News About Town:  On Monday, March 11, the Town Board of Commissioners voted to initiate the rezoning of three commercial properties, all of which are currently zoned for light industrial. Bob Henderson, lawyer and representative of the Brigman family (owners of two parcels), spoke against the motion to begin the rezoning process. Mr. Henderson stated the family wasn’t made aware of the vote prior to the Town Council meeting and explained the downzoning does not reflect the focus of the Entertainment District plans. Mr. Henderson further explained that downzoning devalues the property, and as a result, may interrupt current arrangements for the sale of the Brigman properties. According to county documents, the Brigman family purchased the property in the 1940s from the Bost family, a prominent family in what was then known as Morning Star Township (now Matthews). The Board unanimously approved initiating the process of rezoning each parcel to Single-Family Residential.

News Around Town: This past Friday, March 15, an antique Shell Gasoline sign was stolen from Vintage Keepers, the antique and vintage store at the corner of Matthews Street and Trade Street. The sign is worth approximately $700. Anyone with information regarding the theft is encouraged to contact Matthews PD.

One Good Thing: Join the Matthews Historical Foundation to hear about the Matthews Heritage Museum’s exhibit, “Tank Town: A Good Place to Live.” Museum Director Barbara Taylor will present the history of the churches, the shot-gun schoolhouse, and the Matthews Colored School. The presentation will be held at the Woman's Club (208 S. Trade Street) Tuesday, March 26, at 7 p.m.
The event is free to Foundation members, and $5.00 for non-members. For more information, call Becky (704-846-6693).