OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Gastonia City Council Meeting: August 4, 2026 - Farmers Market Week, Project Metro Incentive, USPS Parking

City Council & Commissions — Tuesday, August 4, 2026
BodyGastonia, North Carolina
SessionCity Council & Commissions
DateTuesday, August 4, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 55:47

Transcript — Verbatim
0:00

Gastonia, and on behalf of the City Council itself, I'd like to welcome you to the August 4th, 2026 meeting.

0:07

I will now call the meeting to order.

0:09

Councilman Kasupius, would you lead us in prayer?

0:13

Yes, sir.

0:14

Good evening, everyone.

0:16

At this time, I'd like to request, if you feel so inclined to please bow your head and join me in prayer.

0:22

Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for this beautiful summer day and for the many blessings you have given our community.

0:29

We are grateful for the opportunity to gather in service to others.

0:32

As we meet today, grant us wisdom, humility, and compassion in every decision we make.

0:37

We ask for your protection over our children as they enjoy these final weeks of summer and prepare to return to school.

0:43

Bless our students, teachers, school staff, and families with safety, strength, and a successful school year.

0:49

We thank you for all who serve our community, bless this council, our city staff, and all in attendance today with wisdom and good health.

0:58

May we lift up in prayer those among us who are in need, those facing difficult times, and those carrying heavy burdens.

1:06

May we continue to pray for one another, support one another and be a source of comfort, strength, and hope in every circumstance.

1:15

As we recognize National Farmers Market Week, we give thanks for our farmers and local vendors, continue to bless their work and provide an abundant harvest that nourishes our community.

1:25

Lord, guide our discussions and decisions tonight, help us to listen with open hearts, treat one another with respect, and always seek what is just and best for all.

1:35

May your peace and grace rest upon our community as we continue to grow stronger together.

1:40

We ask all of this in your holy name.

1:42

Amen.

1:59

To the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all.

2:13

Can I have a motion to excuse Councilwoman Stipp?

2:17

Self mood, have a motion, can I have a second?

2:20

Second.

2:20

Have a second by Councilwoman Barber.

2:22

All those in favor?

2:24

Unanimous.

2:27

Each of you should have your agenda in front of you.

2:30

Are there any corrections, additions, deletions to the agenda as presented?

2:35

Having none, can I have a motion to accept?

2:37

So moved.

2:38

Have a motion and I have a second.

2:40

Second.

2:40

I have a second by Councilwoman Barbara.

2:42

All those in favor.

2:44

Next up, approval of the minutes.

2:46

We just have one set tonight.

2:48

That is from our regular City Council meeting on July 24, 2026.

2:53

Can I have a motion to approve?

2:55

So moved.

2:56

Have a motion.

2:56

Can I have a second?

2:58

Have a second by Councilman Silverman.

3:00

All those in favor?

3:01

It's unanimous.

3:07

Next up, we're going to have a proclamation recognizing the week of August the 2nd through the 8th, 2026, as National Farmers Market Week.

3:18

Emily Thomason, is that close enough?

3:22

That's right.

3:26

She's the manager of our farmers market here in the city of Gasconia, and Councilwoman Barber is going to present it to her.

3:37

Good evening, Council.

3:40

It is my pleasure to present this proclamation to members of our staff and board for our farmers market here in the city of Gastonia.

3:54

And I would encourage if you have not had an opportunity to visit our farmers' market.

4:00

And I'm sure one of them will share some more information about our farmers market after the presentation.

4:07

The proclamation reads, whereas the City of Gastonia has proudly partnered with the Gastonia Farmers Market Association since the 1970s to provide a vibrant community gathering place where residents have access to fresh, locally grown produce, locally made products, and agricultural goods.

4:26

And whereas the Gastonia Farmers Market supports local farmers, growers, artisans, and small businesses by creating direct market opportunities that strengthen family farms, encourage entrepreneurship, and keep food dollars circulating within the local economy.

4:45

And whereas farmer markets provide consumers with affordable options in their communities and foster relationships between consumers and farmers, enhancing transparency and trust in our food system.

5:00

And whereas the Gastonia Farmers Market serves as a community destination that celebrates agriculture, supports environmental stewardship, and brings together neighbors through the educational programs, seasonal events, and partnerships that enhance the quality of life in Gastonia.

5:18

And whereas National Farmers Market Week recognizes the important role farmers markets play in strengthening the local food systems, supporting economic development, and encouraging communities to invest in local agriculture and small businesses.

5:34

Now, therefore, I, Richard Franks, Mayor and the City of Council of the City of Gastonia do hereby proclaim the week of August 2nd through the 8th, 2026 as our municipalities observance of National Farmers Market Week in the City of Gastonia and encourage all residents to visit the Gastonian Farmers Market throughout the season to support our local farmers, growers, artisans, and small businesses while enjoying the many fresh products and community experiences our marker has market has to offer.

6:06

In witness thereof, I have herein to set my hand and cause the official seal of the city of Gastonia to be a fixed this the fourth day of August in the year of our Lord 2026, signed by our mayor Richard Franks, attested by our city clerk, Suzanne J.

6:23

Gibbs.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Procedural██████████████████████22%
Economic Development███████████████15%
Transportation Safety████████████12%
Community Engagement███████████11%
Farmers Market████████8%
Public Engagement██████6%
Arts And Culture██████6%
Youth Programs██████6%
Workforce Development█████5%
Summary of Proceedings

Gastonia City Council Meeting - August 4, 2026

The Gastonia City Council met on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included a proclamation for National Farmers Market Week, presentations from summer interns, public comments, approval of arts committee funding, an economic development incentive for Project Metro, and a directive to finalize a parking lease with the USPS. The council also went into closed session to discuss legal matters and previous closed session minutes.

Consent Calendar

  • Approval of Minutes: The council approved the minutes from the July 21, 2026 regular meeting (note: the transcript references July 24, 2026, while the agenda lists July 21). The vote was unanimous.
  • Consent Agenda Items I.1–I.4: Approved unanimously, including a proclamation for Mr. Thane Robert Kendall's retirement, recognition of funds from transit bus surplus sales, a contract with Williams Electric Company, and adoption of a Mayor/Council Travel Policy.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Steve Scott: Expressed frustration with the Section 8 Housing Authority, citing poor communication and unavailability on Fridays. He requested assistance in reaching the agency. The mayor stated the director of Gaston Housing Authority would contact him within two days.
  • Sean Bates (President, Gastonia NAACP Branch 5394B): Questioned the city's use of a $400,000 grant for a new restaurant, asking whether similar grants were offered for grocery stores in food deserts. He urged the council to address inequities and work collaboratively to enhance all communities.

Proclamation & Presentations

  • National Farmers Market Week Proclamation: Presented by Councilwoman Donyel Barber to Ms. Emily Thomasson, Gastonia Farmers Market Manager. The week of August 2–8, 2026 was proclaimed as National Farmers Market Week. Becca Hurd from Keep Gastonia Beautiful invited residents to the market (Tuesdays, Thursdays produce only; Saturdays full market). The proclamation was entered into the official record unanimously.
  • Summer Intern Presentations: Four interns (Hasia Allen, Megan Carroll, Owen Sloan, Nicole Tran) presented their projects. Highlights included a standard operating procedure for public records requests, educational brochures for water treatment, online marketing for Linwood Park, a downtown story map with Keep Gastonia Beautiful, low-to-moderate income maps, city budget trend analysis, an economic impact study for a conference center, parking enforcement app comparisons, AI policy drafting, and landlord-tenant rights flyers. The council thanked them.

Discussion Items

  • Arts Committee Report (Councilwoman Jennifer Stepp absent, report by Councilwoman Donyel Barber): The committee recommended approval of Fiscal Year 2026-27 arts funding: $50,000 for grants, up to $20,000 for community engagement events, and $30,000 for public art; also $11,000 for the Max Dowdle Mural (on Crisis Assistance Ministry building), and up to $2,500 for Fall Festival, $1,000 for Christmas in the City, $5,000 for Gaston MAX, $7,500 for the Performing Art Show, and $4,000 for the Visual Art Show. Councilman Silverman asked about the mural location and content; the artist is developing a plan. The second part of the funding comes from the $20,000 community engagement allocation. Approved unanimously.
  • Project Metro Economic Development Incentive (Public Hearing): Presenter Kristy Crisp described a Level One investment grant for an existing Gaston County industry relocating to a facility on South 321. The company is investing $4.3 million and creating 15 jobs. The grant is a five-year declining incentive (90% in year 1 down to 50% in year 5) and is contingent on the company annexing into the city. The company has been in business over 15 years and is purchasing the building. The grant applies only if annexation occurs. The public hearing was closed, and the council unanimously approved offering the grant pending annexation agreement.
  • USPS Parking Lease (Item J.2): City Manager Michael Peoples requested direction to finalize a two-year lease with the U.S. Postal Service for 28 existing city-owned parking spaces in downtown Gastonia at $10,000 per year. The spaces would be used by USPS employees temporarily relocated from Charlotte. There were concerns about signage and towing; the USPS currently does not plan to sign the spaces, but if they do, signage must comply with the city's towing ordinance. The $10,000 figure was negotiated up from a lower offer. The council unanimously directed staff to finalize the agreement.
  • Citizen Committee Appointments (Item J.3): Mayor Pro Tem Jim Gallagher postponed appointments to the Arts Committee until September 1, 2026.

City Manager's Report

  • Michael Peoples noted the city remains under drought water restrictions, with weekly assessments. Staff is working on the FY28 budget calendar and the 2027 meeting calendar. Upcoming events: Walker Reed Third Kickoff Classic (August 8), Get Ready Gaston (September). Gaston County Schools start August 12. A joint grant application with Gaston County for the Department of Justice "Making America Safe Again" program (up to $300 million for model cities) was mentioned; no match required. A letter of support from the mayor may be needed.

City Council Reports

  • Councilmembers shared updates on community events: Safety Around Water program at Irwin Center (YMCA), AJ and the Cool Kids fundraiser, ABC store ribbon cutting, Ready Set Grow back-to-school event (700 families served, Kintegra Health provided free checkups), fire board meeting, and various upcoming events (Hope Fest, American Legion Baseball). Councilman Silverman announced the birth of his granddaughter.

Key Outcomes

  • Proclamation for National Farmers Market Week entered into record (unanimous).
  • Arts Committee FY2026-27 funding allocation approved (unanimous). Includes $50,000 grants, $20,000 community engagement, $30,000 public art; plus specific events funding.
  • Consent Agenda approved (unanimous).
  • Project Metro Level One Incentive Grant approved pending annexation agreement (unanimous).
  • USPS Parking Lease direction approved to finalize agreement (unanimous).
  • Arts Committee appointment postponed to September 1, 2026.
  • Closed session entered pursuant to NCGS 143-318.10 and 143-318.11 to review previous closed session minutes, consult with attorney on Legacy Home Builders LLC v. City of Gastonia, and discuss a potential award. Vote unanimous.
  • Next regular meeting: September 1, 2026 at 6:00 PM.

Meeting Transcript

Gastonia, and on behalf of the City Council itself, I'd like to welcome you to the August 4th, 2026 meeting. I will now call the meeting to order. Councilman Kasupius, would you lead us in prayer? Yes, sir. Good evening, everyone. At this time, I'd like to request, if you feel so inclined to please bow your head and join me in prayer. Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for this beautiful summer day and for the many blessings you have given our community. We are grateful for the opportunity to gather in service to others. As we meet today, grant us wisdom, humility, and compassion in every decision we make. We ask for your protection over our children as they enjoy these final weeks of summer and prepare to return to school. Bless our students, teachers, school staff, and families with safety, strength, and a successful school year. We thank you for all who serve our community, bless this council, our city staff, and all in attendance today with wisdom and good health. May we lift up in prayer those among us who are in need, those facing difficult times, and those carrying heavy burdens. May we continue to pray for one another, support one another and be a source of comfort, strength, and hope in every circumstance. As we recognize National Farmers Market Week, we give thanks for our farmers and local vendors, continue to bless their work and provide an abundant harvest that nourishes our community. Lord, guide our discussions and decisions tonight, help us to listen with open hearts, treat one another with respect, and always seek what is just and best for all. May your peace and grace rest upon our community as we continue to grow stronger together. We ask all of this in your holy name. Amen. To the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Can I have a motion to excuse Councilwoman Stipp? Self mood, have a motion, can I have a second? Second. Have a second by Councilwoman Barber. All those in favor? Unanimous. Each of you should have your agenda in front of you. Are there any corrections, additions, deletions to the agenda as presented? Having none, can I have a motion to accept? So moved. Have a motion and I have a second. Second. I have a second by Councilwoman Barbara. All those in favor. Next up, approval of the minutes. We just have one set tonight. That is from our regular City Council meeting on July 24, 2026. Can I have a motion to approve? So moved. Have a motion. Can I have a second? Have a second by Councilman Silverman. All those in favor? It's unanimous. Next up, we're going to have a proclamation recognizing the week of August the 2nd through the 8th, 2026, as National Farmers Market Week. Emily Thomason, is that close enough? That's right. She's the manager of our farmers market here in the city of Gasconia, and Councilwoman Barber is going to present it to her. Good evening, Council. It is my pleasure to present this proclamation to members of our staff and board for our farmers market here in the city of Gastonia.

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