Gaston council adopts Title VI implementation plan by title-only readings

The Town of Gaston council voted to adopt a Title VI implementation plan by title-only readings after a staff presentation and motions by council leadership.

During the meeting the Clerk read the plan’s opening statement: “This Title 6 implementation plan is part of the Town of Gaston's continual and ongoing effort to proactively meet and exceed the minimum compliance requirements established under Title 6 of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.” The council then moved to consider the plan by title only for first reading and later moved to adopt it on second reading and by title only.

The council recorded votes in favor after motions were moved and seconded. Chair (whose voice moved the motions) proposed adoption; the Clerk seconded. Council members named during roll calls—Bettina, Brett and Katina—responded "Aye" during the votes called on the motions. The meeting record includes a motion to suspend the rules to allow title-only readings and a subsequent motion to adopt the ordinance.

The plan requires an annual review and sets procedural expectations for subrecipients. The Clerk also read contact information for the town’s designated coordinator for Title VI and ADA compliance, naming Tracy Pittenger as the Town of Gaston's Title VI and ADA coordinator.

Council members noted a possible formatting or numbering issue in the ordinance language. The Chair asked whether the wording that the plan “has been adopted, implemented, and is being adhered to” is a misprint and said the council would resend or rescind the ordinance at a future meeting if needed to correct the record.

The meeting adjourned at 4:02 p.m.