In April, the City of Kinston announced the formation of an advisory board, The Historic Grainger Stadium Commission, aimed at preserving and promoting the city’s iconic baseball stadium. The Council at the most recent meeting considered the appointment of several notable local figures to the commission.

Mayor Pro Tem Antonio Hardy shared a high level of interest in organizations who want to use Grainger Stadium.

“I hope they can take the applications of the organization that want to use the stadium and bring baseball back to Kinston because we’re going to be lost without baseball in Kinston,” said Hardy. “Since 1943 Granger stadium has been a hallmark of this city and we want to keep it that way.”

The Historic Grainger Stadium Commission will consist of five members appointed by the City Council. These individuals are expected to have experience in sports, public recreation, or economic development. The council approved the appointment of Gram Spear, Bill Ellis, Stephen Hill, and Jon Clemmons to the Commission.

“I am hoping Kinston can bring not only Baseball to the stadium but also tournaments, concerts, wrestling, and other activities that will bring people to Kinston to have fun and enjoy our many wonderful shops, art galleries, entertainment and restaurants,” said Hill. “Hopefully they will come and stay for the night. Kinston has so much to offer with our small town charm.”

The Commission is expected to advise the City Council on strategies to utilize the stadium for various recreational and cultural events, thereby contributing to the economic and social fabric of the community.