The plan, so far
How It Works
What community ownership is, where it has worked, and what it would take in Gastonia.
The big idea
Instead of waiting for the next outside operator, Gastonia people could own a meaningful share of the next team, so the people with the most at stake finally have a say in its future.
One idea on the table: a busier ballpark
A team plays about 60 home dates a year. One idea being discussed is to also keep CaroMont Health Park busy the rest of the year: concerts, festivals, high school and college games, tournaments, markets and private events. More dates make the whole operation steadier. How that would work alongside the team is still an open question.
It’s been done before
- Green Bay Packers. Owned by their fans since 1923. Shares pay no dividends; they buy a voice and a century of pride.
- Rochester Red Wings. Saved by a community stock drive in 1957 and still community-owned today.
- Indianapolis Indians. Held by local shareholders since the 1950s.
- Wisconsin Timber Rattlers and Toledo Mud Hens. Community and nonprofit organizations that reinvest in the team and the ballpark.
What it would take
- A workable lease for CaroMont Health Park with the City of Gastonia
- A league home and league approval
- An experienced general manager and front office to run day-to-day operations
- Enough capital to open and a cushion to get through a slow season
- A sound legal structure, built with securities counsel, before any money changes hands
- A big, visible base of supporters, which is what this list is building
Possible ownership shapes
Nothing has been decided. These are the models on the table:
- Community shares. A real piece of the team, mostly for pride and a voice, not a payout.
- Regulated crowdfunding. An offering filed with the SEC and run through a registered platform, open to everyday investors.
- A fan trust or nonprofit. Supporters collectively hold a stake and a board seat.
- Founding member programs. Recognition and perks for early believers.
Where we are right now
Listening and counting. We are gathering the facts, talking with the people involved and measuring real community interest. We are not accepting money, and your interest is non-binding.
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