Cherryville City Council Discusses Veterans Day, New Projects, and Community Updates
By: Lauren Ramsey – Wise News Network
Cherryville, NC (WNN)- During the regular City Council meeting on Monday, November 11, 2024, Cherryville Mayor H.L. Beam and the City Council honored local veterans, discussed ongoing and upcoming city projects, and recognized various community efforts.
The meeting opened with a prayer led by Dr. Pastor Bill Lowe of First Presbyterian Church. He spoke on honoring Cherryville’s veterans and those who gave their lives in service to the country.
“May God always help us to keep these names in the memories of these men alive before us,” Lowe said, referencing the names of the 36 local servicemen listed on the city’s war memorial at Pink and Church Streets.
The Council swiftly approved both the meeting agenda and the minutes from the October 14, 2024, meeting. Mayor Beam then discussed the city’s Veterans Day events that had occurred earlier that day. This included a ceremony at the Gazebo Mini Park. He expressed gratitude to the local veterans for their participation and commended Reggie Walker, the keynote speaker, and the mayor’s son-in-law, for delivering an excellent speech.
City Projects and Developments
The meeting also focused on several ongoing and upcoming city projects. Furthermore, Mayor Beam provided updates on the progress of local infrastructure and recreation developments. The city has recently installed new signage at Edwards Park and the Larry and Carolyn Summer Recreation Facility. Additionally, the new pickleball courts on Ranbar Street are nearing completion, and work on the high school baseball field, where artificial turf is being installed, is progressing.
Mike Steele, a local contractor, is wrapping up the renovation of Pink Street Road near the high school, which includes resurfacing and the installation of new sidewalks. Having almost completed this major project, he has now moved on to work on another task: repaving Hampton Drive. Meanwhile, work has also begun on the high school baseball field, where artificial turf is being installed. These projects are all part of the city’s ongoing efforts to improve local infrastructure.
Community Engagement and Recognition
Council member Jon Abernethy, who serves as the city liaison to the ABC board, announced that the Cherryville ABC board has donated $38,313 in surplus funds to the city. These funds will go toward improving city parks, including playground upgrades and new fencing.
The mayor also thanked Seth Freeman and his baseball group for their recent volunteer work painting pipes at City Park, helping enhance the park’s appearance. Additionally, the city is selling tickets for a Boston Butt fundraiser. The proceeds will benefit two local city employees battling serious illnesses. Tickets are available at City Hall, the Chamber of Commerce, and from various department heads.
Employee and Special Recognition
Julie Heffner, a city employee, was recognized for her 10 years of service to Cherryville. Though Heffner could not attend the meeting due to the holiday, her achievement was acknowledged with a certificate signed by the mayor and city manager.
In a lighter moment, Emily Winter from Piedmont Lithium presented the city with special recognition for Cherryville High School athletes. Emily Allen (volleyball) and Najee Whitworth (football) were this month’s Power Players. While the students could not attend due to the holiday, their accomplishments were celebrated, and they will be formally recognized at the next meeting.
Council Business
The Council also approved a budget amendment related to a generous $200,000 donation from Patrick O’Leary the investor of Cherryville Main Street, LLC. This will fund the turf project at the city’s baseball field. City Manager Brian Dalton confirmed that the turf project is expected to be completed within the next two weeks, though the irrigation work may take slightly longer.
In response to a council member’s inquiry, Mayor Beam confirmed that the city does not typically receive recommendations from the ABC board for board appointments, but residents are welcome to apply directly to the city clerk for consideration.
Looking Ahead
In closing, Mayor Beam expressed his appreciation for the ongoing support of Cherryville’s community members, from volunteers to donors, and encouraged residents to continue contributing to the city’s development. As the meeting wrapped up, a motion to adjourn was unanimously passed.
The next City Council meeting is scheduled for December 9, 2024. In this meeting, the council plans to recognize more local achievements and continue its discussions on city projects.
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