Kinston City Council hears citizen frustrations, honors finance and fire staff, and weighs Glen Raven redevelopment
The Kinston City Council’s most recent meeting blended recognition, sharp public criticism, and a major redevelopment proposal for one of the city’s largest industrial properties.
The meeting opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance before Mayor Don Hardy called for citizen comments. Residents raised concerns ranging from youth programs and policing to rising property tax values and the number of council absences.
Several speakers pressed the council to direct more funding toward opportunities for young people and to clarify rules around missed meetings. One citizen was escorted out after repeatedly refusing to yield the floor.
Council also recognized the city’s finance department for again earning the Government Finance Officers Association’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. Finance Director Donna Goodson said the city earned “proficient” marks in all 16 review categories for its 2024 annual financial report.
The Parks and Recreation Department outlined fall programs, including record registration for youth soccer and new camps in gymnastics, arts, and crafts.
Fire Chief Chad Jackson announced the promotion of Jason Lee to deputy fire chief and presented the department’s completion of a risk-reduction program with the N.C. League of Municipalities.
A public hearing was held on a proposed development agreement with the smART Kinston Foundation for the Glen Raven Mills property on Manning Street. Planning Director Elizabeth Blount said the nonprofit was the sole respondent to the city’s request for proposals. Founder Stephen Hill told council the foundation envisions concerts, festivals and a BMX and Olympic training facility at the site. Some residents questioned parking, financing and the city’s broader redevelopment plan, while others expressed support. The hearing will remain open until the next council meeting.
Council also approved a text amendment allowing alternate members to serve on the Historic Preservation Commission to ensure quorum. In its action agenda, council authorized the $158,748 purchase of a mini excavator for water operations, replacing a 2011 backhoe.
Members also approved permits for several events, including a rescheduled Kinston Strong concert on Oct. 17, a fall food truck rodeo series, and the annual “Touch a Truck” event at Grainger Stadium on Oct. 25.
Downtown Kinston Revitalization Director Leon Steele reported nearly $2.8 million in private and public investment in the municipal service district last year, but cautioned that 20 neglected buildings on Queen Street require urgent attention. He urged the city to adopt a vacant building ordinance to prevent further decline.
In closing remarks, Hardy said Kinston continues to receive national recognition and called on residents to contribute ideas directly to city leaders rather than “sitting on the sidelines.” Council later met in closed session for attorney-client consultation.
The next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 2 at 5:30 p.m.
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