IFN Staff
The Iredell County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved amendments to the Code of Ordinances to address public concerns related to soliciting and to prohibit overnight parking on county-owned property.
The revisions to Article IV, Chapter 7.5 were made in response to residents’ complaints about door-to-door soliciting by for-profit businesses.
Solicitation by business representatives will be prohibited from from dusk to 10 a.m. on Monday through Saturday and all day on Sunday. Soliciting by businesses is also prohibited in neighborhoods and on property where there is signage indicating that it is not allowed.
In addition:
♦ Solicitors must obtain a permit before operating in Iredell County. The permit costs $30 and is valid for six months. Failure to obtain a permit could result in penalties;
♦ Before pursuing legal action, the Sherriff’s Office may require the complainant to submit a sworn statement and cooperate in court; and
♦ Violators may face a Class 3 misdemeanor and fines up to $500.
Residents of several neighborhoods previously complained to commissioners about aggressive solicitors who stopped by their homes in the evenings, looked through their windows to see if anyone was home, and targeted elderly neighbors.
The amendments will take effect on March 1.
Nonprofits, including schools, churches, and charities, are exempt from the new rules, but they are required to follow time restrictions.
Public Property Ordinance
The Public Property Ordinance amendment prohibits overnight parking or unauthorized parking during business hours in county-owned lots. Vehicles parked in violation may be towed at the owner’s expense.
“These updates ensure a balanced approach to regulating solicitation while still allowing nonprofits and community organizations to operate effectively. By setting clear guidelines and requiring permits, we are enhancing safety and accountability for both residents and businesses,” County Manager Beth Milton explained. “Additionally, the parking amendment helps keep County properties accessible and properly maintained. These changes reflect our commitment to maintaining a well-organized and welcoming community for all.”
OTHER BUSINESS
In other business:
♦ Commissioners accepted the county’s share of a $34,133 grant from the 2024 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Grant Program. The county will share the grant with the City of Statesville.
♦ The board approved a request by the Health Department to reduce the existing Clinical Services Fee from $100 to $19.03 per 15 minutes.
♦ Commissioners approved a new internet service contract with Spectrum.
♦ The board approved a budget amendment to authorize payment of $101,000 for renovations at the Health Department.
♦ Commissioners approved a request to increase a contract for the HOJ Space Study – CPL Contract by $8,515 to include the Public Defender’s Offices in the space needs analysis for the courthouse complex.