Kinston Mayor Don Hardy Faces Criticism Over Soaring Travel Expenses

Kinston Mayor Don Hardy is stirring up controversy in his own city after News Channel 12 revealed his hefty spending on travel and city-related expenses. Since Hardy took office in 2017, the city’s “Meetings and Travel” budget has skyrocketed. In the 2023–2024 fiscal year, the budget grew by over $30,000, bringing the total to approximately $67,000.

While the mayor’s $15,000 share of the budget for travel and training is questionable, the real eyebrow-raiser is the fact that Hardy’s travel habits include premium Uber rides for short trips and dining at bars—decisions that have raised concerns about the appropriateness of how taxpayer money is being used. When asked about these expenses, Hardy defended them by emphasizing the importance of attending conferences and meetings, claiming they are necessary for securing funding for Kinston.

News Channel 12’s investigation revealed that in the 2023–2024 fiscal year, Mayor Hardy visited at least 20 cities, from Tacoma, Washington to Puerto Rico. These trips have raised questions about the cost-effectiveness of such extensive travel and whether it truly benefits the city’s residents.

Is Mayor Hardy’s Spending Justified?

Hardy argues that his travel investments have led to real returns for the city, pointing to the $2 million grant Kinston received in a previous year. The news outlet also found that in multiple instances, Mayor Hardy ordered an Uber Black for short trips, often traveling a mile or less. When asked about these high-end transportation choices, Hardy defended the use of premium services, saying:

“You always want to look for the professional driver.”

News Channel 12 also uncovered bar receipts, including one from The Carnegie Club in New York and another from the Sheraton Puerto Rico Pool Bar. Although these receipts show some food items, they are not itemized. Currently, Kinston policy doesn’t require itemization of receipts, according to the news outlet.