Gastonia · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Gastonia public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Historic District Window and Fenestration Standards
The commission debated whether to allow after-the-fact window replacements featuring grilles between the glass at 615 S. Chester St. Because the home is non-contributing, commissioners used their discretion to approve the non-compliant windows.
Road Construction
Gastonia is planning a major 3.5-mile overhaul of West Sugar Creek Road starting in 2028, bringing fresh pavement, new sidewalks, and safer crosswalks to your commute. It's all about making the road smoother and safer for drivers and pedestrians alike.
City Attorney Retirement and Legal Transitions
Longtime City Attorney Charles Graham announced his upcoming retirement in November, marking a major transition in the city's legal department amidst ongoing UDO rewrites.
Linwood Springs Park Property Acquisition
The city is officially taking full ownership of Linwood Springs Park by accepting a direct property donation from the state Department of Transportation, replacing a long-term lease.
Road Closures
Heads up, Gastonia commuters—President Trump is in town today, meaning major road closures and messy traffic. You'll want to check alternative routes before heading out to avoid getting stuck.
Gastonia 150th Anniversary and Linwood Park Grand Opening Planning
Council approved funding for celebrations marking Gastonia's 150th anniversary and the grand opening of Linwood Park in 2027.
FY2028 Budget Planning Calendar
The city established its roadmap for drafting the upcoming fiscal year's budget, incorporating early public meetings to address potential tax revaluation questions.
Farmers Market Building Upfit Study
Council approved spending up to $32,000 in CDBG funds to hire an outside consultant for a thorough architectural, structural, and HVAC assessment of the Gastonia Farmers Market.
After-the-Fact Siding and Exterior Alterations at 308 W. Fifth Ave.
Homeowner Tammy Harvell sought approval for after-the-fact siding, door, and shutter changes on a circa 1940 Cape Cod home in the historic district. Commissioners discussed material compliance and visual consistency.
Arts Committee FY 2026-27 Funding Allocations
Council approved $50,000 in arts grants, public art projects, and community festival funding to support local cultural events like the Fall Festival and Christmas in the City.
Downtown USPS Employee Parking Lease
The city is leasing 28 public parking spaces near Chester Street to the U.S. Postal Service for up to 24 months to accommodate temporary workers from a renovating Charlotte facility. The city will receive $10,000 annually, which will be reinvested into downtown parking maintenance.
Public Housing Communication and Community Inequities
Residents voiced concerns during public expression regarding difficulties communicating with the Gastonia Housing Authority and broader community equity issues, prompting the mayor to intervene.
Historic Chimney Demolition Review at 535 W. Harvie Ave.
Property owner Wesley Forbus requested permission to remove a failing, original brick chimney from a circa 1919 historic home. Commissioners are weighing safety and structural concerns against guidelines that protect historic architectural features.
Traffic Calming and Parking Restrictions Around Hunter Huss High
Traffic and parking restrictions were updated around Hunter Huss High School to improve student safety and traffic flow.
Purchasing Policy and Bidding Threshold Updates
The city raised its informal competitive bidding threshold from $3,000 to $10,000 to streamline procurement and prepare for new financial software. It also added a provision allowing the City Manager to waive bid bonds for certain formal goods purchases.
Solid Waste Equipment and Fleet Upgrades
A city solid waste employee urged council to prioritize upgrading garbage trucks, noting that heavy wear and tear from community growth makes reliable equipment essential.