Kinston public meetings in 2022

City Council

The Kinston City Council is holding a special meeting as a community forum on crime and violence. The agenda includes a crime report from the interim police chief, citizen comments limited to 3 minutes each, and council discussion on next steps. This is a discussion forum, not a voting session.

• Crime report by Interim Chief Keith Goyette
• Citizen comment period with 3-minute speaking limit
• Council discussion on next course of action at approximately 7:00 pm

The City Council held a community forum to discuss gang violence and crime. The council voted to initiate discussions with Lenoir County to create a joint community task force. No other formal legislative actions were taken.

• Approved city-initiated discussion with Lenoir County to form a Kinston-Lenoir County crime/violence community task force (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes from November 10, 2022, and receive the Director's Report. They will discuss BMX ramps with Kevin Albritton, a potential memorial bench at Pearson Park, a programs survey, and an update on the Fairfield playground.

• Discussion of BMX ramps with Kevin Albritton
• Potential memorial bench at Pearson Park
• Programs survey
• Fairfield playground update

The commission approved the minutes from the November 10, 2022 meeting. Members discussed the potential for a park memorial policy and received updates on basketball program growth and playground equipment arrivals.

• Approved November 10, 2022 minutes (Unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will consider a resolution to sell city-owned property at 1114 E. King Street for $337.50, and will vote on setting a date, time, and location for a community forum on crime and violence. The council will also consider ordinance revisions to speed limits requested by NCDOT and approve minutes from the November 15 meeting.

• Resolution authorizing sale of property at 1114 E. King St. to Christopher Noble for $337.50
• Ordinance revisions to speed limit ordinances to correct previous revisions requested by NCDOT
• Approval of a community forum on crime and violence
• Approval of minutes from November 15, 2022 meeting
• Presentation on Kinston Community Health Center's facility on the Shirt Factory Site

City Council approved the sale of property at 1114 E. King Street and readopted a speed limit ordinance to correct a route number error. The Council also scheduled a community forum on crime and violence for December 15. Additionally, the Council approved the minutes from the November 15, 2022 meeting.

• Approved sale of property at 1114 E. King Street
• Readopted speed limit ordinance to correct route number from SR 1389 to SR 1395 (4-0)
• Approved Community Forum on Crime and Violence for Dec 15, 2022
• Approved November 15, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved agenda with addition of closed session (4-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to consider a FY2023 operating budget amendment that appropriates funds for a new UPS system, playground equipment at Bill Fay Park, treadmill equipment, a pool bubble, and the Smithfield Way Sewer Capital Project. The council will also discuss a joint lease agreement with Lenoir County for the Neuse Regional Library, a building inspections interlocal agreement, and a special use permit for an adult care home. A public hearing is scheduled for the special use permit.

• FY2023 Operating Budget Amendment: $89,000 for UPS, $180,000 for Bill Fay Park playground, $101,640 for treadmill, $400,000 for pool bubble, $2,020,506 for Smithfield Way Sewer
• Joint Lease Agreement and MOU with Lenoir County for 510 N. Queen Street (Neuse Regional Library)
• Building Inspections Interlocal Agreement with Lenoir County
• Special Use Permit public hearing for an adult care home
• Special event permit for Kinston Christmas Parade

The Council denied a request to operate a supervised transitional home for men at 800 Darby Avenue. Other actions included approving grant funding for local organizations and the 2023 meeting schedule. A building inspections agreement with Lenoir County was tabled until January 2023.

• Denied Special Use Permit for adult care home at 800 Darby Avenue (4-0)
• Approved Organizational Support Grant Funding totaling $48,300 (4-0)
• Approved 2023 City Council Meeting Schedule (4-0)
• Approved Special Event Permit for Kinston Christmas Parade (4-0)
• Approved November 1, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Tabled Building Inspections Interlocal Agreement with Lenoir County until January 2023 (3-1)
• Approved FY2023 Operating Budget Amendment (4-0)
• Approved Joint Lease Agreement for Neuse Regional Library (4-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes, receive director's reports, welcome a new facilities maintenance technician, and discuss the Fairfield playground update and a sports officials pay review. The agenda is mostly routine administrative business with no major funding or policy decisions listed.

• Approval of October 13, 2022 minutes
• Welcome of new Facilities Maintenance Technician Michael Pridgen
• Fairfield playground update
• Sports officials pay review

The commission approved the minutes from the October 13, 2022 meeting. Members discussed the hiring of a new Facilities Maintenance Technician and upcoming playground equipment delivery. The commission also discussed the need to increase pay for sports officials to improve recruitment.

• Approved October 13, 2022 minutes (Unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will consider amending the budget for the Briery Run Phase V sewer rehabilitation project, increasing the CWSRF loan and total project costs. They will also vote on a resolution to approve an equipment lease with Advantage Sport and Fitness, financed through Macrolease, and authorize the city manager to execute related documents.

• Amend Capital Project Budget Ordinance for Briery Run Phase V (S9206), increasing CWSRF loan from $2,905,630 to $3,011,065
• Adopt resolution approving equipment lease with Advantage Sport and Fitness financed through Macrolease
• Proclamation for Native American Heritage Month
• Approve minutes of October 18, 2022 meeting

The City Council approved a budget amendment for a sewer rehabilitation project and a lease-purchase agreement for community center fitness equipment. The Council also authorized a special event permit for the Christmas lighting ceremony at Pearson Park.

• Approved Capital Project Budget Ordinance amendment for Briery Run Phase V (S9206) for $107,543 (5-0)
• Adopted resolution for $101,640 fitness equipment lease with Advantage Sport and Fitness via Macrolease (5-0)
• Approved Special Event Permit for Christmas Lighting Ceremony at Pearson Park on November 12th (5-0)
• Approved minutes from October 18, 2022 meeting (5-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss and vote on several items, including a special use permit for a tattoo parlor, amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance, a rezoning request, and acceptance of a $3,011,065 loan for sewer rehabilitation. The agenda also includes resolutions supporting a grant application, accepting subdivision streets, a flood resiliency study, and a stormwater capital improvement plan, plus a K-9 retirement and a policy for selling city-owned properties.

• Special use permit for tattoo parlor at 111 North Queen Street
• Amend UDO Section 7.44 to allow first-floor residential in B-2 district (Queen Street exceptions)
• Rezoning from O&I to B-1 & RA-6
• Accept $3,011,065 SRF loan for Briery Run Sewer Rehabilitation Phase V
• Retirement of K-9 Oden and transfer to handler

The Kinston City Council approved a Special Use Permit for a tattoo parlor at 111 N. Queen Street (4-0) after amending the UDO to remove separation requirements from churches and residential zones. The Council also denied a request to allow first-floor residential on Queen Street (4-0), keeping the existing restriction. Other actions included approving a policy for advertising city-owned properties with a 15% minimum bid, accepting streets in the Briarpatch Subdivision, and approving an amended SRF loan of $3,011,065 for sewer rehabilitation.

• Approved Special Use Permit for tattoo parlor at 111 N. Queen Street (4-0)
• Denied UDO amendment to allow first-floor residential on Queen Street (4-0)
• Approved policy for advertising city-owned properties with 15% minimum bid (4-0)
• Approved resolution to accept streets in Briarpatch Subdivision (4-0)
• Approved amended SRF loan of $3,011,065 for Briery Run Sewer Rehabilitation Phase V (4-0)
• Approved resolution supporting Rural Transformation Grant application (4-0)
• Approved rezoning of 33 acres on Airport Road from O&I to B-1 & RA-6 (4-0)
• Approved Special Event Permit for Fall Festival at 711 Phillips Road (4-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear director's reports, and discuss several operational items. These include a proposed adjustment to baseball/softball tournament fees, a change to recreation office hours, an update on the Fairfield/Bill Fay playgrounds, and the upcoming NCRPA Conference.

• Baseball/softball tournament fee adjustment
• Recreation office hours adjustment
• Fairfield/Bill Fay playgrounds update
• NCRPA Conference 10/17-19/22

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission voted unanimously to discontinue the optional $30 per-field daily prep service for baseball/softball tournaments, citing insufficient manpower and overtime costs. The commission also voted unanimously to change administrative office hours from 8:30am-5:30pm to 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday, effective November 7, 2022. The September 8, 2022 meeting minutes were approved with an addition. No other decisions were made; items discussed included the Fairfield playground order, Bill Fay playground closure, football equipment delays, and an upcoming Movie in the Park event.

• Approved September 8, 2022 minutes with addition (unanimous)
• Discontinued optional $30 field prep per field for baseball/softball tournaments (unanimous)
• Changed administrative office hours to 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday, effective Nov 7, 2022 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will consider a $1,407,990 FY2023 budget amendment funded by transferring ARPA money to offset employee salaries, freeing general funds for items like tennis court resurfacing, stadium improvements, and grants. The council will also vote on selecting a firm to administer a single-family rehab loan program, initiating an upset bid process for a property, accepting Trenton Road as a city street, and creating handicap parking spaces. Several proclamations and informational updates are on the agenda.

• FY2023 budget amendment: $1,407,990 from ARPA funds for salaries, enabling $675,000 for Grainger Stadium scoreboard, $500,000 for Emma Web PartF grant, $100,000 for grants to organizations, $35,000 for tennis court resurfacing, $31,990 for Holloway Pool renovations
• Selection of Insight Planning & Development, LLC to administer the Essential Single-Family Rehab Loan Pool Program for 2022
• Authorize city attorney to initiate upset bid process for property at 1114 E. Kinston Street
• Resolution to accept Trenton Road as a city street
• Ordinance to create designated on-street handicap parking spaces in the 100 block of West Caswell and 1400 block of East Shine Street

The Kinston City Council voted 4-0 to table the upset bid process for a city-owned property at 1114 E. King Street until guidelines for selling property are established. The council also approved a $1.4M budget amendment using ARPA funds, accepted Trenton Road as a city street, and created on-street handicap parking spaces on Caswell and Shine streets. Several proclamations and presentations were made, including for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Public Power Week.

• Tabled upset bid process for 1114 E. King Street until property sale guidelines are set (4-0)
• Approved FY2023 Operating Budget Amendment transferring $1,407,990 from ARPA funds to General Fund (4-0)
• Adopted resolution to accept Trenton Road as a city street (4-0)
• Adopted ordinance creating on-street handicap parking spaces in 100 block of West Caswell and 1400 block of East Shine Street (4-0)
• Approved selection of Insight Planning & Development, LLC to administer Essential Single-Family Rehab Loan Pool Program (4-0)
• Approved minutes of September 6 and September 16, 2022 meetings (4-0)

City Council

This is a special meeting of the Kinston City Council scheduled for Friday, September 16, 2022, at 3:00 pm. The agenda contains only the meeting header and list of council members, with no specific items listed for discussion or decision. It appears to be procedural or the agenda details are not provided.

The Kinston City Council unanimously approved a resolution to apply for a $5 million state grant for the Adkin Branch Flood Mitigation Project. They also approved an agreement with Duke Energy Progress to backfeed energy during construction, and a resolution to apply for a $400,000 stormwater planning grant. All votes were 4-0.

• Approved resolution to apply for $5,000,000 state grant for Adkin Branch Flood Mitigation Project (4-0)
• Approved agreement with Duke Energy Progress to backfeed energy through city electric system during construction (4-0)
• Approved resolution to apply for $400,000 Stormwater Planning Grant for condition assessment (4-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes and receive director's reports. They will discuss updates on the Emma Webb PARTF grant, the Fairfield playground, a swim club management contract, fall soccer, and a Movie in the Park event.

• Update on Emma Webb PARTF Grant
• Fairfield playground update
• LWA - Swim Club Management contract
• Josh Bass to discuss Fall Soccer
• Movie in the Park, 10/15/22

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission met on September 8, 2022, and approved the minutes from the August 11 meeting. Staff reported that the department received a $500,000 Parks and Recreation Trust Fund grant for the Emma Webb project, which will be matched by the city. The commission also heard updates on the fall soccer program, a Movie in the Park event, and the closure of the Bill Fay playground due to safety issues.

• Approved minutes from August 11, 2022 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a regular meeting with several action items, including public hearings and approvals for economic development, drainage easement termination, flood mitigation engineering contracts, a water park management agreement, property tax settlement, and a utility billing system upgrade. The council will also receive updates on a parks grant and downtown revitalization.

• Consider approval of engineering agreements for Adkin Branch Flood Mitigation Project with Rivers & Associates: $359,980 (Phase I) and $1,208,590 (Phase II)
• Consider approval of agreement with Hansen Technologies to upgrade Utility CIS and Billing System in the amount of $496,296
• Consider public hearing and approval of Economic Development Agreement for Butterfield Subdivision
• Consider approval of Swim Club Management Agreement for Lions Water Adventure Water Park (2-year extension, $64,500/year)
• Consider adoption of resolution for annual settlement of property taxes collected for FY 2021-2022

The council approved a $500,000 Parks and Recreation Trust Fund grant for Emma Webb Park renovation, along with an economic development agreement for the Butterfield Subdivision and engineering agreements for the Adkin Branch flood mitigation project. The council also approved a Swim Club management agreement for Lions Water Adventure Water Park and a $496,296 utility billing system upgrade. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved the $500,000 PARTF grant for Emma Webb Park renovation
• Approved the Economic Development Agreement for Butterfield Subdivision
• Approved termination of a drainage easement in Butterfield Subdivision
• Approved engineering agreements for Adkin Branch flood mitigation: $359,980 (Phase I) and $1,208,590 (Phase II)
• Approved Swim Club Management Agreement for Lions Water Adventure Water Park
• Adopted resolution for annual settlement of property taxes (97.59% collected)
• Approved $496,296 agreement with Hansen Technologies for utility billing system upgrade
• Authorized Rural Transformation Grant application (up to $950,000)

City Council

The Kinston City Council approved a $250,000 Golden Leaf Foundation grant for the Adkin Branch flood mitigation project, accepted a $2,905,630 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan for the Briery Run Sewer Rehabilitation Phase V, and awarded the project to Spiniello Company for $2,922,465. The council also entered a closed session for personnel matters and discussed the police strategic plan, utility system upgrade, and organizational support funding.

• Approved $250,000 Golden Leaf Foundation grant for Adkin Branch flood mitigation (5-0)
• Accepted $2,905,630 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan for Briery Run Sewer Rehabilitation Phase V (5-0)
• Awarded Briery Run Sewer Rehabilitation Phase V to Spiniello Company for $2,922,465 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of August 2, 2022 meeting (5-0)
• Entered closed session for personnel matter (5-0)
• Adopted agenda with added closed session and organizational support update (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve the July minutes and receive director's reports on several ongoing projects, including a baseball coaches follow-up, tennis court resurfacing, a swim club management contract, and a playground update. No votes on new policies are scheduled; the agenda is primarily updates and routine approvals.

• Approval of July 14, 2022 minutes
• Baseball coaches follow-up meeting scheduled for 8/22/22
• Fairfield tennis courts resurfacing update
• Update on LWA Swim Club Management contract
• Update on Fairfield playground

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission unanimously accepted a donation from The Gate of Lenoir County of 12 defibrillators for recreation facilities. Staff reported delays in resurfacing Fairfield tennis courts, affecting the September state tournament, and discussed plans for a new pool at Holloway and a playground grant. The meeting also included updates on a baseball coaches meeting and lease negotiations for Lions Water Adventure.

• Approved minutes from July 14, 2022 (unanimous)
• Accepted donation of 12 defibrillators from The Gate of Lenoir County (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will consider a FY2023 operating budget amendment totaling $3,046,301 to fund outstanding purchase orders from the prior fiscal year, using fund balance appropriations across all major funds. The council will also consider adopting ordinance revisions to match NCDOT speed limits, approving a special event application for the ENC Pride Festival 2022, and making appointments to regional boards. The meeting includes citizen comments, recognitions, and a closed session.

• FY2023 Operating Budget Amendment: $3,046,301 for purchase order rollovers, funded by fund balance (General Fund +$1,878,110, Electric Fund +$652,820, Wastewater Fund +$347,708, Water Resources Fund +$119,106, Facilities & Property Mgmt +$43,385, Public Services +$5,173)
• Ordinance revisions to match NCDOT speed limit ordinances
• Special event application for ENC Pride Festival 2022
• Appointment of Steve Miller as First Alternate to NC Eastern Municipal Power Agency Board
• Reappointment of Steve Miller to Neuse River Water and Sewer Authority Board

The Kinston City Council unanimously approved a $10 million FY2023 operating budget amendment to re-establish encumbrances for outstanding purchase orders. They also approved revisions to city speed limit ordinances to match NCDOT language, and a special event permit for the ENC Pride Festival 2022 at Pearson Park. Additionally, Steve Miller was appointed as first alternate to the NC Eastern Municipal Power Agency Board and reappointed to the Neuse River Water and Sewer Authority Board.

• Approved FY2023 Operating Budget Amendment for $10,004,324 (5-0)
• Approved city ordinance revisions to match NCDOT speed limit ordinances (5-0)
• Approved special event permit for ENC Pride Festival 2022 on October 8 at Pearson Park (5-0)
• Appointed Steve Miller as First Alternate to NC Eastern Municipal Power Agency Board (5-0)
• Reappointed Steve Miller to Neuse River Water and Sewer Authority Board (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 19, 2022 meeting (5-0)
• Adopted agenda with addition of closed session for personnel and economic development (5-0)
• Entered closed session for personnel and economic development (5-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss housing authority updates, residential development proposals, and an ADA transition plan. The regular meeting includes a public hearing on a voluntary annexation request and consideration of special permits for community events.

• Resolution to accept $1,208,590 grant from NC Dept. of Emergency Management for Adkin Branch Flood Mitigation Phase II Engineering Services
• Public hearing on voluntary annexation request by KATCO Partners, LLC for a 50.16-acre parcel near Briery Run Road
• Special permit for Summerfest 2022
• Special permit for St. Mary's Ninth Annual Neighborhood Block Party
• Special permit for Mother Earth Brewing Ironclad Half Marathon and 5K

The Kinston City Council unanimously selected Rhonda Barwick as the new City Manager. The council also approved a $1,208,590 grant for flood mitigation engineering, approved special event permits, and discussed several residential development proposals. A public hearing on a voluntary annexation was delayed pending further discussions.

• Appointed Rhonda Barwick as City Manager (4-0)
• Approved $1,208,590 grant for Adkin Branch Flood Mitigation Phase II (4-0)
• Approved special permit for Summerfest 2022 (4-0)
• Approved special permit for St. Mary's block party (4-0)
• Approved special permit for Ironclad Half Marathon and 5k (4-0)
• Delayed action on KATACO annexation request
• Approved June 7, 2022 minutes (3-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially adopt a policy requiring reservations for gatherings of 50 or more in any park space. They will also receive updates on baseball, the Planetarium Supervisor position, and review the FY2023 budget capital list. The meeting includes approval of the previous minutes and director's reports.

• Proposed policy: gatherings of 50+ require park reservation
• Update on baseball programs
• Update on Planetarium Supervisor position
• Review of FY2023 budget capital list

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission voted unanimously to table a proposed policy requiring reservations for gatherings of 50 or more in any park space until the next meeting. The commission also approved minutes from June 9 and June 14, 2022, and received updates on the baseball program, the Planetarium Supervisor position, and the 2023 fiscal year capital budget.

• Approved June 9, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved June 14, 2022 ZOOM minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled policy requiring reservations for gatherings of 50+ in park spaces (unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss and vote on the FY2022-2023 annual budget ordinance, several construction bid awards, and various policy items. The agenda includes a proposed FY2022 budget amendment, new park hours, a fireworks permit, and a lease listing agreement. The meeting is open to the public and will be streamed online.

• FY2022 Operating Budget Amendment increasing General Fund by $196,371
• Annual Budget Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2022-2023
• Bid award to Tripp Bro's, Inc. for 2022 Road Improvement Projects: $362,689.54 total
• Bid award to Barnhill Contracting for 2022 Parking Lot Improvements: $314,700
• Bid award to Lucas Pavement Maintenance for NCGTP Terminal Waterline Replacement: $723,662.10 total

The Kinston City Council approved the FY2023 annual budget ordinance totaling $114,355,066, which includes no increases in utility rates or property taxes. The council also approved a part-time and temporary part-time hourly grade scale adjustment, raising wages for some employees and adding $63,000 to the budget. Several construction contracts were awarded for road, parking lot, and waterline projects, and a fireworks special permit for July 2 was removed from the agenda.

• Approved FY2023 budget ordinance of $114,355,066 (4-1)
• Approved part-time hourly grade scale with $63,000 budget adjustment (5-0)
• Approved $362,689.54 road improvement contract to Tripp Bro's, Inc. (consent agenda)
• Approved $314,700 parking lot improvements contract to Barnhill Contracting (consent agenda)
• Approved $723,662.10 waterline replacement contract to Lucas Pavement Maintenance (consent agenda)
• Approved resolution accepting Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan (consent agenda)
• Approved annexation petition for Wyncroft Village with public hearing set for July 19, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved Summerfest 2022 special event permit (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear director's reports, and discuss several items including a proposed change to park hours, a rental space listing agreement for the Kinston Community Center, and an update on LWA. The commission will also consider approving Bryan Hanks for the Recreation Commission.

• Discussion of change of park hours by Sue Ellen Maddux
• Discussion of KCC rental space listing agreement
• Approval of Bryan Hanks for the Recreation Commission
• Update on LWA

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission met on June 9, 2022, but lacked a quorum due to low attendance. Members present agreed to donate the picnic shelter and yard space at Neuseway Nature Park for the 'Kinston Gives Back 2022' fundraiser, which will benefit two local children with cancer. They also discussed changing park hours to 'Dawn to Dusk' and agreed on a 10pm closing for two tennis courts, but no formal votes were taken. The commission will hold a Zoom meeting to vote on these items before presenting them to the City Council on June 21, 2022.

• Agreed to donate picnic shelter and yard space at Neuseway Nature Park for Kinston Gives Back 2022 fundraiser
• Agreed on 10pm closing time for Fairfield and Bill Fay tennis courts, with signage prohibiting non-tennis/pickleball activities
• Discussed changing park hours signage to 'Dawn to Dusk or until supervised activities are completed' (no vote)
• Discussed listing vacant KCC rental space with Nathan Perry Realty (no vote)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a public hearing on the FY 22-23 operating budget, consider approving special event permits for Juneteenth and Summerfest, and discuss amending the Youth Protection Ordinance. The agenda also includes proclamations for Global Garbage Man Day and National Gun Violence Day, as well as a vaccine program update.

• Public hearing on FY 22-23 operating budget
• Special event permit for Juneteenth Community Celebration
• Special event permit for Summerfest 2022
• Amendment to Youth Protection Ordinance
• Proclamations for Global Garbage Man Day and National Gun Violence Day

The Kinston City Council voted unanimously to table a proposed amendment to the Youth Protection Ordinance that would have set a 9 pm curfew for minors, and separately voted to suspend enforcement of the existing 2006 curfew ordinance. The council also approved special events for Juneteenth and Summerfest, and held a public hearing on the FY 22-23 operating budget with no public comments.

• Tabled proposed curfew amendment (5-0)
• Suspended enforcement of 2006 curfew ordinance (5-0)
• Approved Juneteenth Community Celebration special event (5-0)
• Approved Summerfest 2022 special event (5-0)
• Adopted agenda with added closed session (5-0)
• Approved minutes of May 17 and 18 meetings (5-0)
• Entered closed session for personnel (5-0)
• Returned to open session (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will review an ordinance to amend the FY2022 operating budget using ARPA funds to offset employee salaries and benefits. The agenda also includes a resolution for the sale of real property at 730 & 732 Fields Street and a lease agreement with the State of North Carolina.

• Adoption of FY2022 Operating Budget Amendment using ARPA funds
• Resolution authorizing the sale of real property at 730 & 732 Fields Street
• Lease Agreement with the State of NC for parking and recreation near Kinston Community Center
• Capital Project Ordinance Amendment for Transportation Infrastructure Projects (G9144)
• Update on the Holloway Pool Project

The Kinston City Council terminated the existing 2012 lease with the State of NC for the parking lot near the Kinston Community Center and approved a new 20-year lease at $1,000 per year, down from $20,000. The council also adopted several budget amendments, approved the sale of two properties, and supported funding for a new library chiller. The meeting was recessed and reconvened the next day to continue budget presentations.

• Terminated 2012 lease with State of NC for KCC parking lot (5-0)
• Approved new 20-year lease with State of NC at $1,000/year (5-0)
• Adopted FY2022 Operating Budget Amendment ordinance (5-0)
• Adopted Capital Project Ordinance for Transportation Infrastructure Projects (5-0)
• Approved sale of real property at 730 & 732 Fields Street (5-0)
• Approved $58,675 for Neuse Regional Library chiller (5-0)
• Adopted resolution honoring Former Mayor Johnnie R. Mosley (5-0)
• Adopted resolution honoring Former State Rep. George Graham (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will review the April 14, 2022 minutes and receive reports from the Director. Discussions include rental rates for bounce houses, baseball program updates, and the Holloway Pool project.

• Discussion of Bounce House rental rates
• Update on baseball program
• Update on Holloway Pool project

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission unanimously approved a new $100 fee for any facility rental that includes a bounce house, with or without a water feature, plus a $50 refundable deposit when a certificate of liability insurance is provided. The commission also approved the April 14, 2022 meeting minutes and received updates on the PARTF grant application, the baseball program, and the Holloway Pool renovation project, which is scheduled to start June 20, 2022.

• Approved $100 fee for bounce houses at facility rentals, plus $50 refundable deposit with insurance certificate (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 14, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a regular meeting on May 3, 2022, with a short agenda. The main action item is a request to approve a special event permit for a fireworks discharge at the BBQ Festival on the Neuse on May 6, 2022. The council will also issue a proclamation for Professional Municipal Clerks Week and hold a closed session for attorney-client privilege.

• Special event permit for fireworks discharge at Neuseway Park on May 6, 2022, approx. 9:30 pm
• Proclamation for 53rd Annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week
• Closed session under NCGS 143-318.11(a)(3) for attorney/client privilege
• Approval of minutes from April 12 and April 19, 2022 meetings

The Kinston City Council approved a special event permit for a fireworks display on May 6, 2022, as part of the BBQ Festival on the Neuse. The council also adopted the agenda, approved minutes from April 12 and 19, and issued proclamations for Municipal Clerks Week and Teachers Appreciation Week. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included citizen comments and reports.

• Approved special event permit for fireworks discharge on May 6 (5-0)
• Adopted meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes from April 12 and 19, 2022 (5-0)
• Proclaimed May 1-7 as Professional Municipal Clerks Week
• Proclaimed May 2-6 as Teachers Appreciation Week

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting covering multiple items, including authorizing an interlocal agreement for joint inspections with Lenoir County, accepting $162,000 in rehabilitation loan funds, amending the ARPA fund project to use $5,557,015 for government services, and applying for wastewater funding. The action agenda includes three rezoning requests and two special event permits. The meeting also includes consent agenda items and citizen comment.

• Authorize City and County Managers to develop interlocal agreement for joint inspections services with Lenoir County
• Accept 2022 Essential Single-Family Rehabilitation Loan Funds up to $162,000
• Amend ARPA Funds Project (C2908) to appropriate $5,557,015 for government services
• Apply for Wastewater Reserve Program funding for Oliver Glass Sewer Improvements and Briery Run Phase VI Sewer Rehabilitation
• Rezoning requests: RA-5 & B-1 to I-2 (General Industrial), B-1 to O&I (Office and Institutional), and conditional use permit amendment

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear director's reports, and receive updates on baseball rules, the PARTF Grant, and ARP funding. The agenda is mostly routine updates and introductions, with no major decisions listed.

• Approval of March 10, 2022 minutes
• Introduction of Leigh Britt
• Update on baseball rules
• Update on PARTF Grant
• Update on ARP funding

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission unanimously approved updated baseball All-Star selection rules, changing how coaches and players are chosen. The commission also discussed the upcoming PARTF grant application for the Emma Webb project and noted City Council-approved ARP funding for several park improvements.

• Approved updated baseball All-Star selection rules (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 10, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will consider approving the final allocation of remaining American Rescue Plan Act funds (about $5.25 million) for capital purchases, including police vehicles, radios, and equipment. They will also vote on purchasing 12 police vehicles for $534,513.72, buying transformers for $317,033, and changing speed limits on Doctors Drive and Nurses Lane. Several special event permits and a property sale will also be considered.

• Approve $534,513.72 purchase of 12 police vehicles with up-fitting via NC Sheriff's Association program
• Approve $317,033 purchase of transformers from Wesco International
• Approve final allocation of remaining ARPA funds (approx. $5.25M) for capital needs
• Public hearing on ordinance to reduce speed limits on Doctors Drive and Nurses Lane from 35 mph to 25 mph
• Consider acceptance of initial offer to purchase city-owned property and authorize upset bid process

The Kinston City Council approved allocating American Rescue Plan Act funds for police and fire vehicles, a fire training facility, and the Vernon Avenue sewer replacement, tabling other ARP requests for further discussion. The council also approved several other items including speed limit changes, a water tank maintenance agreement, transformer purchases, and special event permits. A separate meeting was scheduled for April 12 to discuss remaining ARP allocations.

• Approved ARP funding for police/fire vehicles, fire training facility, and Vernon Avenue sewer replacement (5-0)
• Approved speed limit reduction on Doctors Drive and Nurses Lane from 35 to 25 mph (5-0)
• Approved amended water tank maintenance agreement for $255,702 (5-0)
• Approved purchase of transformers for $317,000 (5-0)
• Approved purchase of 12 police vehicles with upfitting for $534,513.72 (5-0)
• Approved special events permits for Festival on the Neuse, Tate C. Jenkins Memorial 10K/5K, and Down East Wood Ducks fireworks (5-0 each)
• Approved acceptance of initial offer to purchase city-owned properties at 730 and 732 Fields Street and initiated upset bid process (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Leigh Britt to Parks and Recreation Commission (5-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will meet to vote on several capital project ordinances, including sewer rehabilitation and waterline replacements. The agenda also includes a presentation on the Glenn Raven Mill redevelopment and a police department update regarding firearm seizures.

• Amendment to Briary Run Phase V Sewer Rehabilitation budget increasing total revenues to $2,963,743
• Establishment of NCGTP Terminal Waterline Replacement Project budget totaling $822,426
• Establishment of State SCIF Directed Grant Capital Project for $100,000 in building improvements
• Presentation on Glenn Raven Mill Redevelopment Update
• Police Department update regarding K9 usage and illegal firearm seizure

The Kinston City Council approved a $2.9 million budget amendment for the Briary Run Phase V capital project, adopted budgets for the NCGTP Terminal Waterline Replacement and State SCIF Directed Grant projects, and approved the March 1 meeting minutes. The council also heard presentations on the J.H. Sampson School revitalization and Glenn Raven Mill redevelopment, and received updates on police K9 operations, illegal firearm seizures, and COVID-19 vaccination efforts.

• Approved $2.9M budget amendment for Briary Run Phase V (4-0)
• Adopted $716,300 budget for NCGTP Terminal Waterline Replacement (4-0)
• Adopted $100,000 budget for State SCIF Directed Grant parking lot resurfacing (4-0)
• Approved minutes of March 1, 2022 meeting (4-0)
• Adopted agenda (4-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approving the previous meeting's minutes, receiving the director's report, recognizing Kelly Jarman, introducing Billy Hooker, and getting an update on programs and projects. No votes on specific projects or contracts are listed.

• Approval of February 10, 2022 minutes
• Recognition of Kelly Jarman
• Introduction of Billy Hooker
• Update on programs and projects

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission unanimously approved the appointment of Leigh Britt to fill a vacant commission seat, pending City Council approval. The commission also heard updates on the Fairfield playground replacement, which is awaiting budget and ARP fund decisions, and discussed various facility improvements and program expansions.

• Approved appointment of Leigh Britt to Recreation Commission (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of February 10, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a public hearing and consider resolutions to name a new road section "Nurses Lane" and accept it, along with an extension of Doctors Drive, as city streets. They will also consider an ordinance to add stop signs on these roads, approve the FY 2022 audit contract with RH CPAs, PLLC for $47,355 to $49,555, accept a State Capital and Infrastructure Fund directed grant, and approve a special event application for the 8th Annual Stew and Brew. The meeting includes a presentation on the city manager search and a fire department update on its internal training academy.

• Public hearing to name new road section "Nurses Lane"
• Resolution accepting Nurses Lane and extension of Doctors Drive as city streets
• Ordinance to add stop signs on Nurses Lane and Doctors Drive
• Approval of FY 2022 audit contract with RH CPAs, PLLC ($47,355-$49,555)
• Special event application for 8th Annual Stew and Brew

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss and decide on several items, including a new pay scale for city employees, a resolution to advertise property tax liens totaling $567,053.69, and a master plan for Emma Webb Park. The council will also hold public hearings on a CDBG-NR budget amendment and Unified Development Ordinance updates, and consider applying for a $500,000 PARTF grant for park renovations.

• Consider new pay scale for city employees and discuss funding
• Resolution to advertise property tax liens for unpaid 2021 taxes totaling $567,053.69
• Public hearing and approval for CDBG-NR project budget amendment and IBTS consultant contract
• Public hearing and approval for Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) updates to meet 160D statutory requirements
• Request to apply for PARTF grant of $500,000 for Emma Webb Park renovations

The Kinston City Council approved a new pay scale for all full-time city employees, with increases ranging from 3% to 19%, funded by reducing the planned transfer to the General Fund balance. The council also approved the Emma Webb Park Master Plan (4-1), authorized advertisement of property tax liens, set a public hearing to name a new road 'Nurses Lane', approved a $500,000 PARTF grant application for park renovations, and approved a CDBG budget amendment. All other agenda items were approved unanimously.

• Approved new pay scale for city employees (5-0)
• Approved Emma Webb Park Master Plan (4-1)
• Approved resolution to advertise property tax liens (5-0)
• Set public hearing for March 1, 2022 to name new road 'Nurses Lane' (5-0)
• Approved application for $500,000 PARTF grant for Emma Webb Park renovations (5-0)
• Approved CDBG-NR budget amendment and IBTS contract amendment (5-0)
• Approved Unified Development Ordinance updates (5-0)
• Approved appointments to Planning Board and Historic District Commission (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Commission will review the January 13, 2022 minutes and receive reports from the Director. Discussion topics include updates on baseball programs, basketball registration finances, and the Freedom Classic event.

• Review of January 13, 2022 minutes
• Update on baseball program
• Financial update on basketball registration
• Update on Freedom Classic (2/25-2/27/22)
• Discussion of applications for vacant SW/CSS commission seat

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission approved several items, including hosting the Swim 1922 event at Holloway pool on May 21, 2022, amended baseball rules, and the appointment of Billy Hooker to fill a vacant commission seat. The commission also reappointed Sue Ellen Maddux and Gary Wojeski. A letter requesting a new City Council representative was withdrawn after the current member, Antonio Hardy, explained his absences.

• Approved Swim 1922 event at Holloway pool on May 21, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved amended baseball rules (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Billy Hooker to Recreation Commission (unanimous)
• Approved reappointment of Sue Ellen Maddux and Gary Wojeski (unanimous)
• Withdrew letter requesting new City Council representative (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings regarding an updated Pedestrian Plan and a new Economic Developer Rider for electric utility customers. The agenda also includes several budget amendments, grant approvals, and zoning requests.

• Public hearing for Updated Pedestrian Plan
• Public hearing for Economic Developer Rider E-19 for electric utility customers
• Request to amend Unified Development Ordinance to permit car wash/detailing in B-2 District
• Approval of FY2022 Operating Budget Amendment
• Approval of 2021 Edward Byrne JAG Grant (P9144)

The Kinston City Council approved Economic Developer Rider E-19, a new electric rate option offering up to 25% credit for new or expanding customers over five years. The council also approved the Edward Byrne JAG Grant for $24,027, allocated $50,000 in ARP funds for a new walk-in freezer at Grainger Stadium, and tabled the updated Pedestrian Plan and a car wash/detailing zoning amendment for further review.

• Approved Economic Developer Rider E-19 for electric utility customers (5-0)
• Approved Edward Byrne JAG Grant for $24,027 (5-0)
• Approved $50,000 ARP funds for walk-in freezer and masonry work at Grainger Stadium (5-0)
• Tabled updated Pedestrian Plan until future meeting (5-0)
• Tabled car wash/detailing text amendment for B-2 zoning district (5-0)
• Approved Special Revenue Ordinance Amendment for NCHFA 2019 Essential Single-Family Rehabilitation (5-0)
• Approved FY2022 Operating Budget Amendment (5-0)
• Approved Special Revenue Ordinance for 2021 Edward Byrne JAG Grant (5-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss and vote on several items, including a capital project ordinance for an electric vehicle charging station funded by a state grant, a bid award for a new excavator, and updates to the Unified Development Ordinance to comply with state law. The council will also review the first quarter budget report and consider a resolution to extend an interlocal agreement with Lenoir County.

• Ordinance to establish Capital Project Fund for EV charging station (VW-DC Fast Program Grant E9135) with $85,133 total budget
• Bid award to Gregory Poole for $340,000 for a Caterpillar 320 Excavator
• Resolution to extend Interlocal Agreement with Lenoir County
• Discussion of Unified Development Ordinance updates for NC Chapter 160D compliance
• First quarter FY 2021-22 budget review: revenues $22,920,977, expenditures $21,736,783

The Kinston City Council selected BakerTilly as the search and recruitment firm for the City Manager search in a 5-0 vote. The council also approved a consent agenda that included establishing a capital project fund for an electric vehicle charging station, awarding a $340,000 bid for a new excavator, and extending an interlocal agreement with Lenoir County. A motion to table the Planning Director recruitment until a new City Manager is hired was approved 4-1.

• Selected BakerTilly as city manager search firm (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda: EV charging station fund, $340,000 excavator bid, Lenoir County interlocal extension (4-1)
• Tabled Planning Director recruitment until new City Manager hired (4-1)
• Approved January 4, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear director's reports, and discuss several COVID-19 related items, including an updated mask mandate, testing at Fairfield and Holloway, and the basketball program. They will also discuss a vacant recreation commission seat.

• Updated COVID-19 mask mandate for the City of Kinston
• Update on the Basketball program
• COVID-19 testing at Fairfield and Holloway
• Vacant CSS/SW Recreation Commission seat

The commission approved a new COVID-19 mask policy for Parks & Recreation facilities, requiring masks upon entry/exit and in public areas but not during exercise, effective until February 1, 2022. They also unanimously voted to request a replacement for Commissioner Antonio Hardy due to his 33% attendance record, and approved keeping Sue Ellen Maddux as Chair and Steve Oliver as Vice-Chair.

• Approved new mask policy for Parks & Recreation facilities (unanimous)
• Approved letter to Mayor requesting replacement for Antonio Hardy due to attendance (unanimous)
• Approved Sue Ellen Maddux as Chair and Steve Oliver as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of December 9, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will review a renewed ten-year agreement with the Neuse Regional Library. The agenda also includes a rezoning request for 2818 Hull Road and approval of a lease for Lions Water Adventure parking.

• Renewal of Neuse Regional Library agreement through June 30, 2032
• Rezoning request for 2818 Hull Road from B-1 to RA-20
• Approval of lease agreement for Lions Water Adventure overflow parking lot
• Presentation of the FY 2021 Annual Financial Report
• Approval of CDBG-CV Vaccination Coordinator Position

The Kinston City Council denied a request to rezone 2818 Hull Road from B-1 to RA-20 by a 4-1 vote, following a public hearing and a Planning Board recommendation to deny. The council tabled a lease agreement for the Lions Water Adventure overflow parking lot to explore other options. It approved a ten-year renewal of the Neuse Regional Library Agreement and set a public hearing for February 1, 2022, on a proposed Economic Development Rider for electric rates. The council also approved a CDBG-CV Vaccination Coordinator position.

• Approved Neuse Regional Library Agreement renewal (5-0)
• Set public hearing for Feb 1, 2022 on Economic Development Rider (5-0)
• Tabled Lions Water Adventure overflow parking lease agreement (5-0)
• Denied rezoning of 2818 Hull Road from B-1 to RA-20 (4-1)
• Approved CDBG-CV Vaccination Coordinator position (5-0)
• Approved agenda with added closed session (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Dec 7, 2021 meeting (5-0)
• Entered closed session for attorney-client and personnel matters (5-0)