City Council to hold hearing for $2 million CDBG grant at Tuesday's meeting

Tuesday’s Kinston City Council meeting will have potential approvals for the members to look at, along with a public hearing for the Lawrence Heights Sewer Replacement Project.

The CDBG Infrastructure Program for funding of the project requires all applications to be sent by Sept. 28. The city council has scheduled a public hearing to give residents the chance to voice their opinions at the meeting for the $2 million grant.

The public hearing will begin at 5:30 p.m.

“The grant, which helps low-to-moderate income areas, would be used to upgrade the sewer and water lines in the Lawrence Heights area,” Kinston Mayor Don Hardy said. “We want to replace the older pipes under the roads to maintain safe drinking water in the environment, and we would like to hear the public’s views, whether they’re in favor or opposition of the grant.”

The mayor said there were other upcoming events to be discussed at Tuesday’s meeting.

“Greater Mount Zion and St. John’s Free Will Baptist are looking to have a 'Happy and Healthy Community Day' on Sept. 22 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.,” Hardy said. “We want the community to come out and talk to health (officials) to get what they need. We’re also looking to get an update about Emma Webb Park and listen to ideas, and the city is also looking at an inflatable fire education house, which would be a great tool for safety and (knowledge).”

City Councilman Sammy Aiken said the city is also looking at a grant for the police department.

“We’re seeking a grant which will allow the department to either get some more vests or body cameras for the officers,” Aiken said.

To see the agenda for Tuesday’s meeting, go to ci.kinston.nc.us/agendacenter. The public is also invited to attend the meeting in the city council chambers at 207 East King St.