PITTSBORO, N.C. -- The removal of a Confederate monument in a North Carolina town is being discussed by local officials and citizens. 

  • More than 500 people gathered in Pittsboro
  • Chatham County officials talked about the statue outside the historic courthouse
  • They voted 4-1 along party lines for the investigation

It's reported that more than 500 people gathered in Pittsboro as Chatham County officials talked about the statue outside the historic courthouse in the town's center. Residents who want it to stay and those who want it moved spoke during the county board meeting Monday. 

Commissioners didn't make a decision on the statue and asked the county attorney to research, because state laws restrict governments from moving statues except under limited conditions. 

They voted 4-1 along party lines for the investigation. The board's lone Republican, Commissioner Walter Petty, opposed the motion, and also announced he'll resign at the month's end. 

Other Confederate monuments statewide have been removed, vandalized or discussed.