Gaston City Council faces criticism over budget allocation for affordable housing

During the recent City Council meeting in Gastonia, NC, held on May 20, 2025, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the proposed budget and its implications for local services, particularly in the areas of affordable housing and community support.

The meeting began with a discussion about the council's proposed budget, which spans over 300 pages. Many attendees expressed frustration over the limited time available to review the document thoroughly. One speaker emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, questioning how over $2 million could be allocated without clear plans. This sentiment reflects a growing demand for the council to engage more inclusively with local organizations that aim to improve community welfare.

Reverend Greg Floyd and Rita Bates Jones, representing various community organizations, highlighted the pressing issue of homelessness in Gastonia. They reported a significant rise in the number of unhoused individuals and criticized the lack of accessible affordable housing options. Jones shared personal experiences of individuals struggling to find stable housing, underscoring the urgency of the situation. She called on the council to take decisive action to address these challenges, particularly in light of the recent closure of the Salvation Army, a long-standing resource for the community.

The meeting also featured criticism of the council's approach to public engagement. Several speakers noted that the limited opportunities for public expression during budget discussions felt inadequate. Concerns were raised about the council's decision-making process, with calls for more scrutiny of budget items deemed non-essential. One speaker urged council members to prioritize necessary expenditures over what he termed a "wish list" budget, questioning the allocation of funds for abandoned properties.

As the meeting concluded, the overarching theme was clear: community members are calling for greater accountability and responsiveness from their elected officials. The discussions highlighted a critical need for the council to address the growing issues of homelessness and affordable housing, as well as to foster a more inclusive dialogue with constituents. Moving forward, it remains to be seen how the council will respond to these pressing community needs and whether they will take steps to enhance transparency and public engagement in their decision-making processes.