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Residents criticize councils handling of downtown street‑lights and development during public comment
Summary
Several Mount Holly residents used the public‑comment period to criticize recent council votes on downtown development and the street‑lights project, call for greater transparency, and urge protections for the historical society's museum.
A string of public commenters at the May 11 Mount Holly City Council meeting criticized recent decisions around downtown development, the street‑lights project and the relocation and support for the Mount Holly Historical Society.
John Jacob, representing the Mount Holly Historical Society, told council that promised museum staffing and security have not materialized since the society moved to a new location. "All of our artifacts are in danger of being stolen or damaged because we have basically no security down there," Jacob said, urging the council to act.
Jared Piccino criticized council members he said voted on land acquisitions and later changed positions, and faulted staff and elected officials for a perceived rush on the downtown project. Piccino alleged that council members "voted for the MOU" around the project and questioned why contracts were prepared before what he says was communicated as an informational update. He also referenced a social media post that he said council members reacted to.
Michelle Yao, a local business owner and soon‑to‑be Main Street merchant, told council business owners had collected "almost 150 signatures" on a petition supporting the downtown project and said many business owners are disappointed by the councils decision to not move forward. She urged the council to work with local businesses.
Terry Yountz urged council to consider the cumulative impacts of multiple new housing developments near Mount Holly, questioned whether the town is prepared for projects he said may list homes over $400,000, and raised concerns about traffic and school capacity.
Council members did not act on policy changes during the public‑comment period but later discussed the need for clearer public engagement and staff presentations on how the city's land‑use plan addresses cumulative impacts.
