Lenoir County, NC

City Council

Planning Board

City Council

Committee of the Whole

City Council

Planning Board

City Council

Committee of the Whole

City Council

Planning Board

City Council

Planning Board

City Council

Committee of the Whole

The City of Lenoir Committee of the Whole will review updates from public safety, finance, and community development departments. Staff requests approval for two additional service agreements with Maurer Architecture totaling $22,300 for the Campus Improvements Project, which includes renovating the Historic Old Lenoir High School Auditorium and Gymnasium and constructing the OVT Farmers’ Market Pavilion. The agenda also includes a recommendation to demolish the ticket booth at the Campus Project due to structural degradation and a resolution to support the Catawba-Wateree River Basin Integrated Water Resources Plan.

• Approval of two additional service agreements with Maurer Architecture for $22,300 for the Campus Improvements Project
• Approval of the demolition of the ticket booth at the Campus Project due to brick structure degradation
• Adoption of a resolution to support the Catawba-Wateree River Basin Integrated Water Resources Plan
• Second Quarter reports from the Police Department and Fire Department
• Update on the Lenoir-Valdese Interconnect and Finley Ave. Area Water Improvements

City Council

The Lenoir City Council will consider adopting budget ordinances for the Lenoir/Valdese Water Interconnection Project ($24,796,000) and the LFD Building Foundation Stabilization Project ($2,993,000), plus a design-build contract with GeoSpecialties LLC for $1,880,000. They will also vote on a vacate and closure ordinance for 397 Willow Street NW due to unsafe structure violations. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval and informational announcements.

• Revised Capital Project Budget Ordinance for Lenoir/Valdese Water Interconnection Project: $24,796,000
• Capital Project Budget Ordinance for LFD Building Foundation Stabilization Project: $2,993,000
• Design-Build Contract with GeoSpecialties LLC for LFD Station #1 foundation stabilization: $1,880,000
• Vacate and Closure Ordinance for 397 Willow Street NW (Parcel ID: 06 5 4 3) to abate non-residential structure violations
• Approval of minutes from August 4, 2026 meeting

Planning Board

City Council

The Lenoir City Council will hold public hearings on two zoning-related items. First, it will consider a text amendment to add "Educational Facility" as a permitted use in several zoning districts, allowing private K-12 schools, colleges, and universities. Second, it will review a special use permit for Waterlife Private School to reuse the vacant West Lenoir Elementary building at 117 Maple Drive NW as a private school.

• Zoning Ordinance Amendment ZOA 1-26 to allow Educational Facilities in B-2, B-3, B-7, O-I (by-right) and R-6, R-9, R-12, R-C (special use)
• Special Use Permit SUP 2-26 for Waterlife Private School at 117 Maple Drive NW with conditions to preserve building exterior and limit modifications
• Staff and Planning Board recommend approval of both items

The Lenoir City Council approved a zoning text amendment (ZOA 1-26) to add 'Educational Facility' as a permitted use in certain districts, and a special use permit (SUP 2-26) for Waterlife Private School at 117 Maple Drive NW, the former West Lenoir Elementary School. Both votes were 7-0. The special use permit includes conditions to preserve the historic building and allows pre-school use.

• Approved zoning amendment ZOA 1-26 adding 'Educational Facility' to permitted uses (7-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit SUP 2-26 for Waterlife Private School at 117 Maple Drive NW (7-0)
• Adopted amended condition 8 allowing occasional evening uses for school functions
• Added pre-school as a permitted use under the special use permit
• Adopted consent agenda including minutes and preliminary settlement report (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a second reading for ordinance amendments to Chapter 9 regarding flood damage prevention to align with state and FEMA standards. The body will also consider a special use permit for a wireless tower and a design-build contract for fire department foundation work.

• Second reading of Flood Damage Prevention ordinance amendments (Chapter 9)
• Special Use Permit SUP 1-26 for a 145-foot monopole wireless tower at 208 Polychem Court
• Contract negotiations with GeoSpecialties LLC for Lenoir Fire Department Foundation Stabilization Project
• Quitclaim Deed and Release of Easement for Wexford Village Guardhouse to Wexford Village Homeowners' Association, Inc.
• Appointment of Emmanuel Byers to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

City Council approved a special use permit for a 145-foot wireless communication tower at 208 Polychem Court. The council also selected GeoSpecialties LLC for the Lenoir Fire Department Foundation Stabilization Project and approved a board appointment.

• Approved Special Use Permit SUP 1-26 for 145-foot monopole tower at 208 Polychem Court (7-0)
• Selected GeoSpecialties LLC for Fire Department Foundation Stabilization Design-Build services (7-0)
• Tabled Flood Damage Prevention ordinance amendments until September 1, 2026 (7-0)
• Approved quitclaim deed and easement release for Wexford Village Guardhouse (6-0)
• Appointed Emmanuel Byers to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (7-0)
• Approved June 16 City Council and June 23 Committee of the Whole minutes (7-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is reviewing a request from Waterlife Church to amend citywide zoning text to allow educational facilities in various residential and commercial districts. The board is also considering a special use permit for a private school at the former West Lenoir Elementary school.

• ZOA 1-26: Text amendment to allow educational facilities in O-I, B-2, B-3, B-7, R-6, R-9, R-12, and R-C districts
• SUP 2-26: Special Use Permit for a private school at 117 Maple Dr NW
• Proposed definition change for 'Public Service Facilities' to remove schools
• Recommended public hearing at City Council on August 04, 2026

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will consider staff's recommendation to use a design‑build delivery method for a foundation and slab‑on‑grade stabilization project at Lenoir Fire Station #1, located at 602 Harper Ave NW. The project is budgeted at $2,574,000 in the FY26‑27 budget. Additional agenda items include public safety updates, public works project reports, a year‑end budget amendment, and a motion to reschedule the July City Council meeting.

• RFQ for design‑build services to stabilize Fire Station #1 foundation (budget $2,574,000)
• Police and Fire Chiefs provide departmental updates
• Public Works Director presents current project updates
• Finance Director presents year‑end budget amendment
• Authorization to move July 21 City Council meeting to July 28, 2026

City Council approved a Request for Qualifications for a design-build project to stabilize the foundation and slab-on-grade at Fire Station #1. The board also approved several personnel job description changes and year-end budget amendments.

• Approved Request for Qualifications for Fire Department sinkhole foundation stabilization (6-0)
• Approved position and job description changes for Recreation, Finance, and Police departments (6-0)
• Approved amendments to the annual budget ordinance for fiscal year ending June 30, 2026 (6-0)
• Approved memorial bench at Unity Park and Community Gardens 'Aiden's Berry Patch' (6-0)
• Rescheduled July 21, 2026 City Council meeting to July 28, 2026 (6-0)

City Council

The council will hold a public hearing on ordinance amendments that would re‑establish the Historic Preservation Commission as a distinct five‑member board, separate from the Planning Board. Consent agenda items include approving minutes, a budget amendment, awarding a two‑year asphalt resurfacing contract to J.T. Russell & Sons, Inc. at $140.75 per ton, and a first reading of flood‑damage‑prevention ordinance amendments with a public hearing set for July 21. The council will also consider an authorizing resolution for a $8,250 city match toward the “Project Pillar” grant and recognize the inaugural Leadership Lenoir graduates.

• Public hearing on historic preservation commission ordinance amendments (re‑establish as separate five‑member board)
• Award of asphalt resurfacing contract to J.T. Russell & Sons, Inc. at $140.75/ton for two years
• First reading of flood damage prevention ordinance amendments; public hearing scheduled for July 21
• Authorizing resolution for NC Dept. of Commerce “Project Pillar” grant with $8,250 city match
• Special recognition of Leadership Lenoir Civic Learning Academy 2026 graduates

City Council approved ordinance amendments to transition the Historic Preservation Commission from a subset of the Planning Board to a separate five-member appointed board. The council also approved a series of budget amendments and a road resurfacing contract via a consent agenda.

• Approved ordinance to re-establish Historic Preservation Commission as a separate five-member board (7-0)
• Approved 2026-2028 Asphalt Resurfacing Contract awarded to J.T. Russell & Sons, Inc. at $140.75/ton (7-0)
• Approved budget ordinance amendments for fiscal year ending June 30, 2026 (7-0)
• Approved $165,000 NC Department of Commerce Building Reuse Grant submission for 'Project Pillar' (7-0)
• Approved first reading of Flood Damage Prevention ordinance amendments; public hearing set for July 21, 2026 (7-0)
• Approved City Council minutes from June 2, 2026 (7-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Lenoir Board of Adjustment will meet to consider a revision of the Joint Rules of Procedure for the Planning Board, Historic Preservation Commission, and the Board of Adjustment. The agenda also includes the approval of previous meeting minutes and a determination of a quorum.

• Consideration of May 11, 2026 minutes
• Joint Rules of Procedure Revision for Lenoir Land Development Boards
• Determination of a Quorum
• Call to Order
• Adjournment

Planning Board

The Lenoir Planning Board will review Special Use Permit SUP 1‑26 submitted by Harmoni Towers Gateway, LLC to construct a 145‑foot monopole wireless communication tower on a 2,500‑square‑foot leased area at 208 Polychem Ct. Staff recommends approval and a public hearing before City Council on July 21, 2026. The board will also consider Ordinance Amendment 1‑26 to revise the Historic Preservation Ordinance citywide, with a recommended public hearing on June 16, 2026. Additional items include a joint revision of the Rules of Procedure and an update on zoning permits issued.

• SUP 1‑26: 145‑foot wireless tower on 208 Polychem Ct., requested by Harmoni Towers Gateway, LLC
• Ordinance Amendment 1‑26: revision of the Historic Preservation Ordinance citywide
• Joint Rules of Procedure Revision
• Update on zoning permits issued
• Public hearing dates: July 21, 2026 (tower) and June 16, 2026 (historic ordinance)

The Planning Board approved a Special Use Permit for a 145-foot Verizon monopole tower at 208 Polychem Court. The board also approved updated Joint Rules of Procedure during a joint meeting with the Board of Adjustment. A public hearing for the cell tower is scheduled for City Council on July 26, 2026.

• Approved May 11, 2026 minutes (10-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit SUP 1-26 for a 145-foot wireless tower (10-0)
• Scheduled City Council public hearing for July 26, 2026
• Approved Joint Rules of Procedure (Planning Board 10-0; Board of Adjustment 5-0)

City Council

The Lenoir City Council will hold a public hearing on a $4,620,000 CDBG‑DR grant request to fund the Overmountain Victory Trail pavilion, a visitors center at 1129 West Ave NW, demolition at 1136 Harper Ave, and storm‑water improvements. A public hearing on the FY2026‑2027 annual budget will also be conducted, after which the council may adopt the budget ordinance. Several consent‑agenda items, including a $10 million Harper Avenue streetscape pre‑construction funding request and various utility construction agreements, will be approved.

• CDBG‑DR grant request of $4,620,000 for OVT Pavilion, visitors center, demolition and storm‑water work
• Public hearing on FY2026‑2027 annual budget before possible adoption
• Resolution authorizing $2,042,106 pre‑construction funds (20% match $408,421) for Harper Avenue streetscape LAP project
• Engineering service contract amendment with McGill Associates totaling $112,000 for waterline interconnection services
• Utility construction agreements with NCDOT costing $237,884.02 and $145,564.62 for water facility betterments

The council voted 7‑0 to adopt an authorizing resolution to submit a $4,620,000 Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery application. It also voted 7‑0 to adopt the FY 2026‑2027 Budget Ordinance. The consent agenda items and board appointments were approved unanimously.

• Approved $4,620,000 CDBG‑DR grant application (7‑0)
• Approved FY2026‑2027 Budget Ordinance (7‑0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda items A‑I, including a $2,042,106 Harper Avenue streetscape LAP application (7‑0)
• Approved Engineering Service Contract Amendment for Valdese Waterline Interconnection ($112,000 total) (7‑0)
• Approved NCDOT Utility Construction Agreement U‑4700CB ($237,884.02 city share) (7‑0)
• Approved NCDOT Utility Construction Agreement U‑4700CA ($145,564.62 city share) (7‑0)
• Approved Capital Project Ordinances for Unifour Consortium HOME Program ($1,226,597.50) and CDBG ($118,866.00) (7‑0)
• Approved board and commission appointments/re‑appointments (7‑0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to receive operational updates from public safety, public services, community development, and finance administration. The meeting consists of reports on current projects and departmental activities.

• Police and Fire Department updates
• Public Works and Public Utilities project updates
• Lenoir Business Advisory Board report on current projects
• Planning Board and Parks & Recreation project reports
• Finance and Special Projects and Grants updates

The meeting consisted of updates from public safety, public services, community development, parks & recreation, finance, and communications. No motions were voted on, approved, denied, or tabled. The council received information but took no formal actions.

City Council

The Lenoir City Council will consider the recommended FY 2026‑27 budget, which totals $27,104,230 for the General Fund. The budget keeps the property tax rate at 46¢ per $100 of assessed value and adds a 3.75% increase to water and sewer rates. Employee compensation includes a 2.5% cost‑of‑living adjustment plus a $2,000 raise for all full‑time staff, and the city will finance a new 107‑foot ladder quint fire truck with a 0% interest loan. Additional items such as a new Budget and Financial Analyst position and a $1.6 M capital reserve for water and sewer projects are also outlined.

• General Fund budget set at $27,104,230, balanced with a 46¢ per $100 property tax rate
• Water and Sewer Fund rates increased 3.75% (e.g., $2.12/month for 5,000‑gallon usage)
• Employee compensation: 2.5% COLA and $2,000 base‑pay increase for all full‑time employees
• Financing of a new 107‑foot ladder quint fire truck via a 7‑year, 0% interest REDLG loan
• Creation of a Budget and Financial Analyst position, replacing the Special Projects Director

The council reviewed the proposed FY 2026‑27 General Fund, Downtown Municipal Service District, and Water & Sewer Fund budgets, including staffing changes and capital project plans. No votes or approvals were recorded during the meeting. A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for June 2, 2026. The meeting adjourned without further business.

City Council

City Council will review the recommended annual budget for FY2026-27 and discuss the FY-2026 Action Plan for CDBG and HOME funds. The body will also consider a fireworks permit for the July 4th display at Lenoir Optimist Park.

• Proposed FY2026-27 Annual Budget presentation with a public hearing scheduled for June 2, 2026
• FY-2026 Action Plan involving $118,886 in CDBG funds for Public Facility Improvements
• Unifour Consortium FY-2026 Action plan for $976,597.50 for first-time homebuyers and multi-family housing
• Fireworks Display Permit for Skyworks Pyro (JECO Pyrotechnics), Inc. for July 4, 2026
• Mayor's announcement of appointments to boards including the ABC Board, Housing Authority, and Planning Board

Council voted 7‑0 to adopt the consent agenda items, including approval of the May 4 minutes, the closed‑session minutes, and a fireworks display permit for July 4 at Lenoir Optimist Park. Council also voted 7‑0 to approve the FY‑2026 Action Plan for the City of Lenoir and the Unifour HOME Consortium program. The City Manager presented the recommended FY 2026‑27 budget, but no vote on the budget was recorded in the minutes.

• Approved May 4 City Council minutes (7‑0)
• Approved May 4 closed‑session minutes (7‑0)
• Approved fireworks display permit for July 4 at Lenoir Optimist Park (7‑0)
• Approved FY‑2026 Action Plan and Unifour HOME program (7‑0)

Planning Board

The board will consider Ordinance Amendment 1-26 to amend the Historic Preservation Ordinance and establish a five‑member Historic Preservation Commission citywide, with a recommendation to approve and schedule a public hearing at City Council on June 2, 2026. The meeting also includes a Rules of Procedure workshop focused on defining public comment, and an update on a zoning permit that was issued. No other decisions are listed.

• Ordinance Amendment 1-26: create five‑member Historic Preservation Commission (citywide)
• Recommendation to approve amendment and call public hearing at City Council on June 2, 2026
• Rules of Procedure Workshop – defining public comment
• Update on zoning permit issued
• Discussion of new software program for Planning Board packets (mentioned in minutes)

The board approved the April 13, 2026 meeting minutes with a 7‑0 vote. It also approved the proposed amendment to the Historic Preservation Ordinance and ordered a public hearing for the City Council on June 16, 2026, with a 7‑0 vote.

• Approved April 13, 2026 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved Historic Preservation Ordinance amendment and scheduled public hearing for June 16, 2026 (7-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will meet to conduct a workshop regarding its rules of procedure, specifically focusing on defining public comment. The meeting also includes the consideration of minutes from March 24, 2025.

• Rules of Procedure Workshop: Defining Public Comment

The Lenoir County Board of Adjustment approved the minutes from the March 25, 2025 meeting with a unanimous 4‑0 vote. The board discussed proposed changes to the Joint Rules of Procedure, which will be revised and presented at the June 8, 2026 meeting. No other actions were taken.

• Approved March 25, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)

City Council

The Lenoir City Council will consider several approvals, including a $17 million state appropriation and an additional $3 million for the Lenoir‑Valdese water interconnect project, a $97,500 contract for ARC flash assessments, and a public hearing on rezoning 710 Blowing Rock Blvd to Conditional Zoning District 13. The council will also adopt several proclamations and recognize retiring staff.

• Accept $17,000,000 state appropriation and $3,000,000 additional funding for Lenoir‑Valdese Water Interconnect Project
• Approve contract with McGill Associates for ARC flash assessments at $97,500
• Approve McKim & Creed to perform service line material field inspections for LCRI project (funded by $1,000,000 grant)
• Public hearing on R2‑26 Conditional Zoning Ordinance #13 for 710 Blowing Rock Blvd (drive‑through coffee site)
• Adopt proclamations for Food Allergy Awareness Week, Drinking Water Week, Peace Officers Memorial Week, and National Public Works Week

The City Council adopted a resolution honoring retiring Martin Luther King Jr. Center Manager Lester Whittington and presented him with a key to the City. It also adopted proclamations designating Food Allergy Awareness Week, Celebrate Drinking Water Week, Peace Officers Memorial Week, and National Public Works Week. No vote or final decision on the Conditional Zoning Ordinance for 710 Blowing Rock Blvd. was recorded in these minutes.

• Resolution honoring Lester Whittington and granting key to the City adopted
• Proclamation of Food Allergy Awareness Week (May 10‑16) adopted
• Proclamation of Celebrate Drinking Water Week (May 3‑9) adopted
• Proclamation of Peace Officers Memorial Week (May 10‑16) adopted
• Proclamation of National Public Works Week (May 17‑23) adopted

City Council

The Lenoir City Council meets as Committee of the Whole to receive updates from city departments. Topics include first-quarter reports from the Police and Fire departments, a Triangle Park proposal update from Public Works, reports from the Planning Board and other community development boards, and a financial update from the Finance Director. No votes or decisions are scheduled; all items are informational.

• Triangle Park Proposal Update from Public Works Director Jon Hogan
• Police Department first-quarter report including crime statistics and training hours
• Fire Department first-quarter report
• Finance Director Donna Bean to present financial update
• Reports from Lenoir Business Advisory Board, Tourism Development Authority, Planning Board, and Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on a request by Connelly Development LLC to rezone 7.3 acres on Seehorn Street from B-6 and R-15 to Conditional Zoning district CZ-13, allowing medium-density multi-family housing with 68 units. The Planning Board recommended approval by an 8-1 vote. The council will also consider consent items including a proclamation for Arbor Day, Motorcycle Safety Month, International Firefighters Day, and awarding a $93,550 bid for Veterans Plaza Paver Replacement Phase 2 to Southern Lawnscapes.

• Rezoning request for 68-unit multifamily on Seehorn Street between US-321 and Robinwood Circle
• Bid award for Veterans Plaza Paver Replacement Phase 2 to Southern Lawnscapes for $93,550
• Proclamation designating April 24, 2026 as Arbor Day
• Proclamation designating May 2026 as Motorcycle Safety Month
• Proclamation designating May 4, 2026 as International Firefighters Day

The council voted 6‑0 to deny Connelly Development LLC’s request to rezone 938 Seehorn Street to Conditional Zoning District 13 for medium‑density apartments. The council also approved three proclamations, the minutes from April 7, and awarded a $93,550 contract to Southern Lawnscapes for Veterans Plaza Phase 2.

• Denied rezoning of 938 Seehorn Street to CZ‑13 (6‑0)
• Approved Arbor Day proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved Motorcycle Safety Month proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved International Firefighters Day proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 7, 2026 meeting (unanimous)
• Awarded Veterans Plaza Phase 2 paver contract to Southern Lawnscapes for $93,550 (6‑0)

Board of Adjustment

Planning Board

The board will consider two conditional zoning requests. One is to rezone 710 Blowing Rock Blvd for a drive‑through establishment with a residential buffer. The other is to rezone 938 Seehorn Street from B‑6 and R‑15 to CZ‑13 to allow a 68‑unit medium‑density apartment complex. Staff recommend approval of both and a public hearing before City Council on April 21, 2026.

• R 2‑26: Rezone 710 Blowing Rock Blvd to CZ‑14 for a drive‑through with residential buffer
• R 1‑26: Rezone 938 Seehorn Street to CZ‑13 for a 68‑unit multifamily housing development
• Staff recommendation: approve both rezoning requests and schedule City Council hearing April 21, 2026
• Board amendment: add sidewalk connection from 938 Seehorn St to Exxon at 1010 Blowing Rock Blvd
• Update on zoning permits issued (informational)

The Planning Board voted 6-4 to approve the rezoning of 710 Blowing Rock Blvd from B-6 to CZ-14. The approval includes a recommendation to hold a public hearing before City Council on May 4, 2026. All other agenda items were informational only.

• Approved rezoning of 710 Blowing Rock Blvd to Conditional Zoning (CZ-14) (6-4)
• Recommended public hearing on rezoning request for City Council on May 4, 2026

City Council

The City Council will discuss the adoption of a Water & Sewer Fund Capital Improvements Plan and a technical planning agreement for code enforcement. The meeting also includes several proclamations for public safety and housing awareness.

• Agreement with Western Piedmont Council of Governments for code enforcement assistance from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2028, at a cost of $68,000
• Resolution to adopt the Water & Sewer Fund Capital Improvements Plan (CIP)
• Proclamation for Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 12-18, 2026)
• Proclamation for Fair Housing Month (April 2026)
• Proclamation for Line Worker Appreciation Day (April 18, 2026)

The council approved all eight consent‑agenda items, including the Water & Sewer Capital Improvements Plan and a $68,000 technical planning agreement, by a 6‑0 vote. Council also appointed Mayor Pro‑Tem Ike Perkins as Lenoir’s voting delegate to the NCLM Annual Business Meeting, voting 5‑0. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved minutes from March 17, 2026 council meeting (6‑0)
• Approved minutes from March 17, 2026 closed session (6‑0)
• Approved minutes from March 24, 2026 budget meeting (6‑0)
• Approved proclamation for Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (6‑0)
• Approved proclamation for Fair Housing Month (6‑0)
• Approved proclamation for Line Worker Appreciation Day (6‑0)
• Approved Water & Sewer Capital Improvements Plan resolution (6‑0)
• Approved $68,000 technical planning assistance agreement with WPCOG (6‑0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to discuss and potentially recommend approval for two conditional zoning requests. These items include a multi-family housing project and a drive-through establishment.

• Rezoning of 938 Seehorn Street to CZ-13 for medium-density multi-family housing (68 units)
• Rezoning of 710 Blowing Rock Blvd to CZ-14 for a drive-through establishment (Dutch Bros coffee shop)
• Update on issued zoning permits

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the March 9, 2026 meeting. It then unanimously amended the Seehorn Street rezoning proposal to add a sidewalk condition, and subsequently approved the rezoning request with that amendment, scheduling a public hearing for April 21, 2026. The final approval vote was 8 in favor and 1 against.

• Approved March 9, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Amended 938 Seehorn Street rezoning proposal to add sidewalk condition (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 938 Seehorn Street to CZ-13 with amendment; public hearing set for April 21, 2026 (8‑1)

City Council

The City Council will consider three acceptance resolutions: a $500,000 grant for the Steele Cotton Mill stormwater project, a $1,000,000 loan for lead service line replacement, and a land donation offer. Action items also include adopting the FY2026‑27 budget calendar and approving proposed water and sewer rates.

• Accept $500,000 NC Commerce Small Business Infrastructure Grant for Steele Cotton Mill stormwater project
• Accept $1,000,000 NC DEQ Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan for lead service line replacement
• Consider land donation offer to the city
• Adopt FY2026‑27 budget calendar (action item)
• Approve FY2026‑27 proposed water/sewer rates (action item)

The council voted 5‑0 to adopt the FY2026-27 budget calendar. It also approved a 5.0% increase in resale water and sewer rates and a 3.75% increase in retail rates. Additional approvals included a $500,000 grant for the Steele Cotton Mill stormwater project, a $1,000,000 loan for lead service line replacement, and acceptance of a land donation from the Lutz Family Partnership.

• Adopt FY2026-27 Budget Calendar (5-0)
• Adopt FY2026-27 water & sewer rate increase for resale and retail (5-0)
• Approve $500,000 NC Commerce Small Business Infrastructure Grant for Steele Cotton Mill Stormwater Project (5-0)
• Approve $1,000,000 NC DEQ Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan for lead service line replacement (5-0)
• Accept land donation offer from Lutz Family Partnership (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding an economic development agreement for Project Picanha. The proposal involves a 55,000 square foot expansion by Swift Beef Company (Wildfork Foods) to create 50 full-time jobs.

• Proposed economic development grants for Swift Beef Company based on a $20,000,000 investment
• Tax grant proposal: 20% year one, 30% year two, 40% year three, and 50% in years four and five
• Renewal of Sidewalk Café Permit for Side Street Pour House Café
• Closed session to consider judicial action involving Jonna L. Steward

The council voted 4‑0 to approve the incentive agreement for the Project Picanha expansion by Swift Beef Company. It also approved the March 3 council minutes and renewed the Side Street Pour House Café sidewalk café permit, each by a 4‑0 vote. Additionally, the council voted 4‑0 to enter a closed session on pending lawsuits and then 4‑0 to return to regular session.

• Approved Project Picanha incentive agreement (4-0)
• Approved City Council minutes of March 3, 2026 (4-0)
• Renewed Side Street Pour House Café sidewalk café permit with conditions (4-0)
• Voted to enter closed session to discuss pending lawsuits (4-0)
• Voted to re‑enter regular session (4-0)

Planning Board

The Lenoir Planning Board will consider two conditional zoning requests to rezone properties for multi-family housing and a drive-through establishment. The board will also review code compliance updates and zoning permits.

• Conditional zoning request for 68-unit apartment complex at 938 Seehorn Street
• Conditional zoning request for drive-through establishment at 710 Blowing Rock Blvd
• Code Compliance Ordinance updates and beautification priorities
• Review of issued zoning permits
• Presentation on conditional zoning process

The board approved the February 9, 2026 meeting minutes unanimously. It postponed discussion of the rezoning request for 938 Seehorn Street until a special meeting on March 30, 2026 because the mailed notice requirement was not met. The board voted to table the Conditional Zoning application for 710 Blowing Rock Blvd until the March 30, 2026 special meeting. No other actions were taken.

• Approved February 9, 2026 meeting minutes (all in favor, none opposed)
• Tabled Conditional Zoning application for 710 Blowing Rock Blvd until March 30, 2026 (all in favor, none opposed)

City Council

The council will approve minutes from the February 17 and February 24 meetings. It will award a $59,700 contract to Shotcrete Contractors Inc. to repair the Pennell Street Gateway pedestrian bridge. The Lenoir Police Department will present its 2025 annual report. The mayor will recommend John Arnaud for appointment to the Planning Board through June 2027.

• Approve City Council minutes from February 17, 2026
• Approve Committee of the Whole minutes from February 24, 2026
• Award a lump‑sum contract of $59,700 to Shotcrete Contractors Inc. for Pennell Street Gateway pedestrian bridge repair
• Lenoir Police Department to present its 2025 Annual Report
• Mayor recommends John Arnaud for Planning Board appointment (term ends June 2027)

The council adopted the consent agenda, including approval of the Pennell Street Gateway Pedestrian Bridge repair contract with Shotcrete Contractors for $59,700, by a 7‑to‑0 vote. The council also approved the appointment of John Arnaud to the Planning Board for an unexpired term ending June 2027, also by a 7‑to‑0 vote. Both actions were recorded as final decisions of the March 3, 2026 meeting.

• Approved Pennell Street Gateway Pedestrian Bridge repair contract $59,700 (7-0)
• Approved appointment of John Arnaud to Planning Board (7-0)
• Approved minutes of February 17, 2026 council meeting (7-0)
• Approved minutes of February 24, 2026 committee of the whole meeting (7-0)

City Council

The Lenoir City Council meeting on February 24, 2026 will consider a resolution recommending approval of the Penny Policy to address the penny shortage. The agenda includes updates from Police Chief Andy Wilson, Fire Chief Norman Staines (including the 2025 Annual Report), and the Public Works and Utilities directors. Community Development reports will cover the Business Advisory Board minutes, a single‑family permit zoning fee reduction, and other planning board updates. Finance updates will present the penny policy resolution and related financial items.

• Resolution: staff recommends approval of the Penny Policy to deal with the penny shortage.
• Fire Department capital projects completed in 2025: Ranger 1 vehicle ($45,800.59), radio upgrades ($61,266.86), four Ventis Pro5 gas detectors ($7,147.98), two Seek Thermal Imaging Cameras ($10,094.29), three AEDs ($8,047.16), 22 scene lights ($12,560.91), 21 gear lockers at Station 2 ($5,873.39), Ladder 1 equipment ($30,510.44).
• Disaster Relief Grant (H.B.1012) of $50,000 used for wildland firefighting equipment; total project cost $50,206.15.
• Planning Board presentation of a single‑family permit zoning fee reduction.
• Lenoir Business Advisory Board minutes from the January 8, 2026 meeting submitted; next meeting scheduled for March 12, 2026.

The City Council approved a change to the single‑family zoning permit fee, setting it at $100.00, with a 7‑to‑0 vote. The council also adopted a resolution to handle cash transactions during the current penny shortage, also by a 7‑to‑0 vote. Council members expressed support for moving forward with the Police Department’s Community Care Program partnership with Western Carolina University.

• Changed single‑family permit fee to $100.00 (vote 7‑0)
• Approved Penny Shortage Policy for cash rounding (vote 7‑0)
• Supported pursuit of Police Community Care Program partnership

City Council

City Council will hold a public hearing to gather citizen input for Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery applications. The body is also considering an audit contract and a stormwater management resolution.

• Public hearing for Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funds for Hurricane Helene recovery
• FY2026 Annual Audit Contract with C. Randolph CPA, PLLC for $45,000
• Resolution to support a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4)
• Surplus resolution for a Sig Sauer P-320 Pistol and police badge of Sergeant Matt Spears
• Recommendation of John Arnaud to the Planning Board for a term ending June 2027

The council adopted the minutes from February 3 and February 6, 2026. It approved the FY2026 audit contract with C. Randolph CPA, PLLC for $45,000. The council declared a police pistol and badge surplus and approved a proclamation for Government Communicators Day. It also adopted a resolution supporting the city’s stormwater management plan. All consent‑agenda items were approved by a 6‑to‑0 vote.

• Approved February 3, 2026 council minutes (6-0)
• Approved February 6, 2026 planning retreat minutes (6-0)
• Approved FY2026 audit contract with C. Randolph CPA, PLLC for $45,000 (6-0)
• Declared police Sig Sauer P‑320 pistol and badge surplus (6-0)
• Approved proclamation designating February 20, 2026 as Government Communicators Day (6-0)
• Approved resolution supporting the city’s stormwater management plan (6-0)

Planning Board

The Lenoir Planning Board will hold a workshop on code enforcement updates and a primer on conditional zoning. The meeting will also include an update on zoning permits issued.

• Workshop on code enforcement updates
• Primer on conditional zoning
• Update on zoning permits issued
• Approval of November 10, 2025 minutes
• Discussion on public display of land use approvals

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the November 10, 2025 meeting with all members in favor and none opposed. The board received updates on the Code Compliance Ordinance and the Minimum Housing Code, as well as a refresher presentation on conditional zoning. No other actions or votes were taken.

• Approved November 10, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)