart’s Creek) have been suspended indefinitely and the city will send letters to the congressional delegation. A utilities committee meeting and a budget work session were scheduled. City Council Reports Councilmembers reported on events: a caffeine and conversation, a new downtown ice cream shop ribbon cutting, the Get to Know Gaston event, the Centralina Executive Committee (where a resolution to increase water allotment sought by Charlotte was not passed), upcoming community egg hunts, a pop-up health fair at Gaston Community Action, a grocery giveaway with City Church, the Arts Commission’s new mural on Armstrong Park Road, and upcoming theatrical and musical performances. Councilmember Dave Kirlin also acknowledged Passover and wished a happy Easter. Announcements & Adjournment Mayor Franks recognized Julian, a Highland School of Technology senior with a 4.6 GPA who earned a full merit-based scholarship to the University of Notre Dame to study neuroscience. He also noted that former Florida State basketball coach Leonard Hamilton (a Gastonia native) will throw a ceremonial first pitch on April 27. Upcoming meetings were announced: budget work session April 21, City Council meeting May 6, and others. The meeting adjourned unanimously.

The Gastonia City Council met on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The meeting included awards, proclamations, public comment, committee reports, a public hearing on an economic development incentive, and adoption of resolutions regarding state transportation projects. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Awards & Proclamations - Southwest Middle School Boys Basketball Team received a Certificate of Recognition for an undefeated season and winning the Gaston County Championship. Coach Prince thanked the council and encouraged players to aspire to greater achievements. - Proclamation: NC 811 Safe Digging Month (April 2025) – Presented by Councilman Demetri Koutsoupias to Adrian Certain, Division Manager of Electric Utilities. The proclamation noted that in 2024 the North Carolina One Call System received 2.8 million notification requests and transmitted over 15 million requests. Council accepted the proclamation unanimously. - Proclamation: Lineman Appreciation Day (April 18, 2025) – Presented by Councilman Jim Gallagher to Adrian Certain, who brought four linemen: Cody Crichton, Jonathan Jenkins, Jack Le Lungsey, and Brandon Phillips. The proclamation highlighted linemen’s year-round dangerous work and mutual aid provided to western North Carolina after storms. Council accepted unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Leonard Martin (Fourth Ward resident) spoke during Public Expression. He criticized Councilwoman Cheryl Littlejohn (absent) for not attending ward events and failing to address issues. He reported that a drug house at 918 North Cleveland Street remains open, selling fentanyl, and that a drug house at Weldon and Ransom was closed that day due to police action. He also complained about severe potholes on Ransom Street (a three‑foot‑wide hole) that damaged his car, and asked the city to either fix streets or pay for vehicle damage. He requested that Councilwoman Littlejohn be censured for using her platform to advance her business (holding a food bag distribution at her own business location). Mayor Franks noted the pothole location for follow‑up. Committee Report - Arts Committee Report (presented by Councilwoman Jennifer Stepp, chair): - The mural at Armstrong Park (near New Hope Road and Gardner Park) is nearly complete. - The visual arts show during Gaston Max was a success; budget for FY 2025‑26 was reviewed. - Action item: Change the grant cycle from calendar year (January–December) to fiscal year (July–June) to align with state statute. To avoid overlapping cycles, the next grant cycle will begin in July 2026 (not July 2027 as initially misstated) and run through June 2027. The current cycle ends December 2025, creating a one‑year gap. The committee voted 8‑0 to recommend this change. Council voted unanimously to approve the recommendation. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (9 items): 1. Setting a public hearing (May 20, 2025) for closure of a cul‑de‑sac at Reverse Curve Street. 2. Resolution to recognize retirement of Police K‑9 Rico and declare surplus to handler Corporal Alex Burns. 3. February 2025 monthly financial report. 4. Resolution to recognize $5,000 Electricities Smart Communities Grant (budget amendment). 5. Resolution to increase hotel occupancy tax revenues and distribute $400,000 to Gastonia Tourism Development Authority. 6. Resolution to recognize $2,500 NRPA How to Coach Kids Grant. 7. Resolution to recognize $14,000 from Gaston County Parks, Recreation and Tourism. 8. Resolution to recognize asset‑forfeiture funds ($103 from state, $1,321 from DOJ) and surplus sales ($11,446). 9. Resolution to award contract to Parks Auto Group for 14 Ford Police Interceptor SUVs ($593,362) for the Police Department. Discussion Items - Public Hearing – Project Peacock Economic Development Incentive: Kristy Crisp, Director of Economic Development, presented. Project Peacock is an established U.S. company expanding to the East Coast at 1245 Shannon Bradley Road (Gaston Commerce Center). They will invest $2 million, lease 70,000 sq ft, and create 25 jobs at average county wage ($52,000). The city proposes a standard Level One local incentive grant (100% of property taxes on real property and machinery/equipment for 5 years, with taxes paid upfront). Gaston County has already approved the same grant. Council asked clarifying questions about job types and fire code coordination. The public hearing was closed, and the resolution was approved unanimously. - NCDOT Project Updates (Randi Gates, Director of Transportation): Presentation on the draft 2026–2035 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), which NCDOT is accepting public comments on through April 4, 2025. Two key Gastonia projects face delays: - Project U‑5961 (Union Road Widening): From Osceola Street to Nibblick Drive, widening to four lanes with multi‑use path and sidewalk, total cost $46.3 million (including $5 million city match delivered in 2017). The draft STIP delays right‑of‑way/utilities from 2025 to 2027 and construction from 2028 to 2031. - Project U‑6138 (NC 279/US 29/74 Intersection Improvements): Addition of a right turn lane at North New Hope Road and Franklin Boulevard near Wendy’s, $2.95 million total. The draft STIP only funds preliminary engineering; no funding for right‑of‑way, utilities, or construction is programmed. Council expressed frustration over repeated delays and their impact on development decisions. Councilwoman Barber noted senior communities along Union Road with safety concerns. Councilman Gallagher argued the turn lane could be done cheaply since utilities were already moved. Council also discussed the broader need for New Hope Road widening (project not in current STIP) and asked that a future resolution address that. Councilwoman Stepp and Barber supported sending resolutions to NCDOT. Council unanimously approved two resolutions: 1) Supporting timely implementation of Union Road widening; 2) Supporting full funding and timely implementation of the right turn lane project. The city will also send a future resolution on New Hope Road widening. - Other STIP projects mentioned: Franklin Blvd eastbound lane (let June 2025, $14.4M), Franklin & Broad intersection (let Sept 2025, $14.4M), I‑274/275 intersection (construction let 2027), Gastonia signal system upgrade (28 of 145 signals complete, full completion by end of 2025). Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the Arts Committee recommendation to align the grant cycle with the fiscal year, starting next cycle July 2026. - Unanimous approval of all Consent Agenda items. - Unanimous approval of the Project Peacock economic development incentive resolution. - Unanimous approval of two resolutions regarding NCDOT projects: 1. Resolution supporting timely implementation of Project U‑5961 (Union Road widening). 2. Resolution supporting full funding and timely implementation of Project U‑6138 (right turn lane at New Hope and Franklin). - Staff directed to bring a future resolution on the widening of New Hope Road to a subsequent meeting. - Council also discussed: a request for a chart of ongoing planning projects (Councilman Koutsoupias), appreciation for free art class at Alchemy (Councilman Gallagher), a request for pre‑meeting agenda briefings (Councilwoman Stepp), and numerous upcoming community events announced.

The Gastonia City Council convened on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Gaston County Courthouse Public Forum Room. The meeting began with an invocation led by Councilman Demetrios Koutsoupias and the Pledge of Allegiance by Mayor Richard Franks. The council adopted the agenda with two additions (J2 and J3), approved minutes from previous meetings, and recognized several proclamations. Public comments addressed concerns about ward representation, affordable housing, and community needs. Committee reports recommended a PARTF grant application for Linwood Springs Park Phase II and acceptance of a donated property. The consent agenda was approved unanimously. Under regular agenda, the council approved a street closing for Briarcliff Circle, authorized a facilitated work session with Dr. Peg Carlson on April 8, 2025, and adopted an employment agreement for incoming City Attorney Eric Patrick Edgerton. Proclamations honored Keepsake Brewery (USA Today's 2025 10 Best New Breweries), the Great American Cleanup (March 20, 2025 – June 20, 2026), and April 2025 as Fair Housing Month. Presentations covered the Gaston MAX multicultural festival (March 22, 2025) and the upcoming "Get to Know Gaston" event (April 3, 2025). The council also entered closed session and later adjourned. Consent Calendar - Approved eight items including: a proclamation for Arbor Day (March 21, 2025); sole source vendor approval for Fairfield Service Company of Indiana, LLC; an amendment to the interlocal water/sewer agreement with the City of Lowell; a contract with Piedmont Truck Center for four 2025 Ford Service Body Trucks ($459,605.36); revenue recognition from a Gaston County Health mini-grant ($4,825) for park benches/trash receptacles at Linwood Springs Park; appropriation of Affordable Housing Fund balance ($105,366) for CDBG/HOME administrative deficits; recognition of additional funds from surplus sale and insurance ($296,061); and an amendment to the Public Safety IT Interlocal Agreement to include the Town of Dallas Police Department. Public Comments & Testimony - Leonard Martin: Expressed strong criticism of Mayor Franks and Councilwoman Cheryl Littlejohn, alleging misconduct and underrepresentation. He stated he believed the mayor should resign and called for censure of Councilwoman Littlejohn. He also complained about a water leak on Weldon and Mooney streets that had been ongoing for a year and a half, asserting inaction by the city. - Anna Rob High Robbie: Voiced concerns about hunger and homelessness in Gastonia, questioned the definition and implementation of affordable housing, and criticized the board for approving bonds without clear affordable housing percentages. She asked for a vote on what DEI means to Gastonia and urged the council to partner with community organizations like Bountiful Blessings and Mount Zion Restoration Church to support a Restoration Center. - Charles Odom: Refuted a prior public comment by Councilwoman Littlejohn that he interpreted as suggesting he lacked presence representing Ward 4. He defended his work as a former councilman, expressed concern that new homes priced at $175,000–$225,000 would not benefit the immediate Highland community, and called for businesses to help buy down housing prices. He stated he was not expecting an apology but wanted to protect his legacy. Discussion Items - Proclamation – Keepsake Brewery: Mayor Pro Tem Dave Kirlin presented a proclamation recognizing Keepsake Brewery (owned by Bobby and Katherine Myers) for being named one of USA Today's 2025 10 Best New Breweries in America. The brewery, opened February 2024 at 211 Columbia Street, Gastonia, donates 5% of sales from specific beers to rotating nonprofits. - Proclamation – Great American Cleanup: Councilman Demetrios Koutsoupias presented a proclamation designating March 20, 2025 – June 20, 2026 as the municipality's observance of the Great American Cleanup, led by Keep Gastonia Beautiful Administrator Juliann Lehman. The initiative aims to prepare for America's 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026. - Proclamation – Fair Housing Month: Councilwoman Cheryl Littlejohn presented a proclamation declaring April 2025 as Fair Housing Month. Danette Dye (Director of Housing and Community Engagement) and Jenny Hackett (CEO, Gaston Association of Realtors) outlined a Fair Housing Event Series on April 3, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Gastonia Conference Center, including education, networking, a panel discussion, and a free CE class. - Presentation – Gaston MAX: Christine Ingle (Event Planner) and Gavin Stewart (Public Engagement Manager) presented details for the Gaston MAX multicultural arts festival on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Rotary Pavilion. The event will feature six food trucks, 80+ vendor booths, and sponsors including CaroMont Health and WSGE (radio advertising). Marketing includes paid social media, government access channel, and iHeart Radio advertising. - Presentation – Get to Know Gaston: Gavin Stewart introduced a new family-friendly event modeled after “Gather Around Georgetown” (Texas). The event will be held April 3, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Rotary Centennial Pavilion, offering food trucks, bounce houses, live music, touch-a-truck (county and city vehicles), and $10 food vouchers for completing a passport stamped by 10 government departments. City and county HR, library, and other departments will be present. Councilman Gallagher noted police and fire departments will also participate. - Committee Report – Recreation Advisory Commission: Councilwoman Donyel Barber (Chair) reported a unanimous 7-0 vote to recommend applying for a second North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF) grant of $500,000 for Linwood Springs Park Phase II, requiring a $500,000 city match. Phase II includes additional RV campsites, RV park bathhouse, check-in/administrative offices, and nature scape amenities. The previous $500,000 grant was matched with ARPA funds. Staff indicated strong scoring on the prior application (top 15) and high likelihood of success as Phase I nears completion. - Committee Report – Facilities/Management Committee: Councilwoman Barber presented a resolution to accept a donation of real property at 2701 Aberdeen Boulevard (over 21 acres, mostly floodplain with sewer easements). The committee voted 3-0 to recommend acceptance. Discussion highlighted existing code enforcement issues, ongoing city costs for cleanup and police presence, and potential benefits: protecting sewer infrastructure, future stream restoration/stormwater control (part of Duhart Creek watershed), and possible linear park connecting to nearby S.M.A.R. community park. Council members expressed initial economic concerns but supported acceptance after learning of stormwater and utility advantages. - Regular Agenda J1 – Street Closing: Interim City Attorney Charles Graham presented a public hearing and resolution to close Briarcliff Circle, an unopened street on the east side of Dewey Street. The property is owned by a developer planning a townhome community (already rezoned and approved by the Planning Commission, not appealed). A resident (Fred Longway) expressed concerns about stormwater runoff, property values, and developer commitments. The council clarified the street closing is the only item before them, not the development. The public hearing was closed, and the resolution to close the street passed 6-1. - Regular Agenda J2 – Council Work Session: Mayor Pro Tem Dave Kirlin proposed a facilitated work session with Dr. Peg Carlson (Professor Emeritus, UNC School of Government) on April 8, 2025, to learn about effective government processes, including evaluating manager and board performance. The session aims to help council get on the same page before evaluating the city manager. Estimated cost: $3,000 (plus travel). Discussion supported including manager's perspective and team-building. The motion passed unanimously. - Regular Agenda J3 – City Attorney Employment Agreement: The council adopted the proposed employment agreement for Eric Patrick Edgerton (currently an assistant city attorney in Asheville, NC). His start date is April 21, 2025. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (8 items). - PARTF Grant Application for Linwood Springs Park Phase II: Motion to authorize application passed unanimously. The city will apply for $500,000 grant with $500,000 match. - Donation of 2701 Aberdeen Boulevard: Resolution to accept the donation passed unanimously. The property will be used for potential stormwater management, linear park, and protecting sewer easements. - Street Closing – Briarcliff Circle: Public hearing closed; resolution to close the unopened street passed 6-1 (one dissenting vote). - Facilitated Work Session: Motion to engage Dr. Peg Carlson for an April 8, 2025 work session passed unanimously. Estimated cost $3,000 plus travel. - City Attorney Employment Agreement: Adopted unanimously for Eric Patrick Edgerton, effective April 21, 2025. - Proclamations: All three proclamations accepted unanimously. - Upcoming Meetings: April 1, 2025 (Regular City Council Meeting in Chambers) and April 15, 2025 (Regular Meeting in Public Forum Room) were noted. The joint meeting with Gaston County Board of Commissioners originally set for April 1 was canceled; a meeting of chair/vice-chair and mayor/mayor pro tem is being scheduled.

The Gastonia City Council met Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Public Forum Room of the Gaston County Courthouse. The meeting was dominated by the council's response to the February 18, 2025 incident in which Mayor Richard Franks threatened to have Councilwoman Donyel Barber removed from the dais. Mayor Franks apologized, and the council unanimously approved a resolution of censure. The council also presented a proclamation, heard 19 public expression speakers, approved the consent agenda, held a public hearing on a Unified Development Ordinance amendment, and discussed whether councilmembers should provide weekly updates on meetings with developers. Proclamation: Omega Psi Phi 75th Anniversary - Councilwoman Donyel Barber presented a proclamation recognizing the 75th anniversary of the Epsilon Upsilon Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. Glenn McFadden, Basileus, accepted on behalf of the chapter. The council voted unanimously to accept the proclamation into the official record. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included: - Resolution approving issuance by the Gastonia Housing Authority of not to exceed $35,000,000 in multifamily housing revenue bonds for The Lofts at Hudson, with no fiscal impact to the city. Attorney Nancy Pascal explained the housing authority issues the bonds, the developer is responsible for repayment, and neither the city nor the housing authority is liable. The 252-unit, mixed-income project would include a percentage of affordable units; she estimated 20 to 40 percent. Councilwoman Little John questioned whether that percentage was high enough given the size of the bond, but no change was made. - Final recording plat for Cramer Estates Phase 2 Subdivision. - January 2025 Monthly Financial Report. - Resolution accepting a FEMA Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant of $351,900 for the Water Treatment Plant Resilient Power Project, including budget amendment and designation of agent. - Contract award to Blythe Construction, Inc. for $3,690,992.85 for the 2024 General Obligation Bond resurfacing program. - Resolution approving Tyler Technologies as a sole source vendor. Public Comments & Testimony Mayor Franks extended public expression from 30 to 60 minutes; 19 people signed up and each speaker was allotted three minutes. Many speakers addressed the February 18 incident. - Pastor Justin Ross Hilliard commended the apology but said more was needed, including a private meeting with Councilwoman Barber and restorative work to prevent recurrence. - Angela Drear, a lifelong resident, said the incident was embarrassing, asked for training on Robert's Rules of Order and parliamentary procedure, and stated that an apology without a change in behavior is not an apology. - A resident identified as Anna expressed concerns about homelessness, affordable housing, and cultural activities, and said Mayor Franks's lack of preparation and behavior were unacceptable; she also said apologies were owed to deputies and constituents. - Lisa Reynolds, a Gastonia resident, welcomed the apology and urged a commitment to respectful governance, saying national politics should not dictate local behavior. - Walt Malloney, a former council member and mayor pro tem, said the mayor's role is largely ceremonial and he did not have power to remove an elected official; he called the attempt to weaponize law enforcement scary and asked the mayor to mean the apology. - Deanna Graham, second vice president of the Gastonia NAACP, asked for public apology, formal censure, comprehensive training, and an apology from council members who did not call a point of order. - Sean Bates, president of the Gastonia NAACP, said the apology and censure were given but the city needed a little more heart in making things right. - Otis Davis commended Mayor Franks for taking accountability and said the moment should be used to learn and grow. - Donna Elliott asked why councilmembers had not supported Councilwoman Barber on February 18 and said censure is not enough; we need real change. - Todd Husteller called for Mayor Franks's resignation, called the apology fake, and criticized councilmembers for not intervening. - James Kellogg, a retired public school teacher, praised Barber's accessibility, asked the council to revisit the DEI program, and referenced an email from Representative Donnie Loftus about council politics. - Richard Reed, pastor and moderator of the Gaston County Missionary Baptist Association, said he represents 29 churches and about 20,000 constituents, described the video as going viral nationally, and offered clergy mediation. - Gregory Floyd, chair of the Gaston County Progressive Coalition, asked the mayor to lead with dignity and said the coalition was watching. - John Scheitler, a physician and business owner, said the behavior was unacceptable. - Todd Akers and Juan Placencia of Stratis Construction presented the Hope Enterprise Program, a proposed public-private partnership for the Fourth Ward that would include single-family homes priced between $175,000 and $225,000, financial literacy and credit repair programs, and a neighborhood market. They said the company would formally respond to the RFP for 17 city-owned sites; Placencia noted the firm is already building homes on Rankin Avenue and East Hilltop Drive. - Emily Parker, a lifelong Ward 6 resident, presented a petition with 1,236 signatures demanding a public apology and censure, criticized the council's vote to eliminate DEI, and warned that four council seats are on the ballot in 2025. Committee Report: Central City Revitalization & Housing / Community Engagement - Councilwoman Jennifer Stepp reported on the committee's February 24 meeting. The committee recommended approval of a resolution to spend $77,833 for consulting services with APD Urban Planning and Management, LLC to develop a Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area (NRSA) plan for the Marietta Street Corridor, using Community Development Block Grant and Affordable Housing Program funds. Councilwoman Stepp moved approval; the council voted unanimously. Danette Dye said the area was selected because the city already has invested in Walker Park and the corridor is a blighted, low/moderate-income census tract; the NRSA designation would allow federal dollars to be concentrated there for five years and could be replicated elsewhere. - The committee also discussed Christmas in the City, scheduled for December 7, 2025, with the parade start kept at 5:00 p.m., the Culinair conference center management contract, and the legal process for selling city-owned real property. Public Hearing – Unified Development Ordinance Amendment (File 202500040) - Senior Planner Maddy Gates presented the text amendment, continued from February 18. Part 1 would update the R2D2 revised residential development district and subdivision standards, including increasing minor modification allowances for yard encroachments from one foot or 10 percent to 20 percent; clarifying street stub connections; setting cul-de-sac length at 500 feet; expanding lot frontage flexibility; and requiring two entrances for subdivisions over 75 lots and three entrances for subdivisions over 150 lots, subject to administrator waiver. - Part 2 would align the ordinance with North Carolina Chapter 160D by replacing special exception with special use permit and changing review body references from the board of adjustment to the planning commission in specified sections, or removing obsolete special exception references. - Gates said the Planning Commission recommended approval unanimously, 7–0, and staff recommended approval. Staff confirmed that projects already submitted are grandfathered and may choose whether to use the new rules. Councilwoman Barber asked about due process; staff said appeals and variances remain available through the board of adjustment. After the city attorney noted that two motions were required, the council closed the hearing and voted unanimously to approve the ordinance amendment, then voted unanimously to adopt the statement of consistency and reasonableness. Discussion: Weekly Updates of Meetings with Developers - Councilman Gallagher asked councilmembers to share with the clerk information about upcoming meetings with developers so the full council could know about them; he invited colleagues to an upcoming meeting he planned with a developer. Councilwoman Barber, Councilwoman Stepp, and Councilman Koutsoupias opposed creating a formal log or weekly reporting requirement, citing the need to avoid the appearance of preferential treatment, the importance of directing developers to city staff, and concerns about creating burdens or gotcha politics. Councilwoman Little John said she already shares information, directs developers to staff, and works through the proper process. The discussion ended without a motion or formal action. City Manager and Attorney Reports - Interim City Attorney Charles L. Graham, Jr. had no report. - City Manager Michael Peoples provided updates on the Sims Mitigation Project, Catawba Creek Greenway, Southeast Utility Extension Project, and Highland Creek Greenway; noted the Highland Development RFP is due Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.; announced Free Trash Week March 17–21; and warned of incoming inclement weather. He asked whether the mayor could sign a letter to the U.S. delegation about potential HUD impacts; Mayor Franks said he was comfortable signing it and councilmembers appeared to agree. Council Reports, Announcements, and Adjournment - Councilmembers gave individual reports covering police department awards, retirement of former City Attorney Ash, joint planning commission work, transportation and MPO meetings, a community mentoring meeting, sanitation efforts, ABC Board financial results, the Schiele Museum paleo project, and regional legislative outreach. Mayor Franks announced upcoming meetings, including attorney interviews on March 10, a stormwater workshop on March 18, a budget work session on March 25, and a joint meeting with the Gaston County Board of Commissioners on April 1. The meeting adjourned unanimously. Key Outcomes - Agenda amended to add the resolution of censure; adopted unanimously. - Minutes of the February 18, 2025 regular meeting approved. - Mayor Richard Franks censured unanimously for conduct tending to bring the city and council into disrepute. - Proclamation for Omega Psi Phi's 75th anniversary accepted unanimously. - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - APD Urban Planning and Management NRSA agreement approved unanimously for $77,833. - Unified Development Ordinance amendment approved unanimously, with the statement of consistency approved unanimously. - No formal action on weekly developer meeting updates; discussion only. - Council placed a three-minute limit on individual council report remarks. - Next regular City Council meeting scheduled for March 18, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.