Public Meetings - Fayetteville, North Carolina

The Fayetteville City Council held a work session on May 5, 2025, beginning at 2:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The agenda included updates on construction management, property tax collection, homebuyer assistance programs, the Market House repurposing project, and a property acceptance policy. Council members made several decisions, including approving contracts, directing further studies, and voting on program expansions. Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda (unanimous). Discussion Items Construction Management Division Update - Adam Lindsay and Blair Hinkle (Freeze and Nichols) presented an assessment of the Construction Management Division, noting progress and recommending improvements in project management, cost controls, and transparency. Staff proposed a 12-month contract extension with Freeze and Nichols to implement recommendations. Council expressed support and motioned to receive the information and authorize the city manager to proceed with the contract. Motion carried unanimously. Discussion of City Collection of Property Taxes - Chris Lowry (SPA) presented preliminary findings on bringing property tax collection in-house versus contracting with Cumberland County. The analysis indicated upfront costs would likely not save money but would provide greater control and unified billing. Council discussed challenges including data delays, staffing, and delinquency collections. A motion to direct staff to further investigate a third-party collection service and answer other questions, with a report back by August 2025, passed with consensus. Options for Revisions to the Homebuyer HERO Programs - Chris Collie reviewed proposed changes to the down payment assistance programs, including removing the first-time homebuyer requirement (expanding to move-up buyers), requiring applicants to use state programs first, expanding public service eligibility to retirees and private sector healthcare/education employees, and revising employment requirements for city employees. Council gave direction to staff to prepare a final policy incorporating expansions discussed, to be presented at the May 12 meeting. Motion to proceed passed 9-1, with Councilmember Benevente opposed. Market House Repurposing Project Update - Recreation Director Michael Gibson and staff presented two alternatives for pedestrian and traffic improvements around the Market House roundabout: Alternative 2B (expand center plaza by 9 feet, cost $1.08M) and Alternative X (no expansion, cost $750K). Council selected Alternative 2B, citing alignment with community input. A motion to proceed passed. Staff noted a $74K budget shortfall would be addressed through eligible grants or reallocated funds. Property Acceptance Policy (Mayor Pro Tem Jensen) - Mayor Pro Tem Jensen requested acceptance of a donated property on Rogers Road (parcel 04284270) needed for drainage easements, noting the lack of a city policy for accepting real property. Council voted 9-1 to accept the specific parcel and directed the legal department to draft a policy for future donations. Councilmember Benevente voted in opposition. Key Outcomes - Approved a 12-month contract extension with Freeze and Nichols for construction management support. - Directed staff to analyze property tax collection options and report back by August 2025. - Approved expansion of the Homebuyer HERO program; staff to return with final policy on May 12. - Approved Alternative 2B for Market House repurposing, with funding adjustments to be identified. - Accepted donated real property and initiated development of a property acceptance policy.

The Fayetteville City Council met on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included recognitions, announcements, consent agenda items, staff reports, a public hearing, and several other business items. Council members discussed and voted on a new ordinance prohibiting blocking of streets and sidewalks, a resolution supporting Powell Bill funding, and a utility assessment appeal, among other items. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes from April 7, 8, 9, and 14, 2025. - Approved rezoning requests: P25-06 (2006 Hope Mills Rd to Neighborhood Commercial), P25-07 (Morris St properties to Community Commercial), P25-08 (Baltosrol Ln to Mixed Residential 5). - Approved demolition recommendations for uninhabitable structures at 206 Campbell Ave, 816 E. Orange St, 1083 North St, and 850 Van Dyke Pl. - Authorized condemnation of easements for Sessoms Street Drainage Improvement Project. - Authorized municipal agreements with NCDOT for improvements on multiple roads. - Adopted Capital Project Ordinance Amendment for Ivy & Lyon Road Drainage Improvements. - Approved FY2025 Audit Contract. - Adopted Budget Ordinance Amendment for Federal Transit Administration Grant. - Authorized acquisition of 3.46-acre parcel on Bonanza Drive for Fire Station 9. - Adopted resolution accepting PWC state loan offer under Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act. - Items 7.0A11 (Fire Station 9 acquisition), 7.0A12 (street/sidewalk blocking ordinance), and 7.0A14 (Powell Bill funding resolution) were pulled from consent for separate discussion and votes. Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers signed up for the public hearing on the 2025-2029 HUD Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan. The public hearing was opened and closed without testimony. Discussion Items - Street and Sidewalk Blocking Ordinance (7.0A12): Councilmember Benavente raised concerns about the ordinance targeting unhoused individuals, noting the lack of an overnight shelter. Councilmember McNair proposed referring the ordinance back to staff to include a warning process, but the motion failed (7-3). The ordinance was then approved by a 7-3 vote, effective May 26, 2025, with a penalty of up to $50 as a class three misdemeanor. - Powell Bill Funding Resolution (7.0A14): Assistant City Manager Jody Phelps presented the resolution to support preserving Powell Bill funding (approximately $6.9 million annually for street repaving) threatened by a state budget proposal. Councilmember Benavente questioned the urgency and transparency. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Utility Assessment Appeal (10.02): Councilmember Thompson presented an appeal for a property owner at 6920 Tayberry Court who had already paid for water connection and was now being assessed $5,000 for sewer. The owner paid $3,100 for water in 2010. Council voted 9-1 to reverse the assessment and refund the difference, with Councilmember Banks McLaughlin opposing. - Homelessness & Mental Health Committee Presentation (10.03): Chairwoman McNair and Chris Collie presented three recommendations: (1) $50,000 additional security for the Day Resource Center (approved); (2) signs discouraging panhandling downtown; (3) exploring a pallet shelter program. Items 2 and 3 were moved to a work session for further research. Staff Reports - FY2025 Third Quarter Financial Update (8.01): Assistant City Manager Jeff Yates reported the city's financial health is strong. General fund revenues are tracking as expected; vacancy savings estimated at $13 million through Q3. The transparency portal will launch after July 1. The report was received. - Recommended FY2026-2031 Capital Improvement Program (8.02): $446 million recommended through FY26, $664 million through FY31. Funding includes GO bonds, LOBs, revenue bonds, and state/federal grants. Dedicated tax rate recommendation is 6.43 cents. The report was received. - Fire Department 2025 First Quarter Review (8.03): Chief Kevin Dove reported highlights: first-ever cancer screenings for all members, 444 smoke alarms installed, new hazmat unit and pumpers, and a crisis response dog program. 6,737 calls in Q1, 240 fewer than 2024. 14 sworn vacancies. Report received. - Police Department 2025 First Quarter Review (8.04): Chief Kemberle Joyce reported overall crime down 21% (835 fewer incidents). 14 homicides with 16 victims (vs. 3 in Q1 2024). 115 sworn vacancies (37 frozen). 911 center fully staffed. Report received. Key Outcomes - Street/Sidewalk Blocking Ordinance: Approved 7-3 (effective May 26, 2025). - Powell Bill Funding Resolution: Approved unanimously. - Utility Assessment Appeal: Approved 9-1 to reverse assessment and refund difference. - Day Resource Center Security Funding: Approved $50,000 from ARPA funds. - Panhandling Signs and Pallet Shelter: Moved to work session for further information. - Appointments: Approved appointments to Public Works Commission (Donald Porter, Rona Garrett), Personnel Review Board (Chelsea Burnett), Planning Commission (Maybell Rodriguez Lorino), Public Arts Commission (Chelsea Burnett), and removal of Richard Chandler Jr. from Community Police Advisory Board. Additional Notes - The meeting began with recognitions: Spirit of North Carolina Award to Jacqueline Abbott, National Community Development Week proclamation, Public Service Week proclamation, and City Key awards to Roosevelt Pratt Jr. and Dr. Mark Rowden. - Announcements included upcoming events: Fayetteville Next Business Summit (May 8), HBCU College Fair (August 16), Korean Food Festival (May 3). - The City Manager announced a Fayetteville Out Front event at Quantus Rec Center on April 29. - Councilmember Thompson requested separate reporting of domestic homicides in future police reports. Chief Joyce noted that 90% of homicide cases have arrests.

The Fayetteville City Council met on April 14, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting opened with an invocation and pledge, followed by proclamations, a special presentation, city manager announcements, public forum, consent agenda (with one item pulled), a quarterly strategic performance report, a public hearing on renaming Woodrow Park, and approval of FY26 strategic priorities. The meeting adjourned after administrative reports. Announcements and Recognitions - National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week (April 13–19, 2025) proclaimed by Mayor Mitch Colvin, honoring 911 dispatchers. - Child Abuse Prevention Month proclaimed; the Child Advocacy Center reported 772 reports of child abuse/neglect in FY2024. - Special Presentation: Gilbert Bays, a retired news reporter with 17 years in Fayetteville, received the City Key and Coin for his community service. He spoke emotionally about his career and dedication to the city. City Manager Report - New CFO: Tiffany Murray was introduced as the city’s new chief financial officer, bringing over 20 years of public sector finance experience. - Marketing Communications Awards: The Marcom team displayed 20 years of awards and announced three second-place trophies from the North Carolina City and County Communicators (NC3C) conference for audio, regular programming, and a PSA. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes from March 13, 19, and 24, 2025 (special, DOAI, regular). - Set filing fee for municipal election (per G.S. 163A-1620). - Considered Cumberland County’s proposed amendment to the Sales Tax Distribution Agreement. - Adopted TA24-09, amending uses and standards in the UDO requiring special use permits. - Repealed speed limit on Century Circle from 55 mph to 35 mph. - Item 8.0A6 (Capital Project Ordinance for FTA grant and local match) was pulled from consent at the city manager’s request; the remainder of the consent agenda was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony Thirteen speakers signed up; the following addressed the council (speaker name, affiliation if given, position/summary): - Eric Washington (Washington Apparel) – Requested an exemption from the 175-foot distance requirement from a school for his private club alcohol permit; noted he had been denied multiple times. - Jose Cardona – Expressed concerns about child trafficking, PFAS contamination from Chemours (polluted well water), and urged the city to place school resource officers (SROs) in schools instead of relying on the sheriff’s department. - Crystal Maddox (Fayetteville Pride) – Invited council to the “Pride Not Prejudiced” prom on May 24, 2025; noted the LGBTQ+ community represents 20,000 voters. - James House – Asked for improved resources for youth baseball and softball (e.g., batting cages, equipment), citing his daughter’s team receiving only four softballs. - Monica Garrett – Criticized Cumberland County Schools for calling police on parents, diverting law enforcement from real crime; requested better accountability. - Ben Holtquist (Strong Towns Fayetteville) – Discussed affordable housing: median income rose 26% but home values/rent increased over 36%; warned that subsidized housing without increasing supply worsens the problem; advocated allowing duplexes and ADUs in all residential zones. - Georgiana Pinkney (Greater Life of Fayetteville) – Proposed “Through My Eyes Youth Historical Art Display” to showcase children’s artwork in public locations (airport, city hall, etc.); brought three young participants. - Dylan Nye (active duty Army captain) – Challenged council to defend all community members regardless of identity, especially in the face of national headwinds against diversity. - Lizette Rodriguez (Faithful Freedom for All) – Raised concerns about PFAS contamination; noted NC DEQ expanded testing radius, potential loss of $80 million in federal PFAS filters funding, and a proposed state rule that would allow polluters to self-monitor; urged council to join a letter of opposition. - Sean McMillan (community safety advocate) – Called for adoption of a sentinel event review (SER) process for police incidents, referencing Governor Stein’s 2023 recommendation; listed names of individuals killed by police in Fayetteville; also urged repeal of the no-camping ordinance and a vote on a resolution supporting immigrant neighbors. Staff Report: FY25 3rd Quarter Strategic Performance Report Presented by Chris Lowry and Andrew Brayboy. Key highlights: - Violence reduction & mental health: Police completed nine community partnership initiatives; 60 individuals utilized mental health liaison services; 20‑minute response time maintained; sixth round of community safety microgrants launched. - Affordable housing & revitalization: Consultant hired for housing market analysis; conditional awards issued for 10 city-owned single-family lots; 22 blighted structures removed; code violation resolution by property owners increased. - Youth engagement: Orange Street School restoration completed (ribbon cutting Feb. 27); junior officials training program on track; grant applications for recording studio and senior fitness equipment. - Economic growth via city-owned properties: Six developers awarded conditional awards; property listings total value rose from $62,233 to $100,668 due to revaluation. - Branding & communication: Positive/neutral news stories outpaced negative (129 vs. 44 in Q3); social media audience grew to 72,000; website visits nearing 1 million; video views surged to 573,000. Council accepted the report unanimously. Public Hearing: Renaming Woodrow Park to Haymount Park at Woodrow - The request originated from Councilmember Green and was supported by the Friends of Haymount group. The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission voted unanimously for the name change. - One speaker in favor: Sandy Parker (co-chair, Friends of Haymount) – She described planned wellness events (yoga in the park starting May 3) and stated the new name would honor the historic Haymount district. Council voted unanimously to approve the renaming. Other Items of Business: FY26 Strategic Planning Retreat Debrief - Julie Brennan of Fountain Works (remote) presented the retreat outcomes. Council agreed on five strategic priorities (not in order of importance): 1. Enhance economic growth throughout the city. 2. Comprehensive approach to community safety. 3. Continued commitment to revitalization and housing needs. 4. Increased parks and recreation opportunities for youth engagement. 5. Evaluate and expand transportation and other connectivity for residents. - Underlying philosophy: The city should be efficient, effective, and responsive. Council voted unanimously to accept the priorities. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved (except item 8.0A6, which was pulled). - FY25 Q3 Strategic Performance Report accepted unanimously. - Woodrow Park renamed to Haymount Park at Woodrow (unanimous). - FY26 Strategic Priorities adopted unanimously. - Several public forum speakers made requests; no immediate action was taken, but council noted referral pathways (e.g., for alcohol permit appeal, housing initiatives). - The meeting adjourned after administrative reports.

The Fayetteville City Council held a work session on Monday, April 7, 2025, starting at 2:00 PM and lasting approximately 3.5 hours. The meeting covered eight major agenda items including stormwater infrastructure, transit equity analysis, housing programs, and hazard mitigation. The council voted on several items and directed staff to return with further analysis on multiple topics. Consent Calendar - The council approved the agenda and entered a closed session for economic development purposes (motion carried unanimously). Discussion Items 6.01 College Lake Dam and Carvers Creek Watershed Solutions Staff presented options for the city-owned College Lake Dam, which is in disrepair and not meeting state standards. Options included no action, removal with downstream mitigation, or redesigning the dam. The proposed redesign (cost $15–20 million) was recommended as the most cost-effective, with mostly green metrics on the alternatives matrix. Council member Hondros noted that tree growth on the dam embankment is a structural concern, and Mayor Pro Tem suggested that private dam owners might consider transferring ownership to the city. The council also reviewed 18 proposed solutions for the Carvers Creek watershed totaling $54 million, which would address 772 disconnected structures and flooding issues. 6.02 Stormwater Impervious Area Analysis & Tiered Rate Study Consultant Molly Brown presented findings on the city's stormwater utility fee structure. Fayetteville is the only Phase I community in North Carolina without a tiered residential rate. Three tiered options were presented: Option 1 (67% stay at $7/month, $1M additional revenue), Option 2 (26% see a decrease to $5.25, $500K additional revenue), and Option 3 (77% stay at $7, 22% go to $14, 1% to $21, $1.28M additional revenue). The council discussed impacts on commercial properties, fee credits for on-site stormwater management, and potential use of revenue bonds to accelerate capital projects. Councilman Benevente expressed interest in applying progressive fee structures to other city fees. 6.03 Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Staff presented a FEMA-funded opportunity for structure elevation or buyout of repetitive loss properties. There are 44 repetitive loss structures in Fayetteville (41 residential, 3 non-residential). The state pays the local match, and funding is allocation-based with $1.5 billion available. The program is voluntary for property owners. The council approved pursuing the grant. 6.04 FAST Title VI Fare/Service Equity Analysis Transit Director Tiffany Neal and consultants presented results of an onboard survey (577 responses, 37% above target). Key findings: 56% of fixed-route riders use FAST daily; 79% would use a reloadable fare card; 61% of respondents have household income under $30,000. The current fare recovery goal is 20%, but FY24 recovery was only 7.5% (6.15% from advertising). Proposed changes include a 20% fare increase (e.g., one-way from $1.25 to $1.50), restructuring the 5-day pass to a 7-day pass, introducing fare capping, and modifying five low-ridership routes to improve frequency. The council voted to approve staff recommendations except the fare increase, directing staff to return in six months to assess ridership impact. A second motion authorized a feasibility study for capital expansion and additional shelters. 6.05 HUD Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plan, and Citizen Participation Plan Staff presented the 2025–2029 consolidated plan covering CDBG, HOME, ESG, and HOPWA funding. Total projected resources are $4.7 million. Priority needs include affordable housing, supportive services, and home repairs. Nonprofit funding recommendations were made, with some first-time applicants capped at $10,000. Three Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) applications were presented for conditional letters. Mayor Colvin suggested using Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts around LIHTC projects to leverage additional development. The council approved the plan, with final adoption scheduled for April 28. 6.06 Homebuying HERO Program & Mayor Colvin's Down Payment Assistance Proposal Staff proposed revisions to the Homebuying HERO program: adding a one-year employment requirement for public service heroes, a performance requirement, removing the guaranteed $30,000 for city employees (making it “up to $30,000”), and allowing retirees to qualify as public service heroes. Mayor Colvin requested expansion to include employees of state universities, community colleges, and correctional departments; waiving the one-year requirement for all city employees; and removing the three-year prior homeownership restriction. Councilwoman Green moved to reject staff recommendations, arguing existing restrictions are barriers. The council voted 5-1 to direct staff to return by the May work session with revised recommendations incorporating council input. 6.07 Carnival Permit Mayor Colvin requested staff research regulations requiring security plans for carnivals on private property after an incident at a carnival with insufficient security. The council voted to have staff develop a registration process. Key Outcomes - College Lake Dam: Unanimous vote to approve redesign and program into CIP, pursue grant funding. - Carvers Creek Watershed: Unanimous vote to approve 18 solutions ($54M) and program into CIP. - Stormwater Tiered Rate: Motion passed to use consensus toward a tiered structure, bring decision to budget work session with additional analysis on debt scenarios and fee credits. - Hazard Mitigation Grant: Unanimous vote to pursue HMGP funding for repetitive loss properties. - FAST Title VI: Two votes: (1) Approved staff recommendations except fare increase, with six-month review (unanimous); (2) Authorized feasibility study for capital expansion and shelter analysis (passed). - HUD Consolidated Plan: Motion to approve passed, with final adoption April 28. - Homebuying HERO Program: Motion to reject staff recommendations and direct staff to bring back revised recommendations by May work session passed 5-1. - Carnival Permit: Motion to research regulations passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned after staff introduced new CFO Tiffany Murray.

The Fayetteville City Council held its regular meeting on March 24, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included recognition of guests, reports from boards and commissions, a public hearing on HUD plan amendments, and decisions on a land exchange with Fayetteville State University (FSU) and a 911 center grant application. Consent Calendar - Approved with exception: The consent agenda was approved by a 9-0 vote, with the removal of item 7.0A4 (1307 Coburn Street) at the request of Councilmember Davis. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing (9.01): No members of the public signed up to speak on the substantial amendments to the HUD Annual Action Plans. Discussion Items - NC Innovation Hub Presentation: Chancellor Allison and Dr. Allison Beattie presented FSU's designation as one of seven NC Innovation hubs, focusing on commercializing university research. They announced a new Innovation Pathways and Partnership Breakfast Series on April 29, 2025, to connect faculty, businesses, and military innovators. - FSU Land Exchange Proposal: Chancellor Allison reported that FSU's Board of Trustees approved transferring Washington Drive property to the city. The city's Catalyst One property would be transferred to FSU to support university growth and Murchison Road revitalization. Councilmember Davis moved to accept the report and direct the city attorney to draft an MOU, which was clarified to bring back for council review. Motion carried unanimously. - Police Chief Retirement: Chief Kimberlyn Braden was honored for 29 years of service (1996–2025) and presented with a key to the city. Interim Chief Todd Joyce was introduced as his successor. - Stormwater Advisory Board Annual Report: Chair Whitaker Granis presented accomplishments, including bylaw amendments and upcoming impervious area analysis. Councilmember Hondros moved to accept the report, noting the board's national recognition. Motion carried. - Joint Senior Citizen Advisory Commission Annual Report: A representative presented accomplishments, including informational tables and plans for a luncheon. Councilmember Benavente moved to accept the report. Motion carried. - 911 Center Architectural Agreement: Staff requested authorization to apply for a $9 million state construction grant for a standalone 911 center while continuing consolidation talks with the county. Councilmember Thompson moved to authorize staff to pursue the grant and engage professional services (estimated $10,000). Motion carried. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved (except 1307 Coburn Street). - Land exchange MOU with FSU – City attorney directed to draft and return for council consideration. - Stormwater Advisory Board annual report accepted. - Senior Citizen Advisory Commission annual report accepted. - Substantial amendments to 2022–2023 and 2024–2025 HUD Annual Action Plans adopted by vote after public hearing. The amendments reallocate $200,000 from housing trust fund to tenant-based rental assistance due to rising rents and lack of developer interest. - 911 center grant application authorized – Staff may apply for state grant and engage architectural services for a standalone call center while consolidation discussions continue.

The Fayetteville City Council held a regular meeting on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included proclamations, public comments on multiple community issues, reports from city boards, and appointments to commissions. The council voted unanimously on most items, with one 8-1 vote to table an architectural agreement. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: Meeting minutes for six prior sessions (February 10, 11, 12, 24, 2025), a resolution requesting the Cliffdale Recreation Center as an early voting site, a Key to the City for E.E. Smith Band Director Roosevelt Pratt Jr., budget ordinance amendments for the Fort Bragg solid waste partnership and a federal transit grant, fare-free transit service for United Way's Dolly Parton Imagination Library, and two PWC bid recommendations (stator vane segments and circuit breakers). Public Comments & Testimony - Royal Soleil thanked the council for their support in her community work. - Benjamin Holtquist criticized Owen Drive as a dangerous "stroad," arguing that dangerous street design leads to pedestrian fatalities. He cited an average of 10 deaths per year in Fayetteville from crossing streets and noted the city was mocked as the least walkable in America. He urged redesign for safety and accessibility. - Stephen Brock raised concerns about Spring Lake recreation fields, stating that fill dirt with rocks has injured youth softball players. He described repeated unsuccessful attempts to contact county and Spring Lake officials about maintenance. He noted a recent approval to redo fields but asked for timely action. - Calista Cuevas argued that the Cool Springs Downtown District's Fourth Friday policy selectively excludes religious and political groups while allowing advocacy organizations like Fayetteville Pride and Planned Parenthood. She requested a city proclamation affirming First Amendment protections and equal treatment. - Dr. Gail Morphesis urged equal treatment for all groups at city events, recounting her own experience of being excluded from Arts Council performances due to funding priorities for people of color. She called for inclusivity. - Jose Cardona criticized the Cool Spring Downtown organization's leadership structure and questioned its influence on city events. He also noted a polluted spring behind a church that flows into the Cape Fear River. - Tracy Pelt Waterford requested the creation of a Faith Commission on the city's boards and commissions to include religious voices in community decision-making. - Gwendolyn Fuller reported for the third time that speeding vehicles on McFeed Drive endanger senior residents. She also raised concerns about uninsured drivers with expired tags. The city manager directed public services to assess traffic calming options. - Sean McMillan demanded a sentinel event review process for police-involved shootings, citing a recent police shooting of Isaiah Nichols. He also called for repeal of the no-camping ordinance that criminalizes unhoused individuals and restoration of independent oversight of the police department. He named 12 individuals who died in police custody or encounters. Discussion Items - Fayetteville Redevelopment Commission Annual Report: Chair Collie presented the report, summarizing the commission's role in HUD-funded programs, community engagement (Juneteenth, SBA town hall), and recommendations for the 2025-29 consolidated plan and housing programs. Two of eight seats are vacant. Council received the report unanimously. - PWC Annual Report: Chairman Dr. Chris Davis reported that PWC contributed over $25 million to the city in 2024 and received nearly two dozen industry awards, including the AMWA Gold Award (one of five in the U.S.). He highlighted large projects: two community solar sites, water line extensions, carbon filter systems for PFAS, and partnership with Fayetteville State for a green energy training center (currently on hold due to federal funding review). Over $80 million in federal grants and loans are frozen. Phase 5 annexation is 68% complete, with costs growing from $240 million to over $400 million. PWC celebrated its 120th anniversary. Council received the report unanimously. - PSAP (911 Center) Architectural Agreement (Item 10.01): Councilmember Green moved to table the item until the March 24 meeting. The motion passed 8-1, with Councilmember Hondros opposed. - Appointments to Boards and Commissions (Item 10.02): Councilmember Hare, chair of the appointment committee, recommended 41 appointments to 17 boards and commissions. Several seats remain vacant. Councilmember Thompson requested clarification on "alternate" and "partial term" designations. Councilmember Hondros initially abstained from voting on the airport commission appointment (his wife's name), but the city attorney stated he had a duty to vote and no conflict, so the name remained. The motion passed unanimously. - Administrative Report – SafeLight Program Feasibility (Item 11.01): The council discussed the report and will revisit it at a future work session. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and reports approved unanimously. - PSAP architectural agreement tabled to March 24, 2025 (8-1 vote). - 41 appointments to boards and commissions approved unanimously (with one name involving a spouse remaining on the ballot; member voted in favor). - City staff to follow up on McFeed Drive traffic calming and public services contacts for Spring Lake recreation issues. - Council affirmed continued partnership with PWC and Red Cross. - Next meeting: March 24, 2025 work session (PSAP discussion).

The Fayetteville City Council held a work session on March 3, 2025, beginning at 2:00 PM. The meeting covered nine agenda items, including presentations on the 2025 county revaluation, the Day Resource Center’s second quarter update, and the School Resource Officer (SRO) program. The council also approved several routine items and set a joint meeting with the school board and county to discuss the SRO program. Cumberland County 2025 Revaluation Update - Tax Administrator Joe Utley presented the results of the county’s mandatory eight-year reappraisal. For the City of Fayetteville, total assessed value increased 61.1% from approximately $15 billion to $24 billion. Residential values rose significantly due to post-COVID market trends, while commercial values saw less growth. The overall assessed value increase was over $9 billion. - Council members raised concerns about the impact on residents, especially seniors. Joe Utley explained that individual property values are set by comparing sales of similar homes within neighborhoods or clusters, and that the tax rate will be set separately by the county board in June. - Discussion included the possibility of shortening the revaluation cycle from eight years to four or six years to soften the shock. Council also requested historical data on whether the county has ever reduced its tax rate after a revaluation. Day Resource Center FY25 Second Quarter Update - Corey Lampkins, Day Resource Center manager, presented data for October–December 2024. Showers increased 2% to 1,585; laundry decreased 8.3% due to scheduling changes; clothing distribution dropped 14% (excluding large donation events); lunches rose 6.6%; and bus passes increased. - New providers included FTCC’s barber college, Better Health for medicine management, LifeNet for counseling, and the public library for technology training. Pending partnerships include a mobile dental unit (St. Joseph of the Pines) and an eye exam room. - Council acknowledged the center’s success in reducing calls about homeless issues and discussed challenges in accessing addiction recovery and mental health facilities, especially for severe cases requiring out-of-county placement. Downtown Municipal Service District FY25 Second Quarter Update - Ashanti Bennett, interim CEO of Cool Spring Downtown District, presented the organization’s new five-year strategic plan. Key accomplishments include a safety and ambassador program (two staff, one full-time and one part-time), a 300% increase in Fourth Friday participants over four years, and a new clean streets shared dumpster program. - Priority projects include storytelling campaigns, a recruitment event for businesses (delayed due to leadership transition), expanded public art, and a website redesign. - Council members expressed support for expanding the ambassador program and requested a breakdown of MSD funding and city contributions as budget discussions approach. School Resource Officer Program Framework Presentation and Recommendations - Dr. Richard Watkins and MK Gamble from the Science Policy Action Network (SPAN) presented findings from interviews with the Fayetteville City Council, Cumberland County Board of Education, and other stakeholders. Key data point: elementary school calls for service (185) exceeded middle (93) and high school (172) calls, despite elementary schools having no SROs and only three of thirty having Safe Schools Coordinators (SSCs). - Recommendations included: (1) a roaming SRO deployment model with zones covering elementary, middle, and high schools; (2) placing an SSC in every school to triage incidents and determine whether SRO, administrative, or support staff intervention is needed; and (3) comprehensive training for SROs, SSCs, and school personnel. - Council discussion revealed the need for more information, including sheriff’s office data from prior years, details on SSC roles and training, and national best practices for school nurses and counselors. One council member noted that without understanding these support layers, the focus risks over-reliance on law enforcement. - The council voted 9–1 to accept the SPAN report and then voted on a motion to hold a joint meeting with the Cumberland County Board of Education and the County Commissioners to discuss the SRO program. That motion passed 9–1. A subsequent motion to gather additional data (including sheriff’s data, SSC program details, and ratios for school nurses/guidance counselors) passed 6–4, with the majority supporting obtaining information before the joint meeting. - Council also confirmed its current commitment: FPD has SROs in every high school and 64 Traffic Control Officers at school crossings, fulfilling this year’s contract. Request for Fare-Free Transit for United Way Dolly Parton Imagination Library Story-Times - Council approved a motion to direct staff to implement fare-free FAST service on Saturdays in March from 8 AM to 12 noon at four libraries (Bordeaux, Cliffdale, North Regional, and Headquarters). The item will be placed on the March 10 consent agenda. Proposed FACT Committee By-Laws Revision - Austin Campbell, FACT Committee chair, proposed changing meeting frequency from monthly to every other month (six times per year), citing that six of twelve meetings were canceled in the prior year due to lack of business. The revision was unanimously accepted. Substantial Amendments to HUD 2022–2023 and 2024–2025 Annual Action Plans - Alex (staff) presented a request to reallocate $400,000 in Housing Trust Fund money originally set aside for constructing new affordable housing units for persons with HIV/AIDS (HOPWA program) to tenant-based rental assistance. No developers had come forward to use the trust fund, and the program saw a 60% increase in clients needing rental aid. - A public hearing is scheduled for March 24, 2025. The council unanimously accepted the report. City Council Agenda Item Requests Update - Staff reported that of 27 council requests in FY25, 20 (74%) have been accomplished, with an average closure time of 90 days. Seven items remain open, including the park renaming, permitting review, and free bus fare study. Council accepted the update unanimously. Key to the City: Roosevelt Pratt, Jr. - Councilmember Benavente moved to award the Key to the City to Roosevelt Pratt, Jr., director of the E.E. Smith High School Marching Band, for his 30-year career. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Revaluation: No formal decision; council requested historical tax rate data from the county. - Day Resource Center: No action required; report received. - Downtown MSD: No action required; council noted interest in funding details. - SRO Program: - Report accepted (9–1). - Joint meeting with school board and county commissioners approved (9–1). - Motion to collect additional information (sheriff’s data, SSC details, nurse/counselor ratios) passed (6–4). - Fare-Free Transit: Approved for consent agenda (unanimous). - FACT By-Laws: Approved revision to bi-monthly meetings (unanimous). - HUD Action Plan Amendment: Report accepted; public hearing scheduled March 24 (unanimous). - Agenda Item Requests: Report accepted. - Key to the City: Award approved (unanimous). The meeting adjourned after approximately 3 hours.

The Fayetteville City Council met on Monday, February 24, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included presentations on strategic performance, financial updates, public safety reports, a public hearing on economic incentives, an evidentiary hearing for a special use permit, and other business. Key outcomes included approval of the consent agenda (8-1), approval of economic incentives for Project Crossfit, approval of a special use permit for Sam's Towing, and direction to amend the wrecker ordinance. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda (items 7.0A1 through 7.0A15) with one vote in opposition (Councilmember Benavente). The consent agenda included approval of minutes, bid recommendations, rezoning, property acquisition, historic district design standards, demolition ordinances, easements, and various PWC items. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the public hearing on Project Crossfit (economic incentives). - During the evidentiary hearing for SUP25-01 (Special Use Permit for Sam's Towing), the applicants, Kodjo Sam Kouassi and Daniel Barron, testified in support of the permit, stating they would continue towing operations, clean up the property, and employ local workers. They confirmed the property is located in a heavy industrial zone and the adjacent residential structure is actually a commercial gutter business. Discussion Items - Strategic Performance Report (Q2 FY25): Chris Lowry presented the second quarter update on the city's five strategic priorities: violence reduction/mental health, affordable housing, youth engagement, economic growth, and branding. Highlights included 15 collaborative initiatives, 47 individuals using mental health services, 3 affordable housing projects closed, 26 new multifamily units funded, and a redesigned website with 37,995 visits since February 11. Council discussed adding a feedback mechanism on the website and incorporating Cumberland County as a partner. - Financial Update (Q2 FY25): Jeff Yates presented the second quarter financial report. General fund strength is steady, with 42% of revenue realized. He noted risks from federal vacancies, potential tariff impacts, and the need to monitor federal funding. The city is developing a transparency portal for real-time expenditure data. Council discussed vacancy rates (10.8%) and strategies to attract talent. - Fire Department 2024 Year-End Review: Chief Dove reported 28,894 calls for service, down 796 from 2023. Response times decreased, 90% of calls had a fire truck on scene within the time from 911 call. Highlights included addition of first full-time fire investigator, firefighter cancer screenings, and 1,932 smoke alarms installed. The department had one sworn vacancy at year-end. Council praised the report. - Police Department 2024 Year-End Review: Chief Braden reported a 10% decrease in total crime, the lowest in 10 years. Homicides down 48%, violent crime down 8.4%. Property crime down 47% since 2014. However, juvenile crime increased significantly: assaults up from 152 to 245, motor vehicle thefts up from 51 to 97. The department has 37 sworn vacancies. Council discussed recruitment, child care challenges, and the need for community investment in youth programs. - Project Crossfit Economic Incentives: Rob Patton presented a request for a $63,948 cash incentive grant over five years to attract an air dome manufacturer to Fayetteville, creating 72 jobs (avg. salary $47,734) and $4.1 million capital investment. The company is also considering Minnesota and Georgia. Council approved the incentive unanimously after the public hearing. - SUP25-01 – Special Use Permit for Sam's Towing: The applicant requested a reduction in the separation requirement for automotive wrecker services from 250 feet to 10 feet from residential districts. The property is at 3424 Cumberland Road, zoned heavy industrial, and previously used for towing. Council approved the permit unanimously after finding it met the six criteria. - Additional Polling Location: Council approved adding a Cliffdale early voting location for the November 2025 municipal election to increase voter participation for western districts. - Wrecker Operators to Clear Debris: Council approved moving forward with an ordinance amendment to allow wrecker operators to clear debris from accident sites, based on a staff report. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved 8-1 (Councilmember Benavente opposed). - Strategic Performance Report: Received unanimously. - Financial Update: Received unanimously. - Fire Department Report: Received unanimously. - Police Department Report: Received unanimously. - Project Crossfit Incentives: Approved unanimously. - SUP25-01 Special Use Permit: Approved unanimously. - Additional Polling Location: Approved unanimously. - Wrecker Ordinance Amendment: Approved unanimously to bring back a formal ordinance. - Adjournment: Motion carried unanimously.

The Fayetteville City Council met on February 10, 2025, for a regular meeting that included recognitions, public comments on various issues, a contentious discussion on funding for the Tennis Center project, reports from boards, a public hearing on bond issuance, and unanimous approval of an intergovernmental service agreement with Fort Liberty for solid waste collection. Consent Calendar - Approval of meeting minutes from January 27, 2025. - Items 8.0A2 (Tennis Center funding) was pulled by Councilmember Green; the remaining consent items were approved unanimously. - Other consent items included: Person & Russell Street Flood Mitigation grant acceptance, Safe Streets grant amendment, auction of decommissioned assets, PWC assessment roll, and PWC safe drinking water loan acceptance. Public Comments & Testimony - Calista Cuevas (address on record) expressed concern that Cool Springs Downtown District policy bars political and religious organizations from Fourth Friday events, citing rejection of Sandhills Republican Women in Action application. She argued that as a taxpayer-funded entity, Cool Springs must uphold First Amendment rights and called for a policy review to ensure equal access. - Sean McMillan (Fayetteville resident) honored Reverend Dr. Nelson Johnson, urged council to revisit a resolution in support of immigrant communities, attend a February 22nd event on systemic racism, and repeal the no camping ordinance. - Jose Cardona (233 Addison Street) discussed the problem of dead-on-arrivals at local hospitals, proposing a dedicated fast lane for emergency vehicles and advocating for higher pay for hospital staff. - Eric Nelson (1935 Culpepper Lane) from Rayconda subdivision reported that a road washed out by Hurricane Matthew was poorly repaired and failed again during Tropical Storm Debby, leaving a 15-foot-deep chasm. He requested the city fix the road they built, citing emergency access concerns. Discussion Items - Tennis Center Capital Project Ordinance Amendment (8.0A2): Councilmember Green pulled this item, questioning the $1.9 million appropriation from leftover parks bond funds. She moved to table to February 24 for more review, citing lack of time to study the detailed breakdown. Assistant City Manager Lindsay confirmed that tabling would not stop ongoing construction on the building but would delay tennis courts. The motion to table failed 6-3. Councilmember Davis then moved to adopt the amendment with a friendly amendment to include the change order request breakdown in the record. That motion passed 6-3. - Fort Liberty Intergovernmental Service Agreement (IGSA) for Solid Waste: Assistant City Manager Phelps and Brooke Redding presented the agreement to provide commercial solid waste collection on Fort Liberty via a contractor. The base cost is approximately $6 million with a 5% CPI-based annual increase. Benefits include local job creation (20+ positions), revenue for the city, and strengthened partnership. Councilmembers asked about contractor capabilities, backup plans (on-call contingency contract, performance bond), GPS tracking, and spillage prevention. Staff confirmed oversight and liquidated damages provisions. The agreement was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Tennis Center funding: Approved (6-3) with requirement to include the change order breakdown in the record. - Fort Liberty IGSA: Approved unanimously. Staff to bring the service provider contract back for approval. - Public Hearing: Opened and closed for Lindenwood Education System private activity bonds (no speakers). Authorizing resolution approved unanimously. - Administrative Reports: Moved to March work session (including Cool Springs Downtown District Q2 report, City Manager’s request tracker, Day Resource Center report). Motion by Councilmember Benavente, seconded, approved. - Reports Accepted: Parks and Recreation Commission annual report and Firefighter's Local Relief Fund report accepted unanimously. - Consent Agenda: Approved with item 8.0A2 pulled. Additional Notes - Recognitions included: 71st High School Falcons football team proclamation, retirement of Ruby Billups (44 years of combined military and federal service), Solid Waste Mascot contest winner Iris Niang with "Spiffy". - New City Clerk Jennifer Ayer was sworn in by Assistant City Clerk Andrea Teppe. - National Engineers Week (February 16-22, 2025) proclamation. - New community safety staff introduced: Nichelle Gaines (community safety manager) and Orlando Smith (community impact supervisor).