Front & Center

The curtain pulls back on Statesville's most anticipated community event as Chief David Onley and Corporal Chan Austin join April and Nikayla on Front and Center to announce the return of Statesville's Night Out with the Statesville Police Department (SPD). After last year's cancellation due to Hurricane Helene, this signature police department event returns Thursday, October 2, 2025 from 5:30-7:30 PM on West Broad Street in Downtown Statesville.

What makes Statesville's celebration unique? Unlike the national observance held in August, our local event strategically moved to October to escape sweltering summer temperatures and align with National Crime Prevention Month. The downtown location creates an intimate, accessible gathering place where approximately 50 community partners will showcase resources while officers connect with residents in a relaxed setting. From bounce houses and free food (including the coveted funnel cakes) to crime prevention information, the event offers something for every age group.

Beyond the logistics, this conversation reveals the deeper purpose behind Night Out. Chief Onley explains how these interactions humanize officers, showing them as "everyday people" with families and personalities beyond the badge. What began as an annual gathering has evolved into a community engagement philosophy, with SPD now hosting smaller neighborhood events throughout the year across Statesville. Through playful "quick fire" questions about which officers are morning people, competitive spirits, coffee drinkers, and grill masters, listeners glimpse the camaraderie that defines the department's culture.

Whether you're bringing children for the activities, seeking safety information, or simply wanting to chat with your local officers outside of emergency situations, Statesville's Night Out promises meaningful connections in a festive atmosphere. Mark your calendar, bring your appetite (especially for Chan's grilled specialties), and join the celebration that strengthens the bonds between public safety personnel and the community they serve.

Statesville is transforming before our eyes with construction projects dotting the cityscape from downtown to the airport. What some might call a mess, we recognize as essential progress for our growing community.

In this revealing conversation, City Engineer Matt Hubert and Assistant City Manager Scott Harrell talk with City Manager Ron Smith take us behind the scenes of Statesville's major infrastructure initiatives. They discuss the newly completed phases of the Municipal Operations Center, where decades-old "Frankenstein" facilities have been replaced with modern, efficient workspaces allowing departments previously scattered across multiple buildings to collaborate effectively for the first time.

Downtown's transformation continues at the intersection of Front and Trad Streets, where crews are simultaneously addressing a sinkhole while constructing a six-level parking deck as part of the police department expansion. This project will eventually include 125 market-rate apartments through a public-private partnership - potentially catalyzing more residential development in our downtown core.

Perhaps most impressive is the "spline project," a $20 million state-funded initiative replacing six miles of 1940s-era water main running from our treatment plant through downtown. This massive undertaking requires careful coordination with hospitals, courts, and emergency services to minimize disruption while dramatically improving water reliability and fire protection.

We don't stop there - the conversation explores Statesville Regional Airport terminal construction, parks revitalization, underground electrical upgrades, stormwater improvements, and sidewalk projects. Each initiative represents years of planning finally coming to fruition, though not without challenges from inflation, labor shortages, and the complexities of modernizing aging infrastructure.

Whether you're curious about specific projects affecting your neighborhood or want to understand the strategic vision behind Statesville's development, this episode offers a transparent look at the temporary inconveniences creating lasting improvements for our community's future. Join us to discover what lies beneath the construction barriers and how these projects will reshape Statesville for decades to come.

Learn more about all major projects happening in Statesville here.

Statesville's Recreation and Parks Department has launched an innovative program that's changing the landscape of community recreation. The Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation (AIR) Program represents a significant step forward in ensuring that recreation opportunities are accessible to everyone, regardless of physical or mental abilities.

The concept behind AIR evolved from the department's previous Pet Club, which served individuals with different abilities, including Special Olympics athletes. Emily Diehl, the Facility Supervisor at the Statesville Fitness and Activity Center, explains that the new program aims to provide more frequent and accessible programming for community members who may face barriers to participation in traditional recreational activities. This initiative acknowledges that not everyone has equal access to recreational opportunities, and seeks to bridge that gap.

What makes AIR truly special is its thoughtful approach to adaptability. For example, the program includes an adaptive egg hunt that considers the needs of participants with various abilities. For visually impaired individuals, they're looking to incorporate beeping eggs to enable participation. For those using wheelchairs, organizers are carefully considering placement of eggs at accessible heights. These seemingly small considerations make a tremendous difference in creating truly inclusive experiences that allow everyone to participate with dignity and enjoyment.

The program isn't limited to individuals with disabilities - it's open to everyone. This inclusive approach helps build community bridges between people of different abilities and backgrounds. Activities range from pool parties (utilizing the zero-entry leisure pool that allows wheelchair access) to puzzle competitions, movie nights, and themed dances. Each event is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that all participants can engage fully and comfortably.

The initiative creates valuable networking opportunities for participants and caregivers. Parents of children with special needs can connect with others facing similar challenges, sharing experiences and support. For individuals in group homes, the program offers chances to form friendships and build community connections that extend beyond the events themselves. Since all AIR programs are offered free of charge, they're truly accessible to everyone regardless of financial constraints.

Planning for AIR has been a collaborative effort involving the Special Olympics Iredell County coordinator Bobby Williams, former Pet Club organizer and Fitness Coordinator at the Statesville Fitness & Activity Center, Mark Wilkinson, and EC (Exceptional Children) teachers from local schools. This partnership approach ensures that the program addresses real needs and incorporates expertise from various perspectives. As the program develops, organizers plan to continuously evaluate and refine their approach based on participant feedback.

For those interested in participating, volunteering, or learning more about the AIR Program, information is available at recreation.statesville.net, where a dedicated webpage provides details about upcoming events.

Power outages happen - whether from cars hitting poles, squirrels causing mischief, or trees falling during storms. But what if you could know exactly when your electricity will be restored without making a single phone call?

Statesville Public Power is revolutionizing how customers experience outages here in Statesville with a new management system launching this fall. In our conversation with Assistant Director Jared Wiles, we explore how North Carolina's oldest municipal electric utility (dating back to 1889) is bringing cutting-edge technology to its customers.

The days of manually responding to outage calls and posting social media updates every 45 minutes are coming to an end. The new system will automatically detect when your power goes out, send you text notifications with estimated restoration times, and keep you updated as repairs progress. A customer-facing portal will show affected areas on a map, helping you avoid dangerous locations during major outages. Behind the scenes, predictive technology will help crews identify problem locations faster, getting your lights back on more quickly and safely.

This transformation depends on having your current contact information, especially your mobile number. Take a moment to update your details at www.statesvillenc.net (click "Update My Info" under Quick Links), call 704-878-3564 (option 7), or stop by in person. Join Statesville Public Power as they honor their legacy as "First in Light" while bringing smarter service to every customer.

Have you ever wondered what makes a space truly "civic"? The Statesville Civic Center stands as a perfect example – a versatile community hub that brings people together while driving economic development in Downtown Statesville.

Nestled in the heart of Statesville's walkable downtown district, this 25-year-old facility serves dual purposes that might seem at odds but actually complement each other beautifully. It provides affordable, accessible space for local residents hosting weddings, retirement parties, and community gatherings. Simultaneously, it attracts regional conferences and multi-day events that bring visitors to explore our charming downtown shops, restaurants, and amenities.

Listen now as Ron Smith (Statesville City Manager), Richard Griggs (Director at the Statesville Recreation & Parks Department), and Kali Bailey (Facilities & Events Manager at the Statesville Recreation & Parks Department) talk about how the facility's flexibility shines through in how it serves different audiences throughout the week. Weekends often feature wedding receptions and celebrations, while weekdays host business training sessions and organizational meetings. Major events like the North Carolina Main Street Conference, which brought over 700 attendees, showcase the center's ability to handle large-scale gatherings that benefit the entire downtown ecosystem.

Recent changes reflect a strategic balance between financial sustainability and community access. Different rate structures for weekday versus weekend events, adjusted rental timeframes, and partnerships with the Convention and Visitors Bureau all aim to optimize the facility's impact. Meanwhile, impressive upgrades including state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment in the newly renovated media room, interior refreshes, and planned outdoor improvements position the Civic Center to meet modern needs.

Now operating under the Recreation and Parks Department umbrella, the Statesville Civic Center team is exploring exciting new possibilities including more internal programming, concerts, and expanded community partnerships. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a regional conference, we invite you to discover how this downtown gem can transform your next event.

Contact us today to tour the facility and learn why the Statesville Civic Center has remained at the heart of our community for a quarter century. Learn more about the Civic Center here or give them a call at 704-878-3493.

Step into the cockpit of Statesville's economic engine as Airport Manager John Ferguson takes us behind the scenes of one of North Carolina's busiest general aviation facilities. Far from being just a landing strip, the Statesville Regional Airport operates as a thriving enterprise that generates substantial revenue through fuel sales, hangar leases, and property taxes - all without costing taxpayers a dime.

You'll be surprised to discover the airport's remarkable celebrity guest list, which includes country stars George Strait and Kane Brown, alongside rapper DaBaby. Even more impressive is the facility's crucial role in NASCAR operations, dispatching 13 fifty-passenger jets each race weekend to transport 600-700 team members across the country. This specialized aviation hub has positioned itself at the intersection of transportation and economic development, with the recent Westar (formerly JetEast) maintenance facility bringing 120+ skilled jobs to the region.

The conversation explores exciting developments including the new three-story terminal building scheduled to open in December, potentially featuring a restaurant with observation deck dining—what pilots affectionately call a "$100 hamburger" destination. Looking toward the future, Ferguson outlines ambitious plans for runway extension, control tower development, and enhanced emergency response capabilities that will continue elevating Statesville's aviation profile. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about economic development, this eye-opening discussion reveals how strategic infrastructure investment creates ripples of prosperity throughout the community. Next time you hear jets overhead, remember you're witnessing Statesville's gateway to global business in action.

Ever wondered why your vote matters in local elections? The answer might surprise you. In this revealing conversation, City Clerk Emily Kurfees joins hosts April Nesbit and Nakayla Griffin to unveil significant changes to Statesville's election process that will impact every resident.

Gone are the confusing October elections with November runoffs. Statesville is streamlining to a single November election where candidates can win by securing the most votes – even if it's by just one vote. This shift aligns with neighboring municipalities and ensures every citizen can participate in each election cycle through cleverly staggered at-large council seats. But perhaps most eye-opening is the revelation that running for City Council costs merely $5 – "cheaper than a Happy Meal," as our hosts humorously note.

The upcoming election on November 4th marks a pivotal moment as Mayor Kosti, Statesville's longest-serving mayor, prepares to retire. With six positions on the ballot including mayor, both at-large members, and representatives for wards two, three, and five, the leadership landscape is poised for transformation. As Emily astutely points out, these local officials wield tremendous influence over what businesses come to town and how your community develops. "If you want a Target or a Trader Joe's," she emphasizes, "then you need to vote."

Curious about which ward you live in or where to vote? Visit the Statesville website here for an interactive map that shows your ward and representative. Have questions about the election process? Reach out to Emily here or contact city hall – they're committed to helping every resident understand these important changes and participate in shaping Statesville's future.

"A Blue Hot Summer" is heating up in Statesville as the Statesville Police Department rolls out a full season of community events aimed at building trust and strengthening relationships. From youth camps to cookouts, these gatherings offer more than just fun—they're reshaping how residents see law enforcement. Led by leaders like Captain Anthony Hamby, Statesville PD is making connection a top priority this summer.

The summer calendar kicks off with their signature Youth Summer Camp (June 23-27), where elementary school children solve mock crimes, learn safety skills, and build lasting relationships with officers. NaKayla describes how these connections extend beyond the program, with many participants keeping in touch year after year. From Coffee with a Cop at Starbucks to a Community Cookout serving homeless residents at Alex Cooper Park, each event targets a different segment of the population to ensure no one is overlooked.

Creative gatherings like "Snowball with the Cops" and "Bowling with a Cop" create casual environments where children see officers as approachable allies rather than intimidating figures. Stories of a three-year-old overcoming her fear of police and a young man inspired to join the Public Safety Academy demonstrate the tangible impact of these interactions.

The summer culminates with National Night Out on October 2nd – affectionately called "the prom of the PD" – bringing together residents from every corner of Statesville. Want to partner with SPD or have officers attend your event?

Learn more about Statesville Police Department's Community Services & Programs events here. 

Get ready to soak up the sunshine with Statesville Recreation and Parks! In this energizing episode of Front and Center, hosts April and Nikayla welcome Chase Bell and H Patton to unveil the city's exciting summer lineup of activities, events, and recreational opportunities.

Summer movies take center stage with two distinct series to enjoy. The Dive-In Movies at Statesville Leisure Pool offer a unique experience where families can splash and play while watching films like "The Little Mermaid" for just $7 per person. For those preferring dry land, the free Movies in the Park series at MLK Jr. Park provides entertainment under the stars (just don't forget your bug spray!).  The Statesville Leisure Pool and the Splash Pad at the Bentley Community Center opens on May 24, 2025. Learn more here about annual memberships for the Statesville Fitness & Activity Center, as entrance into the pool is included in this membership. And don't forget that the Bentley Center Splash Pad is FREE for additional water fun! 

Art enthusiasts won't want to miss Art in the Park on June 7th, featuring 60 vendors, live music on two stages, food trucks, and beverages from Red Buffalo and the Iredell Arts Council.

Sports enthusiasts can choose from numerous youth camps and leagues, with fall registration already open for soccer, softball, and volleyball.  With record participation numbers exceeding 900 youth athletes in recent seasons, Statesville Recreation and Parks continues to grow and serve the community through partnerships, innovative programming, and a commitment to keeping residents of all ages active and engaged throughout the summer months and beyond.

Adult Leagues are also available for those looking to stay active and competitive!

Mark your calendars for Statesville's spectacular July 3rd Fireworks Celebration, proudly described as "the greatest show in North Carolina." Sponsored by Country Boy Landscaping and Tim Johnson Landscaping, this dazzling display can be viewed from multiple locations around town including Signal Hill Mall and the Statesville Soccer Complex.

As summer winds down, the City of Statesville has once again partnered with Village Intervention Partnership to bring you the End of Summer Bash on August 2nd offering free food, activities, and school supply giveaways for families preparing for the new school year. 

In the latest episode of Front & Center, hosts April and Nikayla welcome  Steve Bridges, Public Works Director, and Randall Meadows, Street Maintenance Superintendent, pull back the curtain on street maintenance operations in Statesville, sharing insights into their team's wide-ranging responsibilities beyond just pothole repair.

Far from just filling potholes, the Street Department's 16-person team maintains 150 miles of roads while juggling sidewalk repairs, curb and gutter work, parking lot maintenance, and even emergency response during storms. Their days are unpredictable, with priorities shifting as new issues arise across the city. As Meadows puts it with a smile, "My day is never planned."

Funding presents significant challenges. The city relies on Powell Bill allocations from the state, but these funds are tied to census data collected only once every decade. Meanwhile, inflation drives up material costs, creating a gap between infrastructure needs and available resources. The team must carefully prioritize repairs based on road conditions, traffic volume, and budget constraints.

Not all streets within city limits fall under city maintenance – a fact that surprises many residents. Major thoroughfares like Broad Street and Davie Avenue are maintained by NCDOT. The city's website features a Powell Bill map where residents can identify who maintains which roads: city (black), NCDOT (red), or private (purple).

The conversation reveals fascinating details about traffic calming measures, emergency response protocols, and even some memorable calls – including the day Meadows had to remove a dead horse from a city street. From serious infrastructure discussions to lighthearted moments, this episode offers an insider's view of the dedicated professionals who maintain our urban arteries.

Have a pothole or street issue to report? Use the "Report a Problem" feature on the city's website or call the Street Department directly. Your observations help keep Statesville's streets safe and well-maintained for everyone.