Public Meetings - Fayetteville, North Carolina

The Fayetteville City Council held its regular meeting on February 12, 2024, at 6:30 PM. The meeting included an invocation, recognitions, approval of the consent agenda, public forum, and an administrative report. Key topics included community safety, homeless services, voting rights, and infrastructure needs. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from January 17, 22, 29, 30, and 31, 2024 meetings. - Approved items 24-38377 through 24-38197, including a special use permit for transitional housing at Hawley Lane, a capital project ordinance amendment for an aircraft rescue vehicle, an affordable housing loan commitment for Liberty Springs Apartments, the Transit 2024-2028 Equal Employment Opportunity Program, a lease amendment for the R.C. Williams Building, a sole source recommendation for a pump control valve, and a bid recommendation for a design-build project for a 54-inch outfall line. All passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Opche Buringer (resident) urged unity and called for the removal of slogans from the Market House, referencing the 2020 protests and quoting Rodney King and Ronald Reagan. - Brian Henry (disabled veteran, 6454 East Hampton Road) reported damage to his sewer line from an unknown utility and requested better inter-departmental communication. The city manager offered to assist in identifying the responsible party. - Taleko Hurst (134-? address) apologized to the police chief for overzealous criticism, reminded citizens of upcoming state elections, and promoted a court-watching program. He also urged attention to the Leandro school funding case before the NC Supreme Court. - Jerry Rhino (516 Deer Path Drive) requested a monument for an unmarked mass grave at North Side Cemetery containing 15 of 21 African American migrant workers killed in a 1957 truck crash—then the deadliest traffic accident in the nation. - Georgiana Pinckney (3529 Ferman Drive, founder of Greater Life of Fayetteville) described her after-school tutoring, suspension program, and summer academy (I Am Unique), noting that city grants are reimbursable and she needs unrestricted funds to expand staff. - Joseph Wheeler (245 Alexandra Street, Homeless Assembly) criticized the J Resource Center, stating it failed because Cumberland Health Net did not write grants and excluded homeless voices. He advocated for subject-matter experts with lived experience. - Mac Dishman (same address) compared the local resource center to Raleigh’s Oak City Cares, which offers mail services, disability application help, and clinician services. He requested similar services for Fayetteville’s homeless. - Lisa Lofthouse (236 Viking Road, president of Organizing Against Racism) urged full funding of the Office of Community Safety (OCS) at $3 million (less than 1% of the $300M+ budget), citing successful models in Greensboro and Durham. She also mentioned a Jackie Robinson play on March 6. - Lisa Rodriguez (1701 Cherokee Drive, Common Cause NC and Fayetteville Freedom for All) highlighted voting barriers for unhoused people under new voter ID laws, praised the farmers market partnership, and recommended community listening sessions for OCS implementation. She offered to partner with the city. - Dr. Lakshmi Gordon (4609 Weaver Hall Drive) advocated for tennis court repairs, noting she fell in October due to cracks. She acknowledged a new 11-court facility but said it is insufficient to meet demand. - Sean McMillan (6224 Golden Rain Drive, final speaker after a 7-3 vote to extend the forum) urged full funding of OCS, mental health crisis response, and independent police oversight. He referenced recent police-involved deaths (Joshua Oxendine, Adrian Roberts, Jason Walker, Jada Johnson, Justin Livsay, Jelana Dunlap, Demarcus Brody, Lawrence Artist) and called for a resolution condemning genocide in Gaza (death toll then 30,000). Discussion Items - Cool Spring Downtown District, Inc. Second Quarter Fiscal Year 2024 Report (Administrative Report) – Councilmember Thompson moved to move the report to a future work session. The motion was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Jensen and passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda – Approved unanimously (including Councilmember Hare voting remotely). - Public Forum Extension – A motion by Councilmember Benavente, seconded by Councilmember Banks-McLaughlin, to allow the final speaker to exceed the 30-minute limit passed 7-3. - Cool Spring Report – Moved to a future work session by unanimous vote. - Meeting adjourned without further action.

On January 31, 2024, the Fayetteville City Council held a special meeting at 5:00 PM in the Council Chamber to discuss two major items: the Murchison Choice Implementation Grant application and a potential International Farmers Market partnership with Cumberland County. The meeting included an invocation, pledge of allegiance, and approval of the agenda. Councilmember Thompson was absent due to a family bereavement; Councilmember McNair participated remotely. Both agenda items received unanimous approval. Discussion Items 5.01 Murchison Choice Implementation Grant Application City staff, led by Mr. Collie, presented a detailed overview of the Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant application. The grant seeks $27 million from HUD, with a total community investment of approximately $140 million when combined with city, county, and partner contributions. Key components include: - Housing: 207 mixed-income rental units (60 replacement public housing, 105 affordable, 42 market rate) and 25 homeownership units at the Elliott Circle site, replacing the existing 110 units. The total housing development cost is $67 million. - People: $4 million for supportive services (education, health, workforce development) delivered by Urban Strategies, with Cumberland County Schools as a partner. - Neighborhood: $3 million for projects including a neighborhood grocery store (leveraged with $3 million from a CDFI), residential and commercial facade improvements, and a trail connecting Elliott Circle to Mary McDonald Park. The city has already committed $44 million in leverage, including $35 million from a parks bond and $8.5 million from housing bonds and HOME funds. - Financing: The city will loan $1 million (fully repaid), invest $3 million from the housing opportunity bond for homeownership, and use $4.5 million in HOME funds. The grant application deadline is February 13, 2024, with an award expected in July 2024 and construction completion by July 2029. - Relocation: All current residents have rights under the Uniform Relocation Act, including first right to return to the new development. The housing authority and Urban Strategies will provide relocation plans and case management. Councilmembers asked about resident displacement, senior housing amenities, first right of return, and leveraging remaining bond money for other parts of Murchison Road. Councilmember Hare made a motion to authorize the mayor to sign the leverage letter and the city manager to execute the partnership agreement, and to proceed with the grant application. 5.02 International Farmers Market Partnership with Cumberland County Mr. Gibson presented a concept for a makerspace and international farmers market on a city-owned site at Rowan Street, Murchison Road, and Bragg Boulevard. The city has invested about $4 million in stabilization and planning. Cumberland County has expressed interest in partnering, using ARPA funds and grants to develop an open-air market and incubation space. The city’s primary contribution would be the land. Councilmember Hare moved to approve the partnership and include the mayor and city manager in discussions with the county. Key Outcomes - Murchison Choice Grant: Motion approved unanimously by those voting (Councilmember McNair voting remotely). The city will apply for the $27 million HUD grant and execute required agreements. - International Farmers Market Partnership: Motion approved unanimously. Council authorized the city manager to discuss a partnership with Cumberland County, with the mayor and city manager involved in negotiations, and to bring back a formal agreement for approval.

The Fayetteville City Council met on January 22, 2024, at 12:00 PM (UTC). The meeting opened with an invocation by Reverend George Conney, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Senator Valerie Apple White presented the Order of the Longleaf Pine to Dr. Tony Coleman, retiring Director of Fayetteville Regional Airport, recognizing his 30 years of service to the community and his military career. The council then approved the agenda and consent calendar, heard a city manager's report, adopted the 2024 Federal Action Plan, and tabled several items to future meetings. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent calendar, which included routine approvals. Discussion Items - City Manager's Report: City Manager Hewitt noted that 104 employees were honored for service awards, collectively contributing 1,185 years of service to the city. He also announced the annual council retreat scheduled for January 29–30, 2024, at Gilmore Recreation Center, and reminded the public to sign up for the weekly "Manager's Messenger" email newsletter. - Federal Action Plan 2024: Leslie Mozingo presented the draft federal action plan, which outlines five priority areas: airport development, surface transportation (including electric vehicle infrastructure), public safety (police and fire), affordable housing (specifically the Choice Neighborhoods implementation grant), and energy efficiency/sustainability. Mozingo emphasized that the plan aligns with federal priorities and that the council's advocacy is critical. Councilmember Hare asked about lobbying for law enforcement recruitment and retention, and Mozingo explained that the plan serves as a guide for conversations with federal officials. Councilmember Benevente stressed the need for a holistic approach to community safety, addressing mental health, poverty, and addiction without solely relying on policing. The council unanimously adopted the 2024 Federal Action Plan. - Tabling of Items: Councilmember Davis moved to table items 9.01 and 9.02 to February 12 and February 26, 2024, respectively, and item 10.01 to February 26, 2024. Councilmember Hare moved to table item 11.01 (emergency choice implementation) to a special meeting on January 31, 2024. All motions passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Adopted 2024 Federal Action Plan: Unanimous vote. - Tabled Items: - Item 9.01 tabled to February 12, 2024. - Items 9.02 and 10.01 tabled to February 26, 2024. - Item 11.01 tabled to a special meeting on January 31, 2024. - Special Recognition: Dr. Tony Coleman received the Order of the Longleaf Pine, the highest award from the Governor of North Carolina, for his 30 years of service at Fayetteville Regional Airport.

The Fayetteville City Council held its regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, January 8, 2024, in the Council Chamber at 433 Hay Street. The meeting included recognitions, a consent agenda, a 14-speaker public forum, two public hearings, an evidentiary hearing for transitional housing, and policy votes on advisory board removal procedures, public forum rules, and council meeting times. Announcements & Recognitions - Mayor Mitch Colvin and Councilmember Thompson recognized Kwame Molden, co-founder and president of Spring Break Watches, with a proclamation dated December 21, 2023, noting his Fayetteville roots, donations of over $35,000 in watches to teachers and staff, and retail distribution in more than 250 stores including Nordstrom, Macy's, and Belk. Molden dedicated the honor to his great-grandfather Thurman J. Andrews Sr. - The Council presented the Key to the City to retiring radio host Jeff Goldie Goldberg, recognizing more than 40 years in radio and his work on WFNC's Good Morning Fayetteville. - The Council recognized members of the Triple Nickel veterans group, including Patricia Jackson, for wreath-laying through Reese Across America. Jackson reported 9,900 wreaths laid at Sand Hills Cemetery this year, up from 8,000 last year, and 10 wreaths at Lafayette Cemetery. Consent Calendar The Council approved the consent agenda unanimously after pulling the October 9, 2023 minutes for separate consideration. Approved consent items included: - Meeting minutes for December 6, 2023 (Special - Inauguration), December 11, 2023 (Discussion of Agenda Items), and December 11, 2023 (Regular). - SUP23-08 findings of fact for a special use permit allowing a school in the SF-6 zoning district at 4502 Rosehill Road (Bethel Christian Assembly Inc.). - Capital Project Ordinance Amendment 2024-9 for Orange Street School renovations. - Capital Project Ordinance 2024-11 appropriating NCDOT grant funds for environmental and design phases of Taxiways Foxtrot and Golf rehabilitation. - Budget Ordinance Amendment 2024-8 appropriating the 2023 Motiva First Responder Grant. - Budget Ordinance Amendment 2024-9 moving Cape Fear Regional Theater funds to Economic and Community Development. - Special Revenue Fund Project Ordinance 2024-12 for the FY23 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant. - Award of the Terminal Renovations Phase III construction contract to Daniels & Daniels Construction Company, Inc. - Engineering services contract for the Buckhead Creek Phase 1 Watershed Study. - Municipal agreements with NCDOT for the Blanton Road Extension project, the Fayetteville Comprehensive Pedestrian Plan update, and landscaping/irrigation at Bragg Blvd and Rowan Street. - PWC bid recommendations for sewer manhole rehabilitation (polymeric epoxy and CIP fiberglass reinforced epoxy). - PWC resolution authorizing tentative award of the P.O. Hoffer Water Treatment Plant re-advertisement bid contract. Public Comments & Testimony Fourteen people signed up for the public forum. After reaching the 30-minute limit, the Council voted to extend the forum by 12 minutes to hear the remaining speakers. - Joseph Wheeler and Lizette Rodriguez criticized the December 20, 2023 busing of unhoused residents to Durham Rescue Mission, saying the one-way trips were arranged by Deanna Braggs, that the shelter was not vetted, and that requirements such as no jobs for seven months, work at $1.25/hour, mandatory religious participation, and no cars were not disclosed. Rodriguez requested contact information for those sent to Durham, funding for a white-flag shelter at the Day Resource Center, hiring of an Office of Community Safety director, and approval of a county shelter permit. - Angela Malloy said she left home after the busing call, criticized the lack of vetting and organization, and asked for full funding for an OCS director. - Joel Cook called on the Council to adopt a ceasefire resolution for Palestine, stating that at least 2,000 additional Palestinian civilians had been killed in the past month and that 80% of the nation supports a ceasefire. He also supported funding for the Office of Community Safety and dignified treatment of unhoused residents. - Sharon Moya asked the Council to use $85 million in public safety and infrastructure bonds to paint crosswalks at major intersections and bus stops, noting missing crosswalks near the mall and Westwood Shopping Center. - Marjorie McLean, a teacher and nonprofit founder, petitioned to have 901 Person Street removed from the demolition list, saying she had received inconsistent guidance from city staff. The City Manager said the violations were more than cosmetic and that staff would follow up. - Elizabeth Troubaugh, a military spouse, requested traffic calming near parks and neighborhoods after her dog was killed by a car going 30 mph near her home. - Chilenko Hurst and Tiana Melvin asked for more investigators and communication regarding missing children of color. Melvin said her son Ivante McNeil had been missing since November 25 and the family had received no updates in almost two months. - Andrew Bryant and Felice Lockamy expressed concerns about Fayetteville Block's expansion in District 2, including dust, stormwater, noise, and lack of air-quality testing. - Rudy Edwards, a tenant at BJ's Used Books on Murchison Road, described the demolition process as nontransparent and said the building was on the demolition list despite the business having uninterrupted utility service since 1981. - Lewis Graham, a homeless resident, requested help obtaining birth certificates and IDs, transportation, and income-based 24-hour daycare. - Steve McMillan urged the Council to listen to District 2 and provide parks, splash pads, and reinvestment in the North Street area. Public Hearings & Evidentiary Hearing - P23-47 Rezoning (Hawley Lane) – A legislative hearing was held on a request to rezone 1.86 acres at 344, 348, 352 Hawley Lane and unaddressed Plummers Lane from Mixed Residential 5 (MR-5) to Downtown 2 Conditional (DT-2/CZ). The property is owned by Cumberland County Board of Education, Michael J Carpenter, and Helen Kelly Heirs, represented by Jimmy Kizer and Jermaine Walker. The only proposed condition was increasing the maximum street front yard setback from 20 to 70 feet. Staff and the Zoning Commission recommended approval. Jimmy Kizer said the county wants to combine the site with the adjacent Pauline Jones School property for future programs, and Walker said the proposed facility would comply with UDO standards. Pamela Carter, B Street Community Watch contact, and Kevin Carter opposed, saying a 24-hour homeless shelter should not be placed in the small B Street residential neighborhood and that many questions remained unanswered. The Council voted unanimously to approve the rezoning, with Councilmember Davis making the motion and Councilmember Benavente seconding. - P23-49 Rezoning (North Street) – The public hearing item for a conditional rezoning of 1.42 acres at 1009, 1015, and 0 North Street from MR-5 to Heavy Industrial (HI/CZ) on behalf of DRA LLC was tabled by Councilmember Davis to the January 22, 2024 meeting. The motion carried unanimously. - SUP23-09 Transitional Housing Special Use Permit – The Council held an evidentiary hearing for a special use permit for transitional housing on the same Hawley Lane property. Witnesses were sworn in, including Jimmy Kizer, Jermaine Walker, and opponents Pamela Carter and Kevin Carter. County Commissioner Glenn Adams testified about the county's plans, including a shelter with pods for single men, single women, and families, 24/7 security, card access, county monitoring, partnerships with FTCC and Cape Fear Valley, and future affordable housing in the area. Adams said estimated capacity was about 70-75 people, with an anticipated construction cost near $15 million and a timeline of about two years. Opponents reiterated concerns about the location in a struggling residential neighborhood and concentration of homeless services. Councilmember Benavente moved to approve the special use permit subject to conditions, submitted site plans, and UDO conformance, and read six findings of fact. The motion was seconded by another council member and carried. Policy Reviews and Other Business - The Council approved a revised Boards and Commissions removal process. The approved language allows a complaint to be filed with the City Clerk, requires the appointment committee to hold a special meeting, and adds a step to notify the appointee and allow an opportunity to resign before the City Council makes a final removal decision. - The Council approved an amended Public Forum Policy, changing the forum from two 15-minute segments to a single 30-minute period, with any remaining speakers placed at the beginning of the next month's public forum list. The policy also restates the three-minute per speaker limit, order of speakers, no yield of time, and restrictions on topics. - The Council approved a resolution and ordinance changing City Council meeting times starting February 1, 2024: work sessions at 2:00 p.m., agenda discussion meetings at 5:30 p.m., and regular Council meetings at 6:30 p.m. The vote was 6-4, with Councilmembers McNair, Green, Banks McLaughlin, and Benavente opposed. - The Council separately approved the October 9, 2023 regular meeting minutes that had been pulled from the consent agenda. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - P23-47 rezoning approved unanimously. - P23-49 rezoning tabled to January 22, 2024. - SUP23-09 transitional housing special use permit approved. - Revised advisory board removal process approved with notification/opportunity to resign. - Public forum policy revised to a single 30-minute period with speaker carryover. - Council meeting times changed to 2:00 p.m. work session, 5:30 p.m. agenda discussion, and 6:30 p.m. regular meeting, effective February 1, 2024 (6-4 vote). - October 9, 2023 minutes approved.

At the December 11, 2023 regular meeting, the Fayetteville City Council recognized two retiring department heads, approved a consent agenda with several routine items, and heard public comment on topics including police accountability, a proposed ceasefire resolution for Gaza, and a property demolition dispute. The meeting began at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (23-3714): Minutes from the November 6, 13, and 27, 2023 meetings were approved 9–1 (Councilmember Green opposed). - Capital Project Ordinance 2024-10 & Amendment 2024-8 (23-3704): Appropriated a grant award for Wayland Drive Drainage Improvements. - Budget Ordinance Amendment 2024-7 (23-3716): Carryover of encumbered, assigned, and donated funds from FY2023 and other items. - Professional Service Contract (23-3707): Phase 1 Watershed Study for Beaver Creek 1 with Arcadis. - Bid Recommendation & Resolution of Tentative Award (23-3708): Adam Street Drainage Improvements Project. - MOTIVA First Responder Grant Award (23-3715): Fayetteville Police Department project ordinance for FY2024. - Downtown Social District Pilot Review and Next Steps (23-3420): Approved 9–1 to make the pilot permanent (Councilmember Hare opposed). - Authorization to Sign Settlement with Gina Hawkins (added as 7.08): Approved as part of the consent agenda after a supermajority vote (8–2) to add the item. Public Comments & Testimony Thirteen individuals signed up to speak; eight addressed the council. - Sean McMillan (6224 Golden Rain Drive): Urged the council to “first do no harm,” criticized past ordinances criminalizing unhoused people, called for a citizen review board and an Office of Community Safety (OCS) director, and demanded a resolution for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. - Albier Treadwell (1837 Broadale Drive): Disputed claims about mold at his property (4903 Murchison Road) facing demolition, stated violations had been dismissed in environmental court, and asked for clearer guidance from the city. - Tammy Terrell Garcia (6421 Whitehall Drive): Complained about inadequate police response to a suspicious vehicle at her home and a separate incident at her daughter’s home, questioning service priority for taxpayers. - Joel Cook (6816 Torrance Lane): Drew a historical parallel to the 1898 Wilmington massacre, urged the council to adopt a permanent ceasefire resolution for Palestine, citing over 20,000 Palestinian deaths. - Sama Allen (28306): Described being Palestinian American, called for a ceasefire, and quoted Norman Finkelstein regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. - Lizette Rodriguez (1701 Cherokee Drive): Called for police transparency and accountability, highlighted deaths of Marcus Brody, Lawrence Artis, and others, and urged hiring an OCS director and funding a mental health response team. - McKenzie Smith (28303): Asked the council to urge state senators to support a ceasefire, stating tax dollars should not fund “genocide and ethnic cleansing.” - Suleiman Kabia (representing the Muslim community of Fayetteville): Called for solidarity with Palestinians and continued exposure of the situation on social media. Discussion Items - Agenda Approval: Councilmember Hare requested a separate vote on item 7.07 (Social District). Councilmember Green requested a separate vote on item 7.01 (minutes). The motion to approve the agenda with those items pulled passed 8–2. A subsequent motion to add item 7.08 (settlement with Gina Hawkins) also passed 8–2. - Approval of Minutes (7.01): Councilmember Green stated she could not vote for the minutes because she was not a council member at the time. A motion to approve passed 9–1, with Green voting no. - Downtown Social District (7.07): Councilmember Benavente moved to make the pilot permanent, calling it “successful.” The motion passed 9–1, with Councilmember Hare voting no. Key Outcomes - Recognitions: Fire Chief Michael Hill (retiring Jan 1, 2024 after 30 years) and Airport Director Dr. Tony Coleman (retiring Dec 31, 2023 after 30 years) each received a key to the city. - Consent Agenda: All consent items were approved, with separate recorded votes on the minutes and the social district. - Settlement Authorization: The city manager was authorized to sign a settlement and release with Gina Hawkins (item 7.08). - Public Forum: The council heard comments on police policies, a ceasefire resolution, and a property dispute; no immediate action was taken on those requests.

The Fayetteville City Council met on November 27, 2023, beginning at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included recognition of a new Gigabit City certification, farewells to outgoing council members, staff reports from the Fire and Police Departments, two annexation public hearings, and approval of a housing development loan. Several rezoning items were postponed to a future public hearing. Announcements and Recognition - Gigabit City Certification: Metronet declared Fayetteville a certified Gigabit City (seventh in the nation, first in North Carolina), representing a private investment of over $70 million with fiber reaching 60,000 households. - Primetime Elite Bulldogs Youth Football Team: Recognized for winning conference, state, and regional championships; coaches requested donations for an upcoming national competition in Naples, Florida. - Farewell to Outgoing Council Members: Councilmember Shaquila Ingram (District 2) and Mayor Pro Tem Johnny Dawkins (District 5) were honored for their service as they depart the council. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved with amendments: Items 7.08 (P23-47), 7.10 (P23-49), and 10.01 (SUP23-09) were pulled and set for public hearings on January 8, 2024. The remaining consent agenda items were approved unanimously. Staff Reports - 5002 Collins Street Update: Dr. Jerry Newton reported that property owners were advised of extensive repairs needed; staff recommended proceeding with the existing demolition ordinance. - Fayetteville Fire Department 2023 Third Quarter Review: Chief Hill reported 9 vacancies, 21,029 calls through September (up 400), average total response time of 6 minutes 59 seconds. Opioid overdoses trending up but below 2021. Recruitment efforts highlighted, including a planned application opening on January 2, 2024. Councilmember Thompson questioned the drop in fire inspections due to loss of a grant-funded inspector. The report was accepted unanimously. - Fayetteville Police Department 2023 Third Quarter Review: Chief Braden reported overall persons crimes down 8%, property crimes down 12%, but homicides up 12% (39 victims, 95% clearance rate). Fentanyl seizures increased dramatically to 41 kg (up from 3.5 kg). Traffic stops up 59%. Use of force in 1.24% of arrests (61 incidents out of 4,929 arrests). Councilmember Benavente raised concerns about racial disparities in traffic stops (2:1 ratio for Black drivers) and use of force (75% against Black individuals). Chief stated stops are based on violations and force is reasonable/necessary. The report was accepted unanimously. Public Hearings - AX23-05: Annexation of 21.05 acres at 0 Jossie Street: Staff presentation by Demetrius Mutos. One speaker (Victoria Clarkson, representative) spoke in favor. Council voted unanimously to adopt the annexation ordinance effective November 27, 2023. - AX23-06: Annexation of 13.84 acres at 1416, 1446, 1476 Middle River Loop: Staff presentation. Kenneth Smith (engineer for applicant) spoke in favor, requesting discussion on sidewalk requirements. The motion was amended to set the effective date to January 8, 2024. Approved unanimously. Other Items of Business - Single Family Housing Development Loan for Kingdom CDC’s Rosehill Road Project: Presented by Chris Cawley. Proposed $725,000 zero-interest loan from ARPA funds for 16 single-family homes (9 reserved for low/moderate income). Councilmember Thompson asked about income limits (80% area median income: $53,650 for 4-person household). The loan was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda (with items 7.08, 7.10, and 10.01 pulled for public hearing on January 8, 2024). - Accepted Fire and Police Department quarterly reports. - Approved annexation AX23-05 (effective November 27, 2023). - Approved annexation AX23-06 (effective January 8, 2024). - Approved $725,000 ARPA loan for Rosehill Road housing development.

The Fayetteville City Council met on Monday, November 13, 2023 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included a multi-faith invocation, recognitions of the Girl Scout Troop 1804 and Diwali proclamation, a city manager report on human relations, a consent agenda, public forum with 15 speakers, deliberation on a special use permit for a school, and reconsideration of a demolition order for a Collins Street property. Consent Calendar - Approved 20 consent items including meeting minutes, a quitclaim deed for Scott Avenue, condemnation for Morganton Road sidewalk, budget amendment for Hartford Fire Safety Grant, legal representation for city employees, support for Fayetteville Dogwood Festival feasibility plan, water/sewer easements for Ray Avenue drainage, affirmation of historical marker language at Market House, and multiple PWC bid recommendations and resolutions. The consent agenda passed 9-1 with one opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - Archie Barringer (chaplain) requested removal of slogans around the Market House, stating they represent a sad era and called for unity. - Brian Mello advocated for the homeless, criticizing that only two council members visited the Day Resource Center and urging better support for those trying to improve their lives. - Ann Schrader (environmentalist, founder of Eco Solutions) urged an update to the 2009 sustainability master plan and called for climate action, noting available funding. - Sharon Moyer (District 2 resident with visual impairment) described dangerous street crossings, especially at Morganton Road, and asked the city to use bond funds to paint crosswalks at major intersections and bus stops. She noted a pedestrian recently hit and in critical condition at Duke. - Joseph Wheeler opposed paying a director for the Contiguous Operational Committee (COC), arguing paid positions are failing the unhoused, and criticized the clearing of downtown that led to a friend's suicide attempt. - Tracy Smith (aunt of Lorenzo Irvin) described her nephew's death from fentanyl poisoning and alleged inadequate police investigation. She stated Detective Ashley Wofford never interviewed the family and that a sergeant said the district attorney will not prosecute death-by-distribution cases. - Chilico Hearst raised issues about a former police chief's remarks, requested a rental moratorium and landlord accountability for HUD vouchers, and asked to rename Bragg Boulevard. - Pamela Carter (District 2, B Street resident) opposed a proposed homeless shelter on B Street, citing lack of notification, recent violent crimes in the neighborhood, and the area's vulnerability. - Rudlin Brown (homeless) described difficulty accessing resources, discrimination, and said organizations are not using funds properly; she asked for more help instead of arrests. Discussion Items - Special Use Permit (SUP23-08) – School at 4502 Rosehill Road: Continued from October 23. The council deliberated on evidence for the six approval standards. City Manager Hewitt clarified the evidentiary hearing was closed; staff provided administrative information on NCDOT road widening. Councilmember Benevente questioned whether sufficient evidence was presented. Councilmember Ingram read supporting facts from the application. Motion to approve with conditions passed 9-1. - Reconsideration of Demolition – 5002 Collins Street (Bonnie Doon): Councilmember Hare moved to remove the property from the demolition list, citing owner's repair efforts. City Manager Hewitt noted no permits pulled since 2018, unpaid assessments, and a demolition contractor backing out. Councilmember Hondros expressed concerns about inconsistent enforcement. Motion was amended to authorize legal and development services to work with the owner on a consent agreement with milestones and to return with a staff report at the next meeting. Motion carried. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 9-1. - Special Use Permit for school at 4502 Rosehill Road approved 9-1 with stated findings. - Property at 5002 Collins Street stayed from demolition; staff to negotiate a consent agreement and report back by next meeting. - Public forum heard 9 speakers on various topics including Market House, homeless services, crosswalk safety, drug overdose investigation, and rental policies. - Girl Scout Troop 1804 presented Silver Award project on teen gun violence prevention; council received their public awareness campaign. - Proclamation declared November 12, 2023 as Diwali in Fayetteville.

The Fayetteville City Council met on October 23, 2023, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included recognitions, public comments, a consent agenda, a public hearing for annexation, an evidentiary hearing for a special use permit, and administrative reports. Key outcomes included approval of the annexation and remand of the special use permit to staff. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes from October 2, 2023 (Work Session), October 9, 2023 (Discussion of Agenda Items) and October 9, 2023 (Regular Meeting) – with the exception of the October 9 Regular Meeting minutes, which were pulled for discussion but ultimately approved. - Approved the 2024 City Council Meeting Dates Calendar. - Approved initial zoning for 401 Ladley Street (P23-26) as Community Commercial (CC) contingent on annexation. - Approved rezoning for three properties: P23-33 (Raeford Road/Festival Drive from NC to LC), P23-34 (1010 Laurel Street from SF-10 to MR-5), P23-35 (809 Johnson Street from SF-10 to SF-10/CZ), and P23-36 (418 Old Wilmington Road from MR-5 to MR-5/CZ). - Approved affordable housing loan commitments for Fayetteville Gardens and Liberty Springs Apartments, loan extension for Blanton Green II, and resolution for Fayetteville Gardens multifamily housing revenue bonds. - Approved resolution for NCORR Strategic Buyout for repetitive loss properties. - Approved Special Revenue Project Ordinance amendments to move funds from Housing Authority Homeownership Program to Choice Neighborhood Implementation Grant. - Approved demolition recommendations for five uninhabitable structures (336 Old Wilmington Rd, 5523 Meharry Dr, 116 Enoch Ave, 308 Mike St, 2306 Slater Ave). - Approved acceptance of amended state loan offers for the Big Rockfish SSO Lift Station project (two resolutions). - Approved Adopt a Gauge Memorandum of Agreement with NCEM. - Approved bid recommendation for Neville Street Drainage Improvements. - Approved NCDOT Municipal Certificates for speed limits on Dunn Road. - Approved lease of Suite 101-A of the R.C. Williams Building to Edward Jones Co. Public Comments & Testimony - Mario Hardy (3835 Glenclora Dr) – Expressed concern that a council member from District 3 violated the code of conduct by disrespecting the Chief of Police during discussion on curfew and by using the term "decriminalization" publicly. He urged the council to address the matter. - Justin Herbie (2614 Morganton Rd) – Requested the city consider adopting sanctioned Little League programs in parks and recreation to increase youth participation in baseball. He noted declining teams, lack of coach support, and the low cost ($10 per team) of Little League membership, plus potential grants from Cumberland County Foundation. Discussion Items - Approval of Agenda – Councilmember Benevente moved to approve the agenda except for the October 9 Regular Meeting minutes, which he wanted discussed. The motion passed 10-0 after a brief recess to fix audio issues for remote council members. - Consent Agenda – Approved in a single vote with no separate discussion. - Public Forum (Continuation from October 9) – Two speakers addressed the council (see Public Comments). Public Hearing: Annexation AX23-04 (401 Ladley Street) - Staff presentation by Demetrius Mutos: The 0.48-acre parcel is petitioning for annexation and initial zoning as Community Commercial. Properties already zoned CC and city services can be absorbed with minimal cost. No public speakers signed up. Council adopted the annexation ordinance (effective October 23, 2023) via unanimous vote (10-0). Evidentiary Hearing: Special Use Permit SUP23-08 (4502 Rosehill Road) - Applicant Dale Crawford (Crawford Design) presented a request for a charter school (pre-K through 5th grade, up to 400 students) in an SF-6 district. He argued the school is compatible with nearby residential areas and existing schools. He cited 1,800 feet of stacking lane (exceeding NCDOT recommendations) to mitigate traffic. Councilmembers questioned outreach to the community, traffic studies specific to Rosehill Road, and safety concerns on the curved road. Councilmember Benevente moved to remand the item to staff for additional traffic impact data and evidence of community outreach. The motion passed 7-3 (opposed by Mayor Pro Tem Dawkins, Councilmember Thompson, Councilmember Honduras). Administrative Reports - Councilmember Ingram moved to move items 11.01 (Airport Strategic Marketing Plan) and 11.02 (Every Town for Gun Safety research) to the next Work Session. The motion carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - Annexation and initial zoning for 401 Ladley Street approved (10-0). - Special Use Permit for charter school at 4502 Rosehill Road remanded to staff for further traffic and outreach analysis (7-3). - Two administrative reports (11.01 and 11.02) moved to the next work session. - Consent agenda approved in its entirety. - All other consent items approved without separate discussion.

The Fayetteville City Council held a special meeting on September 18, 2023, solely to review a proposed youth protection ordinance (curfew) presented by Police Chief Braden. The meeting focused on discussing the details of the curfew, addressing misconceptions, and gathering council concerns. After extensive discussion, the council voted to reject the current proposed ordinance and direct staff to bring back a revised version incorporating council feedback and to engage partner agencies. Discussion Items - Chief Braden's Presentation: The chief presented the proposed curfew ordinance, outlining: who it affects (juveniles under 18 and parents/guardians), the times (weekdays 12 a.m.–5 a.m. for ages 16-17; weekends 1 a.m.–5 a.m.; for under 16, 11 p.m.–6 a.m. daily; truancy hours on school days 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. for under 18), the location (within city limits), and the purpose (address juvenile crime and safety, parental responsibility). He provided data on juvenile contacts and violent incidents from July 1 to September 14, 2023, showing 24 incidents with 55 juvenile contacts, mostly during late-night hours. - Constitutional and Legal Concerns: Councilmember Benavente questioned the constitutionality of curfews, noting that the ACLU has successfully challenged them in many cases. City Attorney Pullium explained that only one case (from the 4th Circuit) is binding on North Carolina, while others are persuasive. The council requested that the ACLU letter be presented at a future meeting. - Data Requests: Councilmembers expressed concern that data provided was cherry-picked or incomplete. They requested comprehensive data on total crimes during the same period, not just juvenile-involved incidents, and better breakdowns by time of day and age. - Partner Agency Engagement: Multiple councilmembers emphasized the need to collaborate with the county, school board, DSS, sheriff's department, and other agencies. Chief Braden mentioned initial meetings with DSS and the district attorney but noted that DSS deferred to the county manager. Councilmember Ingram proposed convening all “can-do partners” to discuss youth protection rather than a curfew alone. - Specific Concerns: Councilmembers raised issues about the age limit (some suggested aligning with Charlotte’s under-16 curfew), truancy provisions affecting homeschooled children, the $100 fine on parents, enforcement at businesses, and the lack of a clear plan for what happens after a child is picked up (e.g., referral to DSS or mentorship programs). Key Outcomes - Motion to Reject and Revise: Councilmember Banks McLaughlin moved to reject the proposed ordinance as presented, direct staff to amend it based on the concerns discussed (including age limit, truancy hours, fine structure, and data requests), and to collaborate with partner agencies (e.g., county, school board, DSS, sheriff) to develop an interlocal agreement or resolution outlining responsibilities. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Ingram and passed 7-3. Voting in favor: Banks McLaughlin, Ingram, Hare, Thompson, Jensen, McNair, and others (not all explicitly named in transcript). Voting against: Councilmembers Benavente, Mahondros (referred to as Honros), and Dawkins. - Motion to Include ACLU Letter: Councilmember Benavente moved that staff present the ACLU’s position paper on curfews in future discussions. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Mahondros and passed with opposition from Councilmembers Hare and Dawkins. The city attorney suggested inviting the ACLU to present directly. Next Steps - Staff will draft a revised ordinance incorporating council feedback and bring it back for further consideration at a future meeting. - The city will reach out to partner agencies (county, school board, DSS, sheriff) to explore collaborative approaches to youth safety. - The ACLU letter will be included in future presentations or the ACLU may be invited to address the council.