Gastonia Council approves voluntary annexation and zoning for Fairview Drive properties

During the recent Gastonia City Council meeting on May 20, 2025, significant discussions centered around the voluntary annexation and rezoning of two parcels of land, as well as the approval of a major park development project.

The council first addressed the voluntary annexation of approximately 83.37 acres located on Briar Oak Drive and Penny Park Drive. A motion to approve the annexation and rezoning was made but ultimately failed to pass, resulting in a tie vote. Council members expressed concerns regarding the need for additional information, particularly a traffic impact analysis, before proceeding. The council agreed to continue the discussion and scheduled a follow-up for the August 19 meeting, allowing time for the necessary studies to be conducted.

In a separate agenda item, the council held a public hearing for the annexation of 1.179 acres on Fairview Drive. This request, which included a zoning change to allow for the construction of single-family homes, received unanimous support from the council after a brief discussion. The properties are set to receive city services, although the extension of sewer services will be the responsibility of the developer.

Another highlight of the meeting was the approval of a contract for the construction of Lynnwood Springs Park Phase 1. The council awarded the contract to Eaglewood Incorporated for $5,539,383.34. This project aims to transform the former golf course into a community park, featuring amenities such as RV camping spaces, walking paths, and recreational facilities. City staff detailed cost-saving measures that allowed for a significant reduction in the original bid, emphasizing that the project remains a net savings for taxpayers.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to community development and infrastructure improvements, with plans for further discussions and actions to address resident needs in the coming months.