Jennifer Stepp, Gastonia City Council Ward 5 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: Jennifer Stepp
Age: 61
Campaign website or social media page: steppforgastonia.com
Occupation: Retired, former teacher
Education:
Graduated Hunter Huss High School - academic honors diploma, Gardner Webb University - Bachelor of Science
Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought or held):
Yes - Currently in City Council Ward 5 seat
Please list your highlights of civic involvement:
President of The Little Theater of Gastonia, Charter School Board Member, Hunt Institute Educational Cohort Member, Continuum of Care Board Member, Executive Board Member of Centralina Regional Council, The North Carolina League of Municipalities Legislative Policy Board Member, Gaston County Family Advisory Board Chair, Gastonia Historic District Commission Chair, Carter Center’s North Carolina Network for Fair and Safe Elections Board Member, Braver Angels National Advisory Board
What are the most important issues facing Gastonia today, and how would you address them?
Smart Growth - Implement strategic and strong planning, update ordinances, and hold developers accountable for infrastructure improvements so that growth pays its own way Public Safety - Ensure police officers and firefighters receive the equipment, training, technology and staffing needed to keep our city safe Infrastructure - Maintain and modernize our current system, expand capacity, use smart planning and technology to make our systems more efficient and resilient
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? The County Emergency Management Department should take the lead in coordinating efforts during weather emergencies since they oversee regional response and have access to resources the city does not have. But, the city should play a crucial support role helping with public safety, transportation and access to facilities when needed. We can all work better together with improved communication and collaboration. We should meet regularly, share data and resources, and align our priorities. How should Gastonia address the growing need for affordable housing in the area? Affordable housing is a growing need in Gastonia. By updating zoning, streamlining permits, supporting land trusts, encouraging diverse housing types, and offering homebuyer assistance, we can help low-income families access safe, stable housing. Partnering with nonprofits, developers, and CHDOs ensures resources are used wisely while protecting neighborhoods and strengthening our community.
Why should voters choose you over others who are in the race?
I love my city and truly know Gastonia. It’s always been my home, where I’ve raised my family and served our community for decades. I bring real experience and have worked to improve public safety and infrastructure, and grow our local economy. I believe in responsible budgeting. I listen, care and work to find solutions that help every family. I have a heart for service and a passion for people. I am committed to making Gastonia an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.
