All tagged dontario hardy

Letter to the Editor: Correcting misconceptions about Kinston’s FY26 Budget

I feel compelled to address recent statements made by Lenoir County Commissioner Keith King and North Carolina House Representative Chris Humphrey regarding the City of Kinston’s proposed FY26 Budget and property tax rate. As the Mayor of Kinston, I believe the public deserves a clearer and more complete understanding of the facts, particularly those that were not fully explained or were presented without proper context.

Historic city council swearing in ceremony

The city of Kinston held a historic City Council meeting where the results of the 2021 Municipal election led to the swearing-in of the youngest city council member in North Carolina. Council members Robert Swinson IV and Chris Suggs were sworn in as well as Mayor Dontario Hardy. In addition to the swearing-in of council members and mayor, Mayor Hardy also selected Council Member Antonio Hardy as his Mayor Pro Tem.

Local officials respond to Cooper's request for civil penalties

“What the governor is seeking to do is conniving and dangerous to everyone in the state who cherishes their freedoms and balance of government,” said Lenoir County Commissioner Eric Rouse. “Under the veil of public health, he is trying to expand his powers into areas of government that he would not otherwise be permitted to or have authority over.”

“We will be following the order for sure and talking to individuals that could be in violation. We will be warning individuals who are not following the order and if they continue, we will follow up with the enforcement action. Everyone must do their part,” said City of Kinston Mayor Don Hardy.