By Jessie Burchette
jburchette@salisburypost.com
CHINA GROVE ó Victory Baptist Church has the green light to buy a duplex on Ross Street and convert it to a church.
Aldermen unanimously approved a conditional use permit Tuesday night that allows the church in a residential area.
The duplex at 111 Ross Street was previously a church.
Rev. Nelson Wright, pastor, said they plan to tear out the interior walls and create a sanctuary. A classroom area will be added to the back of the building.
Victory Baptist is buying the property from Kannapolis-based Atlantic American Properties.
In other matters, the board:
– Approved changes in the bylaws for the Salisbury-Rowan Economic Development Commission.
Mayor Don Bringle also praised the work of Robert Van Geons, executive director, saying he is giving south Rowan more attention.
Bringle and Aldermen Allen Welter also took the opportunity to stress that while China Grove is interested in the potential development of a new Old Beatty Ford interchange on I-85, the town’s top priority is getting a full cloverleaf intersection at N.C. 152 and I-85.
“Exit 68 is crucial to China Grove,” Bringle said, “Exit 68 is our primary focus.”
– Approved four recommendations of the Park Advisory Board, including appointing Brie Bivens and Alan Corriher to two-year terms.
The town is seeking applicants for a vacant seat on the board. Any town resident who is interested may call 704-857-2466.
The board also agreed to spend around $1,000 to buy 50 park stops to be used at the Little League Field parking area.
The board put a one-month hold on renting a portable toilet for the Community Memorial Building park area.
Aldermen agreed that a restroom facility is needed but asked for more information.
– Announced that the town will hold a public information session on planned new sidewalks around town. The session will be April 27, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Community Memorial Building.
The town is getting more than $500,000 in federal funds to build sidewalks.
Town Manager Bill Pless said all affected residents will be notified by mail and all residents on affected streets will also be notified before the session.