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FOREST CITY, N.C. — The Forest City Town Council met Monday night for a meeting that covered a range of critical issues, from new zoning proposals to public safety updates and budget amendments. Here are ten key takeaways from the session:
1. Police Department Welcomes New Officers
The council introduced and swore in four newly graduated police officers. Each took their oath of office, signaling the town’s commitment to public safety. Officers include Michael Cope, Jacob Hamrick, Alexis Dubay, and Daisy Perez-Jimenez.
2. New R-4 Zoning District Proposed
A public hearing was held regarding the introduction of the R-4 zoning district, designed to allow greater flexibility in housing development. The district aims to fill gaps in the town’s zoning laws and create more opportunities for multi-family housing.
3. Debate Over Sign Ordinances Continues
The council discussed longstanding concerns about restrictive sign ordinances impacting local businesses. A debate emerged from Town Council member Shawn Moore regarding the difficulty businesses face in complying with regulations, particularly in cases where national brands seek to update signage.
4. Approval of Budget Amendments for Public Works and Emergency Preparedness
The council approved a $120,000 fund allocation for a generator at the Public Works warehouse following power outages from Hurricane Helene. Another $300,000 was designated for the purchase of a new bucket truck for the Electric Department.
5. Public Hearings Scheduled for Zoning and Text Amendments
The council scheduled multiple public hearings for March 17, 2025, including rezoning requests and text amendments affecting permitted land uses and non-residential building requirements.
6. Funding Request for Cemetery Expansion
A new section of the town cemetery is in development. The town is reviewing fees and construction costs for sidewalks and infrastructure improvements in the area.
7. IT Modernization and Cybersecurity Investment
The council reviewed a proposal to upgrade the town’s IT infrastructure, including new financial management software, enhanced cybersecurity measures, and street camera upgrades to incorporate AI-driven surveillance capabilities.
8. Surplus Property Declared
The town designated several items as surplus. The most unexpected surplus item was the large walk-in holiday ornament decoration.
9. Resolution in Support of Chimney Rock State Park Reopening Approved
The council unanimously passed a resolution urging the reopening of Chimney Rock State Park, citing the economic toll its closure has taken on local businesses and tourism.
10. Budget Work Session Scheduled
The council announced an upcoming budget work session to review department funding requests for fiscal year 2025-26, with a focus on infrastructure, technology, and public safety priorities.
Monday’s meeting showcased a local government balancing growth with regulation, public safety with infrastructure needs, and business interests with zoning considerations. As Forest City continues to evolve, the council’s decisions will shape the town’s trajectory in the years to come. Stay tuned for future developments from public meetings and exclusive videos.
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