City of Gastonia Government

Good news: Some watering activities are still allowed under Stage II restrictions.

✅ Drip irrigation & soaker hoses
✅ Hand-held watering containers
✅ Filling or topping off swimming pools

See full rules at the link below in comments.

☀️🦖 Summer adventures are happening every week at The Schiele!

Through August 7, The Schiele Museum's Summer Camps are inspiring young explorers with hands-on learning, outdoor discovery, animal encounters, science experiments, and more. Each week, campers dive into exciting themes like 🚀 Astronaut Academy, 🐾 Nature Sleuths, 🦎 Scales & Tails, and other engaging programs designed to spark curiosity and imagination.

Most camps have sold out, but limited spots remain in select upcoming camps for rising 3rd and 4th-graders.

Looking for a memorable summer experience for your child?

👉 See the link in the comments for details and registration information.

The deadline is approaching for the City of Gastonia Arts Committee Grant Program.

Funding priorities include programs that:
✅ Expand public access to the arts
✅ Promote diversity and inclusion
✅ Support arts education
✅ Encourage tourism and economic development
✅ Enhance quality of life in Gastonia

Don't miss this opportunity to bring your vision to life.

📅 Applications close Monday, July 6.

Learn more and apply today at the link in the comments below.

👏 Celebrating City Excellence!
At the June 16 City Council Meeting, we proudly honored recipients of the 2025 Employee Recognition Awards for their exceptional dedication and service to Gastonia.

Presented by Councilwoman Donyel Barber, these awards spotlight the outstanding people who keep our city moving forward every day. 💼💪

Thank you for all you do!

Watch as each recipient receives their award and learn more at the link in the comments below.

Thinking about buying your first home?

Join the City of Gastonia next Saturday for a free Homebuyer Education Class.

Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Location: Municipal Operations Center (MOC)
1300 N. Broad St., Gastonia

Learn about:
• Financing and mortgage options
• Insurance and budgeting
• Negotiation strategies
• The homebuying process from start to finish

This class is designed to help future homeowners feel informed and prepared before purchasing a home.

Questions? See the flyer or visit the comments section for a link to more details.

Are you considering a Keep Gastonia Beautiful, Inc. rain barrel but want more information?
Here's some more highlights to help you make an informed decision!

Did you know? 1 inch of rain on a 1,000 sq foot roof yields 620 gallons of water.

• Made in North Carolina
• 100% Recycled Plastic
• 50 gallon capacity
• Mosquito-proof screen
• 6' overflower hose included
• Retail value $159
• Orders open through July 8th
• Pick up event will be held on Saturday, July 18th at the Gastonia Farmers Market

The City of Gastonia proudly recognizes Tasha White, Executive Director of HELP Carolina, Inc., for her leadership in organizing the Eighth Annual Gastonia EbonyFest Juneteenth Festival. 🎉

This year’s theme, “Rooted in Resilience — Beyond 250 Years,” honors the strength, history, culture, and contributions of the Black community while celebrating Juneteenth’s profound significance in our nation’s story.

Gastonia City Council proclaimed June 19, 2026, as Juneteenth in the City of Gastonia and recognized the many events connected to this year’s celebration, including youth programs, health and wellness fairs, ancestry research, community partnerships, the Juneteenth Parade, and fireworks finale.

Thank you to Tasha White and HELP Carolina, Inc. for continuing to bring our community together through education, celebration, and remembrance.

Happening this Friday! Juneteenth is a time to reflect, learn, and celebrate freedom and resilience.

Gastonia EbonyFest 2026 will bring the community together to honor this important moment in history through culture, connection, and shared experiences.

Date: Friday, June 19
Location: Rotary Pavilion, Downtown Gastonia

One look at this year's Municipal Citizens' Academy graduates and you'll see plenty of smiles for good reason. Since January, these residents have dedicated their time to learning how local government really works, meeting the people behind the scenes who keep Gastonia running, and gaining a deeper understanding of the services that impact our community every day.

From public safety and infrastructure to community development and City operations, these graduates now have firsthand knowledge of the work that goes into making Gastonia a great place to live, work, and play.

Interested in becoming a more informed and engaged citizen? Residents and business owners are encouraged to apply for the upcoming 2026-2027 Municipal Citizens’ Academy and experience local government from the inside out.

Want to hear directly from this year's graduates? Watch the June 16 City Council Meeting and hear their reflections on the program as they receive their certificates beginning at 37:20 (link in comments below).

🎓 Congratulations to the Municipal Citizens’ Academy Class of 2026, and thank you for your commitment to Gastonia! 👏 🎉