By  Loretta Cozart

Last week, WRAL news obtained a draft bill that would award one company rights to develop three casinos in NC as part of a $1.5 billion dollar investment in the state. The Lumbee Tribe would manage a fourth casino, according to Legislators, even though they currently do not have federal recognition giving them the ability to do so.
 The Lumbee Fairness Act was introduced by Senator Tom Tillis in February of this year, and it still awaits federal recognition.
The proposed bill, which was made public by WRAL states, “There is established the Rural Tourism Incentive Program to be administered by the Secretary of Commerce. The purpose of the program is to encourage and promote tourism in rural counties on the State border and along major transportation corridors.
“The program will allow for Gaming, which is a new and expanding component of the tourism industry and is currently allowed in North Carolina on certain Indian lands. As many contiguous states allow gaming, those industry business opportunities and employment opportunities are being lost to the state.”
In addition to the $1.5 billion dollar investment the three casinos would bring the state, applying companies must also invest at least five hundred million dollars in each district. And to be considered, applying companies must also pay a proposal fee of $25,000,000. If an applicant is accepted, their deposit will be credited to the excise tax applicable to that business. If a company is denied, the fee will be refunded.
On Thursday, July 20, Senator Phil Berger said Chamber leaders continue to talk about whether they should permit casinos on non-tribal lands, authorize, and regulate video gambling machines, or both. When asked the odds of a bill reaching Gov. Roy Cooper’s desk, Berger replied, “I’d say better than 50-50. It's a serious discussion.”
According to WRAL, House Speaker Tim Moore told reporters that the casinos would be in Anson, Nash, and Rockingham counties, with a fourth casino being run by the Lumbee Tribe in the southeastern part of the state even if the tribe does not get its long-sought federal recognition.
Coincidentally, a Baltimore developer has already asked for rezoning 192-acres in Rockingham County, the home county of Senator Phil Berger, before the bill being discussed has even gone through both state legislative chambers.
NC Development Holdings has the same North Carolina address as Baltimore based The Cordish Companies. That company has ten business lines, including casinos which are managed by Joseph Weinberg, Managing Partner, and CEO of Cordish Gaming Group. Weinberg is also listed as NC Development Holdings’ Principal’s Authorized Representative
The Cordish Companies’ other business lines include commercial real estate, entertainment districts, gaming, hotels, restaurants, sports anchored districts, co-working spaces, international development, private equity, and residential.

 

Join CJ and Fidget for The Fun Factory, in Patriots Park, 220 S. Railroad Avenue in Kings Mountain on Wednesday, July 19 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. for this family friendly event.
This interactive program reminds us that when we work together, anything is possible! Young readers will help an incredible factory come to life as gears turn, games unfold, and toilet paper goes flying through the air!
This high-speed show is guaranteed to capture attention with lots of music, interactive play, and a valuable lesson that audiences are guaranteed to remember; that we are strongest when we work together!The Fun Factory is presented by Sigmon Theatrical and hosted by Mauney Memorial Library.

 At approximately 8 a.m., on Monday, July 10, Capt. Jody Seagle of Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office was ambushed on Curt Ledford Road, near Lawndale, by a man who struck him from behind with a metal bar when the deputy stopped to investigate a suspicious vehicle.
During a press conference, Sheriff Alan Norman said, “It’s just senseless, totally senseless. (It was) an attack that came out of nowhere. Before he struck Deputy Seagal, he knew that he was a law enforcement officer.”
The sheriff described this as an unprovoked, vicious assault. The deputy was in route to work when he noticed an abandoned, suspicious vehicle. When he exited his vehicle, the deputy was attacked from behind and assaulted with a piece of metal bar. “It is our desire to have this individual in custody and off the streets,” he said.
“The deputy fired upon the vehicle when he feared the driver would back over him,” the sheriff explained. “It goes to show that he (the attacker) has no regard for the safety and welfare of any individual in North Carolina, or anywhere there is that he is at,” Norman said. Capt. Jody Seagle was transported to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
The suspect is a white male, over 6 feet tall, believed to have a full-sleeve tattoos and a possible left-side neck tattoo. He was wearing work boots, black shorts, and a white T-shirt. The suspect vehicle was a beige or tan 4-door Buick, with a square front end. The driver’s side door may have bullet holes.
If you know anything about this incident, please contact Cleveland County Communications Center with information at 704-484-4822.

Auditions for the upcoming fall season of “Liberty Mountain – The Revolutionary Drama” will be held on July 22 at the Joy Performance Center in downtown Kings Mountain at 6:30 p.m. Auditions and interviews will be held for paid roles available for onstage and offstage positions, with the company seeking professional, local, and student talent. The production will be directed by Caleb Ryan Sigmon and is written by former WBTV news anchor Robert Inman.
Performers will be expected to memorize and perform a 60-second monologue of their choice along with an optional 16-bar musical audition. Those acting and singing will be given 90-seconds. They are also seeking musicians – those wishing to play an instrument should prepare a 60-second selection to showcase their musical talent. They are seeking top-notch talent from across the Southeast. Company housing is available for out-of-town performers.
Rehearsals will begin on September 1, with performances running on select dates, September 15 through October 8.
“Liberty Mountain – The Revolutionary Drama” tells the epic true story of the Battle of Kings Mountain, that turned the tide of the Revolutionary War in October of 1780. The show features state-of-the-art
projection technology, live music, epic battle scenes, and other special effects that bring the story of the founding of our nation to life in immersive and thrilling ways.
   Anyone wishing to audition may email material in advance to caleb@sigmontheatrical.com. Virtual auditions are also being accepted for those unable to attend in person. Please send an updated resume and headshot along with your email. Learn more about the production and apply today: www.libertymountaindrama.com.

Four-year terms of four City Council members and the mayor are expiring November 7, 2023, and their seats are among 47 seats up for grabs in 13 municipalities in Cleveland County and the Cleveland County Water Board.
Candidate filing begins Friday, July 7 at 9 a.m. at the Cleveland County Board of Elections, 215 Patton Drive, Shelby, and ends at noon Friday, July 21.
Kings Mountain incumbents are Scott Neisler, Mayor and Council members Annie Thombs, Ward I; Jimmy West, Ward 4; Jay Rhodes, Ward 5; and Keith Miller, At-Large.
In Grover, the mayor and two town commissioners are incumbents. They are Roy Dyer, Mayor, and town commissioners Bill Willis and Richard Smith.
Filing fee for Kings Mountain candidates is $60 for mayor and $35 for commissioners.
Filing fee for Grover’s candidates is $5.
The Kings Mountain Council is a seven-member board and includes three members with unexpired terms. They are Mike Butler, Ward 2, Tommy Hawkins, Ward 3; and At-Large councilman David Allen.
The 2023 off-year election includes gubernatorial and legislative elections in a few states as well as mayoral races and other local offices.

By Loretta Cozart

City of Kings Mountain invites citizens to coffee and conversation with City Manager Jim Palenick from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. on Friday, July 14, at Big Red’s Café at 830 E King St. in Kings Mountain.
If you are interested in what’s going on in Kings Mountain or just have questions you would like to ask, meet the new city manager, and start a conversation.
The schedule for the next three month includes the following Kings Mountain locations:
• Friday, July 14 - Big Red’s Café, 830 E King St.
• Friday, August 18 -Chat-n-Nibble Restaurant, 415 N Piedmont Ave.
• Friday, September 15 - Kings Mountain Family YMCA, 211 Cleveland Ave.

Heavy traffic is expected in downtown Kings Mountain, July 1, as the City of Kings Mountain hosts the Revolutionary 4th Celebration at Patriots Park
The city offers shuttle pick-up and drop-off services at the following locations:
• First Baptist Church-located at 605 West King Street, Kings Mountain
• Patrick Senior Center-located at 909 East Kings Street, Kings Mountain
• Parkdale Mill-located at 500 South Railroad Avenue, Kings Mountain, a 10-minute walk to Patriots Park.
Shuttle Service will ONLY be offered to and from Patriots Park. Shuttle service will begin at 4:00 p.m. and end at 11:00 p.m.
The city urges patrons attending the event at Patriots Park to use the shuttle services as parking may be scarce downtown.
Motorists are urged to use extreme caution when traveling through Downtown Kings Mountain due to the increase in motor vehicles and pedestrians.

The City of Kings Mountain looks forward to the Revolutionary 4th celebration scheduled for July 1st, at Patriots Park. Many roads within the city will be impacted during this event including Battleground and Railroad Avenues, Cansler, Gold, and Mountain Streets Downtown, and Hwy 161/Cleveland Avenue and surrounding side streets.
The city advises citizens to “Use extreme caution when traveling these roads due to the increase in motor vehicles and pedestrians. Please plan to take different roads if you are impacted by this change. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.”

By Loretta Cozart

City of Kings Mountain Marketing, Tourism, and Special Events Manager Susan Mosk teamed up with Kings Mountain Police Chief Gerald Childress and Assistant Police Chief Chris Moore, to produce a fun  video regarding the Revolutionary 4th event coming up on Saturday, July 1st.
The trio shared information regarding this
family  friendly  event,  so  prepare ahead. No alcohol will be allowed in the park for Saturday’s celebration. Also, no pets are allowed, except for service animals. If you bring a service animal, be sure to bring your paperwork to verify. If you can’t show the papers, you will be asked to leave the park. And, no personal fireworks are allowed, including sparklers. Finally, note that no smoking or vaping is allowed in the park for this event because lots of children will be in attendance.
   To view the video, visit the City of Kings Mountain Special Events Facebook page. Mosk, Childress, and Moore did an excellent job making the video, so be sure to ask for their autographs when you see them.

Throughout the month of June, Mauney Memorial Library has fun events scheduled for the entire family on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at Patriots Park Amphitheatre, 220 S. Railroad Avenue in  Kings Mountain.
InterActive Theater with Jef Lambdin  was held last week on June 14. Whether onstage or roving, Jef Lambdin is a quiet kind of guy. He juggles and balances things. He gets confused at times. He sometimes even forgets what his hat is for! During his show Wednesday, he involved the 135 audience members to help him when he was confused and to play along with his mime, mask, and variety arts shenanigans. He even led the group sing-a-longs.
On Wednesday, June 21, entertainer Mark Lippard brings his fast paced, high-energy performance full of laughs, juggling, trick unicycling, fire-eating, balance, and surprising fun-filled audience participation.
A full dinosaur dig is planned for Wednesday, June 28 for children six to 12-years old. Search sand pits for real shark teeth, dinosaur bones, and other fun items. At the event, you can get a dino balloon and face paint also.

By Loretta Cozart

Juneteenth is scheduled for Saturday June 24 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Deal Street Walking Track at 211 N. Cleveland Ave in Kings Mountain to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States.
“Juneteenth is open to everybody,” said event organizer Katherine Pendergrass. “I hope the community comes out and joins us in celebrating during this fun filled community event. We will also have a DJ playing music.”
   Events include:
• 10:00 a.m. – Opening / Welcome/ History
• 11:00 a.m. – Puppet Show
• 12:00 a.m. – KUS Dance Group
• 1:00 p.m. -   Todj Hunt
• 2:00 p.m. -   Cornell Cranke
• 3:00  p.m. –  More entertainment
**Times are subject to change
Davidson Alumni Resource Center, Inc is a nonpartisan 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

The winner of the GFWC NC Kings Mountain Woman’s Club, the District 3 and the GFWC of NC state award is
Jordan Michael Mull, son of Mike and Nikki Mull, Grover, NC. Jordan won at the local, district and state levels to win the Sallie Southall Cotten Scholarship.
This scholarship is available to any student who will attend a 4-year university or college in the state of North Carolina. Sallie Southall Cotten (June 13, 1846 – May 4, 1929) was an American writer and clubwoman, based in North Carolina. She helped to organize the North Carolina Federation of Women’s Clubs. She was the organization’s fifth president, and wrote the federation’s anthem, as well as a history of the federation.
Jordan graduated from Kings Mountain High School, where he was president of the Math Club and secretary of the National Honor Society. He also has been a volunteer at the Patrick Senior Center, a math tutor, and has received the AP Scholar with Distinction award. Jordan plans to major in mathematics and philosophy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and then attend graduate school.
The Women’s club shared, “The GFWC NC Kings Mountain Woman’s Club is proud to have this young man representing our club and community. He is an outstanding example of a young person with determination, intelligence and a heart for the community. We are excited to see what his future holds.”

On Thursday, June 15, from 1-3 p.m., City of Kings Mountain Special Events welcomes their friend Ross the Balloon Guy, Charlotte’s #1 Balloon Twister, as they bring the National Foam Party Day to Patriots Park featuring music, concessions and loads of FOAM.
On Friday, June 16 the City of Kings Mountain will bring Disney's "Into the Woods” to big the big screen at Patriots Park for movie night. Sigmon Theatrical brings the characters to life at 6 p.m. and the movie follows promptly at 7 p.m.
Bring your family and friends for these special family summer events.

By Loretta Cozart

Juneteenth, Freedom Day, sponsored by The Davidson Association, and co-sponsored by City of Kings Mountain and Mauney Memorial Library, is Saturday, June 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Deal Street Walking Track at 211 N Cleveland Ave in Kings Mountain.
Activities during the event include face painting, music, dancing, storyboarding, horse club, and a puppet show. They also have a prayer tent for those in need of prayer.
The U.S. Congress passed the bill on June 16, 2021, making Juneteenth a federal holiday officially on June 19 to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. The holiday was first celebrated in Texas, where on that date in 1865, in the aftermath of the Civil War, enslaved people were declared free under the terms of the 1862 Emancipation Proclamation.
Davidson Alumni Resource Center, Inc is a nonpartisan 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

By Loretta Cozart

The fourteenth year of the Cleveland County Potato Project is nearing its mid-point, so the
Herald checked in with Doug Sharp (co-founder of the Potato Project) on the progress. Below is what he shared:
White potatoes were planted in late March and will be ready for harvest in a couple of weeks. White potatoes were planted in partnership with Travis Mangum Associates, North Shelby School, and local Civitan Clubs. Mangum Associates have pretty much cared for this planting.
Sweet potato responsibility has shifted toward Norman Sellers and a group of people who share a passion for feeding people. These are long-time growers of agricultural products, All had occupations, but are mostly retired. Their zeal to be good stewards led them to the Potato Project.
For the first time since the pandemic, assistance is coming from the
Baptist Work Camp in Shelby. Use of these volunteers will help reduce the cost of labor, but volunteers are still needed, and wanted.
Deer have become a growing threat to the Potato Projects’ sweet potatoes. Last year two sites were completely wiped out by these creatures. Dogs from a nearby residence prevented a total wash out. If anyone knows a barking dog that would like to live in a sweet potato patch for the next three months, the help would be appreciated.
Doug shared, “We always need contributions. If you would like to contribute, you may do so by mailing a check to Doug Sharp, 107 Quail Hollow Drive, Kings Mtn, 28086, NC. Be assured that all monies will be used to feed needy people in Cleveland County.”

On Thursday, June 15, from 1 – 3 p.m., City of Kings Mountain Special Events welcomes their friend Ross the Balloon Guy - Charlotte’s #1 Balloon Twister, as they bring the National Foam Party Day to Patriots Park featuring Music, Concessions and loads of FOAM. The fun begins at 1:00 p.m.
Then mark your calendar for Friday, June 16 when City of Kings Mountain brings Disney's "Into the Woods” to big the big screen at Patriots Park for movie night. Sigmon Theatrical brings the characters to life at 6 p.m. and the movie follows promptly at 7 p.m. Bring your family and friends for this special family summer event.

By Loretta Cozart

On May 20, American Legion 155, accepted the mission to draw attention to veteran suicides and encourage those hurting to reach out for help. The American Legion opened their Post home to all veterans, those struggling with mental health issues and those who wanted to support them by drawing attention to veteran’s suicide during their Veterans Walk and Roll event.
Event organizer Chris Pullen said, “We made this a community event, because no matter what organization you belong to, you need a home that is always open when you need it. No matter how ‘military’ you are,  your family means the world to you. They are the ones who support you behind closed doors.”
“What we learned during this nine-day event was that, out there, it isn’t just veterans who are suffering with thoughts of suicide… it is everybody.” Pullen continued, “Suicide affects veterans and their families the hardest and events like this one gives veteran and their families the opportunity to talk to others, to talk with Mission 22, and other support groups.”
Pullen is quick to acknowledge that he didn’t do this event alone. The NC Ambassador of Mission 22, Kevin Evans, along with American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) members Amanda Smith and Kathy Hambright gave of their time and talents, along with countless members of America Legion Post 155 and ALA Unit 155, to shine the light on veteran suicide and the need to support veterans.
The event resulted after lengthy discussions on ways to make American Legion Post 155 more visible to veterans within the community and allow them to express their concern for the welfare of veterans in our community. To do this, they utilized Deal Street Walking Track for 22 hours a day for nine days. Those numbers are symbolic: 22 represents the number of veterans who die each day to suicide, and nine days represents the end a cycle.
   “Evans noted, “At the walking track, the blessing was that the track was kept in motion 22 hours a day. Just to see the veterans who didn’t have the ability to walk come out and participate was amazing. If they couldn’t walk, they were pushed around the track, enabling them to also accept the mission and contribute. As a result, those veterans were able to fully participate.”
   Other groups were invited to join with American Legion Post 155 in this effort: American Legion Post 82, Department of NC District 23, Mission 22, Wounded Warrior Project, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Combat Veterans, and Disabled American Veterans, among others.
   During the event dubbed ‘Veterans Walk and Roll’, 817 individuals walked the track. Of those participating, 192 vets walked 1407 laps, and 625 civilians walked 2681 laps, for a total of 1551.6 miles. Veterans from across the nation participated within their own communities and reported laps that were included in those numbers. Laps were reported from PA, Missouri, Tennessee, Florida, New Jersey, Alabama, Alaska, and the Bahamas.
   Those who participated at the track were invited to join the legionnaires in the evening for karaoke, bingo, haircuts, and conversation. Raffles and other fundraisers were held to raise funds to pay for the events and meals during the evenings. Bands played at the Post and at other American Legion Posts.
   Due to inclement weather, the planned motorcycle poker run had to be cancelled, so the legionnaires had to pivot. Through it all, they prevailed. “In spite of the bad weather throughout the week, the rain didn’t stop anyone from walking for 22 hours a day during the nine-day event,” Pullen said.
   “Every year, Mission 22 organizes a walk nationwide to support veterans and draw attention to suicide awareness. Next year, I want to incorporate that event into this one,’ Evans shared. “Even if we only hand out one pamphlet to one person, we consider it ‘mission accomplished.’ What Chris Pullen and Post 155 have done is far above the mission. He is super dedicated. I give him all the respect in the world.”
  A highlight of the event was a visit by The Saluting Marine, Staff Sergeant Tim Chambers, who participated in the event. He is a motivational speaker, comrade, and supporter of this special event in Kings Mountain. And Pullen shared that Chambers enjoyed singing karaoke, as well.
  “We learned a lot, and we still have a lot left to learn. American Legion Post 155 accepted the mission and helped the community understand the need to support our veterans, because they served when asked. Now is the community’s time to support these veterans in their hour of need. Pullen concluded. “Just because the event is over, doesn’t mean the mission has ended. The mission is alive, and this mission will continue walk for our veterans.”

Cleveland Community College is excited to announce Shelby Police Department’s retired chief (and Kings Mountain native) Jeff Ledford, has joined the Yeti family. Ledford assumed the role of director of safety and security at the College on June 1. “One of the draws to being here is the reputation of the College,” said Ledford, “and the team that I have the opportunity to work with.”
Ledford retired from the Shelby Police Department on March 31, after
serving  the  community 30 years as an officer, including 15 as chief. The Kings Mountain native and current resident has always focused on community and relationships. Starting his next chapter at CCC, he said, allows him to serve in a different way. “It’s a great opportunity to continue serving the community. The College is a place where I can continue to use my relationships and experience, just on a different level.”
He will lead a small team of part-time security officers, and work with Shelby Police Officer Ryan Laughlin who serves as the College’s SRO.
“We are focused on the safety and security of the students and employees of Cleveland Community College,” said CCC President Dr. Jason Hurst. “That’s why I’m excited to welcome former chief Ledford to our team. His knowledge and experience will be a great asset to our efforts.”

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain Farmer’s Market had a good turnout on Saturday, June 3. More than fifteen vendors participated, many from Kings Mountain.
Cleveland County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for the event shortly after 10 a.m. as those who worked so hard to bring this event to Kings Mountain celebrated. Sponsors for this event include Cleveland County, City of Kings Mountain, The Davidson Association, Kings Mountain Rotary Club, Albemarle Corporation, and NC State Extension.
The Davison Association event organizer Tamra Moody spoke of the day saying, “I think today has been amazing. We’ve had a lot of support and we hope to see the farmer’s market continue to grow moving forward.”
Mayor Scott Neisler said, “It is amazing what the Davidson Association has been able to do here. They took the ball and ran with it and I know this farmer’s market is just going to continue to grow.”
KM Tourism Development Authority Board Director Ellis Noell shared his thoughts saying, “It is great that a partnership has been built here between the Foothills Farmer’s Market, the county, and the Davidson Association. When groups work together, the outcome is so much better because we are working together as a team. I seen nothing but success moving forward.”
While crops like corn and tomatoes aren’t quite ripe yet, a good variety of herbs, mushrooms, grass-fed beef, flowers, coffee, plant starts, honey, pickled okra, pimento cheese, decorative plants, among other items were for sale. The Kings Mountain Farmer’s Market continues every Saturday, June through August, from 8 a.m. until noon.
   The farmer’s market is held downtown at the old Wells Fargo parking lot owned by Phil and Sandie Dee who support Shop Local.
   Davidson Alumni Resource Center, Inc is a nonpartisan 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

By Loretta Cozart

City of Kings Mountain held its Memorial Day
Observance on Monday, May 29 at American Legion Post 155 located at 613 E. Gold Street at 10 a.m. Due to rain, the observance was taken indoors.
The event began with a Piper Prelude by the Loch Norman Pipers, followed by the Presentation of Colors by Boy Scout Troop 92 Honor Guard. Dr. John Howze, Pastor of People’s Baptist Church offered in Invocation. Pastor Gabriel Thombs lead those gathered in the Pledge of Allegiance. Vocalist Sharon Robbs sang the “Star Spangled Banner.”
Mayor Scott Neisler welcomed everyone and reminded them of the importance of remembering those who have been lost in battle while in the service of the United States of America.
The Keynote speaker was Jim Sherman, U.S. Army, Commander, American Legion District 23.
Dale Brittan and Dale Saxon performed the Ballad of the Green Barret. And Jim Medlin, U.S. Staff Sergeant, USAF, 1967 – 1971, followed reciting A Toast to the Flag.
“A Toast to the Flag” was a poem penned by journalist, John Jay Daly. John Day was a poet, drama critic and newsman, who worked for the Washington Post. He wrote this now famous poem early in his career and it was published in 1917.

A Toast to the Flag
Here’s to the red of it:
There’s not a thread of it,
No, nor a shred of it
In all the spread of it
From foot to head,
But heroes bled for it,
Faced steel and lead for it,
Precious blood shed for it,
Bathing it Red!

Here’s to the white of it:
Thrilled by the sight of it,
Who knows the right of it
But feels the might of it
Through the day and night?
Womanhood’s care for it,
Made manhood dare for it,
Purity’s prayer for it
Keeps it so White!

Here’s to the blue of it:
Beauteous view of it,
Heavenly hue of it,
Star-spangled dew of it —
Constant and true.
States stand supreme for it,
Diadems gleam for it,
Liberty’s beam for it
Brightens the Blue!

Here’s to the whole of it:
Stars, stripes and pole of it,
Body and soul of it;
O, and the roll of it,
Sun shining through;
Hearts in accord for it,
Swear by the sword for it,
Thanking the Lord for it,
Red White and Blue!
   Afterward, Brittan and Saxon performed “He Ain’t Heavy.”
   Vietnam Veterans of Kings Mountain did Thirteen Folds of the Flag, and American Legion Post 155 presented a wreath, followed by TAPS being played by Marine Corps League 1164.
   Loch Norman Pipers presented a Piper Interlude during the Retrieval of the Colors by Boy Scout Troop 91. Closing remarks were given by Mayor Scott Neisler.

By Loretta Cozart

During a city council budget work session held on Monday, May 22 at city hall, Kings Mountain City Manager Jim Palenick proposed a Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget of $65,079,820, an increase of $11,174,987 from last year’s budget of $53,904,822.
The proposed budget includes a 5-cent property tax increase, a 10% increase in water and sewer, in addition to a solid waste fee increase of $2.49, and a stormwater fee increase of $1.50. There are no increases proposed for electric or natural gas.
How does the city’s proposed property tax rate increase of 5-cents, to a new rate of 48-cents, compare with that of other municipalities of comparable size to Kings Mountain? Cities compared include Lincolnton: 56-cents, Newton:  54- cents; Morganton: 57-cents; Albemarle: 64-cents, and Lexington: 65-cents, for an average property tax rate of .59-cents.
The budget also includes $1.8 million for paving and road improvements. “Thirty-
five streets will be paved throughout the city,” Palenick said. “And, $100,000 is included for parks and recreation capital improvements. A five percent wage increase has been set aside for city employees included in the budget as well.”              
How does that translate to the average citizen’s monthly budget? For a person who owns a $100,000 house, the city estimates the increase to be $12.79 per month. For $200,000 home, it is estimated the additional cost will be $17.51 per month. And for a $400,000 house, citizens will see an increase to $26.40 per month.
“The city has been using money from the electric fund until the money has been depleted.” Jim Palenick said in an interview with the Herald. “We have, for years, kept the city's property tax artificially low, and the city took money away from its electric utilities, and its gas utility, it didn't reinvest in those utilities, and it didn't develop rate stabilization funds for those. So it didn't develop high quality appropriate fund balances for them. The time has come to pay the piper,” he explained.
“We're doing this in a fiscally responsible way, and planning for the future in a very strategic way. The key is as we are growing, and we will continue to grow a lot, so we must reinvest in a lot of these things, the infrastructure, the amenities, and the quality of life. Because we've neglected parks for a very long time, we allocated $100,000 in park improvements in this budget. But in the future, we expect to add a lot more.”
   Kings Mountain is unique in that it maintains both a public library and a senior center. In many communities they are maintained instead by the county. The library’s proposed budget is $837,050, and the senior center’s is $837,500.
   Palenick continued, “The city has $1.8 million in total paving and road improvements included in this budget. That compares to recent years of $200,000 to $300,000. And over $4 million was included for rolling-stock purchases, including two new fire trucks that are needed. The city is replacing the leaf pickup machines, which have been a real source of concern and controversy because we haven't been as responsive. We haven't been as good, as serviceable, as we should have been in that program, and we realized that a lot of it all came down to the poor quality of our equipment. So that's all being replaced.”
  “If we can start, for instance really focusing this year on paving and road construction and some necessary rolling stock and large equipment purchases, then in future years you're going to see a whole lot more about Parks and Recreation, Streetscape, and other major infrastructure things that we'll try to focus on,” he said.
   The proposed budget does not add any additional positions to the General Fund. “We have made a change where we are hiring a city engineer but eliminating a position that had been set aside for communications. But there's no net increase. It's the same, relatively flat. In Stormwater we propose adding two new positions to meet state mandated requirements.
   Streetscape is not included in the budget for several reasons, he said, “Number one, one of the things that is in this budget is that we are moving away from the city being responsible for running the Main Street program, having actual city employees do that work, and it being a city function. We are proposing to have a contract with a local non-for-profit of stakeholders from the downtown and small business owners, who then we will contract with to do all those things.”
   In summary, Palenick said, “We are proposing a 5-cent property tax increase. For a local government, property taxes are considered a general revenue to be used for services that are not paid for by specific user fees‐public safety, public works, streets, administration, etc. That generates about $1,000,000 a year. That is not $1,000,000 to increase the budget, it's $1,000,000 that goes toward debt service (repaying city debts). A $1,000,000 in debt service translates to over $5,000,000 in capital improvements.”
      Additionally, if approved, the cost for a typical new single-family house building permit will increase from $800 to $1,647, which is in line with what both Gaston County and the City of Shelby charge. Palenick said, “On the building permits, we certainly comply with the law, we provide the minimum basic level of service, and we're working on fully covering the cost for moderate level of service, but again, not quite,” he said.
    So, while we've made various changes to get us closer to industry standards and we're getting more competitively surrounding units, we're not adding any additional fees, we are adjusting them. And don't forget, this only affects construction and new growth, so most people do not pay these fees. You pay it because you're building something, adding something, developing something, and most people who do that are used to this within the environment of what they do, and the city would remain very competitive.”
   He continued, “And the primary reasoning for this budget is that we are trying to get these utilities, solid waste electric, gas, water, sewer, etc., to truly be closed loop enterprise funds to pay for themselves. They should not subsidize each other, and they should also pay for themselves. So, when we see solid waste doesn't pay for itself, we're trying to get it closer. We have increased building permits, mostly on the larger commercial and industrial side, trying simply to get that program to pay for itself. It still doesn't, but it's getting closer.”
   “Stormwater increased simply because the city was in violation. We weren't doing enough. Our program isn't robust enough. The state has said, ‘If you don't start doing it, you're going to be in trouble.’ We will do it better, we'll be hiring two people, and we'll start to be much more active.” The alternative would be to pay a $25,000 fine.
   “We've increased this budget by over $5 million worth of capital improvements. And we're setting the stage to say if we have this amount of property tax dedicated to debt service for capital reinvestment in the future, we will continue to reinvest in the city the way we should have been doing for years and years but haven't. The time has come to start doing that. So, that's why I say the future will be streetscape, parks and rec, and other things like that. Because there must be a way to pay for them in the most appropriate way,” he said.
   “We are at a critical point,” Palenick concluded. “What we do in the next couple of years, the decisions we make, the tools we have, and the sources available to us will have a profound impact on our ability to do this work.”
   Friday afternoon, the city manager updated city council on some positive information regarding current energy trends that suggest, absent unexpected changes to demand or supply which might otherwise result from climactic events; geopolitical upheaval; or natural disasters, we can expect Natural Gas prices to remain fairly flat, or trend lower.
   Since the greatest single economic impact/burden to individual citizens comes as a result of their electric and gas bills, there exists a distinct possibility that in FY23-24, actual decreases to electric and gas bills could yet occur could result, affecting or making up for, or surpassing, the possible increase(s) posed by the 5-cent property tax and the solid waste and water/sewer fee adjustments.
   In the Summer and  Fall of 2022, (between July and November) the City of Kings Mountain increased the P.P.A. (Purchase Power Adjustment) component of Electric rates by 2.75-cents per kilowatt-hour (KWH) due to rapidly rising Natural Gas rates, resulting in electric rate increases to residents of approximately 25% on their electric bills.
   And, because the city also maintains a rate structure which automatically adjusts Natural Gas bills to fluctuate with the commodity cost of  Natural Gas, our residents were also experiencing significant increases in their monthly gas bills.
   If such trends hold, the city could look to lessen or decrease its PPA (Purchase Power Adjustment) rate charge to electric customers; and its gas customers would automatically see their rates decrease.
   According to Moody’s, “Expected 2023 natural gas prices are around 44% lower than forward market expectations in December,”. That has resulted in 2023 expected power prices more than 40% lower than 2022 in some regions, according to the research note which cited S&P Global Market Intelligence data.”
   What does the possible gas rate decreases mean for citizens? The data indicate that a rate reduction of just 2.5% for an average residential electric and gas bill would nearly offset the proposed 5-cent property tax rate increase for valuations up to $100,000.
   A rate reduction of 5% for an average residential electric and gas bill will closely offset our proposed property tax rate increase for valuations up to $200,000.
   For those owning little property ($50k or less), the 5% reduction noted above would virtually offset all proposed 23-24 tax and fee increases combined  --  the net increase would be less than $1 per month, total, assuming the customer pays/utilizes all City services – water, sewer, solid waste, and stormwater.

By Loretta Cozart

On May 20, at 11 a.m. at American Legion Post 155 kicked-off their first annual Walk and Roll for Vets, drawing attention to veterans’ suicide and prevention in America. Chris Pullen welcomed everyone prior to raising the largest free-flying flag in the United States that will remain over the post throughout the week.
Afterward the colors were presented by Burns High School Air Force Jr. ROTC Color Guard, including Caitlinn Enfinger, Grayson Brothers, Ethan Hutchens, and Johnathan Martin.
The National Anthem was sung by Jaiden Huffman.
From now through Memorial Day, the community is asked to walk laps at the Deal Street Walking Track in Kings Mountain in honor of a veteran in their lives. If you can’t walk and want to participate, wheelchairs and volunteers will be there to push you. In doing this compassionate gesture, riders and those pushing are invited to attend special events at the post throughout the week.
Other activities include bingo night, karaoke, a Poker Run, and on May 28, the Saluting Marine, Tim Chambers, veteran, author, motivational speaker, high school mascot, and AMVETS spokesperson, will be at the Post to support the veterans. And he will sing karaoke.
   The remaining events at American Legion Post 155 include:
• May 24 – 27, 6 – 8 p.m., Food and public speakers
Haircuts, Open Mic, Karaoke, DJ’s, Bands, and More
• May 27, Poker Run sign ups 10 a.m.
• May 28,  Veteran Breakfast Legion 8 – 11 a.m.
• May 29, 6-8 p.m. Closing of the Event
   Events at Kings Mountain Walking track include:
• May 24-29, 11 a.m.- 9 a.m., for 9 days, Veterans Walk and Roll
• May 24-29, Meet some of the Sponsors and volunteers
   On May 29, at 10 a.m. placing of the Flags will occur at Mountain Rest Cemetery in Kings Mountain. Flags will be given out that morning at the YMCA track, in Kings Mountain.
The flag flying over the American Legion is a traveling flag that measures 118 ft. long, and 65 feet wide. Stars from tip-to-tip are four-feet wide, and each stripe is five-feet high. It weighs 180 pounds.

It was a beautiful cool cloudy day for the first ever Moss Lake Paddle Race. The group met at 10:00 a.m. sharp at the public access/boat ramp at 863 New Camp Creek Church Road in Kings Mountain. David Caldwell, Broad Riverkeeper, MountainTrue, and Waterkeeper Alliance member, gave a brief introduction and explained the racecourse and rules. The race started at about 10:45 a.m.
Caldwell spoke saying that he, “thanked the generous sponsors: Michael Cheng, who contributed the prize money. Joy Pharr Realtor and Christie’s International co-sponsored the race and is also sponsoring our Swim Guide  site  at  Moss  Lake. Glad to see so many people out enjoying and protecting the places we share!”
   Congratulations to Braxton Carter for his very swift time of 37-minutes covering 4.2 miles to take home 1st place. He averaged over 6 miles per hour in his 20’ long kayak. Gene Summey took home 2nd place, also in a solo kayak, with a time of 45-minutes. Roger Beatty brought home the bronze in 48-minutes, amazingly on a stand-up paddle board. Prizes were $200 for 1st place, $100 for 2nd place, $50 for 3rd place.

By Loretta Cozart

Sinet Yim and her husband, Komar Seng opened
K Donuts in Kings Mountain on May 2 at 110 West King Street at the intersection with Battleground Avenue.
They make fresh donuts daily, opening the shop at 6:00 a.m., and closing at 3:00 p.m., or until the donuts sell out.
North Carolina Farm Bureau Agent Andrew Poeng said of the new shop,
“K Donuts hits close to home for me. For those that do not know, I grew up in a family-owned donut shop for 17 years in California. This family is from Cambodia and are refugees from the Khmer Rouge just like my parents.”

By Loretta Cozart

Kings Mountain’s business district was busting on Saturday morning as people enjoyed the warm day and an opportunity to get outside to spend time together. On Mountain Street, a couple enjoyed a cup of coffee at Gold Medusa Coffee Co. and
Uncommon Artisans.
Up the block at Mountain Holiday, the building is being repaired after suffering storm damage. Building owner Bobby Horn shared that he hopes to have repairs completed within three to four weeks.
The Imperial Mercantile saw shoppers looking for unique Mother’s Day gifts, along with locally sourced specialty foods. Shoppers perused the merchandise and chatted with the owners, asking about family and catching up on the news.
Across the street, at 131 West groups gathered for lunch on the patio overlooking Mountain Street. Passersby could hear laughter as groups relished their time together.
As the weather warms and people celebrate the opportunities to gather after the official end of the COVID pandemic, it is refreshing to see smiling faces and hear the sounds of people celebrating in each other’s company.