Kinston public meetings in 2021

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear director's reports, and receive a presentation on the Emma Webb Park Master Plan from Design Workshop, the American Flood Coalition, Kinston Teens, and the parks director.

• Presentation of Emma Webb Park Master Plan
• Approval of November 4, 2021 minutes

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission approved the November 4, 2021 meeting minutes and adjourned. Members discussed the Emma Webb revitalization project, including a video presentation from Design Workshop and a grant for flood mitigation, and noted a $35,000 donation for restrooms at Pearson Park. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved November 4, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council is holding an organizational meeting to adopt the 2022 meeting schedule, receive a $35,000 donation from the Woodmen Foundation for a restroom facility at Pearson Park, and consider an economic development agreement with MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc. The meeting also includes presentations, recognitions, and oaths of office for newly elected officials.

• Consider approval of economic development agreement with MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc. for capital investment over $13,750,000 at 651 Collier Loftin Road
• Consider acceptance of $35,000 donation from Woodmen Foundation for restroom facility at Pearson Park
• Adoption of 2022 City Council meeting schedule
• Oaths of office for Mayor Dontario Hardy and Councilmembers Robert Swinson IV and Christopher J. Suggs
• Recognition of Kristal Suggs for service from January 2017 to December 7, 2021

The Kinston City Council held its organizational meeting, adopted the 2022 meeting schedule, accepted a $35,000 donation for a Pearson Park restroom, and approved an economic development agreement with MasterBrand Cabinet, Inc. for a $13.7 million expansion creating 540 jobs. Newly elected officials were sworn in, and Councilmember Kristal Suggs was recognized for her service.

• Adopted 2022 City Council meeting schedule (5-0)
• Accepted $35,000 Woodmen Foundation donation for Pearson Park restroom (5-0)
• Approved economic development agreement with MasterBrand Cabinet, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved minutes of November 16, 2021 meeting (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss a proposed service area for Bird electric scooters and review police vacancy concerns. The agenda also includes ordinances to amend special revenue funds for ballistic vests and single-family home rehabilitation.

• Proposed ordinance to amend Ballistic Vest Fund with $6,670.37 local match for 17 vests
• Proposed ordinance to increase NCHFA Single-Family Rehabilitation grant funds to $693,327
• Discussion regarding Bird scooter operational zones and geofencing on 4-lane roads
• Public hearing regarding the donation of the Shirt Factory Site to Kinston Community Health Center
• Review of NC Retirement Systems Division report on potential pension spiking costs

The Kinston City Council held a public hearing and unanimously approved the donation of the former shirt factory site to the Kinston Community Health Center for a new medical facility. The council also approved a consent agenda that included amendments to the Ballistic Vest Fund and the NCHFA Single-Family Rehabilitation grant. Property bids for two lots were accepted, and special event permits for the Christmas Parade and Ride for Kennedy Children's Home were approved.

• Approved donation of Shirt Factory site to Kinston Community Health Center (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including Ballistic Vest Fund amendment and NCHFA grant increase (5-0)
• Accepted property bids for 403 Independence St and 304 E Blount St (5-0)
• Approved special event permit for Kinston Christmas Parade (5-0)
• Approved special event permit for 29th Annual Ride for Kennedy Children's Home (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes, receive committee and director reports, and vote on updated football and basketball rules. They will also discuss SWAC and plans for a Christmas party.

• Approval of updated football & basketball rules
• Discussion of SWAC
• Christmas Party discussion
• Approval of October 14, 2021 minutes

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission unanimously approved proposed rule changes for football, flag football, and basketball programs, as presented by County Programs Supervisor Charlie Casey. The changes include adjustments to game formats, equipment, and disciplinary procedures. The commission also noted that funding for the Holloway Pool project was approved by the city council, with renovations starting in early 2022.

• Approved updated football and basketball rules with adjustments (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 14, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Noted Holloway Pool project funding approved by city council; renovations to begin early 2022

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a $1,062,000 bid for the Briary Run Pump Station Mitigation Project. The agenda also includes a resolution to provide property to the Kinston Community Health Center for a new medical facility.

• Bid award for Briary Run Pump Station Mitigation Project to Haren Construction Company for $1,0el62,000 plus 5% contingency
• Resolution and option agreement for Kinston Community Health Center at the former shirt factory site
• Contract amendment for Holloway Pool to include new swimming lanes and steps
• Special Revenue Ordinance Allocation for American Rescue Plan Act Funds Project (C2908)
• Approval of 'Christmas Presence on Phillips Road' special events permit

The Kinston City Council approved a $1,062,000 bid for the Briary Run Pump Station mitigation project, plus a 5% contingency, funded by FEMA reimbursements. It also approved a change order for the Doctors Drive Extension Project and other consent items, but deferred the Kinston Community Health Center property donation agreement until after a public hearing. The council discussed but took no formal action on a proposed citizens' review board.

• Approved $1,062,000 bid to Haren Construction for Briary Run Pump Station mitigation, plus 5% contingency (5-0)
• Approved Change Order #2 for Doctors Drive Extension, not to exceed $45,979.50 (5-0)
• Approved Holloway Pool contract amendment adding race lanes and stairs (5-0)
• Approved $237,412 in ARPA funds for Holloway Pool renovations (5-0)
• Approved special events permit for 'Christmas Presence on Phillips Road' (5-0)
• Approved Kinston Community Health Center resolution and option agreement, subject to public hearing (5-0)
• Approved minutes of October 5, 2021 meeting (5-0)
• Entered closed session for personnel matter, returned to open session (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes, hear committee and director reports, and discuss updates on fall programs, the Holloway pool project, and the Emma Webb Master Plan. The agenda is largely routine with no major decisions listed.

• Approval of September 9, 2021 minutes
• Baseball tournament policies & procedures review
• Update on Holloway pool project
• Update on Emma Webb Master Plan
• Kinston 101 event on 10/23/21

The commission approved moving its November meeting to Nov. 4 due to Veterans Day, and approved the September minutes. Members heard updates on the Emma Webb Park Master Plan, including a splash pad and amphitheater, and learned Kinston won the NC USTA adult tournament contract for 2022-2023. No formal votes were taken on these updates.

• Approved September 9, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Moved November meeting to Nov. 4, 2021 (unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will vote on buying a digger derrick vehicle for the Electric Division and a dedication agreement for part of Trenton Road. They will also hear updates on hurricane FEMA reimbursements, catalytic converter theft, Bird scooters, and other city matters. Two proclamations for Breast Cancer and Fire Prevention months are scheduled.

• Purchase of digger derrick vehicle for $283,804 to replace Vehicle #232 in Electric Division
• Dedication agreement for portion of Trenton Road
• Proclamation recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month
• Proclamation recognizing Fire Prevention Month
• Update on Bird Scooters micromobility permit application

The Kinston City Council approved the purchase of a digger derrick vehicle for $283,804 to replace an aging truck in the Electric Division, and approved a dedication agreement for a portion of Trenton Road. The council also approved a special events permit for K-Day at Holloway Park and adopted several proclamations for October awareness months. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved purchase of digger derrick vehicle for $283,804 (5-0)
• Approved dedication agreement for portion of Trenton Road (5-0)
• Approved special events permit for K-Day at Holloway Park (5-0)
• Adopted agenda with added items (5-0)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting (5-0)
• Proclaimed October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month
• Proclaimed October as Fire Prevention Month
• Proclaimed October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss and vote on several financial items, including allocating American Rescue Plan Act funds, adopting a capital project ordinance for the Lawrence Heights waterline replacement, and approving a partial funding request for a sewer extension. The agenda also includes presentations, proclamations, and routine consent agenda items.

• Allocate $180,000 for isolation/quarantine salaries and $1,532,834 for government services from ARPA funds
• Adopt ordinance for Lawrence Heights Waterline Replacement Project (W9120) with $311,531 transfer from Water Capital Reserve Fund
• Amend FY16-FY21 Water Projects (W9116) to return $280,000 to Water Capital Reserve Fund
• Consider partial funding of $76,517.95 for Smithfield Way Gravity Sewer Extension Project
• Presentation on Kinston Community Health Center option for former Shirt Factory site

The Kinston City Council approved a consent agenda allocating American Rescue Plan Act funds, amending capital project ordinances for waterline replacements, and agreeing to fund up to $76,517.95 for a Lenoir County sewer extension project. The council also heard a presentation from the Kinston Community Health Center about expanding into the Shirt Factory site, but took no formal action on it. All votes were unanimous (4-0).

• Approved ARPA fund allocation for COVID-19 mitigation and revenue replacement (4-0)
• Approved amendment to Lawrence Heights Waterline Replacement Project ordinance (4-0)
• Approved amendment to FY16-FY21 Water Projects capital project (4-0)
• Approved partial funding up to $76,517.95 for Smithfield Way Gravity Sewer Extension Project (4-0)
• Approved minutes of September 7, 2021 meeting (4-0)
• Proclaimed September 25, 2021 as Stop Drop and Live Suicide Prevention Awareness Day
• Proclaimed October 4-10, 2021 as Public Power Week
• Proclaimed October 4-8, 2021 as Customer Service Week

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold public hearings on a rezoning, a text amendment to Section 6.5, and a conditional use permit. They will also consider bids for sewer bypass pumping equipment and a bucket truck, an easement for a drainage pipe, a tentative bid for the Lawrence Heights water and sewer replacement project, updated recreation fees, a fee assistance program, and several capital project ordinance amendments. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval and recognitions for 9/11 and Hispanic Heritage Month.

• Public hearing and adoption of rezoning ordinance
• Public hearing and adoption of text amendment to Section 6.5
• Bid award for Xylem sewer bypass pumping equipment
• Purchase of bucket truck for Electric Division
• Ordinance to amend Doctors Drive Road and Utility Extension (G9140) capital project, increasing budget by $117,530

The Kinston City Council unanimously approved a tentative bid award of $4,630,552.50 to Jones & Smith Contractors for the Lawrence Heights Water & Sewer Replacement Project. The council also approved a rezoning for 8.5 acres from RA-30 to RA-6, a text amendment to allow unlimited building heights in B-1 districts, and a conditional use permit for a private club and bar at 2902 W. Vernon Avenue. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved tentative bid award of $4,630,552.50 to Jones & Smith Contractors for the Lawrence Heights Water & Sewer Replacement Project.
• Approved rezoning of 8.5 acres from RA-30 to RA-6 for Graham King.
• Approved text amendment to Section 6.5 to allow unlimited building heights in B-1 districts.
• Approved conditional use permit for a private club and bar at 2902 W. Vernon Avenue for Jerry Hill.
• Awarded bid to Xylem for sewer bypass pumping equipment for $180,349.32.
• Approved purchase of a bucket truck for the Electric Division for $187,379.
• Approved easement for a drainage pipe on the Harvey Gardens property.
• Approved updated schedule of fees for Recreation programs and facility reservations, including a consistent senior age across facilities.

City Council

The Kinston City Council is holding its regular meeting to consider several action items, including a public hearing on a new ordinance regulating shared micromobility devices like electric scooters, approval of a change order for the Doctors Drive construction contract, and amendments to the city's budget and special revenue funds. The council will also receive informational updates on retirement system notifications and cross-connection control requirements, and will enter closed session for economic development discussions.

• Public hearing and adoption of text amendment adding ordinance for micromobility vehicles (e.g., electric scooters)
• Consider adopting support resolution for 2022 NEA Our Town Grant
• Consider approval of change order for Doctors Drive construction contract
• Consider special revenue ordinance amendment for American Rescue Plan Act funds (C2908)
• Consider FY operating budget amendment

The Kinston City Council approved a Special Revenue Ordinance Amendment allocating $830,000 in ARPA funds for retrospective premium pay of $2,500 per eligible essential employee, plus an additional $93,000 from operating funds for higher-salaried workers. The council also adopted a micromobility ordinance for downtown, approved a $150,570 change order for the Doctors Drive project, and approved the SPCA contract with a $26,000 debt forgiveness.

• Approved ARPA premium pay amendment ($830,000) for essential workers (5-0)
• Adopted micromobility ordinance for downtown scooters (5-0)
• Approved $150,570 change order for Doctors Drive construction (5-0)
• Approved SPCA contract and $26,000 debt forgiveness (5-0)
• Approved FY 2022 Operating Budget Amendment (5-0)
• Approved 2019 PSN Grant for body-worn cameras (5-0)
• Approved Special Event Permit for block party (5-0)
• Approved Rhonda Barwick as Interim City Manager with 15% salary increase (5-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council is holding a work session and regular meeting to discuss and vote on several items, including accepting state and federal grants for wastewater and pandemic relief, approving conditional use permits for two bars, and authorizing the sale of city-owned properties. The agenda also includes updates on the Kinston 101 citizen academy and a new council reference manual.

• Public hearings and votes on conditional use permits for bars at 304 Mitchell Street and 2928 West Vernon Avenue
• Resolutions to accept Wastewater Asset Inventory and Assessment Grant and American Rescue Plan Act funds
• Ordinances to amend the wastewater grant and establish a special revenue fund for ARPA funds
• Resolutions authorizing sale of property at East Caswell Street Lot 1H and 124 South Adkin Street
• Re-appointment of Councilmember Sammy Aiken and Bruce Parson to Neuse Regional Water & Sewer Authority Board

The Kinston City Council approved a $1.85 million settlement in a lawsuit filed in 2018 against the City and a former police officer over a 1991-1992 investigation that led to a wrongful conviction. The City will pay $850,000, with the remaining $1 million covered by its insurer. The Council also approved the transfer of eight city-owned lots to Kinston Teens, a nonprofit, for public use, and accepted a $6.3 million American Rescue Plan Act fund allocation.

• Approved $1.85M settlement in wrongful conviction lawsuit; City pays $850k, insurer pays $1M (4-0)
• Approved transfer of 8 city-owned lots to Kinston Teens for public use (3-1)
• Approved consent agenda accepting $150,000 Wastewater Grant and $6,387,015.47 in ARPA funds (4-0)
• Approved text amendment allowing bars/clubs in I-1 and I-B zoning districts (4-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for a bar at 304 Mitchell Street (4-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for a bar at 2928 West Vernon Avenue (4-0)
• Approved organizational support grants totaling $255,000 plus $2,695 to Downtown Kinston (4-0)
• Approved sale of surplus properties at East Caswell Street and 124 S. Adkin Street (4-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council is meeting June 15, 2021, for a work session and regular meeting. They will consider adopting the FY2021-2022 operating budget, approve a sewer rehabilitation project bid, and authorize hiring for several vacant positions. The agenda also includes amendments to the current year's budget and the seizure/restitution fund.

• Consider adoption of FY 2021-2022 Annual Operating Budget Ordinance
• Bid approval for E. Washington Avenue Sewer Rehab Project
• FY2021 Operating Budget Amendment (includes $2,341,800 for Circuit 540 electric upgrade)
• Special Revenue Fund Amendment for Seizure and Restitution Fund (P9136) — $56,957 increase
• Authorize hiring for Public Services, Finance Collections, and Parks & Recreation positions

The Kinston City Council approved the FY 2021-2022 Annual Operating Budget Ordinance of $109,797,897, which includes a $0.04 property tax increase, by a 3-2 vote. The approved budget excludes salary increases for the Mayor and City Council, which were removed from the proposal. The council also approved several other items, including a sewer rehabilitation bid and multiple hiring authorizations.

• Approved FY2021-2022 budget of $109,797,897 with $0.04 tax increase, minus Mayor/Council salaries (3-2)
• Approved $167,090 bid to Bio-Nomic Services for E. Washington Avenue sewer rehab (5-0)
• Approved advertising/hiring for Public Services vacancies (5-0)
• Approved recruitment of a full-time cashier (5-0)
• Approved advertising/hiring for a Planetarium Center Assistant (5-0)
• Approved Special Event Permit for birthday block party on Chestnut/Trianon Streets (5-0)
• Approved Special Revenue Fund Amendment Ordinance for Seizure and Restitution Fund (5-0)
• Approved FY2021 Operating Budget Amendment (5-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a regular meeting on June 1, 2021, to consider several action items, including a property bid and hiring authorization. The main item is the presentation of the FY22 budget, which proposes a property tax rate increase from $0.73 to $0.77 per $100 valuation to balance the budget without using fund balance. The meeting also includes a hurricane status update and a proclamation for LGBTQ+ Pride Month.

• Consider property bid for 124 South Adkin Street
• Authorize advertisement and hiring for Public Services
• FY22 budget presentation: $109,797,897 all funds, with property tax increase to $0.77 per $100
• Hurricane status update on FEMA reimbursements
• LGBTQ+ Pride Month proclamation

The Kinston City Council approved the FY22 budget of $109,797,897, which includes a property tax increase from $.73 to $.77 per $100 valuation. The budget also includes a transfer from the Electric Fund to the General Fund at the state allowable limit. The public hearing on the budget was closed, and the budget is scheduled for final approval on June 15.

• Approved FY22 budget of $109,797,897 with property tax increase to $.77 (4-0)
• Closed public hearing on FY22 budget (4-0)
• Approved special event permits for Juneteenth Celebration and Black Dollar Festival (5-0)
• Approved authorization to advertise for upset bid on 124 S. Adkin Street (5-0)
• Approved authorization to advertise and hire for vacant Public Services positions (5-0)
• Approved minutes of May 18, 2021 meeting (5-0)
• Approved agenda with additions of Juneteenth and Black Dollar Festival permits and Pride of Kinston presentation (5-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss and vote on closing six completed grant and capital project funds, including the 2015 Operation No Boundaries GCC/JAG Grant and the FY19 Fire and Rescue Ladder Truck project. They will also receive updates on the FY20-21 Quarter 3 budget and the CDBG-CV project, and consider action items such as a property bid, a burning prohibition ordinance, and hiring for vacant positions.

• Closeout of 2015 Operation No Boundaries GCC/JAG Grant (P9134) - $25,000
• Closeout of 2015 Edward Byrne JAG Grant (P9135) - $23,904
• Closeout of FY16 Fire Pumper Truck Capital Project Fund (G9137) - $600,000
• Closeout of FY19 Fire and Rescue Ladder Truck Capital Project (G9141) - $1,547,566.12
• Consider property bid for Parcel Number 26566 (East Caswell Lot)

The Kinston City Council approved a revised ordinance adding Sec. 10-106 'Burning Prohibited' to the Fire Protection and Safety code, and adopted the consent agenda including closeout ordinances for six completed projects and service retirement of badges and sidearms for two retiring police officers. The council also authorized advertisement for an upset bid on a landlocked East Caswell lot, approved an updated pool transportation schedule with two part-time van driver positions, and authorized hiring for vacant positions in Public Services and Parks & Recreation. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved revised ordinance adding Sec. 10-106 Burning Prohibited (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda: closeout ordinances for six completed projects and service retirement of badges/sidearms for two retiring police officers (5-0)
• Authorized advertisement for upset bid on East Caswell lot (Parcel 26566) (5-0)
• Approved updated pool transportation schedule and hiring of two part-time van drivers (5-0)
• Approved advertisement and hiring for three vacant Public Services positions (5-0)
• Approved recruitment and hiring for three vacant Parks & Recreation positions (5-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a public hearing on the $550,000 CDBG-CV grant to address a discrepancy and gather comments, then consider approving an audit contract with RH CPAs, PLLC for $43,050-$45,050, and award a bid to Barnhill Contracting for the 2021 Road Improvements Project. The council will also consider a permit for the 4th of July fireworks display and recognize staff awards.

• Public hearing for CDBG-CV grant to improve WIFI, utility assistance for low/moderate income
• Audit contract with RH CPAs, PLLC for FY ending June 30, 2021, fee $43,050-$45,050
• Bid award to Barnhill Contracting for 2021 Road Improvements Project
• 4th of July Fireworks Display Permit consideration
• Proclamation for 52nd Annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week

The Kinston City Council unanimously approved a $277,762 bid from Barnhill Contracting Company for the 2021 Road Improvements Project, including the Gordon Street section. The council also approved the FY2021 audit contract, fireworks display permits, and entered a closed session for legal and economic development matters.

• Awarded 2021 Road Improvements bid to Barnhill Contracting for $277,762 (5-0)
• Approved FY2021 audit contract with RH CPA's, PLLC, fee range $43,050-$45,050 (5-0)
• Approved fireworks permits for Parks & Recreation (July 3) and Wood Ducks (multiple dates) (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for CDBG-CV with no speakers (5-0)
• Adopted minutes of April 20, 2021 meeting (5-0)
• Adopted agenda (5-0)
• Entered closed session for attorney-client privilege and economic development (5-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting, discussing a capital project ordinance for a $2.34 million electric circuit upgrade, a possible ban on open burning, and the potential introduction of electric scooters. They will also hear updates on county transportation, a new self-guided citizen education program, and the FY2020 financial report. The regular meeting includes consent agenda items and votes on hiring for vacant positions.

• Ordinance to establish Electric Circuit 540 Upgrade (E9134) capital project fund, $2,341,800 funded by transfer from Electric fund
• Discussion on revising municipal code to prohibit burning
• Discussion on electric scooter program, including example ordinance from Gastonia, NC
• FY2020 Annual Financial Report presented by Diana Hardy, CPA
• Authorize hiring for vacant positions in Public Services and Parks and Recreation

The Kinston City Council unanimously adopted a capital project ordinance to upgrade about 6.2 miles of electric circuits on W. Vernon Ave. toward LaGrange, funded by a $2,341,800 transfer from the Electric Fund. The council also approved hiring for vacant Public Services and Parks and Recreation positions. Discussions were held on a potential burn permit ordinance and electric scooters, but no decisions were made on those items.

• Adopted Capital Project Ordinance for Electric Circuit 540 Upgrade (E9134) (5-0)
• Authorized advertisement and hiring for vacant Public Services positions (5-0)
• Authorized recruitment and hiring for Parks and Recreation summer positions (5-0)
• Approved minutes of April 6, 2021 meeting (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will conduct public hearings regarding conditional use permits for a private club and bar at 128 W. North Street and multi-family apartments on North Queen Street. The agenda also includes reviewing engineering contracts, special event permits, and departmental recruitment authorizations.

• Public hearing for a private club and bar at 128 W. North Street
• Public hearing for multi-family apartments on North Queen Street
• Public hearing for a private club and hookah lounge
• Amendment for Lawrence Heights Water and Sewer Project construction administration contract
• Engineering contract award for the 540 Circuit Upgrade to Booth and Associates

The Kinston City Council approved three conditional use permits: relocating The Heritage private club and bar to 128 W. North St., a 64-unit multi-family apartment complex off North Queen Street, and a private club and hookah lounge at 800-B W. Vernon Ave. The council also approved several contracts, resolutions, and special event permits, and authorized new hires for Public Services and Parks and Recreation.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for private club and bar at 128 W. North St. (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for 64-unit multi-family apartments off North Queen St. (4-0, Mayor Pro Tem excused)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for private club and hookah lounge at 800-B W. Vernon Ave. (5-0)
• Approved amendment for Lawrence Heights Water and Sewer Project construction administration contract ($151,044) (5-0)
• Awarded engineering contract for 540 Circuit upgrade to Booth and Associates ($124,775) (5-0)
• Adopted resolution supporting redistricting reform (5-0)
• Approved special permits for Sudan Shriner's parade and BBQ Fest on the Neuse (5-0 each)
• Authorized recruitment and hire for Public Services (5-0) and Parks and Recreation (4-1)

City Council

The City Council will discuss budget amendments for infrastructure and public safety grants. The body is deciding on bid awards for pool rehabilitation and stream stabilization, as well as filling vacant city positions.

• Greenmead Waterline Replacement Project budget increase of $371,200
• Bid award for Holloway Pool Rehab & Construction to Swim Club Management Group
• Bid award for Willows Apartments Stream Stabilization Project to Charles Hughes Construction
• Special Revenue Ordinance for $21,451 Edward Byrne JAG Grant for law enforcement equipment
• FY2021 Operating Budget Amendment

The Kinston City Council approved a bid award of $278,990 to Swim Club Management Group for the Holloway Pool rehabilitation and construction project, which involves building a new concrete shell inside the existing pool. The council also approved several other items, including consent agenda ordinances for the Greenmead Waterline Replacement Project, two grant funds, and a budget amendment, as well as bid awards for the Willows Apartments Stream Stabilization Project and authorization to hire vacant positions in Public Services and Parks and Recreation.

• Approved bid award to Swim Club Management Group for Holloway Pool rehab and construction for $278,990.
• Approved consent agenda: Greenmead Waterline Replacement Project ordinance, Edward Byrne JAG grant ordinance, BJA Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding grant ordinance, and FY2021 Operating Budget Amendment.
• Approved DOJ Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant 2020-DJ-BX-0828.
• Approved DOJ Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Program 2020VD-BX-0730.
• Approved bid award to Charles Hughes Construction for Willows Apartments Stream Stabilization Project for $98,948.30.
• Authorized advertising and hiring of a Maintenance Worker I and a Wastewater Operator I-IV for Public Services.
• Authorized recruitment and hiring of ten Scorekeepers and a Center Assistant for Parks and Recreation.
• Approved appointments of Clifton Hargett and Heath Harrison to the Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission.

City Council

The City Council will conduct public hearings for two conditional use permits regarding a private club and multi-family apartments. The body will also discuss federal justice grants and city hiring authorizations.

• Public hearing for a private club and bar conditional use permit at 128 W. North Street
• Public hearing for multi-family apartments (64 units) on North Queen Street
• Public hearing for DOJ Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant 2020-DJ-BX-0828
• Public hearing for DOJ Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Program 2020VD-BX-0730
• Temporary License Agreement between the City and Duke Energy Progress, LLC for the Seven Springs Project

The Kinston City Council voted 4-0 to approve opening the sports program in April, including basketball, with COVID-19 safety protocols. The council also approved a temporary license agreement with Duke Energy Progress for a grid improvement project, and continued two public hearings to April 6, 2021. Additionally, the council approved the 2021 road improvement project list and authorized recruitment for several city positions.

• Approved opening the sports program in April, including basketball, with COVID-19 safety protocols.
• Approved a temporary license agreement with Duke Energy Progress for the Seven Springs Project.
• Continued the public hearing for a conditional use permit for a private club and bar at 128 W. North Street to April 6, 2021.
• Continued the public hearing for a conditional use permit for multi-family apartments on North Queen Street to April 6, 2021.
• Approved the candidates for the 2021 Road Improvement Project, including Lenoir Avenue, Doctors Drive, Gordon Street, and Hardee Road.
• Authorized recruitment and hiring for the Fleet Maintenance Superintendent position.
• Authorized recruitment and hiring for multiple Parks and Recreation vacancies.
• Approved entering closed session for attorney-client privilege and real property discussions.

City Council

The City Council will review the second quarter budget status for fiscal year 2020-21. The agenda includes discussions on downtown business updates via Pride of Kinston and several administrative authorizations.

• FY 20-21 Second Quarter Budget Status report
• Resolution for Unpaid Real Property Tax and Advertising of Tax Liens
• Capital Project Amendment for FY16-FY2 Stormwater Projects
• Ordinance for Special Revenue Fund Amendment-Ballistic Vest Fund (P9129)
• Bid award for Massey Drive Stream Restoration Project

The Kinston City Council approved a conditional use permit for first-floor residential use at 109 and 109 1/2 East North Street, following a public hearing that remained open for 24 hours. The council also awarded a $222,074.60 contract for the Massey Drive Stream Restoration Project to Shamrock Environmental Corporation and approved a consent agenda including resolutions for unpaid property tax liens, budget amendments, and recruitment authorizations.

• Approved conditional use permit for first-floor residential at 109 and 109 1/2 East North Street (5-0)
• Awarded $222,074.60 bid for Massey Drive Stream Restoration to Shamrock Environmental Corporation (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda: resolution for unpaid property tax liens, capital project amendment, ballistic vest fund ordinance, recruitment authorizations, and Freedom Classic special events permit (5-0)
• Approved minutes of February 2, 2021 meeting (5-0)
• Appointed Jeff Laws to Board of Adjustment/Planning Board (5-0)
• Consensus to proceed with accepting Trenton Road as city-maintained street, contingent on developer improvements

City Council

The City Council will discuss property bids for East Caswell Street and administrative actions for Hurricane Isaias FEMA assistance. The body is also considering authorizations for new city staff recruitment.

• Property bids for 605, 607, and 609 East Caswell Street
• Designation of agents for Hurricane Isaias FEMA-4568-DR-NC financial assistance
• Special Revenue Project Ordinance for Hurricane Isaias FEMA-4568-DR-NC (C2907)
• Recruitment for two Peak Teller Cashiers
• Recruitment for Maintenance Worker I-Streets and Sanitation Worker-Environmental Services

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit for two first-floor residential units at 109 & 109 ½ West North Street. The body will also consider several budget ordinances for water and sewer projects in Lawrence Heights.

• Public hearing for Conditional Use Permit for first-floor residential at 109 & 109 ½ West North Street
• Construction agreement with Municipal Engineering Services Company for Lawrence Heights Water and Sewer Project
• Capital Project Budget Ordinance for Lawrence Heights Waterline Replacement Project (S9207)
• Capital Project Budget Ordinance for Lawrence Heights Sewer Replacement Project (W9120)
• Request for police vehicle acquisition

The Kinston City Council voted 3-2 against holding a public hearing for a conditional use permit to allow first-floor residential units at 109 and 109 ½ East North Street, effectively denying the request. The council approved several other items, including contracts and budgets for the Lawrence Heights water and sewer projects, a $550,000 CDBG-CV grant budget, a mutual aid agreement for fiber repair, and a police vehicle purchase. The public hearing for the residential permit was continued to February 16, 2021.

• Denied motion to hold public hearing for conditional use permit at 109 & 109 ½ E. North St (3-2)
• Approved $120,000 construction administration agreement with Municipal Engineering Services (5-0)
• Adopted $936,126.46 budget for Lawrence Heights waterline replacement (5-0)
• Adopted $5,365,000 budget for Lawrence Heights sewer replacement (5-0)
• Adopted $550,000 CDBG-CV grant budget for COVID-19 relief (5-0)
• Approved FY2021 operating budget amendment of $32,616 for fire vehicle (5-0)
• Approved mutual aid agreement for fiber repair with City of Wilson (5-0)
• Approved police vehicle acquisition for $26,448.16 (5-0)

City Council

The City Council is meeting to decide on the purchase of a new vehicle for the Fire and Rescue Department. The body will also consider authorizing the recruitment of vacant positions in the Public Services and Parks and Recreation departments.

• Purchase of a Fire and Rescue Department vehicle for $32,616 to replace Unit 609
• Recruitment of vacant positions within the Public Services Department
• Recruitment of vacant positions within the Parks and Recreation Department
• Update on the Mural Project
• Update on the Downtown Historic District Expansion

The Kinston City Council approved the purchase of a new Fire and Rescue Department vehicle for $32,616, funded by unspent rolling stock loan money. The Council also adopted an ordinance amending City Code Section 2-31 to allow regular meetings to be held twice monthly at a day and time designated by the Council, rather than specifically on the first and third Monday. Additionally, the Council authorized recruitment for several vacant positions in the Public Services and Parks and Recreation Departments.

• Approved $32,616 vehicle purchase for Fire and Rescue Department (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending Section 2-31 to allow flexible regular meeting schedule (5-0)
• Authorized recruitment of 5 vacant Public Services Department positions (5-0)
• Authorized recruitment of 2 vacant Parks and Recreation Department positions (5-0)
• Approved minutes from December 7 and December 14, 2020 meetings (5-0)
• Entered closed session for personnel matters (5-0)