Public Meetings - Greenville, North Carolina

The Greenville City Council met on August 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included special recognitions, public comments, appointments, and several public hearings on rezoning, annexation, a grant amendment, and funding for affordable housing. Council members also discussed noise enforcement, traffic safety, and housing affordability. Votes were taken on all items, with most passing overwhelmingly. Special Recognitions - The Public Information Office received two 2025 NC3C Excellence in Communications Awards: first place for the "Greenville Eats" video program and second place for the 250th anniversary campaign. - Chief Brock Davenport was honored for his retirement after 26 years with Greenville Fire Rescue. Under his leadership, the department grew from 120 personnel and 4 stations answering under 9,000 calls annually to 171 personnel, 7 stations, and over 21,000 calls in 2024. The department achieved accreditation in 2019 and 2024, and its ISO rating improved from Class 3 to Class 2 in 2019 and to Class 1 in 2025—placing Greenville Fire Rescue among less than 1% of fire departments. Public Comments & Testimony - Luther Davis (Cypress Glen resident) expressed concern about loud vehicle mufflers and requested better enforcement of the noise ordinance. - Wayne Meads (Cypress Glen resident) echoed the noise complaint, noting that the ordinance is not enforced and that ignoring it worsens the problem. He also commended the council for addressing speeding. - Kathleen Tootle (Cypress Glen resident) described the noise as a health hazard and suggested solutions used elsewhere, such as public awareness campaigns (e.g., "Be Proud, Not Loud" signs) and decibel meters to target enforcement. She left materials with the clerk. - Lori Stallings (Executive Director, Cypress Glen) stated that Cypress Glen houses about 320 residents (soon 400) and employs 250 staff. She asked the council to enforce the noise ordinance to help residents enjoy peace and quiet. - David Edwards (Golden Road resident) presented photos and video of repeated flooding. He said a hydraulic study identified an undersized drain pipe over a decade ago, but the city and DOT dispute responsibility. He expressed frustration that stormwater fees have not been used to fix the problem and urged the council to take action. The mayor and council members expressed sympathy and commitment to finding a solution. Appointments - Council unanimously approved the following appointments (all votes 6-0): - Environmental Advisory Commission: Darone Dancy - Multimodal Transportation Commission: Virginia Ramsey - Planning and Zoning Commission: Thomas Remington - Appointments to the Historic Preservation Commission, Housing Authority (resident commissioner seat), Recreation and Parks Commission, and Youth Council were continued to future meetings. Public Hearings & New Business Item 4: Rezoning of 23.888 acres at Dickinson Avenue Extension and Allen Road (RA20 to R6) - City Planner Chris Kelly presented: The property is near the Speedway, currently zoned RA20 (could yield 60-70 single-family lots). Proposed R6 (high-density multifamily) could yield 330-340 units. Traffic impact: current zoning generates 660 trips/day; proposed generates 2,292 trips/day (net +1,632). Allen Road widening (two to four lanes) is set to begin fall 2025, estimated 18-24 months completion. The Property is in the Greensmill Run watershed. Staff recommended approval, and the Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval on July 15, 2025. - Applicant representative (Amanda) described two neighborhood meetings (May 19 and May 29) with low attendance and no opposition. Developer Marcus Wheathour (Hillpointe, LLC) stated the project will include 288 two-bedroom, two-bath units (1,100 sq ft) and 48 three-bedroom townhouses. Rents estimated at $1,525 for two-bedroom and $1,800 for three-bedroom—$200-$100 less than comparable market. Construction timeline: 18 months, with full lease-up in 26 months, after road widening. The developer emphasized quality and security features. - Councilmember Foreman shared feedback from neighbors in Cobblestone, Brookhollow, Teakwood, and Allen Ridge. While supportive of development, they preferred duplexes or single-family homes (consistent with existing housing) and expressed concerns about two-bedroom units attracting young renters and construction timing with road widening. - Council discussion: Councilmember Blackburn noted the road will be done before the development is built out (3-5 years). The city attorney reminded that rezoning to a general use district (R6) allows all uses permitted in that district, not just the applicant's specific plan. - Vote: Motion to approve by Councilmember Robinson, second by Councilmember Willis. Passed 5-1, with Councilmember Foreman dissenting. Item 5: Annexation of the same 23.888-acre Hillpointe property - Chris Kelly presented: The property is in the preferred growth area, in Council District 2. Estimated tax value of development: $55,275,000. If annexation is denied, the city can still provide sewer under the charter. - Public hearing: No speakers; applicant deferred to previous presentation. - Vote: Motion to approve by Councilmember Robinson, second by Mayor Pro Tem Daniels. Passed 5-1, with Councilmember Foreman dissenting. Item 6: Resolution Authorizing Amendment to Partnership Development Grant Agreement with NC Biotechnology Center for Project Lucky - Assistant City Attorney Scott Dixon explained: The city previously entered an agreement with NC Biotech and Patheon/Thermo Fisher for job training. The amendment extends the grant end date from September 14, 2025, to December 31, 2027, and reallocates funds for updated training (including virtual reality). No change in dollar amount. The city administers the grant as a pass-through. Dixon confirmed Thermo Fisher has created over 100 jobs above the required amount. - Public hearing: No speakers. - Vote: Motion to approve by Councilmember Willis, second by Councilmember Blackburn. Passed 6-0. Item 7: 2025 HOME Investment Partnership Fund Commitment for Multi-Family Rental Housing Development (Turnberry Trace) - Neighborhood & Business Services Director Tiana Berriman presented: The city uses HOME funds to support affordable rental development. Two prior commitments (Park Ridge Trace and Lindbeth Place) are pending state awards. A call for developers in July yielded one response from Taft Mills for Turnberry Trace, a 72-unit senior (55+) affordable housing project. Staff recommends an additional $285,000 subsidy to close the gap, on top of the $715,000 approved in April. - Dustin (Taft Mills) noted construction has begun. Total development cost: $17 million. Rents range from $550 to $990. The project is age-restricted (55+), similar to the successful Farrington Trace Senior, which leased up in three months. The developer is local and committed to the community. - Council discussion: Councilmember Blackburn praised the quality of Taft Mills' developments. Councilmember Robinson highlighted the local developer's track record. Councilmember Foreman noted the project addresses affordability for essential workers. The mayor noted that the senior designation is appropriate. - Vote: Motion to approve by Mayor Pro Tem Daniels, second by Councilmember Blackburn. Passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Rezoning (Hillpointe): Approved 5-1 (Councilmember Foreman dissenting). - Annexation (Hillpointe): Approved 5-1 (Councilmember Foreman dissenting). - Grant Amendment (Project Lucky): Approved 6-0. - HOME Funds (Turnberry Trace): Approved 6-0. - Appointments: Three appointments approved unanimously; several continued. - Council comments on noise enforcement: Councilmember Blackburn proposed a public information campaign with clear signs, stricter enforcement, and possible inclusion of muffler checks in vehicle inspections. Mayor noted the police chief is working with the DA's office. Councilmember Robinson suggested increasing fines for noise violations. The police chief was available in the foyer to discuss efforts. - Upcoming meeting: Mayor Pro Tem Daniels announced a DOT-led town hall on the Allen Road widening on August 18, 2025, from 6:00-7:30 PM at Lake Forest School.

The Greenville City Council met on August 11, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor P.J. Connolly presided, with Councilmember Fortin Daniels absent. All other six members were present. The meeting included a public hearing, approval of several consent agenda items after discussion, and adoption of a budget amendment. Councilmembers also addressed recent community violence, honored staff for the Little League Softball World Series, and expressed condolences. Consent Calendar - Item 1 – Resolution Amending Personnel Policies: Pulled by Councilmember Willis for discussion. Changes include a new wellness equipment purchase program, alignment of computer and wellness purchase programs, and clarification of leave policy language (changing "can" to "shall" for vacation-to-sick leave transfers after two years). Approved 5-0. - Item 3 – Utility Easement for NCDOT: Pulled by Councilmember Blackburn. A small easement (4 feet into Homestead Memorial Gardens Cemetery) for a utility pole guy wire anchor, not impacting any graves. Approved 5-0. - Item 9 – Creation of Special Projects Charitable Gift Fund: Pulled by Councilmember Blackburn. Expands the existing Wildwood Park Charitable Gift Fund to accept donations for various city projects (parks, affordable housing, etc.). Councilmember Willis recused himself (board member of Community Foundation of NC East). Approved 5-0. - Remaining consent items (Items 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11) approved 5-0 as a block. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public registered to speak during the Public Comment Period or the Public Hearing. Discussion Items - Item 12 – 2025-2026 Annual Action Plan Public Hearing: Director Tiana Berriman presented the plan, which is year three of the five-year consolidated plan. Total CDBG funding: $850,000; HOME funds: $500,000. Priorities include new construction, rental development, owner-occupied rehab, down payment assistance, infrastructure, and demolition. Councilmembers commended staff for "doing more with less" and emphasized the need for homeownership opportunities. Approved 5-0. - Item 13 – Ordinance to Allow Alcohol at Sheppard Memorial Library: Assistant City Attorney Donald Phillips explained the ordinance permits malt beverages and unfortified wine at designated events approved by the Library Board of Trustees. Councilmember Blackburn expressed surprise it wasn't already allowed. Approved 5-0. - Item 14 – Ordinance Amending Fire & Rescue Fees: CFO Jacob Joyner presented removal of the $50,000 annual cap on extra-territorial fire protection fees for the industrial service park, due to the fire department achieving Tier 1 insurance status and increased costs. Approved 5-0. - Item 15 – Contract Award for Joint City/GUC Classification & Compensation Study: HR Director Leah Utterell presented. Siegel Consulting (with prior city experience) was selected from 14 proposals for a fixed fee up to $355,000 (split 50/50 with GUC). The study will run August 2025–January 2026, with employee questionnaires and focus groups. Councilmembers highlighted the need to address public safety and public works compensation. Approved 5-0. - Item 16 – Budget Ordinance Amendment 1: CFO Jacob Joyner outlined multiple fund adjustments including $350,000 for street lights/cameras, $3.1M for pavement management, $450,000 for affordable housing, and $1.7M for CDBG/HOME grants. Total operating budget adjusted to $187.9 million. Approved 5-0. Councilmember Comments - Councilmember Foreman highlighted recent gun violence (four shootings, three deaths in one week) and urged addressing root causes like housing and food insecurity. - Councilmember Blackburn named victims: Emiliano Gutierrez Bovial (13), Kiaray Cunningham (17), and Kellen Dwayne Williams (42). Noted 13 killings this year, five victims under 20, and called for community-wide positive response. - Councilmember Willis announced expanded mental health access at the city health clinic (now two providers), congratulated the Little League Softball World Series and the Police Athletic League summer camp. - Councilmember Scully offered condolences to Mayor Pro Tem Daniels (loss of her sister Nora Parker), thanked staff for the softball series, and urged support for downtown businesses on Dickinson Avenue. - Councilmember Robinson praised youth programs (Jackie Robinson Baseball League, Boys & Girls Club), thanked volunteers for the softball series, and reminded the community to be patient with returning ECU students. He also attended Nora Parker's celebration of life. - Mayor Connolly thanked ECU for hosting softball teams in dorms, praised Little League International, and encouraged mentorship to reduce youth violence. Key Outcomes - Consent items (1,3,9) individually approved 5-0; remaining consent items approved 5-0. - 2025-2026 Annual Action Plan approved 5-0. - Ordinance allowing alcohol at Sheppard Memorial Library approved 5-0. - Ordinance removing $50,000 cap on fire protection fees approved 5-0. - Contract with Siegel Consulting for classification/compensation study approved 5-0. - Budget Ordinance Amendment 1 approved 5-0. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 7:09 PM by unanimous vote.

The Greenville City Council met for a workshop on August 11, 2025, at 4:00 PM in City Hall Conference Room 337. The meeting was called to order and roll call was taken, followed by approval of the agenda. The sole new business item was a discussion regarding potential changes to the Bar 2022 Use and Standards. No minutes or relevant transcript were provided; the raw transcription supplied appears to be an unrelated promotional script for the "Emerald Minute" segment about local events, not the actual workshop proceedings. As a result, no details on the discussion or any decisions are available. Agenda - Call to Order - Roll Call - Approval of Agenda - New Business: Discussion Regarding Potential Changes to the Bar 2022 Use and Standards - Adjournment Note on Source Material - The meeting date (August 11, 2025) comes from the agenda. The minutes are missing. The raw transcription does not match the agenda topic and appears to be a mislabeled or erroneous file; it describes a community event promotion rather than the council workshop. Therefore, no substantive content from the discussion can be summarized.

The Greenville Board of Adjustment met on July 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting covered approval of prior minutes, a public hearing for a special use permit, and election of officers. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion by Mr. McNair, seconded by Mr. Jordan, passed unanimously. - Approval of Minutes (June 26, 2025): Motion by Mr. McNair, seconded by Mr. Southworth, passed unanimously. Public Hearing: Special Use Permit for Gary Lee - Applicant Gary Lee spoke in favor of the request to operate a mental health, emotional, or physical day program at 1512 N Greene Street (tax parcel 06543). He stated he is a licensed clinical addiction specialist and his wife holds a doctorate in trauma therapy; they have operated Spirit and Truth Worship Center at the location for five to six years and seek to expand services. - No one spoke in opposition to the request. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation (Bryan Jones, Lead Planner): The property is zoned CDF (Downtown Commercial Fringe), 0.3 acre with 50 feet frontage on N Greene Street and N Pitt Street, and houses an existing 10,927-square-foot commercial building. Surrounding uses include tire shops, vacant land, and Perdue AgriBusiness. The use complies with the Horizon 2026 Future Land Use Plan. Notice was mailed to adjoining property owners on July 9, 2025, and published in the Daily Reflector on July 12 and July 19, 2025. - Staff Recommended Conditions: Facility must comply with all state/federal licensing, health certifications, background checks, and NC DHHS requirements; clients may not wait or be outside unsupervised; behavior rules (no aggressive actions, littering, fighting, yelling, loitering); compliance with city code, state licensing, building, and fire codes. - Board Discussion: No further discussion occurred after the public hearing was closed. Key Outcomes - Finding of Facts: Motion by Mr. McNair, seconded by Ms. Bass, to approve the Finding of Facts as presented by staff. Passed unanimously. - Petition Approval: Motion by Mr. McNair, seconded by Ms. Bass, to approve the petition with staff’s recommended conditions. Passed unanimously. - Election of Chair: Ryan Purtle was nominated by Nicholas White and elected unanimously as Chair. - Election of Vice Chair: Carol Bass was nominated by Jermaine McNair and elected unanimously as Vice Chair. - Adjournment: Motion by Mr. McNair, seconded by Mr. White, passed unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 6:23 PM.

The Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission met on July 15, 2025 at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Chair Alan Brock presided. The meeting included a rezoning request, approval of two preliminary plats, and election of officers. Traffic impacts and attainable housing were central themes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (March 18, 2025): Approved with a correction: "Brad Collins" changed to "Bradford." Motion passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Rezoning Request – Hillpointe, LLC: Staff presented a request to rezone 23.889 acres at Dickinson Avenue Extension and Allen Road from RA20 (Residential-Agricultural) to R6 (High Density Multi-Family). Traffic analysis showed current zoning could generate 660 daily trips; proposed zoning could generate 2,292 trips (+1,632). Dickinson Avenue currently at 63% capacity; Allen Road at 93%. The property could accommodate 330–340 multifamily units. The applicant (Molly Stewart, Morning Star Law Group) highlighted two neighborhood meetings and described the proposal as market-rate attainable housing for essential workers. Marcus Weedauer of Hillpointe stated the company builds to own and hold, offering rents $200/month below comparable units, and noted partnerships with local law enforcement. Commission members expressed support for affordable housing but concerns about traffic on Dickinson Avenue. The commission voted to recommend approval as consistent with the comprehensive plan. (Motion passed unanimously.) - Preliminary Plat – Oxford Park, Section 4: A request by Inner Banks Engineering for a 25-lot, 34.32-acre plat at the terminus of Taylors Creek Drive. Staff noted the plat had been previously approved (2011, minor alteration 2017) and was now being re-submitted for vesting. No opposition. The commission approved the plat. (Motion passed unanimously.) - Preliminary Plat – Regency Downs Cluster Subdivision: A request by Ark Consulting Group for 262 single-family lots on 75.44 acres near Blazer Drive, Sedona Drive, Regency Boulevard, and the Seaboard Coastline Railroad. Staff noted the property is mostly zoned R8-20 with an office parcel for access. The applicant clarified that the new street bisecting the office parcel will function as a right-in/right-out due to an existing median on Regency Boulevard. No opposition. The commission approved the plat. (Motion passed unanimously.) Key Outcomes - Rezoning Approved (Recommendation): The commission voted to recommend approval of the Hillpointe rezoning, citing compliance with the future land use map. The request will proceed to City Council for final action. - Preliminary Plats Approved: Both Oxford Park Section 4 and Regency Downs Cluster Subdivision were approved unanimously. These approvals allow the developers to move to the next stage of review. - Election of Officers: Chair Alan Brock and Commissioner Billy Parker aged out of service and were recognized with plaques. The commission elected John Collins as Chair and Zach Reagan as Vice Chair (both by voice vote). Zach Reagan was not present but was nominated and elected; the commission indicated his acceptance will be confirmed at the next meeting. - Meeting Adjourned at approximately 7:15 PM. (Motion passed unanimously.)

The Greenville Board of Adjustment met on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Assistant City Attorney Donald Phillips due to the absence of the elected chair and vice chair. A special election was held to select a chair pro tem and vice chair pro tem for the evening. The board then heard and unanimously approved five special use permit applications and one variance request. No members of the public spoke in support or opposition during any of the public hearings. Call to Order and Election of Officers - Board member Jermaine McNair was nominated and elected Chair Pro Tem by a voice vote (all in favor). - Board member Nicholas White was nominated and elected Vice Chair Pro Tem by a voice vote (all in favor). - Roll call showed all members present: Ryan Purdle, Carol Bass, Jermaine McNair, Sterling Ruffin (arrived later), Nicholas White, McKenzie Burns, Clayton Steele, Jeremy Jordan, John Southward, David Newman, and R. Curry (authorized to participate but not vote). Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes from April 24, 2025, by unanimous voice vote. - The board approved the agenda as presented by unanimous voice vote. Public Hearings – Special Use Permits and Variance 1. Special Use Permit – Sharif Hatoum (Bar 2022) - Location: 515 Cotanche Street (downtown commercial district). - Proposal: A bar/entertainment establishment (Bar 2022) under 2,000 square feet (actual 737 sq ft), with seating for about 30 people, no standing room. - Applicant testimony: Travis Hickson stated the space was renovated from an old barbershop, will serve craft cocktails, and is intended as an adult-friendly venue. The garage door may open for ventilation but no spillover occupancy. - Staff recommendation: Approval with conditions (comply with all city and state codes, ABC laws). - Board action: Unanimous approval (all ayes) on findings of fact and on the petition with staff conditions. 2. Special Use Permit – Precious Moments Learning Center (Child Daycare) - Location: Northeast corner of SW Greenville Blvd and Williams Rd (0 Williams Rd). - Proposal: New child daycare facility to consolidate three existing lease spaces. 4.49-acre lot, general commercial zoning. - Applicant testimony: Christian Porter represented owner Tamisha Pope. Construction timeline estimated at 12–13 months. The center has been operating for over 11 years. - Staff recommendation: Approval with conditions (comply with city codes, state licensing, site plan review). - Board action: Unanimous approval on findings of fact and petition with staff conditions. 3. Special Use Permit – FH-HOF, LLC (Mini-Storage and Car Wash) - Location: 1050 Waterford Commons Drive (3.07 acres, general commercial). - Proposal: Dual development: Full House mini-storage (indoor only) and Hall of Fame car wash. Three-story storage building approximately 35–40 feet tall. Car wash permitted by right; only the storage requires a special use permit. - Applicant testimony: Clint Cogburn (attorney) and Sherry Chaffin (developer) described the low-traffic nature of the uses, internal stacking, security fencing, and compliance with the comprehensive plan. They noted one similar project in Wilson. - Staff recommendation: Approval with conditions (stormwater management, site plan, no exterior storage, building codes). - Board action: Unanimous approval on findings of fact and petition with staff conditions. 4. Special Use Permit – Alvaro Lopez (Mobile Home) - Location: 3140 Maye Lane (RA20 residential district). - Proposal: Place a mobile home on a vacant lot. The lot is outside the floodplain and includes septic system with primary and repair areas. - Applicant testimony: Alvaro Lopez stated the home is for his own use. Staff noted he improved the May Lane access with crush and run. - Staff recommendation: Approval with conditions (comply with building codes, inspection before occupancy). - Board action: Unanimous approval on findings of fact and petition with staff conditions. 5. Variance Request – Addison Hill (Duplex at 1401 Broad Street) - Location: 1401 Broad Street (R6 residential single-family zoning). - Request: Variance from Section 9-4-94(F)(3) – 25-foot public street setback (Wade Street) and Section 9-4-94(F)(4) – 8-foot side setback, to allow a two-family attached dwelling (duplex) that was partially constructed in good faith based on an approved building permit. - Background: The existing structure (built 1915) was already non-conforming. A building permit for interior remodel inadvertently allowed a new foundation that extended 8 feet beyond the original footprint. Work was halted when the encroachment was discovered. Without the variance, the new addition would need to be removed. - Applicant testimony: Addison Hill, project manager, stated the hardship was not self-created—they relied on the approved permit. The property was vacant and the project aims to rejuvenate the area. - Staff recommendation: Approval, noting the applicant acted in good faith and the variance meets ordinance criteria. - Board action: The board voted separately on each of the four statutory variance criteria, all by unanimous voice votes (6–0). The final motion to approve the variance with staff conditions passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All five special use permits and the variance were approved unanimously by the board. - Each approval is contingent on compliance with city and state development standards, site plan review (where applicable), and issuance of the written decision by staff. - The variance approval requires a four-fifths vote (six of seven) on each criterion, which was achieved. - Next steps: The Secretary of the Board will prepare written decisions and notify the applicants. Appeals may be filed with Pitt County Superior Court within 30 days of the decision. The meeting adjourned at approximately [time not provided] after a motion by board member.

The Greenville City Council met on June 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor P.J. Conley presided. The meeting included special recognitions, a public comment period, appointments to boards and commissions, public hearings on annexation and a demolition repeal, adoption of the FY 2025-26 budget, a resolution for cemetery relocation, and a closed session. All votes were unanimous (6-0) except where noted. Special Recognitions - Daryl Norris (Engineering Department): Recognized for stopping to help two men trapped in an overturned truck on April 2, 2025. He removed the windshield and guided them away from leaking gas before an EMS crew arrived. Mayor Conley praised his heroism. - Host City Planning Committee for 2025 N.C. League of Municipalities CityVision Conference: Recognized for planning and executing a highly successful conference that showcased Greenville. Committee members were named and thanked. Public Comments & Testimony - Kells Kelly (resident, U.S. Navy veteran): Spoke about the oversized flag at Camping Worlds that is allegedly in violation of local ordinance. He argued the flag is a meaningful symbol for veterans and shared a personal story about a fallen friend. He asked the council to reconsider the citation, emphasizing the flag’s emotional significance. Appointments - Board of Adjustment: Jeremy Jordan reappointed. - Greenville Utilities Commission: David Southworth reappointed; David Newman appointed; Simon Swain appointed; Dr. Robert Shaw appointed. - Environmental Advisory Commission: Craig Becker appointed. - Pitt-Greenville Convention and Visitors Authority: Brett Morgan and Diane Taylor reappointed. - Several other appointments were continued to a future meeting. Public Hearings - Item 4 – Annexation of Savannah Place, Section 5: Ordinance to annex 6.523 acres at the current termini of Camille Drive. Presentation by Chief Planner Shante Kuba. The property will yield approximately 17 single-family lots with an estimated tax value of $6.3 million. No public speakers for or against; council moved to approve, seconded, and passed unanimously. - Item 5 – Repeal of Demolition Ordinance for 1112 Dickinson Avenue (Higgs House): Ordinance to repeal Ordinance 24-005, which ordered demolition. Andrew Moorhead (Historic Preservation Commission chair) and Maggie Craig (Preservation North Carolina) spoke in favor of repeal, citing the property’s historic significance, new protective covenants, and a rehabilitation agreement. No opposition; council voted unanimously to repeal. Discussion Items - Pirate Fest and Rum Cake Demonstration: Margot Clark (special events coordinator) briefly discussed the upcoming Pirate Fest and conducted a rum cake demonstration as a lighthearted interlude. No formal action was taken. - FY 2025-26 Budget Adoption: The combined budget totals $504.5 million ($185 million city operating, $314 million Greenville Utilities Commission, $2 million CVB, $2.9 million library). Councilmember Foreman highlighted that the GUC rate increase is largely due to Duke Energy coal ash costs and that GUC is absorbing about 75% of the increase, passing on only 25%. The budget was approved unanimously. - Resolution Authorizing Relocation of Randolph Cemetery: Director of Public Works Kevin Mulligan presented a request from Renaissance Lifestyle to relocate 77 abandoned graves from Randolph Cemetery to Queen Anne Cemetery in Fountain, NC. The process follows NC State Code. Rezoning had already been completed. Council voted unanimously to approve. - City Manager’s Report: Request to cancel the June 23, 2025 City Council meeting. Motion approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All appointments, annexation ordinance, demolition repeal, budget adoption, cemetery relocation resolution, and cancellation of June 23 meeting passed by votes of 6-0. - Councilmember Foreman requested that the city manager prepare a five-year lookback at GUC rate changes. - Councilmember Blackburn offered remarks for Pride Month, listing notable LGBTQ figures. - Multiple councilmembers wished a Happy Father’s Day and highlighted upcoming Juneteenth events. - Councilmember Robinson announced that GUC General Manager Tony Cannon received the Alex Radin Distinguished Service Award from the American Public Power Association. - The council unanimously approved a motion to hold a closed session to discuss real property negotiations.

The Greenville City Council met on June 9, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers, 200 West 5th Street. The meeting included special recognitions, a public hearing on the proposed FY2025-26 budget and economic development appropriations, approval of contracts and agreements, and council member comments. Consent Calendar - Items 2–11: Approved as a single block, with the following details: - Items 2–10 were initially approved 6–0 then re-voted 6–0 to correct a recording error. - Item 11 (Various Tax Refunds Greater Than $100) was approved 5–0 after Councilmember Robinson recused himself due to a conflict of interest. - Items included: Resolutions accepting dedications of rights-of-way and easements for Arbor Hills South, Section 2, Phase 12 & 13 and Winslow West; lease agreement for Hazard Mitigation Grant Program properties; ordinance and reimbursement resolution amending Greenville Utilities Commission's FY2024-2025 budget and various capital project budgets; recommendation for purchase of real property near Dickinson Avenue Extension and Frog Level Road for a new elevated water tank; contract with The Ferguson Group for FY2025-2026; contract with Cummins for emergency generator monitoring and service; construction contract award for Solid Waste Office Renovations; request to purchase new equipment for Engineering Department's Traffic Services Division and Fire/Rescue EMS. Public Hearings & Public Comments - Public Hearing on the Proposed FY2025-26 City of Greenville Budget (including the Manual of Fees, and Sheppard Memorial Library, Pitt-Greenville Convention & Visitors Authority, and Greenville Utilities Commission budgets) and Concurrent Hearing on Appropriation of Economic Development Funds for the Greenville ENC Alliance: - Presentation: Chief Financial Officer Jacob Joyner presented the $504.5 million total overall budget (city operating budget $185.3 million; general fund $118.8 million). The proposed property tax rate remains stable at $39.54 per $100 valuation. Sales tax is projected at $30.5 million (conservative estimate). Public safety accounts for $58 million of the general fund. Personnel costs rose by $6 million, including a 4% average wage increase, a 1% increase in the 401k match (from 3% to 4%), eight new police officer positions, six new fire/EMS positions, $200,000 for affordable housing, and an additional $200,000 for ADA and sidewalk funding. Sanitation rates will increase to $19.25 per month from $16 (including $1.25 for cart replacement). Budget adoption is scheduled for June 12, 2025. - Council Questions: Councilmember Foreman expressed concern about the impact of utility rate increases on lower socioeconomic communities and asked about assistance programs. A GUC representative described the IHEP federal program (administered by Pitt County DSS), the Neighbor to Neighbor program (local matching), and GUC's $150,000 annual contribution to the city's community development block grant program. Potential federal cuts to IHEP were noted as a concern. - Public Comment: Tim Langley of 1009 West Wright Road, Greenville, spoke against the proposed construction/improvements at the Town Common, citing flood risks (Hurricane Floyd, 1999) and questioning the wisdom of building in a flood-prone area. He also expressed broad concern about budget increases affecting low-income residents. Mayor clarified the project involves amphitheater improvements, not a new civic center. No other speakers came forward. Discussion Items - Item 13: Fiscal Year 2025-26 Contract for Services with the Pitt County Arts Council at Emerge: - Holly Garriott, Executive Director, highlighted the economic impact of the arts (average $33 spent per attendee beyond tickets), the 20th Youth Arts Festival (10,000 attendees), the Greenville International Festival, public art projects (mural at West Fifth Street Police Substation, trolley shelter at Town Common, roundabout mural at Albemarle/Elizabeth/West 5th, Downey Sculpture Exhibition), Downtown Art Walk (800 riders over eight First Fridays), and the Emerald Loop lighting plan (City Hall, Bright Speed Tower, Pitt County Courthouse illuminated). Upcoming projects include a modular mural at Carver Library, a traffic control box wrap competition, intersection murals, and new sculptures along Dickinson-to-10th Street walkway. Council discussed improving the timeline for the sculpture competition to attract more artists. Councilmember Blackburn made a motion to approve, seconded by Councilmember Scully. Approved 6–0. - Item 14: Memorandum of Understanding with Pitt Community College for Development of Affordable Housing: - John McPhyrman, Neighborhood and Business Services Director, presented a pilot project to construct three affordable single-family homes (each 1,300 sq. ft., energy efficient) using Pitt Community College trade students and instructors. Homes will be built on PCC campus, then relocated to city-owned lots at Davis and West 6th Street in West Greenville. Total cost $450,000, with $200,000 from the city, $75,000 from Greenville Utilities (pending board approval), $75,000 from Pitt Community College, $25,000 from ECU Health, and $75,000 from private investment. Construction will follow the school year calendar, with completion and buyer contracts expected by July 2026. Dr. Maria Farr, PCC President, spoke about the impact on students. Councilmember Forman suggested a live build cam and QR-code signage for public viewing. Councilmember Forman motioned to approve, seconded by Councilmember Scully. Approved 6–0. - Item 15: Consideration of Additional One-Stop Voting Sites: - City Clerk Valerie Should presented the municipal agreement with Pitt County Board of Elections: the city is guaranteed two early voting sites (AG Center and Community Schools Building) open October 16–November 1 at a base cost of $120,000. The council could request additional sites, each costing $115,000, to be open only during the last week (October 27–November 1). Councilmember Blackburn noted consistency with past practice (two additional sites in 2017, 2019, 2023) and moved to add two additional sites. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Daniels. Approved 6–0. - Item 16: Budget Ordinance Amendment 11 Amending the FY2024-25 Budget: - The amendment recognized revenues for a fishing access pier at Wildwood (general fund +$87,000; recreation capital +$7,500), closed a completed grant (special revenue -$15,500), allocated support for the Convention & Visitors Bureau (occupancy tax fund +$300,000), reduced costs for a pipe replacement project (ARPA fund -$1,500), recognized program revenue for CWG programs (housing fund +$330,000), reallocated funds from Station 7 project to vehicle replacement fund for a new ambulance (fire rescue capital project fund unchanged; vehicle replacement fund +$401,000), and funded the affordable housing project with Pitt Community College (affordable housing fund +$450,000). Total city operating budget after amendment is just over $200 million. Councilmember Blackburn motioned to approve, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Daniels. Approved 6–0. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda items 2–11 (items 2–10 by 6–0; item 11 by 5–0 with recusal). - Approved FY2025-26 contract with Pitt County Arts Council at Emerge (6–0). - Approved Memorandum of Understanding with Pitt Community College for a three-home affordable housing pilot in West Greenville (6–0). - Approved two additional one-stop early voting sites for the November 2025 election (6–0). - Approved Budget Ordinance Amendment 11 (6–0). - Council recognized the 2024-2025 Chamber of Commerce Leadership Institute graduates (Jessica Carter and Lieutenant William Stokes) and welcomed four summer interns to the city manager’s office. - Council comments included: congratulations to new Police Chief Tyndall and Deputy Chief Thomas; Father’s Day wishes; Pride Month remarks (Councilmembers Scully and Blackburn highlighted the importance of celebrating diversity and acknowledging ongoing anti-LGBTQ incidents); concerns from Councilmember Foreman about utility rate increases affecting low-income residents; and appreciation for ECU baseball and Coach Godwin.

The Greenville City Council held a workshop on June 9, 2025, to discuss two major topics: the city's ordinances regulating alcohol establishments and the analysis of the relationship between the city and the Greenville Utilities Commission (GUC). The meeting included a staff presentation on the history and current status of alcohol regulations, followed by council deliberation on potential changes. The second item featured a presentation by Assistant City Attorney Scott Dixon on the GUC charter, which led to council discussion on transparency, accountability, and collaboration. Discussion Item 1: Alcohol Establishment Ordinances - Staff presented a comprehensive overview of the history of alcohol regulations in Greenville, including the 500-foot rule (bar-to-bar and bar-to-residential separation), the Bar 2022 use (limited to downtown, max 2,000 sq ft), and current definitions of bars, microbreweries, micro-distilleries, and wine/beer stores. The presentation noted that 31 alcohol establishments exist citywide, with 14 bars downtown. - Council members expressed divergent views: - Some members advocated maintaining the current standards, citing the 500-foot rule's success in reducing violence and fostering a diverse downtown (e.g., boutiques, restaurants, ice cream shops). They questioned the need for more bars and emphasized public safety concerns. - Other members argued that the rules hinder economic development, prevent adult-oriented entertainment options (non-college), and restrict existing businesses like breweries (AGI, Pitt Street Breweries) from expanding their offerings (e.g., adding liquor) due to the 2,000 sq ft cap and 500-foot rule. - Councilmember Shanté (identified by colleagues) and others noted that the Bar 2022 use has proven safe and successful, but the 2,000 sq ft footprint is too small (e.g., The Scullery is 2,600 sq ft). They suggested increasing the footprint or measuring service area instead of total building. - Several council members supported expanding the Bar 2022 use citywide, not just downtown, to ensure equitable development across all city areas. - Staff summarized the decision points: (1) eliminate the 500-foot rule downtown or citywide; (2) modify Bar 2022 standards (e.g., increase size, allow citywide); (3) maintain status quo. Council consensus was to not remove the 500-foot rule, but to evaluate Bar 2022 for potential changes. Discussion Item 2: GUC/City Relationship Analysis - Assistant City Attorney Scott Dixon presented the history and legal framework of the GUC charter (last revised 1991), outlining the roles: GUC Board has full operational control (management, rates, personnel); City Council appoints board members, hears rate appeals (up/down vote), approves sewer extensions outside ETJ, and approves the GUC budget (up/down vote). Joint responsibilities include annual meetings, joint audits, and mutual pay plans. - Councilmember Willis expressed disappointment that a prior request for a strategic plan on transparency during a joint meeting was met with opposition, noting the charter limits the council's ability to direct GUC but emphasizing the need for collaborative communication. - Councilmember Foreman and others criticized the tone of GUC's response as condescending and disrespectful, and highlighted that GUC meetings are held during the day, limiting public participation. They stressed that citizen trust is essential and that GUC's actions and meeting times should be more accessible. - Councilmember (liaison to GUC) defended GUC's transparency, citing the comprehensive website, open-door policy, award history, and complaint mechanisms. He stated that the allegations of lack of transparency were baseless and that he had received no direct complaints from citizens or council members before the joint meeting. - Councilmember (with experience on GUC board) also noted that no citizen complaints had been filed through official channels, and that the two speakers at the meeting had not followed up. He argued that the claim of insufficient transparency is an attack on GUC staff and the city manager, who sits on the GUC board. - Councilmember Willis responded that the issue is not about baseless allegations but about a loss of trust, which requires consistent, approachable communication. She noted that meeting times matter and that average citizens may not feel comfortable contacting officials directly. - No formal action was taken on this item; the presentation was informational, and council members agreed to continue fostering collaborative communication. Key Outcomes - Alcohol Ordinances: Council directed staff to evaluate the Bar 2022 use and bring back recommendations for modifications, including a potential increase in the square footage limit and expanding the use citywide. The 500-foot rule will remain in place for now. The staff will present a revised proposal at a future meeting. - GUC Relationship: No vote or formal directive was issued. The council acknowledged the need for improved communication and trust-building between the city, GUC, and the public. The city manager will facilitate continued dialogue with GUC management on transparency and accessibility issues.