Kinston public meetings in 2023

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission will meet to approve prior minutes, hear director's reports, and discuss updates on the Kinston Community Center bubble and Emma Webb Park project. They will also consider changing the basketball bonus free-throw rule to align with the new NCHSAA standard.

• Update on KCC bubble and Emma Webb Park project
• Proposed basketball rule change: two shots on 5th common foul each quarter, reset each quarter

City Council

The Kinston City Council is holding its organizational meeting, which includes a public hearing and vote on a rezoning request for a 0.60-acre parcel at the corner of Hull Road and Daly Waldrop Road. The request would change the zoning from B-1 (General Business) to RA-6 (Residential), and staff recommends approval. The meeting also includes swearing in officials, recognizing retirees and outgoing councilmember Sammy Aiken, and approving the 2024 meeting schedule.

• Rezoning request by Jerry Zeagler for parcel NC PIN 4506-55-0242 at Hull Road and Daly Waldrop Road from B-1 to RA-6, with public hearing
• Approval of 2024 City Council meeting schedule
• Oaths of office for Councilmember Felicia Solomon, Barbara Seaforth, and Antonio Hardy
• Recognition of four retirees: Danny Daughety (Police Dept) and Stanley Sullivan (Fire Dept), plus others
• Recognition of service for Councilmember Sammy C. Aiken (2011–2023)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss and act on several items, including budget status reports, a revised construction timeline for the Kinston Community Health Center, and a special event permit for the Christmas parade. The council will also consider consent agenda items such as a utility service request, a hazard mitigation plan amendment, and a power sales agreement.

• Kinston Community Health Center construction timeline revised
• Utility service request for Wyncroft Subdivision
• Resolution to amend Neuse River Basin Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan
• FY 22-23 Q4 and FY 23-24 Q1 budget status reports
• Special event permit for Kinston Christmas Parade

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission will meet to approve minutes, hear updates on facilities and programs, and discuss forming a parks safety committee. They will also address the soccer mercy rule and fee schedule committee as old business.

• Update on Holly Jolly from Kelly Cannon
• Soccer mercy rule discussion
• Fee schedule committee update
• Facility updates: KCC bubble, Holloway bath house & bleachers, Emma Webb project, Pink Hill gym, Fairfield window tint for pickleball
• USTA grant update

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a public hearing and consider a rezoning request for parcels at 500/502 and 504/506/508 Dewey Street from B-1 (General Business) to RA-6 (Residential). The council will also vote on resolutions for BRIC grant funding, sale of property at 907 N. Independence Street, and special event permits for downtown lighting and Christmas parade. Several proclamations and informational presentations are also on the agenda.

• Rezoning request for 0.51 acres at Dewey Street from B-1 to RA-6 (Residential)
• Resolution to apply for Building Resilient Infrastructure in Communities (BRIC) funding
• Resolution authorizing sale of real property at 907 N. Independence Street
• Special event permit for annual downtown lighting event
• Special event permit for Kinston Christmas Parade

Mayor's Crime Intervention Task Force

The Mayor's Crime Intervention Task Force is meeting to consider its agenda and approve minutes from August 30, 2023. The main business is a series of presentations from state and local officials on crime and violence prevention, including the Attorney General, a violence prevention expert, and the Lenoir County DSS director.

• Presentation by Attorney General Josh Stein
• Dr. Gerard Tate on violence prevention landscape in NC
• Jeff Harrison, Director, Lenoir County DSS, speaking
• Approval of minutes from August 30, 2023

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting covering several contract awards and permits. Key items include a $57,125 rehabilitation contract for a lead-paint-affected home at 1110 Candlewood Drive, a new inflatable air structure purchase, and laptop replacements for police personnel. The council will also consider three special event permits and reappointments to the Tourism Development Authority.

• Approve $57,125 bid award to Evans Custom Builders for rehab of 1110 Candlewood Drive (ESFRLP Case #1)
• Approve ASATI contract to purchase new inflatable air structure and heater/blower/generator
• Approve laptop replacements for Kinston Police Department personnel
• Consider special event permits for East Kinston block party, Fall Festival at Kinston First PH Church, and 31st Annual Ride for Kennedy Children's Home
• Reappointments to Tourism Development Authority: Antonio Hardy, Joe Hargitt, Stephen Hill

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve the previous meeting's minutes and receive director's reports. Updates will cover the Kinston Community Center bubble and HVAC, the Emma Webb Park project, and Cycle NC and USTA grants from Scott Alston.

• Approval of September 14, 2023 minutes
• Update on KCC bubble & HVAC
• Emma Webb Park project update
• Cycle NC & USTA grant updates from Scott Alston

City Council

The Kinston City Council will consider adopting an ordinance to establish the Vernon Avenue Sewer Rehabilitation Project (S9211), a $2,358,893.40 capital project funded largely by ARPA funds. The council will also vote on an engineering agreement amendment for the Lawrence Heights Water and Sewer Replacement Project. Several proclamations and presentations are scheduled, including for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Public Power Week.

• Ordinance to establish Vernon Avenue Sewer Rehabilitation Project (S9211) with $2,358,893.40 budget
• Approval of engineering agreement amendment for Lawrence Heights Water and Sewer Replacement Project
• Proclamation for Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October 2023)
• Proclamation for Public Power Week (October 1-7, 2023)
• Presentations from FY 24 Organizational Support Grant applicants

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss a possible downtown social district, weed abatement, and Global TransPark zoning, and to consider resolutions for a $5 million LASII grant for the Adkin Branch Flood Mitigation Project, grant/loan funding for the Herritage Sewer Replacement Project, adoption of the Wastewater Asset Management Plan, and approval of the Water Shortage Response Plan. The regular meeting also includes special event permits for Cycle North Carolina and BRAD-FEST, and a closed session for attorney consultation.

• Discuss possible social district downtown
• Resolution to request $5 million LASII grant for Adkin Branch Flood Mitigation Project
• Resolution to request grant/loan funding for Herritage Sewer Replacement Project
• Resolution to adopt Wastewater Asset Management Plan
• Special event permits for Cycle North Carolina and BRAD-FEST

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes from July and August 2023 and receive director's reports. Updates will cover David Bell, summer/fall programs, the Emma Webb Park project, and a Hall of Fame wrap-up. No votes on new items are listed.

• Approval of July 13, 2023 and August 10, 2023 minutes
• David Bell update
• Summer/fall programs update
• Emma Webb Park project update
• Hall of Fame wrap-up

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a special use permit for a bar at 209 S Queen Street, with staff recommending approval. The council will also consider several other items, including a lease agreement, property sales, a stormwater grant, and a budget amendment. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes and reports.

• Special use permit for a bar at 209 S Queen Street (public hearing)
• Lease agreement for 533 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. to Bonnie Bass Church of Christ
• Resolution to accept $400,000 Stormwater Planning Grant
• Adoption of ordinance for FY2024 Operating Budget Amendment
• Resolution for annual settlement of property taxes collected in FY2022-2023

The City Council approved a special use permit for a bar and authorized a lease agreement for a church. The council also adopted the meeting agenda and approved the minutes from the August 22, 2023 meeting.

• Approved Special Use Permit for a bar at 209 S. Queen Street (5-0)
• Approved lease agreement for 533 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard to Bonnie Bass Church of Christ, Disciples of Christ (5-0)
• Adopted the meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes of the August 22, 2023 meeting (5-0)

Mayor's Crime Intervention Task Force

The Mayor's Crime Intervention Task Force will consider adopting the agenda, approve minutes from June 8, 2023, and discuss a Memorandum of Understanding. The meeting will include presentations from Governor Roy Cooper's team and recognition of the KPD Gang Unit Award.

• Consider approval of minutes from June 8, 2023
• Discussion of Memorandum of Understanding
• Presentation by Governor Roy Cooper's team (Sam Chan, William L. Lassiter)
• Recognition of KPD Gang Unit Award

The Task Force adopted its agenda and approved the minutes from the June 8, 2023, meeting. The session primarily served as a forum for Governor Roy Cooper and state officials to introduce the NC SAFE campaign for secure firearm storage.

• Adopted the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from June 8, 2023 (unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold its regular meeting on August 22, 2023, with a canceled work session. Key actions include awarding a $2,255,993.40 contract for the Vernon Avenue Sewer Rehabilitation Project and approving vehicle replacements for the Public Services Department. The council will also recognize the police department's award and enter a closed session for attorney-client privilege.

• Award of Vernon Avenue Sewer Rehabilitation Project to Herring Rivenbark, Inc. for $2,255,993.40
• Approval of vehicle replacements for Street and Stormwater sections of Public Services Department
• Kinston Police Department awarded 2023 Gang Unit of the Year
• Closed session for attorney-client privilege (NC GS§143-318.11(a)(3))
• Notification of Fall 2023 Water/Sewer/Stormwater funding opportunities

The City Council approved a contract for sewer rehabilitation on Vernon Avenue and the purchase of two replacement dump trucks. The council also approved the minutes from the July 31, 2023 meeting.

• Approved Vernon Avenue Sewer Rehabilitation Project award to Herring Rivenbark, Inc. for $2,255,993.40 (5-0)
• Approved purchase of two replacement dump trucks for Street and Stormwater Sections at $145,300.00 each (5-0)
• Approved July 31, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adopted meeting agenda (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to handle routine business: approving the previous meeting's minutes and receiving the director's report on summer programs. No major decisions or public hearings are listed on this agenda.

• Approval of July 13, 2023 meeting minutes
• Director's report on summer programs update

The meeting was adjourned abruptly by Chair Sue Ellen Maddux after a citizen interrupted a project timeline update. No official votes or policy decisions were recorded.

• Meeting adjourned without further action

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a regular meeting with public hearings on a rezoning request and two special use permits, plus action on several other items including a budget amendment, vehicle replacement, and an interlocal agreement. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes approval, presentations, and a city manager's report.

• Rezoning of 717 Rosanne Drive from B-1 to O&I
• Special use permit for dance hall at 1610 N Queen Street
• Special use permit for dog grooming at 206/208 N Queen Street
• Adoption of FY2024 Operating Budget Amendment Ordinance
• Interlocal agreement with Lenoir County for Mayr's Crime Intervention Task Force

The City Council adopted the meeting agenda and approved the minutes from the July 18, 2023, meeting. The session included recognitions for city employees and presentations on police recruitment and arts programming; however, no substantive legislative actions were recorded in the provided text.

• Adopted meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved July 18, 2023, meeting minutes (4-0)

City Council

City Council approved a contract for walking trails at Emma Webb Park and an audit contract for the 2023 fiscal year. The council also authorized the sale of real property via upset bids.

• Approved $210,000 contract to Fulcher’s Landscaping for Emma Webb Park walking trails (3-0)
• Approved FY Ending 2023 audit contract with RH CPA’S PLLC for $60,840 to $63,340 (3-0)
• Approved Resolution authorizing sale of Real Property for upset bids, including 310 Tulls Alley (3-0)
• Adopted agenda with addition of Resolution Authorizing Sale of Real Property (3-0)
• Approved minutes for June 6 and June 20, 2023 (3-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve the June 8 minutes, hear director's reports, and discuss updates on Holloway pool, Fairfield splash pad, LWA summer programs, all-star fees, and the Emma Webb project.

• Approval of June 8, 2023 minutes
• Holloway pool, Fairfield splash pad, and LWA summer update
• All-star fee discussion
• Emma Webb project update

The Commission voted to appoint Roger Jones to the Recreation Commission representing the city, pending City Council approval. Staff provided mid-summer updates on aquatics facilities and the Emma Webb Park Project. A proposed $50 participation fee for All-Stars was discussed for future voting.

• Approved June 8, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
• Recommended appointment of Roger Jones to the Recreation Commission (Unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will consider adopting the annual budget for fiscal year 2023-2024 and approving amendments to the current fiscal year's operating budget, which includes increases for fire fleet maintenance, park repairs, and other items. The council will also vote on several contracts, property sales, and a special event permit. The meeting includes a work session and a regular meeting with public comment.

• Adoption of Annual Budget Ordinance for FY 2023-2024
• FY 2022-2023 Operating Budget Amendment: $264,340 increase in General Fund, $80,000 in Kinston Community Center Fund
• Bid award for Emma Webb Park Project (Ditch Restoration) to G/P Jenkins for $81,602.37
• Bid award for Emma Webb Park Project (Pool Demolition) to G/P Jenkins for $125,900.00
• Special event permit for OMG Concert at 311 N. Queen Street

The City Council approved the annual operating budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. The budget includes a 2.5% COLA for full-time employees and funding for road resurfacing, fire safety equipment, and new staff positions without increasing property or utility tax rates.

• Adopted FY 2023-2024 Annual Budget Ordinance with total operating fund of $117,785,845
• Approved agenda addition for June 24 Prayer March Special Event Permit (4-0)
• Awarded Village Cedar Cable Replacement Project to C-Phase Services for $146,094
• Approved Matrix Health & Safety for lead-based paint inspections and W. F. Bulow Inspections for asbestos inspection contracts
• Tabled interlocal agreement with Lenoir County regarding split zoning jurisdictions

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve the May 11, 2023 minutes, hear the director's report, introduce Jimi Pope, and review the manager's submitted budget for fiscal year 2024. No votes on the budget are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of May 11, 2023 meeting minutes
• Director's report
• Introduction of Jimi Pope
• Presentation of manager's submitted FY2024 budget

The Commission approved the May 11, 2023 minutes and reviewed the City Manager's proposed 2023-2024 budget. No votes were taken on budget items as the budget awaits City Council approval.

• Approved May 11, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)

Mayor's Crime Intervention Task Force

The Mayor's Crime Intervention Task Force is meeting to consider adopting an interlocal agreement drafted by its MOU subcommittee, which would then go to the Kinston City Council and Lenoir County Commissioners for approval. They will also vote on adopting a mission statement and approving minutes from previous meetings. The meeting includes presentations from state officials Eddie Buffaloe and Caroline Farmer.

• Vote on interlocal memorandum of agreement
• Vote on mission statement
• Approval of minutes from April 13 and May 4 meetings
• Presentations by Secretary Eddie Buffaloe and Caroline Farmer

The provided document is a meeting agenda rather than minutes. It lists items for consideration, including the adoption of a mission statement and an interlocal memorandum of agreement, but does not record any votes or final decisions.

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a public hearing on the FY 23-24 Manager's Recommended Budget and consider an ordinance creating the Historic Grainger Stadium Commission as an advisory board. They will also vote on awarding the June 30, 2023 audit contract to RH CPAs, PLLC for $60,840, and consider a Juneteenth celebration and a fireworks permit for July 4th. Several proclamations and an AED donation are on the agenda.

• Public hearing on FY 23-24 Manager's Recommended Budget
• Ordinance creating Historic Grainger Stadium Commission as advisory board
• Award audit contract to RH CPAs, PLLC for $60,840 (FY23), with options for FY24 ($66,925) and FY25 ($73,615)
• Consider 2023 Juneteenth Community Celebration
• Fireworks discharge permit for July 4th (Kinston Parks and Recreation)

The Council approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the May 16, 2023, meeting. The session included several proclamations and a presentation regarding a donation of automated electronic defibrillators to city recreation facilities. City Manager Rhonda Barwick presented the FY 23-24 recommended budget, though no final vote on the budget was recorded in the provided text.

• Approved agenda with addition of Juneteenth Father’s Day Festival permit (4-0)
• Approved May 16, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Proclaimed June 2023 as Small City Month
• Proclaimed June 17, 2023, as Global Environmental Services Day
• Proclaimed June 19, 2023, as Juneteenth Day

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss and vote on several items, including an interlocal agreement for animal control services with Lenoir County, an ordinance amending noise prohibitions, and a four-way stop at Mitchell and North Streets. The council will also review the FY 22-23 third quarter budget status and discuss proposed PFAS regulations in drinking water.

• Interlocal agreement for animal control services with Lenoir County
• Ordinance amending 'Noise-Prohibited' when loud and unnecessary
• Public hearing and ordinance for four-way stop at Mitchell Street and North Street
• FY 22-23 Quarter 3 budget status: revenues $74,620,328, expenditures $68,610,006
• Memorandum of Understanding for Trash Trout installation on Adkin Branch

The Council unanimously adopted the meeting agenda, including a closed session for attorney-client privilege and economic development. Members discussed a proposal for a joint animal control agreement with Lenoir County and a new decibel-based noise ordinance, though no final votes on these items were recorded in the provided text.

• Approved adoption of the agenda with the addition of a closed session (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes and hear director's reports. They will discuss the Graham King flood buyout, Emma Webb Park updates, minor league baseball rule adjustments, and an inflatable structure update at the Kinston Community Center. The commission will also discuss and vote on an applicant for the Recreation Commission.

• Graham King flood buyout discussion
• Emma Webb Park update
• Minor league baseball rule adjustment
• KCC inflatable structure update
• Vote on Recreation Commission applicant

The Commission approved the application of Jimi Pope for a vacant City seat. The body also approved the minutes from the April 13, 2023 meeting.

• Approved Jimi Pope's Recreation Commission application (Unanimous)
• Approved April 13, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold public hearings and consider two rezoning requests: one for the Shirt Factory site and another for 1400 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. The council will also vote on adopting general compliance policies, a parking fine increase, an AKC Reunite Adopt a K9 Cop grant, a special events permit for a Mental Health Awareness Festival, a resolution supporting NCDOT's request to close a Hwy. 70 crossover, and a resolution authorizing the sale of real property. The meeting includes citizen comments, recognitions, and reports from the city manager and attorney.

• Rezoning request for Shirt Factory site from SC & I-1 to O&I
• Rezoning request for 1400 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.
• Parking fine increase proposal
• Resolution supporting NCDOT's request to close Hwy. 70 crossover near Ruby Tuesday's
• Resolution authorizing sale of real property

The City Council approved a rezoning request for the Shirt Factory site to allow for a new Kinston Community Health Center facility. The council also approved the minutes from April 18 and April 21, 2023.

• Approved rezoning of Shirt Factory site from SC and I-1 to O&I (4-0)
• Approved minutes for April 18 and April 21, 2023 (4-0)
• Adopted meeting agenda with additions (4-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting on April 18, 2023, to consider resolutions and ordinances related to sewer and stormwater infrastructure, a budget amendment, and a special events permit. The agenda includes requests for funding for the Herritage Street Sewer Replacement Project and the Lead Service Line Inventory Project, amendments to the Wastewater Capital Improvement Plan, and adoption of a local program to implement Neuse Stormwater Rules. The council will also consider a special events permit for the 2023 Tate C. Jenkins Memorial Mother's Day 10k Run/Walk and a budget amendment for fiscal year 2022-2023.

• Resolution to request funding for Herritage Street Sewer Replacement Project
• Resolution to amend Wastewater Capital Improvement Plan
• Ordinance to amend stormwater ordinances to meet new state regulations
• Ordinance for 2022-2023 operating budget amendment (includes $250,000 transfer for street resurfacing and Hardee Road improvements, $2,275 for library chiller, $2,108 for Briery Run loan fees, $8,000 for Oliver Glass Lift Station, $90,500 for Vernon Avenue transmission poles, $109,980 for Adkin Branch flood mitigation, $496,296 for CIS software upgrade, $100,000 for health insurance claims)
• Special events permit for 2023 Tate C. Jenkins Memorial Mother's Day 10k Run/Walk

The Council unanimously approved a resolution outlining seven legislative priorities for 2023. The meeting included discussions on sewer replacements, stormwater rules, and the creation of a dog committee, though specific votes for those items were not recorded in the text.

• Approved resolution for seven 2023 Legislative Priorities (5-0)
• Adopted meeting agenda including economic development closed session (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve the March 9, 2023 minutes and receive director's reports. The agenda includes discussions on pickleball, the Hall of Fame, and the Bill Fay playground, but no votes or decisions are listed.

• Discussion of pickleball by Mary Margaret Keith
• Update on Hall of Fame
• Update on Bill Fay playground

The Commission approved the March 9, 2023 minutes. Members discussed pickleball scheduling at Fairfield, tennis court resurfacing, and the status of a potential driving range and the Emma Webb Park Master Plan.

• Approved March 9, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)

Mayor's Crime Intervention Task Force

The Mayor's Crime Intervention Task Force will vote on adopting an Interlocal Memorandum of Agreement and a new Mission Statement. If adopted, the agreement will be sent to the Kinston City Council and Lenoir County Commissioners for final approval. The meeting also includes the Kinston Police Department's annual report and updates from subcommittee chairs.

• Vote on Interlocal Memorandum of Agreement drafted by the MOU Subcommittee
• Vote on adoption of the Task Force Mission Statement
• Kinston Police Department Annual Report presentation by Captain Brandon Turner
• Approval of minutes from the February 16, 2023 meeting

The Mayor's Crime Intervention Task Force approved an Interlocal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the City and County, subject to recommendations from Chairwoman Linda Rouse Sutton. The group also received an annual report from the Kinston Police Department regarding crime statistics and officer misconduct complaints.

• Approved minutes from February 16, 2023 meeting
• Approved Interlocal Memorandum of Understanding (unanimous), subject to recommendations from Chairwoman Linda Rouse Sutton

City Council

The Kinston City Council will consider several action items, including establishing capital projects for sewer improvements and transmission pole replacements, accepting a police block grant, and amending the transportation infrastructure budget. They will also vote on permits for community events and acknowledge bids for upcoming projects.

• Approve engineering agreement with Booth & Associates for Vernon Avenue pole replacements (115kV transmission line)
• Accept $400,000 state grant for Oliver Glass Sewer Improvements Project
• Establish Oliver Glass Sewer Improvements Project (S9210) with $408,000 budget
• Establish Vernon Avenue Transmission Pole Replacement Project (E9136) with $90,500 budget
• Establish 2022 Kinston Police Block Grant (P9127) for $24,200 in training funds

Council approved a $400,000 grant for the Oliver Glass Sewer Improvements Project and a $90,500 agreement for transmission pole replacements on Vernon Avenue. Several special event permits were granted, and a budget amendment for transportation infrastructure was adopted.

• Approved $90,500 engineering agreement with Booth & Associates for Vernon Avenue Pole Replacements (5-0)
• Adopted resolution to accept $400,000 grant for Oliver Glass Sewer Improvements Project (5-0)
• Approved Professional Services Agreement with the Wooten Company for Oliver Glass Sewer Improvements (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance to establish Oliver Glass Sewer Improvement Project (S9210) for $408,000 (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance to establish Vernon Avenue Transmission Pole Replacement Project (E9136) for $90,500 (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance to establish GCC 2022 Kinston Police Block Grant (P9147) for $22,500 (5-0)
• Approved $250,000 budget amendment from General Fund to Transportation Infrastructure Project Fund (5-0)
• Approved fireworks permit for Down East Wood Ducks and permits for Kinston BBQ Festival, Outrun Media Group, and Passover March (5-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting. They will hear presentations on Lions Water Adventure management and the Fairfield Park Playground, receive the Kinston Police Department's 2022 annual report, and consider approving an amendment to the engineering agreement for the 540-545 Electric Circuit Upgrade. The regular meeting also includes a consent agenda item for the same electric upgrade amendment and an action item for a fireworks discharge permit for flyExclusive Family Day at Grainger Stadium.

• Amendment to Engineering Agreement for 540-545 Electric Circuit Upgrade
• Kinston Police Department 2022 Annual Report
• Fireworks Discharge Permit for flyExclusive Family Day at Grainger Stadium
• Lions Water Adventure season update from Swim Club Management
• Fairfield Park Playground update with images

The City Council approved an engineering agreement for electric circuit upgrades and a fireworks discharge permit for a family day event. The council also reviewed the Kinston Police Department's 2022 annual report and received updates on water park and playground projects.

• Approved engineering agreement for 540-545 Electric Circuit Upgrade for $116,100 (4-0)
• Approved fireworks discharge permit for flyExclusive Family Day at Grainger Stadium (4-0)
• Approved minutes of March 7, 2023 meeting (4-0)
• Adopted meeting agenda (4-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes, hear director's reports, recognize Chris Bradshaw, and discuss updates on girls' softball, baseball/softball programs, and the Bill Fay playground. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of February 9, 2023 minutes
• Recognition of Chris Bradshaw
• Discussion of girls' softball
• Update on baseball & softball programs
• Update on Bill Fay playground

The Commission unanimously approved the 2023 Parks & Recreation softball rules and the recommendations for a common Lenoir County baseball program. The baseball plan establishes major and minor leagues for 9-12 year olds with centralized game locations. The February 9, 2023 minutes were also approved.

• Approved February 9, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
• Accepted proposed 2023 Parks & Recreation softball rules (Unanimous)
• Approved baseball committee recommendations for a common Lenoir County baseball program for the 2023 season (Unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will consider approving two state housing grants totaling $294,000 for urgent home repairs and rehabilitation loans, and will review a list of 15 city-owned properties available for bids. The council will also hear updates on The GATE and the downtown lighting and economic vitality committee.

• Approve $132,000 NCHFA Urgent Repair Program grant for low-income home repairs
• Approve $162,000 NCHFA Essential Single-Family Rehabilitation loan pool
• Approve list of 15 city-owned properties for bids, including 504 N Independence St and 635 Fields St
• Consider lease agreement with New Beginnings Outreach Center for five parcels
• Approve installation of wraps on The GATE building at no cost to the city

The Council approved the installation of exterior wraps for The GATE building and authorized the acceptance of two state grants for low-income home repairs. Additionally, the Council approved a list of city-owned properties to be advertised for bids.

• Approved installation of exterior wraps for The GATE building (5-0)
• Approved list of 16 city-owned properties to be advertised for bids (5-0)
• Approved acceptance of $132,000 from NC Housing Finance Urgent Repair Program (5-0)
• Approved Special Revenue Ordinance for NCHFA URP Project C2124 (5-0)
• Approved Special Revenue Project Ordinance for NCHFA Essential SRF Loan Pool of $162,000 (5-0)
• Approved February 21, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss the FY 22-23 first and second quarter budget status, consider authorizing the city manager to hire a Public Information Officer, and review an economic development project. The regular meeting includes public hearings on amending the Unified Development Ordinance and a special use permit for a tattoo parlor, plus a request to finalize a schedule of quarterly town hall meetings.

• FY 22-23 Q1 budget: revenues $23.8M, expenditures $24.4M
• FY 22-23 Q2 budget: revenues $47.1M, expenditures $45.8M
• Authorize hiring a Public Information Officer (full-time or part-time)
• Public hearing: amend Unified Development Ordinance Section 7.3
• Public hearing: special use permit for tattoo parlor

Council approved a text amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance and granted a special use permit for a tattoo parlor at 1602 W. Vernon Avenue. The City Manager was authorized to hire a part-time Public Information Officer. A proposed schedule for quarterly town hall meetings was tabled.

• Approved hiring a part-time Public Information Officer (5-0)
• Approved UDO Section 7.34 amendment removing 500 ft. separation for tattoo shops in B-1 zones (5-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for tattoo parlor at 1602 W. Vernon Avenue, Suite B (4-0)
• Tabled quarterly Town Hall Meeting schedule (5-0)
• Approved minutes from January 26 and February 7, 2023 (5-0)

Mayor's Crime Intervention Task Force

The Mayor's Crime Intervention Task Force is meeting to approve minutes from the previous session and hear updates from its five committees. Members will also break into groups to compile goals and review the mission statement. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific policy decisions or dollar amounts listed.

• Approval of minutes from January 26, 2023 meeting
• Updates from Faith-Based, Resource, Education, Law Enforcement, and Memorandum of Understanding committees
• Committee breakout session to compile goals
• Review of mission statement

The task force approved the minutes from the January 26, 2023 meeting. Committee chairs provided updates on goals for a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and discussed youth outreach and law enforcement strategies. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved minutes of the January 26, 2023 meeting

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes, receive director's reports, and hear from Anthony Hall, a LaGrange Town Commissioner. They will also discuss upcoming baseball activities at Fairfield.

• Approval of January 12, 2023 meeting minutes
• Director's reports
• Address by Anthony Hall, LaGrange Town Commissioner
• Discussion of upcoming baseball at Fairfield

The commission approved the January 12, 2023 minutes. Members discussed representation for the Town of LaGrange and the status of tennis court resurfacing at Fairfield. A proposal regarding a new 9-12 year old baseball league structure was tabled.

• Approved January 12, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on 9-12 year old baseball league structure (Unanimous)

City Council

The Kinston City Council is holding its regular meeting on February 7, 2023, with several action items including the sale of two properties, adoption of grant ordinances, and a public hearing. The council will also recognize retirees and award a Medal of Valor, and will enter a closed session for attorney-client privilege.

• Resolution to sell 308 and 310 Short Street to Edgar Theron Brown for $450 plus advertising costs
• Public hearing for NC Governor's Crime Commission Grant
• Adoption of Special Revenue Ordinance for 22 LE De-Escalation COPS Grant (P9146)
• Adoption of Special Revenue Ordinance for 2022 Edward Byrne JAG Grant (P9145)
• Adoption of Capital Project Ordinance for Emma Webb PARTF Grant (G9148)

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold public hearings on two federal grants: the 2022 Edward-Byrne Memorial/JAG Grant and the BJA COPS FY22 Law Enforcement De-Escalation Grant. The council will also consider accepting ESFRLRLP22 funds, approving a historical marker on E. Caswell Street, and receiving updates on the Fleet Committee and Fairfield Playground. The meeting includes a work session and a regular meeting, with a possible recess to continue strategic planning.

• Public hearing for 2022 Edward-Byrne Memorial/JAG Grant
• Public hearing for BJA COPS FY22 Law Enforcement De-Escalation Grant
• Consider acceptance of ESFRLRLP22 funds and authorize mayor and city manager to execute documents
• Consider approving historical marker on E. Caswell Street near Lenoir County Office Building
• Consider recessing meeting until January 26 for strategic planning

Council approved a $162,000 award for a home repair loan program and the placement of a civil rights historical marker. The body also held public hearings for two police grants and received a fleet rotation plan for fire apparatus.

• Approved $162,000 ESFRLRLP22 award for income-qualified home repairs (5-0)
• Approved placement of historical marker on E. Caswell Street pending utility locates (5-0)
• Approved January 3, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adopted meeting agenda (5-0)
• Recessed meeting until January 26, 2023 for strategic planning

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Kinston/Lenoir County Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes and hear director's reports. They will discuss BMX ramps with Kevin Albritton, consider fees for the Gymnastics/Dance program, and get an update on the Fairfield and Bill Fay playgrounds.

• Discussion of BMX ramps with Kevin Albritton
• Discussion of fees for the Gymnastics/Dance program
• Update on Fairfield and Bill Fay playgrounds

The Commission approved a tiered pricing chart for gymnastics and dance classes to provide multi-class and sibling discounts. Members also expressed support for a proposed no-cost BMX and skateboarding facility pending further details on location and insurance.

• Approved December 8, 2022 minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved tiered fee chart for Gymnastics and Dance program (Unanimous)
• Consensus to support proposed BMX/skateboarding facility pending location and insurance information

City Council

The Kinston City Council will hold a regular meeting with routine items including approval of minutes, a presentation on law enforcement certification, and an action item to consider an interlocal agreement with Lenoir County for building inspection services. The agenda also includes informational updates on the MLK celebration, a police survey, parks and recreation, and the Mayor's Crime Intervention Task Force.

• Consider interlocal agreement with Lenoir County for building inspection services
• Presentation on Law Enforcement Officers' Professional Certification Program
• Update on Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
• Update on City of Kinston Police Survey
• Parks and Recreation Update

The City Council approved an interlocal agreement for Lenoir County to provide building inspection services. The agreement removes the transfer of a city vehicle and staff, and sets a 5-year term with a 180-day termination notice. The city will retain control over fire permitting and overall planning.

• Approved Interlocal Agreement with Lenoir County for building inspection services (2-1)
• Adopted the meeting agenda (3-0)
• Approved minutes for December 6 and 15, 2022 (3-0)