Gastonia City Council votes to revise budget with targeted water rate adjustments

In the heart of Gastonia, North Carolina, the City Council convened on June 17, 2025, to address pressing budgetary concerns that resonate deeply with the community. As council members gathered under the bright lights of city hall, discussions quickly turned to the proposed budget and its implications for local employees and residents.

Councilman Kasupia voiced his frustration over perceived inequities in budget cuts, emphasizing the need for a fair approach across all departments. His remarks sparked a heated exchange, highlighting the tension surrounding budget allocations and the importance of supporting city employees. “I take offense to you trying to portray me as someone who doesn’t support our family and our employees,” he asserted, underscoring the emotional stakes involved in the council's decisions.

The council ultimately moved to approve the city manager's recommended budget, which included a 3.5% salary increase for employees effective July 1, 2024, and an additional 1% increase tied to a career development program set for January 2026. This decision marks the first phase of a broader compensation study aimed at ensuring fair pay for city workers. The unanimous vote reflected a collective commitment to enhancing employee welfare, a crucial factor in maintaining morale and productivity within the city workforce.

In addition to employee compensation, the council tackled the contentious issue of water and sewer rates. Initially proposed was a 5% increase across the board, but following community feedback, the council considered alternatives. City Manager Michael Peoples presented options that would allow for a more nuanced approach to rate increases. Council members debated the merits of a 2.5% increase for residents while holding the higher rate for commercial customers and other municipalities that rely on the city's water services.

The discussions at this meeting encapsulated the ongoing struggle between fiscal responsibility and community support. As the council navigated these complex issues, it became clear that the decisions made today would shape the future of Gastonia, impacting everything from employee satisfaction to the affordability of essential services for residents. With a sense of urgency and purpose, the council members left the meeting, aware that their choices would resonate throughout the community in the months to come.