Gaston County Approves Additional $12 Million for Health Department Renovation

Gastonia, NC (WNN) - The Gaston County Board of Commissioners approved an additional $12,050,500 to fund renovations and expansion at the Gaston County Department of Health and Human Services, bringing additional funding to a project that has faced unexpected construction costs.

During the November 10, 2026, meeting, Justin Amos, the department director, provided an update on the ongoing project and explained why additional funding was needed after construction crews uncovered unforeseen structural issues and problems with the building's exterior during the initial renovation.

The county initially set aside $12 million for the project in December 2022 using Medicaid Cost Settlement funds.  In December 2025, commissioners approved a $26.77 million construction contract with Beam Construction Company, along with an additional $13.35 million appropriation from the Medicaid Max Reserve.

Since construction began, newly discovered conditions have increased the project's costs beyond earlier estimates.  During Phase 1, crews found deterioration behind the building's exterior stucco.  Replacing the exterior is estimated to cost an additional $2,050,500.

Another funding issue arose after it was determined that money from the Building Inspections fund balance, which had been anticipated to help cover part of the project, was ineligible for that purpose.

County staff presented the additional $12,050,500 appropriation as necessary to address the funding gap and allow the renovation and expansion to continue.  The money will come from the county's Community Investment Fund, and the approval authorizes staff to pursue outside financing.  Final financing terms will return to the board for approval.

Amos also discussed how the department has adjusted its operations while construction is underway. Some services have been relocated to accommodate the work, including the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program, which has moved to Highland Health.  Environmental Health services are currently operating from temporary on-site trailers.