HISTORIC PROPERTY TO BECOME RESTAURANT

By Jon Mayhew

LINCOLNTON -- A historic, vacant building at 119 East Pine Street will get new life soon, thanks to Lincolnton City Council's unanimous vote to change it's zoning classification Monday night.

Developer David Abernathy told the council he plans to convert the building into a restaurant.

"This is something Lincolnton needs," said Abernathy. "It's an old school building that was turned into a recreation hall. I want to preserve as much of the building as possible."

One point Abernathy made is that he's concerned about financing the project, especially since the flooring system has experienced extensive damage over the years.

The only other concern voiced during the public hearing was by council member Dr. Les Cloninger. He was so concerned about the historic designation of the building not changing, in fact, he brought up the issue twice.

"I just want to be sure that doesn't change," said Cloninger.

Questions were also raised about county vehicles and the parking situation for the proposed restaurant.

"I only have to provide five public parking spaces for the restaurant," said Abernathy. "I don't have to provide parking for the county."