All tagged city council

BJ Murphy: Beyond the Keyboard - 4 Ways to Make a Difference in Elections

We’re finally here - Election Day! As many people vented their frustrations about national, state, and local politics on social media this election (and I’m sure it’s not over, gahhhhhh), it’s common to see heated debates, complaints, and accusations aimed at politicians and the government. However, real change doesn’t come from being a keyboard warrior—it comes from taking action.

BJ Murphy: Out of the Park, Not Out of Hope

The disappointment felt by our community this past week as a result of the Down East Wood Ducks (DEWD’s) team being sold and eventually moving to South Carolina, is less a result of business and market forces out of our contol and more a sense of losing hope our community can sustain minor league baseball indefinitely.

Third time's a charm - Mayor and Council get the raise they "deserve"

The Kinston City Council passed the proposed Fiscal Year 2022-2023 budget Tuesday evening. The budget included increased salaries for the mayor and the city council and funding to increase the hourly rate of part-time city employees. This was the third year in a row the council attempted to give themselves increased salaries. Council member Robbie Swinson voted against the increased mayor and council salaries both times it came for a vote Tuesday.

BJ Murphy: If not you, who?

I am more concerned about the next four years for Kinston today than I was four years ago.

The impasses we face with the City of Kinston pose significant challenges for our community’s future, and we need leaders to step up at a time such as this. The mayor’s seat and two councilmembers’ seats are up for grabs, and the $10 filing fee period ends on Friday, July 16th at 12:00 pm.

Now is not the time to complain. Now is not the time to critique. Instead, if you feel led to run or compelled to serve your community greater than your role today, here is your opportunity to influence or shape the change you desire.

The Herritage granted permit after request contested by citizens

A conditional use permit was requested to allow The Herritage, a bar currently located on Herritage Street, to move from its current location to 128 W. North Street at Kinston’s City Council meeting on Tuesday. When the council opened up the request to a public hearing, the owner of The Herritage Laurie Anderson spoke in favor of the permit. In response to recent social media comments, she stated, “We are not a gay bar, but we do not discriminate.” The comment came because residents have taken to social media to protest the permit as The Herritage has leased their space to organizations like ENC Pride, which has hosted drag shows at the establishment.