Kinston City Council approves artistic projects, fireworks permits, and rezoning requests at May 6 meeting
The Kinston City Council covered a full slate of action items Tuesday evening, advancing local development projects, community initiatives, and public safety permits during its regularly scheduled meeting at City Hall.
The meeting opened with a prayer from Elder Calvin Gilchrist of Beautiful Valley Field Baptist Church, who asked for blessings over the mayor, council, city staff, and the grieving Swinson family. A quorum was confirmed with three of five council members present.
Public Comments Address Safety, Housing, and Habitat Initiatives
Janette Blue, a resident of Marcela Drive, voiced concern about an abandoned home on her block, citing safety risks and a lack of response from city offices. Mayor Don Hardy assured Blue that the issue would be addressed.
Matthew Whittle, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne, shared updates on ongoing housing projects, including new builds in Kinston and La Grange. He invited city leaders to participate in a "Team Up with Habitat" volunteer initiative promoting community-building through service.
Council Actions Support Public Art, Zoning Changes, and Event Permits
Among the evening’s major items, the council unanimously approved a proposal from the Smart Kinston Foundation to install artistic wraps on four downtown signal boxes and a community-themed crosswalk near Mitchell Street. The project, which must be completed by June to retain grant funding, features designs from local artists and aims to enhance public spaces.
Council members also approved a rezoning request for property at 1003 W. Newbern Ave., owned by Tabernacle Free Will Baptist Church. The change from industrial and general business to office and institutional zoning aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan and will support continued use of the property for church and administrative functions.
A special use permit review for 1610 N. Queen St. was also approved, removing previous restrictions after the applicant demonstrated consistent compliance with security and insurance requirements.
The council scheduled a public hearing for June 3 to consider the abandonment of a right-of-way between Tower Hill Road and Blunt Street, adjacent to property owned by Michael Susa and the Apostolic Deliverance Church.
Infrastructure and Events Receive Green Light
Council approved an amendment to the construction observation contract for the Lawrence Heights water and sewer replacement project, extending services for an additional 120 days at a cost of $44,000. Work on the project resumed April 22 following earlier delays.
A series of special event and fireworks permits were approved, including:
Fireworks at four upcoming Down East Bird Dogs games and the July 4th celebration.
The Lincoln City Valer Union event on May 25 at Holloway Park.
The Sudan Shriner Spring Ceremony Parade, returning May 17 after its cancellation in 2020 due to COVID.
Each request met city requirements, including insurance and safety protocols.
City Pursues Updated Bike and Pedestrian Plan
Council passed a resolution in support of a North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) grant to update the city's bicycle and pedestrian plan. The $65,000 project would be funded primarily through state support, with Kinston contributing a $13,000 match. City staff emphasized the plan's importance in improving accessibility, safety, and economic development, particularly for the more than 20% of households without reliable vehicle access.
Council and Mayoral Comments
Mayor Pro Tem Felicia Hardy and Mayor Hardy celebrated the success of the recent BBQ Fest on the Neuse, noting the festival’s record-breaking sale of 4,775 sandwiches in under eight hours and the city’s spotlight moment in pursuit of a Guinness World Record.
The council entered a closed session under N.C. General Statutes 143-318.11(a)(3) and (a)(6) and adjourned at 7:11 p.m.
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