Gastonia Councilman McFadden Addresses Salvation Army Building Controversy

In an emergency meeting of the Gastonia City Council held on July 3, 2025, tensions rose as council members addressed concerns regarding the management of the Salvation Army building. The meeting was marked by a heated exchange about the decision-making process surrounding the building's use, particularly in the absence of the city manager, who was on vacation.

The discussion centered on the assistant city manager, Quentin McFadden, who was called upon to clarify the situation. A council member expressed frustration over what they perceived as a lack of adherence to a previously established consensus regarding the building's status. The council member emphasized that the decision to restrict the building's use was made without proper communication and went against the majority's wishes.

The assistant city manager confirmed that he and the city manager had made the decision to limit the building's use, which led to further discontent among council members. They argued that the building should be available for community use, and one member took proactive steps by consulting the fire chief to ensure it was safe for occupancy. This action was presented as a solution to what was described as a failure in leadership and communication.

The council member underscored their commitment to serving the entire Gastonia community, stating that they were elected to represent all 87,000 residents. They expressed a determination to address the issues at hand, despite the challenges posed by differing opinions within the council.

This meeting highlights ongoing concerns about governance and decision-making processes within the Gastonia City Council. The unresolved issues regarding the Salvation Army building reflect broader themes of accountability and transparency in local government. As the council navigates these challenges, the community will be watching closely to see how leadership decisions impact public services and engagement moving forward.