Bill > H105

This bill changes the election process for the Gaston County Board of Education from nonpartisan to partisan elections. Currently, the board consists of nine members: two elected county-wide and seven elected from specific townships. The bill modifies the election system by mandating that all nine members be elected on a partisan basis during general elections in even-numbered years, with candidates being nominated in the same manner as other county officers. Candidates for the seven district seats must be qualified voters and residents of the district they seek to represent. The bill establishes specific residency districts, including Cherryville, Crowders Mountain, Dallas, Gastonia, Riverbend, and Southpoint Townships, with Gastonia Township receiving two representatives. Members will serve staggered four-year terms, taking office on the first Monday in December following their election and continuing until a successor is elected and qualified. The bill also specifies that the 2024 elected members' terms will not be affected, and any vacancies in those seats will be filled by appointment from the remaining board members, with successors selected from the same residency district. The new partisan election system will become effective in the December 2026 election cycle.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H105