Gaston County Board of Commissioners April 28, 2026

The Gaston County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on April 28, 2026, which included public hearings on zoning and conditional district requests, followed by extensive citizen comments primarily focused on the underfunding of public schools in the county. The board approved zoning changes and conditional district requests unanimously. Significant discussion centered on the county's FY27 budget presentation, highlighting a total budget of approximately $345 million with a flat tax rate and a 2% increase in overall spending. The budget included a $10 million appropriation to Gaston County Schools and a $5 million increase in health insurance costs. Commissioners discussed the need to explore options for increasing school funding, including a proposal to repurpose a quarter-cent sales tax to generate additional revenue for teacher supplements and school capital needs. The board voted unanimously to add a resolution to request legislative changes to support this funding approach. Additionally, the board authorized a professional services contract with ESP Associates, Inc. for special inspections and material testing related to courthouse renovations. A closed session was held to discuss confidential legal and personnel matters, resulting in a motion to appropriate up to $350,000 from the general fund balance for a settlement. Overall, the meeting focused heavily on budgetary challenges, school funding priorities, and capital improvement contracting.