Public Meetings - Greenville, North Carolina

The Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission met on May 19, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Chair John Collins presided. The meeting included an invocation, roll call, approval of a revised agenda, approval of minutes, and a public hearing and vote on a rezoning request. One agenda item was removed due to improper advertisement. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the April 21, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - In favor of Rezoning (Item 2): Jim Walker, speaking on behalf of the developer and property owners, stated that the 14.2-acre property is surrounded by multifamily development and described the planned right-in/right-out access. He noted that water and sewer are available and that the property is currently a farm field. No public comments were made in opposition. Discussion Items - Removal of Agenda Item 3: Staff attorney Shantae Gouby informed the commission that the rezoning request by IHS Development, LLC (Item 3) was not properly advertised. She requested the item be removed from the agenda and proposed a special called meeting on June 4 or June 9, 2026, to hear the case. The commission voted unanimously to remove Item 3 and approved the revised agenda. - Rezoning Request by Sweet Living Capital, Inc. (Item 2): The commission considered a request to rezone 14.2 acres on Charles Boulevard (between Signature Drive and Bluebill Drive) from RA20 (Residential-Agricultural) to R6 (High Density Multi-family). Staff planner Shantae Gouby presented the proposal, noting that under current zoning the site could yield 40–45 single-family lots, while under R6 it could accommodate 185–200 multifamily units. Traffic analysis showed that Charles Boulevard is currently at 98.4% of its design ADT (Level of Service D), and the development would increase traffic by 833 trips, pushing the roadway to 104% of design ADT. However, traffic engineer Rick (last name not given) explained that there is a 10–12% buffer before capacity (Level of Service E) is reached, and that the main congestion issue is at the Fire Tower Road intersection, not the roadway segment. He also noted that the NC Department of Transportation has funded preliminary engineering for a boulevard widening from Fire Tower to Worthington, which would increase capacity to 39,700 ADT, but construction funding and timeline are not yet secured. Commissioner White expressed concern about traffic congestion, recounting a personal experience with an ambulance stuck in traffic. Commissioner Ruby noted that the right-in/right-out design and the future road project provide some reassurance. The commission voted to recommend approval of the rezoning, finding it consistent with the comprehensive plan, and adopted the staff report. Key Outcomes - Item 2 (Sweet Living Capital): Motion to recommend approval of the rezoning from RA20 to R6 passed unanimously (all members present voted aye). The commission adopted the staff report addressing plan consistency. - Item 3 (IHS Development): Removed from the agenda due to improper advertising. A special called meeting is anticipated on June 4 or June 9, 2026, subject to member availability. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned following the vote.

The Greenville City Council met on May 14, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included special recognitions, public comment, appointments, multiple public hearings, and budget presentations. All votes were 6-0. Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda (6-0). - Appointments to boards and commissions: Debra Goldberg (Environmental Advisory Commission), Jackson Holder and Wiley Haycock (Historic Preservation Commission), Shemeka Banks (Greenville Housing Authority), Zach Nichols (Multimodal Transportation Commission), Teena Barnes (Police Community Relations Committee), Grant Humphreys (Recreation and Parks Commission) – all approved 6-0. - Appointments to the Invest Greenville Board were continued by Mayor Connelly. Public Comments & Testimony - Angeline Mitchell spoke in support of ICE presence in Greenville, citing concerns about illegal immigration and crime. She questioned the council's discussion on the Philadelphia model. Councilmember Willis responded that the discussion was a staff presentation in response to citizen requests and clarified that the public was not excluded. (One speaker only.) Discussion Items - Oxford Ridge Phase 1 Annexation (Item 8): Councilmember Foreman raised community concerns about a shared retention pond and construction traffic through the existing Mill Creek neighborhood. She requested staff explore alternative access routes and a cost-share for the pond. The annexation was approved 6-0. - Boviet USA Rezoning (Item 9): Staff explained the rezoning from PIU to IU to reduce setbacks for a second building, with no change in use. The applicant praised staff responsiveness. Approved 6-0. - Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Text Amendment (Item 10): Staff presented housekeeping changes including security personnel requirements for alcohol establishments after 11 PM with amplified entertainment. Councilmember Scully expressed concern about small businesses with open mic nights. The council voted to approve the amendment but requested staff bring back more information on the security personnel requirement, with public outreach to business owners. Approved 6-0 with that caveat. - Budget Presentations (Items 11-12): - Pitt-Greenville Convention & Visitors Authority (CVB): Proposed FY 2026-2027 budget of $2,265,623, a 3% increase in occupancy tax revenue. CVB President Andrew Schmidt announced his retirement. Record tourism expenditures of $320 million in 2024. - Sheppard Memorial Library: Requested $1,574,404 from the city (4% increase) plus $133,333 for capital improvements as part of a 10-year plan. The library served 248,255 visitors last year. - Greenville Utilities Commission (GUC): Proposed $330 million budget. GUC General Manager Tony Cannon discussed rate increases due to rising wholesale power costs (4.5-5.5% from Duke), with a total average monthly increase of $10.19 for customers with all four utilities. The rate increase is effective July 1, 2026. GUC outlined assistance programs and rate stabilization. - Pitt-Greenville Airport Authority: Proposed budget with $0 local match for capital projects. Vice Chair Michael Overton discussed efforts to recruit additional airlines and improve customer service. New Executive Director Brandon Kraft introduced. Key Outcomes - All seven public hearings were approved unanimously (6-0): Annexations for Hungate's Commercial Park, Davenport Farms Phase 1, Tucker Farms Rentals, Helen Adams Division, Oxford Ridge Phase 1; Rezoning for Boviet USA Property; and UDO text amendment (with directive to revisit security personnel). - All appointments to boards and commissions were approved 6-0. - The Invest Greenville Board appointments were continued. - The council received budget presentations; no votes were taken on the budgets at this meeting. - Councilmember Willis commented on ICE, emphasizing the need for policies that respect all residents while maintaining public safety. Additional Notes - Special recognition given to Billy Leavy, retiree from Public Works with 29 years and 9 months of service. - Council offered condolences to Assistant City Manager Danae Alexander for the loss of her mother. - Councilmember Robinson highlighted National Police Week and the swearing-in of Officer Jason Campbell's daughter as a Greenville police officer.

The Greenville City Council held a workshop on May 11, 2026, to discuss two major topics: a comprehensive overhaul of the city's code enforcement division to address substandard housing conditions, and an update on short-term rental regulations, including occupancy tax collection and potential regulatory options given recent legal constraints. Mayor Pro Tem Foreman presided in Mayor Conley's absence. Code Enforcement Update - Overview and Cultural Shift: City Manager Michael introduced the presentation, noting that after discovering poor living conditions in multifamily developments in October 2025, the city initiated an overhaul of the code enforcement department, moving from a complaint-driven approach to proactive enforcement. He emphasized that this is a long-term process requiring procedural and cultural changes. - Presentation by Director Tiana Behrman: Behrman outlined the division's structure (8 full-time, 1 part-time officers; 2 vacancies; 2 new hires) and its alignment under Community Development Services since January 1, 2026. Cases primarily involve trash/debris and overgrown vegetation, while minimum housing cases are fewer but more complex. - Legal Framework and Action Plan: The presentation covered statutory authority, the distinction between "deteriorated" and "dilapidated" properties, and the enforcement process. The proposed action plan focuses on three areas: proactive enforcement (including proactive inspections and interdepartmental coordination), outreach and engagement (community sessions targeting renters, landlords, and property owners, especially in West Greenville, multifamily developments, and university areas), and stronger case management (using new software Intergov for tracking). - Council Discussion: Councilmembers expressed strong support for the new direction. Councilmember Hardy noted that 70 homes in West Greenville need repair and emphasized addressing substandard conditions where people live. Councilmember Scully praised the move from complaint-based to proactive enforcement, highlighting that many residents are afraid to report violations due to fear of retaliation. Councilmember Willis stressed the need for council to back staff and maintain consistent enforcement. The city manager committed to providing monthly updates on case status to council. City Staff Update Regarding Short-Term Rentals - Presentation by Assistant City Attorney Tim Birch: Birch provided an overview of short-term rental (STR) regulation and occupancy tax. The city has identified 272 STR units (252 within city limits, 20 in ETJ), up from 172 in 2022. Most are on Airbnb (215) and VRBO (51 on both). The city is prohibited from requiring registration due to the 2022 Schroeder v. Wilmington court decision and N.C. Gen. Stat. § 160D-1207, which also restricts special fees, targeted inspections, and permitting. - Tax Collection: Occupancy tax is 6%, with 4% going to the city and 2% to the Greenville-Pitt Convention & Visitors Authority. Online platforms (Airbnb, VRBO) are responsible for collecting and remitting the tax, but they submit lump sums without property-level detail, making verification difficult. County tax records are confidential. - Regulatory Options and Constraints: Under current law, the city can use zoning authority to regulate parking (if crafted to avoid de facto registration), noise, occupancy limits, and large gatherings. However, the 2024 downzoning statute (G.S. 160D-601) may prohibit changes that reduce permitted uses or create non-conforming uses. Senate Bill 587, if passed, could restore some regulatory authority. - Council Discussion: Councilmember Robinson suggested exploring state sales tax registration lists to identify STRs, but Birch noted limitations due to confidentiality. Councilmember Foreman proposed a roundtable with local developers to encourage restrictive covenants in new neighborhoods. Councilmember Hardy stressed acting on available regulatory tools (e.g., occupancy limits, noise, multifamily restrictions) rather than waiting for state legislation, citing ongoing quality-of-life complaints from constituents. Key Outcomes - Code Enforcement: Staff will provide monthly case update reports to council to track progress. The division will continue implementing proactive enforcement, outreach, and technology improvements. - Short-Term Rentals: Staff will further investigate which regulatory changes (e.g., parking, noise, occupancy limits) can be implemented under current law without violating downzoning or de facto registration prohibitions, and will report back to council. A possible roundtable with developers will be explored. - The meeting was adjourned following a motion by Councilmember Robinson, seconded by Councilmember Willis.

The Greenville City Council met on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Council Chambers. Mayor Pro Tem Tonya Foreman presided with Mayor P.J. Connelly absent. All six present council members (Foreman, Robinson, Hardee, Jones, Willis, Scully) voted unanimously on all consent items and routine actions. The meeting featured a presentation of the Fiscal Year 2026‑2027 proposed budget, a legal analysis of Philadelphia ICE policies and their applicability in North Carolina, and recognitions of staff and graduates. Consent Calendar - Items 2–11 (approval of minutes; amendment of the 2026 meeting schedule; adoption of Code Supplement 2026‑S17; amendment of Personnel Policies; amendment of the 2010 Interlocal Tax Collection Agreement with Pitt County; dedication of right‑of‑way and easements for Mann Farm, Lot 2; agreement with Carolina Coastal Railway to replace a railroad crossing on Arlington Boulevard; declaring two Ford sedans as surplus for Pitt Community College BLET program; purchase of maintenance equipment for North Recreational Complex; and contract with SOVRA/International Database Corp. for a procurement and contract management system) were approved 6‑0. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Blackburn (River Hills neighborhood) expressed concern over the removal of heritage Leyland cypress trees at the Mann Farm development site, urging the city to use incentives to preserve existing trees. She also advocated for accelerated installation of bus shelters, noting people waiting in sun and rain without adequate cover. She stated she supports paying taxes for such projects. - Sangita Tawari (Vice President, Downeast Community Tennis Association) thanked the council for proclaiming May as National Tennis Month, highlighted the health benefits of tennis (e.g., players live nearly 10 years longer), and announced that Greenville will host the USTA North Carolina State Championships for players 65+ from May 14–17, 2026, with 69 teams competing. Discussion Items Presentation of the FY 2026‑2027 Proposed Budget Chief Financial Officer Jacob Joyner presented the proposed city operating budget of $195 million, with the general fund at $124 million. Key proposals: - Property tax rate maintained at 39.54 cents per $100 valuation (lowest among Pitt County and second‑lowest among benchmark peers). - Revenues: $5.1 million increase from property tax growth ($1.2M), sales tax increase ($4.2M), rescue transport fees ($0.57M), and departmental fees ($0.2M), offset by a $1M decrease in investment income. - Expenditures: 64% of the general funds core services (police, fire, parks, etc.); 63% spent on personnel. Highlights include: - 12 new fire‑rescue positions ($750,000). - Merit increases (1% average) and market adjustments (2.25% average) plus 401k contribution increase from 4% to 5%. - Class and compensation study implementation aiming to pay 5% above minimum salary bands. - $600,000 increase for fleet operations (fuel and parts). - $300,000 for EMS medical supplies (formerly provided by ECU Health). - $500,000 for ADA/sidewalk improvements (up $100,000). - $450,000 for CDBG and housing programs, plus $300,000 for the Affordable Housing Strategic Plan (up $100,000). - $250,000 to Pitt‑Greenville Airport Authority (new funding). - $100,000 for Pitt County Arts Council and greenway art. - $1 million in transit funding (increase from $750,000). - Debt: $20 million issuance in July for Town Common bulkhead and sports complex (complex debt paid from occupancy taxes). - Other funds: Sanitation fund includes year‑2 of a 3‑year rate increase (base rate to $20.25/month); stormwater fee stays at $9.35 per ERU. Council members expressed support, noting the budget invests in employees, infrastructure, and quality of life while keeping the tax rate flat. Several highlighted the importance of smart growth to expand the tax base. Budget Ordinance 10 (Amendment to FY 2025‑2026) Joyner presented a mid‑year budget amendment to the general fund and special revenue grant fund: - $440,000 for surplus revenue and departmental adjustments. - $199,000 for Arlington Boulevard railroad crossing repair. - $27,700 for the 2025 Edward Byrne JAG grant. - $100,000 for small business assistance grants. The amendment increased the overall operating budget to $205.7 million. Approved 6‑0. Presentation on Philadelphia ICE Policies and NC Legal Analysis Assistant City Attorney Scott Dixon reviewed Philadelphia’s recently enacted ICE Out legislative package (adopted January 2026, signed by mayor except a mask ban ruled unconstitutional), including barring ICE from city property and limiting cooperation. He contrasted Pennsylvania’s home‑rule structure with North Carolina’s Dillon’s Rule and cited NC General Statute §168‑205.2, which prohibits cities from adopting policies that limit enforcement of federal immigration laws. He concluded that Greenville cannot mirror Philadelphia’s model because state law preempts such local actions. Council members discussed the legal constraints, the role of county vs. city responsibilities, and the importance of educating the public to reduce fear. No vote was taken; the presentation was informational. Key Outcomes - Vote on Consent Agenda and Budget Ordinance 10: All votes were unanimous (6‑0). - Next Steps: The FY 2026‑2027 proposed budget will be presented in more detail by GUC, Shepherd Memorial Library, CVB, and Airport on May 14, 2026. A public hearing and adoption are scheduled for June 9, 2026. - Directives: City Manager Michael was asked to provide updates on bus shelter installation and the removal of dividers at bus stops, and to explore speed hump policies for neighborhoods. The council also noted ongoing work on code enforcement and short‑term rental regulation. Special Recognitions - UNC School of Government Municipal Administration Course Graduates: Don Octigan and Deputy Chief KZ Thomas were recognized for completing a 160‑hour, 7‑month course. Council commended their commitment to professional development. - Interns for 2026 Summer: Five interns (Lauren Twine, Malia Pearson, Ben James, Mia Palmer, Hansford Curran) were introduced and will work on projects including community engagement, fire services planning, annexation policy, and transit merger analysis.

The Greenville Board of Adjustment met on April 23, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The board unanimously approved two special use permits: one for a major repair facility (collision and paint shop) at 3830 S. Memorial Drive, and one for Uptown Brewing Company to add mixed beverage service at its existing microbrewery at 418 Evans Street. Both decisions followed public hearings, staff recommendations, and quasi-judicial procedures. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Approved unanimously by voice vote. - Approval of Minutes from March 26, 2026: Approved unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Case 1 – Goess Holdings, LLC (Major Repair Facility): No members of the public spoke for or against the application. The only witness was the applicant’s representative, Michael Overton (Overty Group), who described a high-quality branded body repair shop. - Case 2 – Wrenbev, Inc. d/b/a Uptown Brewing Company (Microbrewery Mixed Beverage Permit): No public speakers appeared. The applicant’s representative, Drew Chester (General Manager), stated the business would add a limited number of house cocktails while keeping craft beer as its core focus, and that this change aligns with industry trends. Discussion Items Public Hearing: Special Use Permit – Goess Holdings, LLC (Major Repair Facility) - Staff Report: Planning staff (Mr. Jones) presented that the site at 3830 S. Memorial Drive is zoned Heavy Commercial, about 1.5 acres with 185 feet of frontage. The proposed use (collision repair and auto painting) qualifies as a major repair facility under Section 9-4-313. Surrounding properties (vacant, hotel, auto dealership) are also Heavy Commercial; the future land use map designates the area as Commercial, so the use is compatible. Staff recommended approval with conditions: site plan, stormwater/erosion control approval prior to building permit; vehicles under repair must be screened from adjoining properties and street; and the property must not become a junkyard. All state building and fire codes must be met. - Applicant Testimony: Michael Overton presented the proposal for a “Toyota-branded body repair shop,” emphasizing quality and compatibility with the area. - Board Discussion: No questions or discussion from board members. Board member noted he works for Gravel Toyota, owned by Goess, but stated no conflict; the attorney confirmed he could participate. - Findings and Vote: The board read the expediency criteria (conditions & specifications, comprehensive plan, health & safety, detriment to public welfare, existing use detrimental, injury to properties/nuisance/hazard) and approved the findings of fact and the petition with staff conditions by unanimous voice vote. Public Hearing: Special Use Permit – Wrenbev, Inc. d/b/a Uptown Brewing Company (Microbrewery Mixed Beverage Permit) - Background: City Council previously adopted a text amendment allowing microbreweries to serve mixed beverages. Existing microbreweries must obtain a special use permit to offer mixed beverages. This application follows the same process as Pitt Street Brewing’s January permit. - Staff Report: Mr. Jones explained that Uptown Brewing is located at 418 Evans Street (Downtown Commercial zoning, Uptown Core on the future land use map). The property is across from the Hilton Garden Hotel; adjacent uses include D’s Top Shop and the State Theater. Notice was posted and mailed on April 8; publication in the Daily Reflector on April 11 and 18. Staff noted the annual alcohol review process will continue under the board’s purview. Staff recommended approval upon proper findings. - Applicant Testimony: Drew Chester confirmed the business seeks to add mixed beverage service (liquor) to its existing menu of craft beer, wine, cider, and seltzer. He stated the core focus remains craft beer and that only a few simple cocktails would be offered. - Board Discussion: No board questions or discussion. - Findings and Vote: The board read the same expediency criteria and approved findings of fact and the petition with staff conditions by unanimous voice vote. Key Outcomes - Goess Holdings, LLC – Special Use Permit Approved (unanimous): The board found that the requested major repair facility can meet all development standards. The applicant must satisfy staff conditions (screening, site plan, code compliance) before operation. - Wrenbev, Inc. (Uptown Brewing Company) – Special Use Permit Approved (unanimous): The board approved the permit allowing mixed beverage service at the existing microbrewery. The permit remains subject to annual review per the city’s alcohol establishment oversight process. - Both applicants were instructed to obtain the signed permit documents from the city before proceeding.

The City of Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission met on April 21, 2026 at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Chair John Collins presided. The meeting included approval of the agenda and minutes from March 17, 2026, followed by three public hearings and commission actions on a rezoning request, a preliminary plat, and a comprehensive text amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the agenda as presented. - The minutes from the March 17, 2026 meeting were approved without correction. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during any of the three public hearings. Discussion Items Rezoning – Boviet USA Property, LLC Staff presented a request to rezone 34.45 acres at the northeastern corner of Martin Luther King Jr. Highway and Sugg Parkway from Planned Unoffensive Industry (PIU) to Unoffensive Industry (IU). Staff stated no change in use intensity is anticipated and the property is already built out; the rezoning is needed to allow lot reconfiguration for an additional building. Applicant’s attorney Tom Terrell spoke in favor, noting the current zoning’s arbitrary setbacks and praising staff responsiveness. No opposition was heard. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval, finding the request consistent with the comprehensive plan. Preliminary Plat – Colony Farms Staff presented a request for a 90‑lot single‑family subdivision on 40.05 acres southeast of Mills Road and Manor Court (Pitt County parcel 85696). The Subdivision Group Board had already recommended approval. Applicant’s representative Richie Brown spoke in favor. No opposition. The commission unanimously approved the preliminary plat. Text Amendment – Unified Development Ordinance Updates Staff presented a package of changes to the UDO, including: - Renaming the department to Community and Development Services and “Neighborhood Meeting” to “Community Engagement Meeting”. - Adding/amending definitions for Alcohol Beverage Control, Event center, Microbrewery, and Microdistillery. - Reorganizing the Table of Uses and Table of Permitted Vegetation. - Reducing parking requirements for indoor recreation (e.g., skating rinks) from 1 space per 200 sq ft plus waiting spaces to 1 space per 400 sq ft plus employee spaces; similarly adjusting golf course/miniature golf parking. - Deleting “Event center; mixed beverage permit” from certain districts, treating such event centers as bars for zoning purposes. - Clarifying security personnel requirements for alcohol establishments with amplified entertainment after 11 PM (now 2 personnel for 1‑200 capacity). - Updating standards for shelters for homeless or abused persons (cleanup). - Allowing a fee‑in‑lieu of sidewalk construction for certain highway‑adjacent properties, with funds used for city sidewalk projects. A board member asked about the rationale behind parking changes and event center classification. Another member inquired about standards for homeless shelters (cleanup). The City Attorney noted that THC‑infused beverages are not currently addressed in the UDO and the city is awaiting state and federal guidance. No public comment was offered. The commission unanimously approved the text amendment. Key Outcomes - Rezoning (Boviet USA): Motion to recommend approval carried unanimously. - Preliminary Plat (Colony Farms): Motion to approve carried unanimously. - Text Amendment (UDO): Motion to recommend approval carried unanimously. - The meeting adjourned following the vote.

This special meeting of the Greenville City Council was called to consider a resolution supporting a proposed amendment to Chapter 571 of the 1967 North Carolina Session Laws, which created the Pitt County-City of Greenville Airport Authority. The meeting began at approximately 7:00 p.m. on April 20, 2026, in City Hall Council Chambers, following a Joint City Council–GUC meeting. Mayor PJ Conley presided. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public registered to speak or came forward during the 30-minute public comment period. Discussion Items - City Manager Michael Overton presented the resolution, explaining that the current session law puts the Pitt-Greenville Airport at a competitive disadvantage. The proposed amendment, to be submitted by Representative Tim Reeder during the upcoming North Carolina General Assembly short session, would allow the airport authority to find alternative revenue sources to attract aviation development and personal/business aircraft, generating tax dollars, hangar rentals, and fuel sales. - Overton noted that the amendment also includes a new requirement: any proposed purchase of property by the airport using city, county, state, local, or federal dollars would require a public hearing before a vote by both the city council and the Pitt County Board of Commissioners. - Councilmember Jones expressed appreciation for Overton's extensive work on the project. Key Outcomes - A motion to approve the resolution was made and seconded. The motion passed (no roll call vote recorded, but all seven council members were present and no opposition expressed). The resolution supports the proposed amendment to Chapter 571 to enhance the airport's financial position and competitiveness.

The Greenville City Council and Greenville Utilities Commission (GUC) Board held a joint meeting on April 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor P.J. Connelly called the City Council to order and Chair Garner called the GUC Board to order. Both bodies confirmed quorums and unanimously approved the agenda. No public comments were made. The meeting focused on three main agenda items: a classification and compensation study, a market adjustment/merit allocation program for FY 2026-2027, and a review of the 401(k) employer contribution. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the September 22, 2025 Joint City Council–GUC Board meeting was listed on the agenda but was not discussed or voted on during the meeting. No speaker addressed this item in the transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public registered to speak or provided comment. The 30-minute public comment period concluded with no speakers. Discussion Items - Classification & Compensation Study Presentation – Erin Edwards of Siegel, the consulting firm, presented the results of a comprehensive study. Key findings: 599 job description questionnaires were completed covering 407 unique job titles; 140 benchmark positions were surveyed across 25 public-sector and utility peers. The overall market competitiveness of the joint pay plan was 98% of the market midpoint. Of employees in benchmarked roles, 42% fell within the competitive range (95%–105% of market), 27% were below, and 18% above. The study recommended updating salary structures to meet market at 100% of midpoint, with wider range widths (59%) and progressive midpoint differentials. For police, an average 14% increase in range minimums was proposed to address recruitment; for fire/rescue, a 5.5% increase. Implementation Option 1B (bringing all employees below minimum to 5% above the new minimum) was recommended, with total estimated costs of $575,000 for City general employees, $293,215 for GUC general employees, $151,176 for fire, and $243,559 for police. GUC Chair noted the pay plan’s 15-year progression as a success. - Market Adjustment/Merit Allocation for FY 2026-2027 – City HR Director Leah Futrell presented. Based on salary surveys (five of seven responded, average 4.0% projected increase) and local private employer data (3.7% current average, 4.0% projected), a 3.25% pay adjustment was requested due to budget constraints. Councilmember Hardy asked about the minimum salary: currently $35,485 annually ($17.06/hour), proposed to rise slightly to $35,600 ($17.12/hour). After six months, employees receive a 5% increase. Councilmember Willis expressed a heavy heart over not being able to give a larger raise, citing tough budget decisions. Councilmember Hardy noted that the minimum wage remains insufficient for housing and food security. Both bodies approved the 3.25% adjustment. - Review of 401(k) Employer Contribution – GUC HR Director Richie Shrees provided an informational update. In 2024, a phased increase was approved: from $40/pay period to 3% in FY2024-25, 4% in FY2025-26, and 5% effective January 2027. The increase aligned GUC with sworn law enforcement (5% by statute) and improved recruitment/retention. No vote was required. Key Outcomes - Vote – Classification Study Recommendation (Option 1B): City Council passed unanimously (6-0) on motion by Councilmember Robinson, second by Councilmember Scully. GUC Board passed unanimously (6-0) on motion by Commissioner Godley, second by Commissioner Fuller. The approved implementation directs staff to implement the new salary structures and bring employees below minimum to 5% above the new minimum. - Vote – Market Adjustment/Merit Allocation (3.25% for FY2026-2027): City Council passed unanimously (6-0) on motion by Councilmember Willis, second by Mayor Pro Tem Foreman. GUC Board passed unanimously (6-0) on motion by Commissioner Swain, second by Dr. Carr. - 401(k) Contribution: The planned increase to 5% employer contribution effective January 2027 was acknowledged; no further action taken. - Discrepancy Note: Agenda Item 1 (Approval of Minutes from September 22, 2025) was not addressed in the meeting transcript; no motion, discussion, or vote occurred on that item.

The Greenville City Council met on April 9, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included special recognitions, extended public comments on immigration enforcement, several zoning and annexation public hearings, and approval of multiple funding agreements and policy items. All votes were unanimous (6-0) unless noted. Consent Calendar - Items 3–12 approved, with Item 4 (2025-2026 State Legislative Agenda) pulled for separate discussion. The agenda listed eight city priorities (e.g., affordable housing, infrastructure, economic development) and four top legislative goals (NC DOT funding, affordable housing funding, airport funding, and funding for Fire Station 8 renovations). Approved unanimously. - Items approved include: adoption of boards/commissions policy; acceptance of right-of-way for Parkside Bluffs; grant compliance policies; GUC gas fund ordinance; $45M bond resolution; lease agreements for Roses parking lot and office space; contract amendment for Arts District Streetscape; and tax refunds over $100. Public Comments & Testimony - Jennifer Self, Patty Crew, Rev. Ann Harrington, Kyla McLean, Hunter Reynolds, Kayla Burroughs, Rod Debs, Mike Clendon, Laurie Clendon, Carlos Alfonso, and Melissa Gray all urged the council to adopt policies modeled after Philadelphia’s to limit cooperation with ICE, citing concerns about unlawful detentions, due process, and public safety. Specific requests included banning masked/ unmarked ICE vehicles, requiring judicial warrants, and prohibiting city data sharing. - Nancy Pittman alleged wrongful termination from the transit center after reporting sexual harassment; Marvin McCussin (contractor) echoed the complaint and called for a broader investigation. - Adrian Times requested a feasibility study for a 12-story high-rise complex in northern Greenville to accommodate industrial workers. - Jesse Little and Christopher Godley complained about disruptive tenants in rental properties and asked for stronger enforcement against substandard housing. Discussion Items - Appointments: Tiana Berryman (primary) and Brian Jones (alternate) appointed to the Mid-East Commission. - Public Hearing – Park Ridge Trace Annexation (Item 13): 6.7719 acres, 72 multifamily units, estimated $16.2M tax value. Approved. - Public Hearing – Douglas Gomes Annexation (Item 14): 1.048 acres, 2,000 sq ft office, $500K tax value. Approved. - Public Hearing – Covengton Group Annexation (Item 15): 0.645 acres, 1,000 sq ft fast food (Dutch Bros), $1M tax value. Councilmember Scully praised side-street access to reduce traffic on Fire Tower Road. Approved. - Public Hearing – Hickory Street Closure (Item 16): Portion of street dedicated to United Methodist Retirement Homes for Cypress Glen expansion. Approved. - Public Hearing – 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan (Item 17): CDBG allocation of $824,510 (down $33K) and HOME allocation of $491,000 (up $15K) for housing rehabilitation, down payment assistance, and rental development. Staff noted a 15% cap on public services. Approved. - Public Hearing – Trust Agreement up to $22M (Item 18): For bulkhead replacement at Town Commons and Phase 1 of sports complex (rectangle fields). Approved. - Public Hearing – JAG Grant (Item 19): $27,760 from Edward Byrne Memorial JAG for less-lethal equipment for police. Approved. - HOME Investment Partnership Fund (Item 20): $20.2M for Farrington Trace Phase 2 (84 units; mixed 1/2/3BR; rents $525–$1,100; 30-year deed restriction at 60% AMI). Developer Taft Mills Group noted traffic concerns on Fire Tower Road but said DOT improvements are years away. Councilmember Foreman raised sidewalk connectivity issues. Approved. - MOU with NC Coastal Land Trust (Item 21): 65 acres along River Wall Drive for outdoor recreation; no current fiscal impact. Approved. - Mutual Aid Agreement with New Bern (Item 22): Interagency fire/rescue agreement for urban search and rescue (USAR) team. Team has 68 personnel, 7 units, can deploy up to 14 days. Approved. - Keep America Beautiful Grant (Item 23): $15,000 for native tree planting and community gardens on 25 acres in MLK corridor; projected to save $170/acre/year in mowing costs. Approved. - Audit Contract (Item 24): Third year of five-year contract with Cherry Bekaert LLP for $130,000 (increase of $1,000). Approved. - Budget Ordinance 9 (Item 25): Amended General Fund (+$40K for elections), Donations Fund (+$10K), Opioid Settlement Fund (+$114K for final distribution to Pitt County Health Dept), and Special Revenue Grants Fund (+$94K for USAR team). Approved. - Special Called Meeting (Item 26): Scheduled for April 20, 2026 at 7:00 PM to consider a resolution supporting a legislative amendment to the Pitt-Greenville Airport Authority charter. Approved. Key Outcomes - All motions passed 6-0. - Councilmember Willis requested a workshop on the Philadelphia ICE model; Councilmember Foreman seconded. - Councilmembers Willis and Foreman requested a workshop on regulating short-term rentals (VRBO/Airbnb) to address neighborhood quality-of-life concerns. - Councilmember Hardy noted proactive code enforcement reforms to address substandard housing. - The meeting adjourned into closed session to discuss personnel and legal matters.