Demetrios Koutsoupias

The Gaston Business Association Questionnaire

Please provide a short introduction (50 words or less) highlighting your background and achievements.

As a lifelong resident of the greater Gastonia area, I have deep roots in the community with a proven record of service. Last year I was appointed to fill the vacant seat representing Ward 1 on the Gastonia City Council and am now seeking a full four-year term.

After receiving my Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Political Science from the UNC Chapel Hill, I returned home to continue the family legacy by operating Georgio’s Restaurant of Cramerton. Quickly I found my calling to public service, first serving on the Cramerton Board of Commissioners, where I was selected as Mayor Pro Tem, before continuing my service on the Gastonia City Council.

Beyond my public service, I am active in community involvement, especially with our youth. Through coaching youth sports, I serve as a positive mentor for many children. My passion for youth development, combined with my role as an experienced business owner, has shaped my perspective on the importance of teamwork and opportunity.

Today, I, along with my wife who is a public educator, and our two young boys are proud to call Gastonia home. As a trusted community leader, I am committed to building a strong and thriving city that brings families together and provides our youth with safe and positive outlets. My leadership in two municipalities has given me valuable experience in strengthening communities and addressing growth through responsible planning.

What inspired you to run for city/town council, and what specific qualities or experiences make you well-suited for this role?

I was inspired to run for Gastonia City Council because I want to continue working constructively and collectively with my fellow City Council members to build upon our successes. I deeply believe in the future of our city and the people who call it home. Having lived, worked, and raised a family here, I’ve seen both the challenges and opportunities our community faces. I want to ensure we grow in a smart, responsible way while protecting the character and values that make our city special. My motivation comes from a desire to give back, to strengthen neighborhoods, and to make sure every resident has a voice in shaping our future. I serve with a compassionate approach in decision-making and am driven by an excellent moral compass.

I bring a blend of personal and professional experience that I believe makes me well-suited for city council. As a longtime small business owner, I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility, customer service, and making tough decisions that balance long-term sustainability with immediate needs. My prior service in local government and on community committees has given me insight into how city operations work and how to bring people together to solve problems with meaningful solutions. Most importantly, I am deeply rooted in family and community – qualities that guide my approach to leadership, collaboration, and service.

What are your top priorities for your city/town (specifically pertaining to the business community), and how do you plan to address them if elected?

As Gastonia grows, we need to attract new investment while supporting the businesses that are already here. I will advocate for infrastructure improvements, revitalization of key corridors such as our downtown and industrial hubs and work with the council and county economic development team to continue with policies that make Gastonia an attractive place for entrepreneurs. Attracting businesses that offer job stability to families and invest in skilled workforce training, drives economic vitality and fosters regional cooperation with neighboring communities. I believe in collaborating with local schools, Gaston College, and workforce programs to ensure businesses have access to skilled employees.

Safe streets, reliable utilities and infrastructure, and well-maintained public spaces directly impact business success. Together we will work to ensure Gastonia invests wisely in public safety and infrastructure so businesses can flourish in a welcoming environment. In addition we will continue to foster a vibrant downtown and strong neighborhood business districts that will create a ripple effect across the city; by supporting initiatives that bring more people to shop, dine, and spend time in Gastonia - making it a destination for residents and visitors.

As a small business owner and community leader I understand the importance of clear and timely communication, listening to business owners, establishing public-private partnerships, and managing growth with a fiscally responsible mind to move our city forward.

Please select one of the following local issues, and provide a brief description of your stance on the topic: Economic Development, Public Safety, Transportation & Infrastructure, or Education.

I believe safe streets create stronger neighborhoods. Every neighborhood deserves to feel safe, supported, and heard; beginning with building trust and accountability in public safety. We can create strong, connected neighborhoods where families feel secure and neighbors thrive together, by prioritizing road safety with community improvements, and by supporting our first responders with the resources they need. Well-planned infrastructure not only improves safety on our streets but also connects residents to jobs, businesses, and opportunity. By focusing on both safety and infrastructure, together we can build a city that is secure, accessible, and prepared for the future.