Huntersville: Fledgling Historical committee to meet

Residents interested in the history of Huntersville can help shape the direction that the town’s historic committee will take.

Town board members Melinda Bales and Jeff Neely will host a public meeting Feb. 21 for potential members of the fledgling historic committee and to start identifying what the committee’s goals should be.

“We believe this will be driven by citizens of Huntersville,” Neely said.

“We’re very fortunate we have a town that’s rich in history. Certainly we want to know everything we can about that history and that needs to come from the citizens, because that’s where the knowledge (is).”

The board has been discussing the importance of forming a citizen committee focused on the town’s history for several months. So far, Bales said, they’ve had at least seven residents express interest in becoming founding members.

The first meeting will last about two hours. Members will decide whether the committee should record oral history, create a history using family recipes or gather historic artifacts for public display, Bales said.

“I don’t know what (the committee’s objectives) will look like, and that’s why I’m interested in hearing from the citizens,” she said. “Whether they are born and raised here in Huntersville and have some of that rich history within their own families, come. If they’re new to Huntersville, and want to be part of learning and understanding, they’re welcome.”

Bales said after the initial meeting, she and Neely will present the discussion to the town board. The board can then collectively decide whether the group will be entirely volunteer run or if it will need assistance from the board or town.

Those who have scheduling conflicts but would still like to be involved should email their interest to Bales or Neely.

“The more input the better, and certainly we’ll get a better product that way,” Neely said. “If they can’t attend, email (Bales) or myself. We’ll get their names in a database that shows they’re interested and communicate by email.”

“This is the first meeting, it certainly won’t be the last.”