Settlement Reached: What It Means For Community Transparency at CPCC

A Community Wins: The Settlement's Impact on CPCC

A recent settlement has been reached involving Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC), one of North Carolina's largest community colleges, and plaintiffs providing some significant lessons about transparency and community engagement. After a lengthy legal struggle, both sides are claiming victory. The plaintiffs, Mina Ezikpe and Eboni Exceus, faced bans from campus after they expressed their concerns regarding the construction of a public safety training facility near CPCC’s Levine Campus.

The Road to Transparency

This case emerged from a conflict that began at a CPCC Board of Trustees meeting in November 2024, highlighting a fundamental issue many citizens care about: open communication. The lawsuit, filed in April 2025, specifically accused the college’s security of punishing students for exercising their First Amendment rights. Eboni Exceus expressed her relief at having the ban lifted, emphasizing, “Showing up and asking questions should never be punished—community voices matter.”

Significance of Compliance with Transparency Laws

The settlement signifies a commitment from CPCC to adhere to North Carolina's Open Meetings Law and Public Records Law, ensuring that future interactions between the college and its community members are transparent. This compliance reassures citizens that they can voice their opinions without fear of retaliation, a crucial element in fostering democratic engagement and accountability.

Citizens’ Rights and Responsibilities: The Bigger Picture

While the settlement is being seen as a victory, it raises an important discussion on the nature of public institutions and how they must operate transparently. It reminds us that the right to attend public meetings and request information is not just a privilege but a responsibility for active citizenship. This case underscores the idea that public agencies must be forthcoming with information, allowing community input on significant developments such as the proposed safety training facility.

A Cautionary Tale

Yet, this settlement also serves as a cautionary tale for other community colleges and public institutions nationwide. Institutions can face legal ramifications when actions are perceived as silencing dissent; thus, universities might reevaluate their protocols around community engagement. As Xavier T. de Janon noted, “The settlement is a step forward for those who care about transparency,” reminding us how essential it is to hold public entities accountable.

Looking Forward: Ensuring Continued Vigilance

As the community moves forward, the question remains: what measures are in place to ensure that these changes are sustainable? Transparency doesn't just happen; it requires continuous effort and community involvement. Local residents in Asheville, who are similarly invested in ensuring their voices are heard, can take this as a call to action. Engage with local governance, attend meetings, and ask questions. Your participation can help shape the future of your community.

As we discuss this settlement's implications, it is essential to recognize the value of accountability and its role in maintaining trust between institutions and the communities they serve. The success of this settlement is just the beginning of a broader dialogue needed to ensure lasting changes.

Do you want to ensure that public institutions remain accountable and transparent? Join community forums and stay informed about local governance actions; your voice can make all the difference.