Council backs $54,050 plan to mark Gastonia’s 150th year

Council accepted a 3–0 committee recommendation to approve plans and a $54,050 budget for Gastonia’s 150th anniversary celebration, beginning with a City Hall open-house and time-capsule events on Jan. 11, 2027.

Danielle Barber, presenting the committee’s item, said the proposal would pair the city’s 150th with the centennial of City Hall and incorporate the Made in Gastonia initiative to highlight the city's textile history. “In your packet is including not only the plans for the event, but as well as the budget for that event,” Barber said. The committee suggested a marketing budget and programming line items to support City Hall tours, time-capsule ceremonies, and a series of events across 2027.

Council asked staff to flesh out historical programming, invite community elders and incorporate local arts projects. The committee recommended, and council voted, to approve the recommendation unanimously. Staff will return with event timelines and any further financial requests as planning proceeds.