Cleveland County Board of Commissioners met October 20, 2026. The board adopted the agenda, issued a proclamation for Minority Enterprise Development Week, heard a veterans services presentation and several public comments, held multiple planning/public-hearing items including rezonings and a UDO text amendment to allow utility-scale battery storage, and received updates on the FY2026 audit and the Justice Center construction schedule.

Discussion Points

•Commissioners and public raised questions about lithium battery fire behavior, vapor/emission studies, noise, setbacks and emergency response planning.
•Commissioners sought clarification on whether storage-only parking would be allowed under the overlay.
•Commissioners thanked the veterans council and staff and noted local veteran counts (about 6,000).
•Duke Energy presented technology and safety testing (UL certified burn tests); staff described development standards.
•Manager provided audit and construction milestones; commissioners asked for clarification on public opening date.
•Manager said DHSR inspection is required before detention-center occupancy and estimated a 60-day process.
•Neighbors reported apparent unpermitted RV-site construction and opposed conversion to rural-residential zoning.
•Planner explained overlay and lot-size context; public speaker described intended use as vehicle staging for repair work.
•Planning staff explained planning-board denial due to inconsistency with future-growth designation.
•Presentation described office services, staffing (three accredited officers) and event schedule.
•Resident described long-term nuisance conditions and lack of compliance following a May\u0002August compliance period.
•Staff accepted documentation and commissioners thanked the resident for working with staff.

Decisions

•Adopt UDO text amendment to allow battery energy storage in industrial districts (approved 4-1).
•Continue with listed schedule; no formal board vote recorded on schedule items.
•Deny rezoning request (unanimous).
•Informational only; no formal board action recorded.
•No board motion; staff follow-up requested.
•Rezone Parcel 42587 (2002 Boston Road) from residential to general business (approved).

Directions

•Inspections/Code Enforcement to review submitted materials and continue enforcement steps as appropriate.
•Planning staff to treat future project applications under the new UDO standards and coordinate with emergency services on response plans.
•Staff to continue permitting/enforcement review for any unpermitted construction; denial preserves current zoning.
•Staff to coordinate DHSR inspection and continue final punch-list and testing work.
•Staff to process rezoning and ensure applicant meets screening and site-plan requirements.
•Veterans Services to proceed with planned events and Choose VA outreach; staff to gather RSVPs for employee luncheon.

Aug

The Conservation Connection | August '26

Amanda Strickland of the Cleveland County Soil and Water Conservation District gave a short presentation introducing the district, its history dating to the dust bowl and a 1961 local founding, and urged residents to follow upcoming programs on Facebook and the district website.

Discussion Points

•District mission and outreach
•Historical basis in 1930s Dust Bowl and 1961 founding
•Partnerships with farmers, landowners and students

Aug

Cleveland County Commissioner's Meeting | 8-4-2026

Cleveland County Board of Commissioners met to approve routine agenda items and several rezoning requests, adopt a town land-use plan into the county guide, adopt interim development standards for data centers, hear public comments urging restoration of $500,000 to schools, and receive a detailed update on the Justice Center project budget and schedule.

Discussion Points

•Board members noted visible signage at sites and visited locations in advance of votes.
•Budget breakdown: GMP just under $187M; soft costs just under $23M; total $209,650,058; funding includes state capital infrastructure funds and limited-obligation bonds.
•Chris Martin explained the plan is advisory (not zoning), contains a map and vision, and followed public input and a June 2 town adoption.
•Commissioners asked whether to differentiate AI data centers because of higher water/power needs; staff said the current draft does not differentiate but the board could revisit later or after state legislation.
•Dr. Jenny White testified that Cleveland County Schools had $500,000 cut from operations and that state-funded raises for some employees require local funds for supplement coverage.
•Planning board recommended approval and suggested attention to utilities (water/sewer) and access along Highway 18.
•Project timeline and procurement history: conceptual design (Sept 2021), Moseley Architects (Dec 2021), Yates Metcon selection (May 2022), project execution (May 2024).
•Ron McCollum claimed unbudgeted county contributions were made to schools last year and sought clarification on this year's amounts.
•Staff explained purpose: compatibility, noise minimization, utility coordination, emergency response planning.
•Staff presented details and planning‑board recommendations for three separate rezoning requests.

Decisions

•All three rezoning requests approved unanimously.
•Board approved the text amendment as a proactive baseline.
•Board voted unanimously to include the town plan in the county land-use plan.
•No new appropriation or amendment recorded at this meeting; informational update only.

Directions

•Continue regular oversight, audits, and reporting to the board and LGC.
•Staff to monitor relevant state bills and return with revisions if needed.

Jul

Cleveland County Commissioner's Meeting | 7-14-2026

Cleveland County Board of Commissioners met July 14, 2026, held a public hearing on Planning Case 26-14 (rezoning three parcels on South Post Road for manufactured-home park use), heard three nearby residents oppose the rezoning, and voted unanimously to deny the request. The board later approved a minor modification to the county manager's contract in closed session and scheduled the next meeting for Aug. 4, 2026.

Discussion Points

•Board entered closed session under statutory personnel authority.
•Chair announced a slight contract modification was approved in closed session.
•Neighbor asserted a pattern of criminal incidents at the adjacent trailer park and requested protective conditions if zoning changed.
•Planning board had recommended approval following discussion and neighbor comment.
•Planning staff clarified that technical reviews (septic, erosion control, road design) occur at permit stage, not during rezoning consideration.
•Planning staff presented land-use maps and noted parity of density between districts; several neighbors opposed due to safety, property-value and infrastructure concerns.
•Resident asked for surveys, perc tests, traffic and stormwater studies and confirmation that utilities can support additional homes.
•Staff described land-use plan designation and commercial overlay; planning board recommended approval because the uses and density were similar.

Decisions

•Approved a contract modification in closed session; no terms disclosed in open session.
•Board denied the rezoning request (Case 26-14) by unanimous vote.

Directions

•Staff to apply standard permitting review (septic, drainage, access) if and when a permit is submitted.
•Staff to apply standard permitting reviews for any future development proposals.

Jun

Cleveland County Commissioner's Meeting | 6-16-2026

Cleveland County commissioners held a routine meeting featuring presentations and recognitions, accepted a donated Charters of Freedom installation by motion, and received a $25,000 Duke Energy Foundation grant for expanded weather sirens in Belwood/Toluca.

Discussion Points

•Birthday announcement for Commissioner Hutchins.
•Clerk read the formal award citation referencing Governor Josh Stein.
•Commissioners discussed potential locations and coordination with the justice center plaza project.
•Craig said the foundation’s $25,000 grant supports siren installation and readiness work; the foundation is distributing $500,000 across NC.
•Jeff Morse presented the installation design and options for pedestals and amenities.
•Josh Queen credited local partners for identifying Belwood as underserved and applying for the Duke Energy Foundation grant.
•Molineaux outlined Samanski’s duties and cited the example of Hurricane Helene when Samanski stayed to care for animals.
•Procedural items were approved by voice vote.
•Report that about 60 youths attended a Trailblazers outing at the county gun range.
•The Charters gift was accepted with authorization for staff to negotiate LOI.

Decisions

•Adopted agenda and consent agenda; accepted donated Charters installation.
•Board voted unanimously to accept the gift and authorize LOI negotiations.

Directions

•Clerk and county manager to prepare and record minutes and LOI documentation.
•County emergency management to coordinate final site placement and implementation with local fire departments.
•County manager to work with Foundation Forward and county attorney to develop an LOI.
•Staff to return LOI and site recommendations to the board for review before any signature or county-funded improvements.

Jun

Cleveland County Commissioner's Meeting | 6-2-2026

Cleveland County Board of Commissioners met June 2, 2026. The board approved a manager-recommended FY 2026–27 budget with the tax rate held at 40.5¢, approved several planning items including notice-rule changes and rezoning requests, ordered the closure of an unused right-of-way to enable housing, and heard multiple public-comment reports from community organizations.

Discussion Points

•Board discussed a dedicated capital funding approach (debt-capacity model).
•Commissioners emphasized public safety and workforce/education investments.
•County Manager presented FY 26-27 budget and rationale for totals and enterprise fund figures.
•Planning Board and Ag Advisory Board supported the change as a reasonable expansion of notice.
•Staff proposed replacing 'adjoining' with 'within 500 ft' in notice provisions.

Decisions

•Adopted FY 2026–27 budget as presented; set effective date July 1, 2026.
•Amendment approved unanimously.

Directions

•County staff to publish adopted budget and implement CIP/debt-capacity model.
•County to schedule capital project updates and ribbon-cutting for 911 center.
•Planning staff to implement updated mailing lists and templates; preserve sign and newspaper notices.

May

Cleveland County Commissioner's Meeting | 5-19-2026

The Cleveland County Board of Commissioners met May 19, 2026. The board heard a public presentation on amateur radio emergency communications, reviewed causes and corrective steps for a late FY2024–25 audit, approved an engagement letter for the next audit, and received the manager's recommended FY2026–27 budget (public hearing set for June 2). A closed session approved a 3% raise for the board clerk.

Discussion Points

•Board approved a 3% raise to the clerk's base salary and reported the action in open session.
•Board entered closed session under N.C. G.S. 143‑318.11(A)(6) to consider personnel matters.
•Club will host Field Day June 27 at Weathers Arena to demonstrate emergency communications.
•Manager projected $62M ad valorem revenue and $18.5M sales tax; noted $105M construction drawdown will reduce investment earnings.
•Positions tied to new EMS base and Justice Center facility needs.
•Primary cause: bank reconciliation backlog and ERP conversion issues.
•Recommendations: indirect cost plan, debt-capacity model, ERP modernization; recommended maintaining tax rate at 40.5 cents.
•Recommendations: revert to Excel for reconciliations, PBC tracking, monthly close, ERP modernization.
•Recommendation to retain TPSA at proposed price of $75,500.
•Request for 10 positions: six paramedics, two custodians, one maintenance technician, one emergency management planner.
•Steel recounted the club's support during Hurricane Helene and stressed volunteer training and recruitment.
•This item is an engagement letter, not the full audit contract; proceedings will follow.

Decisions

•3% salary increase approved in closed session and announced in open session.
•Board requested prompt public release of the consultant report and periodic reporting on audit readiness.
•Board set public hearing; no final adoption at meeting.
•Engagement letter approved by voice vote.
•No final hiring action taken at this meeting; budget hearing to follow.
•No formal board action; informational presentation.

Directions

•Human resources to implement salary change; closed-session minutes recorded per statute.
•Positions recommended for funding in manager's proposed budget; board to review at public hearing and budget adoption process.
•Proceed with engagement and ensure next audit on time.
•Public invited to Field Day; staff and commissioners expressed appreciation.
•Set public hearing for June 2, 2026; publish budget documents for public review.
•Staff to clear bank-reconciliation backlog by June 30; release consultant report to public; provide quarterly updates to board.

May

Cleveland County Commissioner's Meeting | 5-5-2026

Cleveland County Board of Commissioners meeting: public comment urged tiny-home and cybersecurity solutions; commissioners approved a tax-incentive resolution for a proposed manufacturing project, accepted the county manager's corrective response to a late FY25 audit, and appointed Dr. Lamont Littlejohn to the community college board.

Discussion Points

•Audit was approximately one month late; reconciliations caused the delay.
•Board considered applicants for a four-year community college trustee seat ending 12/31/2030.
•Digital divide leaves seniors, vets and small businesses vulnerable to cybercrime.
•GASB 87 lease accounting error recorded to departments rather than debt service.
•Litter and environmental neglect are community concerns.
•Public attendees expressed support and asked clarifying questions about the presentation slides and company status.
•Staff recommended a 3-year local incentive equal to 25% of the current tax rate to attract Project Champion.
•Three of 31 rental accounts remained unreconciled.
•Tiny-home communities and affordable housing to support vulnerable residents.

Decisions

•Board approved resolution to support Project Champion incentive (unanimous).
•Board approved the manager's corrective response and directed staff to submit it to the Local Government Commission.
•Dr. Lamont Littlejohn appointed unanimously.

Directions

•Clerk to notify the college and Dr. Littlejohn.
•County staff to finalize contract terms and forward required paperwork to state oversight authorities.
•Staff to perform daily and monthly reconciliations, engage consultants, provide monthly reports and quarterly public audit updates.

May

Minutes

The Cleveland County Board of Commissioners met May 5, 2026. The board approved multiple budget amendments and refunds, set public hearings for several rezoning requests, authorized an economic development incentive for “Project Champion,” approved an audit corrective response after a delayed filing, and reappointed a trustee to the Cleveland Community College board.

Discussion Points

•Audit identified three performance issues including GASB 87 lease accounting misclassification and late reconciliation of bank accounts.
•Chairman Gordon noted Planning Case 26-10 was postponed to June 2 to allow Planning Board review.
•County engaged external consultant and will implement daily reconciliations and monthly reporting.
•Multiple budget amendments to support education, community programs, animal services, and E-911 center change orders.
•No formal direction or vote resulted from public comment during this meeting.
•Presentation of projected job creation (101 jobs) and investment ($28 million).
•Public comment in support from Cynitra Stewart.
•Public comment urged exploration of tiny-home communities and affordable housing initiatives; concerns raised about litter, community beautification and a digital divide.
•Several property owners requested hearings to consider rezoning of parcels and abandonment of an unpaved right-of-way.
•Tax refund requested by Albemarle Us, Inc. following NC DEQ certification.

Decisions

•Board approved audit response plan for formal submission to State Treasurer and LGC.
•Board approved the consent agenda budget amendments and refunds unanimously.
•Board approved the incentive resolution.
•Board set public hearings for all listed planning items on June 2, 2026.

Directions

•Finance staff to record and implement approved budget amendments and process refunds.
•Incentive is performance-contingent; county staff to monitor benchmarks.
•Planning Department to prepare staff reports and publish legal notices for June 2 hearings.
•Staff to provide monthly financial reports and quarterly audit updates in public session; release consultant report after review.

May

Minutes

The Cleveland County Board of Commissioners approved an economic development incentive for "Project Champion," set multiple public hearings on rezoning and a right-of-way abandonment for June 2, 2026, approved several budget amendments including funds for a robotics lab and E-911 center changes, accepted an audit response plan addressing late filings and reconciliations, and re-appointed Reverend Lamont Littlejohn to the Cleveland Community College board.

Discussion Points

•All amendments approved unanimously by the Board members present.
•Board appointment to Cleveland Community College for a four-year term.
•Chairman Gordon postponed Case 26-10 to June 2 to allow Planning Board review.
•Corrective actions: daily reconciliations, consultant review, monthly financial reporting, quarterly audit updates.
•Multiple budget amendments and allocations across departments including education, community programming, Sheriff’s capital project, and donations.
•Multiple rezoning petitions affecting parcels from 0.55 to 5.58 acres were scheduled for public hearing on June 2.
•Need for cybersecurity education and workforce development targeted at vulnerable residents.
•Presented incentive: three years at 25% of the $0.405 tax rate, est. $68,850 if benchmarks met.
•Project would create 101 jobs averaging $51,381 and invest $28,000,000 over three years.
•Three issues identified: GASB 87 lease accounting, late audit submission related to bank reconciliations, and unreconciled bank accounts (31 accounts; three not current).
•Tiny‑home communities and affordable housing proposals for families, seniors, and veterans.

Decisions

•Approved listed BNAs and appropriation requests
•Approved resolution authorizing economic development incentive for Project Champion
•Board approved audit response plan for submission to State Treasurer and LGC
•Hearings set for June 2, 2026
•Re-appointment approved unanimously

Directions

•Release independent consultant’s report to the public after appropriate review.

May

Cleveland County Commissioner's Meeting | 5-5-2026

The Cleveland County meeting opened with ceremonial items; the chair announced the public hearing on Planning Department Case 26-10 (a proposed code amendment on notification for quasi-judicial and legislative rezoning hearings) was postponed to 2026-06-02.

Discussion Points

•No substantive discussion of Case 26-10's text or notice methods was recorded in the opening segments.

Decisions

•Public hearing on Case 26-10 postponed to June 2, 2026.

Directions

•Planning board to review the proposed amendment and prepare a recommendation prior to the rescheduled hearing.

Apr

Cleveland County Commissioner's Meeting | 4-21-2026

The Cleveland County Board of Commissioners met April 21, 2026. The meeting opened with pledges and veterans recognition, included multiple public-comment speakers defending former finance director Philip Stefan, held five rezoning public hearings with mixed outcomes, and concluded with two personnel/legal matters discussed in closed session.

Discussion Points

•Applicant described site cleanup and intent to place a modular building for salon/nail services; neighbor worried about precedent and loss of agricultural character.
•Applicant proposed a family-oriented winery; neighbor opposed citing RU allows RV parks and increased traffic.
•Callers emphasized Stefan\u0002s prior experience and lack of penalties for the county audit cited in the termination notice.
•Commissioners debated precedent after a recent denial for a different applicant at a nearby parcel.
•Commissioners discussed that rezoning follows the land and could enable different uses if sold in the future.
•Owner wants to build a workshop and has deeded portions of original acreage to family; planning staff explained RU allows additional rural uses.
•Planner described the parcel as in a transitional area near Highway 18 where smaller lot sizes are appropriate.
•Planner noted airport-compatibility and neighborhood-business suitability for low-impact uses.
•Planner noted RM allows mobile-home parks while RU does not and requires larger lot sizes; planning board recommended approval.
•Public commenters called for review or reinstatement of former finance director Philip Stefan and disputed press coverage of his firing.
•Public hearing included an unrelated resident complaint about Hatcher Road; no opposition to rezoning was recorded.
•Resident described long-term nuisance conditions: trash, abandoned vehicles, uncut grass and possible abandonment filings.
•Resident said he had tried contacting county staff (named Nick Powell and Hayden Weinstein) without response.
•Residents said rezoning would allow them to subdivide and control future sales to neighbors or buyers.

Decisions

•No public enforcement action announced at the meeting.
•No public reversal or reinstatement was announced in open session.
•Rezoning approved 4\u0002to\u0001.
•Rezoning approved; effective date to follow formal ordinance adoption.
•Rezoning approved unanimously.
•Rezoning denied 4\u0002to\u00015.

Directions

•Board entered closed session later to discuss personnel and legal matters and reported giving direction to counsel and guidance to staff.
•County staff (Danny) was asked to follow up with Turner the next day.
•Staff to draft ordinance language consistent with the decision and follow the adoption process.
•Staff to notify applicant of denial and options for reapplication.
•Staff to prepare ordinance adoption language and next steps.
•Staff to prepare ordinance adoption materials.
•Staff to prepare ordinance adoption materials following the unanimous approval.

Apr

Minutes

The Cleveland County Board of Commissioners met April 21, 2026. The board approved multiple budget amendments and several rezoning requests, set a public hearing for a proposed manufacturing project, heard public comment urging reconsideration of a terminated finance director, and denied one high-profile rezoning request for a proposed winery.

Discussion Points

•Applicant proposed a family-focused winery; opponents noted RU could permit RV parks and higher-intensity uses.
•Brand of AEDs to align with existing equipment.
•Commissioner Hutchins emphasized that zoning runs with land and cautioned against 'zoning a person rather than a property.'
•Commissioners reiterated that rezonings run with the land rather than the applicant and discussed permitted uses and density effects.
•Commissioners sought clarifications on uses and legal authorities for transfers.
•Concerns about traffic, lighting and preserving rural character were raised by opponents.
•Grant funds will purchase AEDs for patrol deputies.
•Multiple departmental BNAs presented and justified by statutory reporting or grant receipt.
•Multiple public commenters urged reinstatement of former Finance Director Philip Steffen and argued a delayed audit did not warrant termination.
•Planners and commissioners emphasized NB limits and the tract size would constrain large-scale uses.
•Planning Board recommended approval in each case with staff presenting consistency with the Land Use Plan.

Decisions

•Acceptance and use of grant funds approved unanimously.
•Motion to deny the rezoning passed 4-1.
•Multiple BNAs approved as recorded.
•No public personnel decision or vote announced
•Rezoning approved unanimously.
•Three rezoning requests approved; two unanimous votes and one 4-1 vote recorded.

Directions

•Board entered closed session and gave direction to County Attorney to report on a confidential employee matter; guidance given to County Manager and staff on personnel-related matters.
•Departments to implement approved transfers and report per statutory requirements.
•Planning staff to apply NB standards and update zoning maps.
•Planning staff to implement zoning changes consistent with the Board's action.
•Sheriff’s Office to manage procurement and ensure brand compatibility.

Mar

Cleveland County Commissioner's Meeting | 3-17-2026

The Cleveland County Board of Commissioners met March 17, 2026. Presentations included a funding request from Cleveland Vocational Industries, an auditor briefing on the 2025 fiscal audit (noting two findings and a late submission), proclamations (America 250 flag challenge, Creek Week, National Agriculture Week), and an animal-services report about neonatal puppies found in Kingston. Public comment included a request for an investigation into a March 10 building-threat notification failure.

Discussion Points

•Adoption of GASB 101 increased reported long-term liabilities for compensated absences.
•Agency decided not to pursue criminal charges at this time based on circumstances and available evidence.
•Allegation that IT staff were not notified during a March 10 evacuation and that 911 was not called.
•Audit firm projected an unmodified (clean) opinion after final adjustments.
•Audit submission is late despite a one-time state extension; auditors and county will finalize remaining items.
•Board adopted proclamation recognizing the week and honored students' flag designs and a conservation educator.
•Commissioners praised the organization and signaled follow-up in budget conversations.
•Creek Week schedule, partners, and activities were outlined.
•CVI described services, staffing, client counts, and revenue sources; asked for county support.
•FEMA reimbursement timing produced a large timing loss in the FEMA fund; once reimbursement arrives numbers may normalize.
•Report of neonatal puppies in trash container; responding officer located puppies with the dam and inconsistent resident accounts.
•Resident requested an official investigation and answers to three questions about the incident.
•Voluntary surrender of the dam for veterinary care; Animal Services documented calls and has body‑cam footage.

Decisions

•Consent to finalize audit once outstanding items are posted; no immediate policy change adopted.
•Follow-up by county management; no formal investigation motion recorded during the meeting.
•No criminal charges pursued at this time; mother dog impounded for care.
•Proclamation adopted recognizing Creek Week (April 11–18, 2026) and Amanda Strickland's award.

Directions

•Animal Services to continue follow‑up and accept additional evidence from the public.
•Board/staff to review notification procedures and consider an investigation or procedural clarification.
•Board to consider CVI during the budget process.
•County finance to post agreed journal entries and provide management representation letter to auditors.
•Finance to prepare and present a formal response to the state's FPS findings within 60 days.
•Organizers to publish a Creek Week calendar and finalize event partners.

Mar

Minutes

Cleveland County Board of Commissioners meeting on March 17, 2026 covered presentations from Cleveland Vocational Industries and county extension staff, a detailed FY2025 audit presentation noting a late filing and corrective actions, multiple budget amendments including $500,000 for volunteer fire departments, an Animal Services update on neonatal puppies under investigation, and several planning rezoning public hearings set for April 21, 2026.

Discussion Points

•Alley’s Café described as hands-on training site.
•Board authorized upset-bid procedure and deed preparation.
•Board emphasized honoring agreement when VFD No.7 joined Rural Fire Commission.
•Caller reported puppies found in a trash container; Animal Services dispatched officer within an hour.
•CVI history, mission, and service population details.
•Finance entries reflect interfund transfers and fund balance appropriation.
•Finance turnover and communication issues contributed to delay.
•Haslam alleged 911 was not called during March 10 bomb threat and IT was bypassed during notifications.
•LGC requires specific corrective action reporting within 60 days.
•Officer observed live puppies with mother on property and inconsistent resident statements; no puppies found in trash can during inspection.
•Opioid settlement revision adds $65,000 for specific program needs.
•Parcel tax value is $5,750 with City of Shelby liens of $2,786.29; bid of $8,000 exceeds tax value but not liens.
•She requested an official investigation into protocol and universal application of public-safety procedures.
•SOTCH findings: leading causes of death and access challenges; programmatic responses outlined.
•Staff described each rezoning application with parcel size, current and requested zoning, and Land Use Plan context.
•The Board emphasized public notice and opportunity for input at the scheduled hearings.
•TPSA identified unreconciled accounts and late submission as significant issues.

Decisions

•BNA #046 approved unanimously.
•Board set public hearings for each planning case unanimously.
•Case left open for follow-up; mother dog surrendered to Animal Services.
•No formal board vote on audit; direction to prepare corrective action plan.
•No formal Board vote or directive recorded at the meeting.
•Offer accepted and deed preparation authorized.
•Opioid resolution revisions approved by the Board.
•Presentation only; no Board action.

Directions

•Board will review the corrective action plan when complete.
•Finance to prepare written corrective action plan for the Board and LGC.
•Finance to process transfers and record reserve funds.
•Follow-up investigation by full Animal Services staff the next business day.
•Health Department to implement changes and report back as required.
•Health staff to file updated documentation with Clerk's Office.
•Legal and Clerk's offices to prepare deed and reconcile purchaser name/spelling before conveyance.
•Public hearings to be held April 21, 2026; staff to provide notices and reports.

Feb

Cleveland County Commissioner's Meeting | 2-3-2026

Cleveland County Board of Commissioners met Nov. 3, 2026. Presentations included an Ames Copper Group expansion update and a Catawba Nation Foundation grants overview; the board approved a rezoning request (Planning Case 26-01), appointed a sanitary-district member, confirmed multiple board appointments and heard preliminary budget/tax questions.

Discussion Points

•2025 cycle statistics and 2026 timeline for applications and awards.
•Applicant Michael Myers stated he intends to use the parcel for a storage building only.
•Chair read statutory balanced‑budget requirement and asked manager to model effects of cuts.
•Circumstances of vacancy (death of incumbent Don Milton) and the sanitary district’s independent recommendation process.
•Commissioners asked for internal audits and requested dollar impacts for penny changes to tax rate.
•Company described traffic mitigation steps: internal racetrack, routing flatbeds to Lawndale, and partnering with a staging lot operator.
•Company described vertical‑integration plan (on‑site tank house) to stop sending anodes to Canada for refining.
•County attorney’s explanation of statutory authority for appointment.
•Foundation’s origin under the Catawba Nations compact and funding from casino proceeds.
•Planning director explained zoning differences between Restricted Residential and Rural Residential and noted the planning board recommendation.

Decisions

•Appointment of Dewey Cook approved
•Rezoning approved by vote

Directions

•County manager to prepare scenarios for 5% and 2.5% general‑fund reductions while protecting debt service, public safety, employee compensation and teacher supplements; to perform audits of recurring items (phones, fleet, software).
•County staff to continue advocacy and coordination with state/federal delegations on road improvements (letters previously transmitted).
•County staff to process appointment paperwork and notify appropriate boards.
•Foundation will host technical assistance sessions in February and March; application portal opens March 1.
•Planning staff to proceed with standard permitting guidance for the applicant.

Feb

Minutes

The Cleveland County Board of Commissioners met Feb. 3, 2026. Business included presentations from Ames Copper Group and the Catawba Nation Foundation, several routine budget and board-appointment actions, approval of a rezoning for 109 Catalina Court, and a sanitary district board appointment.

Discussion Points

•ACG described current operations, workforce, production, and community contributions.
•Announcement of 2026 application schedule and capacity-building supports.
•Applicant emphasized limited, noncommercial intent for rezoning.
•Budget amendments and interfund transfers across departments presented and approved.
•Chairman requested two budget reduction scenarios, excluding protected items.
•Commissioners set hearing to review details and commitments.
•Company acknowledged and proposed mitigation for increased truck traffic.
•Company outlined Phase II expansion and potential on-site refining to 99.99% purity.
•County Manager explained revenue sensitivity of tax-rate changes and statutory balanced-budget requirement.
•Explanation of vacancy procedure after posthumous election of Don Melton.
•Legal requirement to advertise tax liens and timeframe for advertisement.
•Overview of 2025 grant cycle results and regional distribution.
•Planning Director described zoning differences and consistency with the Land Use Plan.
•Project overview: 44 new jobs, $17.35M investment, incentive structure proposed.
•Sanitary District Board solicited interest and recommended Dewey C. Cook.

Decisions

•Commission appointed Dewey C. Cook to fill unexpired term.
•Multiple consent items approved unanimously.
•Rezoning approved unanimously.

Directions

•County to coordinate with NCDOT on staging and roadway improvements.
•Foundation will host virtual town hall Feb. 18 and open portal March 1, 2026; grantee reports due March 31, 2026.
•Hearing scheduled for March 17, 2026.
•Staff to prepare reduction scenarios and internal efficiency reviews including fleet and IT audits.

Jan

Cleveland County Commissioner's Meeting | 1-20-2026

Cleveland County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting in January 2026. The board adopted proclamations recognizing Crest and Shelby High School football state championships and Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, approved a rezoning (planning case 25-16), adopted a capital reserve resolution tied to an IGA with the Catawba Indian Nation, awarded a landfill cell construction bid, and entered a closed session under North Carolina law.

Discussion Points

•Commissioners asked about cell lifespan and construction timing (staff estimated 7–10 years of capacity and ~1 year construction).
•Engineer recommended a modified alternate (partial stone/gravel) to reduce cost; staff described liner purpose and gravel ring at low point.
•Planner described site context and recommended approval; applicant stated occupancy under lease and intended operational uses; commissioners asked about planning board recommendation and land‑use consistency.
•Staff described IGA term (20 years) and timing of revenues tied to casino operations; commissioners emphasized separating one‑time IGA funds from operating budget.
•Survivor described treatment history and advocacy; commissioners thanked and encouraged outreach.

Decisions

•Award contract to Earnhardt Grading for $6,879,577.30 with modified alternate.
•Proclamation adopted.
•Resolution adopted to direct IGA revenues to a capital reserve.
•Rezoning approved for Planning Case 25‑16.

Directions

•None recorded beyond approval; conditional district requires future review for new uses.
•Proceed with contract award and finalize contract terms and schedule.
•Staff to prepare debt presentation as part of FY26–27 budget.

Jan

Minutes

Cleveland County Board of Commissioners met Jan. 20, 2026, approved multiple budget amendments and grant allocations, accepted a $6.88 million landfill expansion bid, adopted a resolution to dedicate Catawba IGA revenues to the Capital Reserve Fund, approved a business rezoning at 1032 West Stagecoach Trail, and set a Feb. 3 public hearing for a rezoning request at 109 Catalina Court.

Discussion Points

•Applicant Justin Workman said company operates on site under lease and purchase contingent on rezoning
•Board approved initiating statutory upset-bid process
•Board approved the budget amendment to apply state grant funds to school capital needs
•Board approved the report and thanked staff
•Board set hearing to allow public comment and formal consideration
•Commissioners discussed potential capital uses and risk of using finite revenue for recurring costs
•County Manager David Cotton explained IGA revenue streams and the 20-year term
•County previously acquired parcel via foreclosure; an $8,000 offer was tendered
•Design modification: soil primary protective layer, stone in sump to reduce costs while improving performance
•Engineer review found all bids responsive; Earnhardt recommended as lowest responsive and responsible bidder
•Finance staff outlined the projects and grant allocations
•Health Department outlined statutory role of CFPT and report purpose
•Multiple budget amendments reflect grant receipts and donations to specific departments
•Planning Director outlined consistency with Land Use Plan and Secondary Growth designation
•Routine consent items and financial reports presented by Clerk and Finance staff
•Staff described parcel location, surrounding uses and Land Use Plan designation

Decisions

•All consent and budget items approved unanimously
•Award contract to Earnhardt Grading approved unanimously
•BNA #037 approved unanimously
•CFPT annual report accepted by Board
•Offer accepted and upset-bid process authorized
•Public hearing set for Feb. 3, 2026
•Resolution directing deposit of IGA revenues into Capital Reserve Fund approved unanimously
•Rezoning application approved unanimously

Directions

•Finance and CC Schools to coordinate implementation
•Finance Director to implement policy and incorporate IGA revenues into FY 2026–2027 planning
•Health Department to file report and pursue recommended system improvements
•Legal staff to begin upset bid advertisement and follow statutory process
•Planning staff to prepare hearing materials and publish notice
•Proceed with contract award and construction planning

Dec

Cleveland County Commissioner's Meeting | 12-2-2025

Cleveland County Board of Commissioners held its annual organizational meeting on Dec. 2, 2025: commissioners selected a chair and vice chair, approved routine consent and board appointments, heard updates on county facilities and financing, postponed a rezoning public hearing to Jan. 20, 2026, and entered then reconvened from a closed session with no formal action taken.

Discussion Points

•Ag appointments were presented as vetted by partner agencies (FSA, Soil & Water, Farm Bureau, extension).
•Announcement of postponement; case number and address stated on the record.
•Board explained annual organizational process and opened nominations.
•County reported $89,000,000 in borrowing; $75,000,000 for the justice center; $19,000,000 ARP contribution; $14,000,000 landfill loan and enterprise fund.
•Motion cited N.C. Gen. Stat. §143-318.11(a)(6) as the authority for closed session (personnel/fitness matters).
•Speakers hedged the state funding number as uncertain ('I believe it was').
•Upon return the chair stated no formal action occurred and staff received directions.
•Veterans appointments were recommended by the Veterans Advisory Council; one voice opposition was recorded during approval.

Decisions

•Appointments approved; terms end 12/31/2028.
•Hearing postponed to Jan. 20, 2026.
•Kevin Gordon elected chair; Dan Hart elected vice chair; agenda and consent agenda approved.
•No action was taken on the record; closed session used for confidential personnel discussion.
•No formal borrowing action was taken at the meeting; figures presented as informational.

Directions

•Staff to carry out directions given in closed session (details not disclosed).

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