County leaders face public backlash over new commissioners health perk
In Gaston County, a newly created retiree health insurance perk for current and future commissioners sparked protest as about a dozen people marched through downtown Gastonia. Commissioner Tom Keigher later said he regretted supporting the measure, calling it an overreach while noting it grants benefits not available to county employees. The board also approved a dependent eligibility audit aimed at saving the county about $500,000 annually as employees face tighter coverage rules starting Oct. 1.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Gaston County
Gastonia
Tom Keigher
Keigher
Pam Overcash
all-Republican Board
Shelter director under fire over dog euthanized
Gaston County faces online outrage and calls to fire Animal Control Director Dr Kristine Blankenship after a white dog named Big Fluffy was euthanized Friday. A Change.org petition with about 6700 signatures accuses the director, while the police chief defends ongoing reductions in euthanizations and disputes rumors of termination.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Gaston
Gaston County
James Buie
Charlotte
Martha Woodward
Change.org
Animal Control
Kristine Blankenship
Big Fluffy
Woodward
Woodard
Faith Wright
Operation Dog Tag
Blankenship
A Look at Gaston County Animal Control Case
Buie presents a counter narrative about Big Fluffy at Gaston County Animal Control. The shelter planned euthanizing the dog at 4 p.m. on Friday after a rescue group had placed a hold but later left after 50 minutes deeming the dog aggressive. A rescuer might return Monday.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Buie
Big Fluffy
Bute
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Michael Barrettizette
Daniel Ware
Gaston Young Republicans
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Ware
Commissioners
John Clark
the Gazette
Gaston County Administration
Petitioner
Lauren Baheribaheri
Gastongazette.com
Gaston County Animal Control
Halifax Menia
Eric Beam
David Spencer
Hilliard, Fla
Dorothy Aycock
Mollie Martin
Carolyn Clinton
York, S.C
Beverly Mitchell
Lena Hunt
Casar
Clinton Grigg
John Church
Shelby Zeola Ballard
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