Demetrios Koutsoupias, Gastonia City Council Ward 1 candidate, answers our questions
To help inform voters in the Nov. 4, 2025, election, this candidate questionnaire is available to be republished by local publications in North Carolina without any cost. Please consider subscribing to The Charlotte Observer to help make this coverage possible.
Name: Demetrios Koutsoupias
Age: 45
Campaign website or social media page: www.soupforgastonia.com; Facebook: SoupforGastonia; Instagram: SoupforGastonia
Occupation: Business Owner - Georgio’s Restaurant, Cramerton, NC
Education: UNC-Chapel Hill - BA Political Science
Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought or held):
Yes. I served as an elected official in Cramerton 2013-2021 on the Cramerton Board of Commissioners for 8 years and as Mayor Pro Tempore for 3 of those years. Current Gastonia City Councilman Ward-1
Please list your highlights of civic involvement: Gastonia City Council Committees: GCLMPO 2050 Stakeholders Committee - Central City Revitalization & Housing - Inter-Gov. Relations & Economic Development, Public Safety Committee - Transportation Committee, Utilities Committee Arts Committee, Former Cramerton Commissioner Mayor Pro Tempore Parks and Rec Advisory Board Planning and Zoning, Youth mentor and basketball coach, Bethesda Oaks Neighborhood HOA - Architectural Review Committee Stuart Cramer Athletic Booster Treasurer
What are the most important issues facing Gastonia today, and how would you address them? The most important issues facing Gastonia are growth & infrastructure and public safety. We must plan responsibly, investing in roads, utilities, and housing that keep pace with demand while preserving the character of our neighborhoods. Strengthening public safety means supporting our police, & first responders with the resources they need while building trust within the community. I will advocate for infrastructure improvements, that revitalize our city and assure all neighborhoods are safe.
Controversy arose earlier this year after residents, a council member and the mayor declared a cooling station set up for homeless residents and others without adequate heating and cooling as unacceptable. What entity should take the lead on protecting Gastonia’s most vulnerable during extreme heat or cold, and how can city and county leaders, and partner organizations, better work together? Addressing homelessness requires a coordinated, case-managed approach with partnerships across the county with cities, nonprofits, and churches. Tailored support for mental health care, job training, addiction recovery, and housing helps people rebuild lives. Youth homelessness also needs early intervention through schools and outreach. Clear goals, tracking, & communication between local agencies create a lasting, compassionate and impactful response to support the most vulnerable.
How should Gastonia address the growing need for affordable housing in the area? Affordable housing, homelessness, and veteran support are connected challenges that need compassion and smart planning. The city should partner with nonprofits, churches, and developers to expand diverse housing, reuse vacant properties, and support mixed-income developments. Working with groups like Habitat for Humanity and increasing grant access to rental vouchers, down payment assistance, and financial counseling will build housing stability and help everyone to live with dignity.
Why should voters choose you over others who are in the race? I bring personal and professional experience as a small business owner and trusted community leader. I understand fiscal responsibility, teamwork, & our city’s needs. My focus is on safer neighborhoods, strong infrastructure, and support for local businesses. With experience in 2 municipalities, I am committed to building a strong & thriving city that brings families together & provides our youth with safe outlets. I lead with compassion & integrity and am driven by an excellent moral compass.
