Southport leaders discuss parade vandalism response, continue debate over historic preservation committee
SOUTHPORT, N.C. (WWAY) — Southport leaders addressed two high-profile issues during this week’s Board of Aldermen meeting: the investigation into widespread vandalism before the Fourth of July parade and the ongoing debate over the town’s proposed Historic Preservation Committee.
The discussion comes after about 240 chairs, tents and other personal items were damaged ahead of Southport’s annual Fourth of July parade.
Residents had lined Howe Street with chairs, tents and tables days ahead of the parade. When many returned the following morning, Police say deep slash marks and significant damage were found to people’s belongings on July 3rd around 7 in the morning.
The Southport Police Department is investigating the vandalism and has released images of two people investigators are trying to identify. Anyone who recognizes the individuals or has information about the incident is asked to contact the Southport Police Department.
The vandalism also prompted aldermen to discuss whether the town should establish rules limiting how early residents can place chairs, tents and other items along the parade route.
“I’m hopeful that we can get some communication prior to the parade next year about what an appropriate time would be to set our chairs and tents out,” Alderman Rebecca Kelly said during the meeting. “I hate that we have to go there, but I think that’s the direction we are going as a whole.”
The Board of Aldermen also continued discussions about the future of a proposed Historic Preservation Committee, an issue that has drawn months of public debate.
Several residents spoke during public comment, arguing they do not want additional government oversight over homes in Southport’s downtown historic district.
“We clearly stated that no government oversight, you ignored us,” one speaker told the board. “We clearly stated neighbors helping neighbors, you did not trust us.”
Alderman Karen Mosteller presented a revised draft outlining the proposed committee’s responsibilities. However, Alderman Rebecca Kelley said she believes the proposal still gives the town too much authority.
“What Southport needs is not something so quite formal,” Kelley said. “Perhaps much more like the beautification committee or the gardening committee — something with less government involvement and more citizens involved.”
Alderman Paul Gross echoed those concerns, saying residents have successfully preserved the character of the city’s historic district without a formal preservation committee.
“The residents have taken well care of it. We haven’t had a historic preservation since 1792, and I don’t really think we need one,” Gross said.
No vote was taken tonight. Instead, the board agreed to discuss the topic further before taking the next step.
