Public Meetings - Fayetteville, North Carolina

The Fayetteville City Council met on October 28, 2024, at 11:45 AM. The meeting included proclamations honoring a sister city delegation and an Olympic gold medalist, approval of consent items, adoption of the quarterly performance report, a public hearing and vote on a controversial rezoning request, and a vote to amend the city’s tobacco/hemp retail regulations. The council also heard updates from the Airport Commission and the city manager. Consent Calendar - Item 7.0A4 (Broadell Historic Preservation Grant): Councilmember Hare pulled this item for separate discussion. The council unanimously approved authorizing the city manager to execute a grant contract and adopt SRO 2025-11 to appropriate matching funds for a National Register of Historic Places nomination for the Broadell community. The item was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Rezoning Public Hearing (Ocarina Circle Rezoning): - In favor: Jonathan Charleston (applicant representative, 201 Hay Street) argued the rezoning to MR5 fits city priorities for revitalization and housing, that the site has two egress points, and that traffic concerns will be addressed through normal development review. He reserved time for rebuttal. - In opposition: Christine Main (4236 Deadweiler Drive) spoke for the neighborhood, citing incompatibility with existing single-family homes, traffic congestion (NCDOT data showing daily counts of 12,000–13,000 on MacArthur Road, not 10,500 as in the application), safety concerns (including prior shootings and drug paraphernalia), and the lack of affordable housing guarantees. She also noted that the site plan shows 260 parking spaces and three-story buildings adjacent to one-story homes. The opposition presented a packet with maps and photos. Discussion Items - Airport Commission Annual Report: Director Andrew Legala and Chairman Nanesh Meetah reported completing phases 1 and 2 of terminal renovations, a 1.9% year-over-year passenger increase in calendar 2023, pursuit of an international arrivals facility, and airline recruitment. Council expressed appreciation and asked for a future vision presentation. - FY25 First Quarter Performance Report: Strategic Performance Analytics Manager Chris Lowry and Senior Analyst Andrew Brayboy presented progress on five strategic priorities: 1) Violence reduction/mental health (62 individuals served via mental health liaison; 20 collaborative initiatives; OCS director interviews beginning soon), 2) Affordable housing (approved building reuse grants, progress on three affordable housing projects, new demolition policy, and Broadell grant), 3) Youth engagement (Orange Street School fiber network operational, computer installations, STEM programs), 4) Economic growth (surplus property database, GIS mapping, RFPs for affordable housing on city-owned lots), 5) City branding (weekly manager report reaching 1,000+ audience, 1M+ social media impressions, 67% positive/neutral media coverage). Councilmember Hare questioned the “no-cost demolition” policy and was assured it is funded through limited federal CDBG funds and applies only to properties not on the council-approved demo list. - Tobacco/Hemp Retail Text Amendment (Item 10.02): Councilmember Hare proposed changing the required separation from 1,500 feet to 1,000 feet to match Cumberland County’s ordinance, and adding religious institutions and group quarters as sensitive uses. Chief Braden detailed “Operation Vapor Trail” (64 search warrants, 60,000+ pounds of marijuana/THC products seized, $3M in assets, 25 weapons). Council debate included concerns about small business impacts (Councilmember Hondros), education for business owners (Councilmember McNair), and whether the density restriction addresses youth access (Councilmember Benavente). The amendment was passed 7-3. Key Outcomes - Rezoning of Ocarina Circle (7.1 acres from SF10 to MR5): Approved unanimously (8-0) on a motion by Councilmember Benavente, seconded by Green. The zoning commission had recommended approval. The council encouraged the neighborhood to organize as a community watch and continue addressing traffic and safety issues with city staff and NCDOT. - Tobacco/Hemp Retail Amendment: Approved 7-3. The amendment reduces the required distance between new tobacco/hemp retailers and schools, parks, daycares, religious institutions, and other sensitive uses from 1,500 feet to 1,000 feet, effective for new retailers only. Convenience stores, grocery stores, and gas stations are exempt. - Other Approved Items: Consent calendar (except 7.0A4) approved unanimously; Airport Commission report received; Quarterly Performance Report received; proclamation for Saint Avold, France sister city delegation; key to the city presented to Olympic gold medalist Quanera Hayes.

The Fayetteville City Council met on October 14, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included proclamations honoring Dorothy McCahan (October 12 as Dorothy McCahan Day) and recognizing October as Blindness Awareness Month, announcements of community events, a city manager’s report on ongoing support for western North Carolina after Tropical Storm Debbie, a public forum with 12 registered speakers, a consent agenda with one item pulled for separate debate, two staff reports, and three other business items. Key decisions included approving transportation for St. Avold visitors with expanded service to Raleigh and Durham, directing staff to pursue a federal emergency watershed protection grant for Siple Avenue, amending the NEXT Commission bylaws, and appointing members to boards and commissions. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes of September 18, 23, and 23 (agenda briefing, discussion, regular). - Awarded a $455,510 contract for Transit’s Real-Time Passenger Information System. - Adopted budget ordinance amendment appropriating a $94,000 reimbursement grant for the Urban Search and Rescue Program. - Adopted Capital Project Ordinance 2025-25 and Special Revenue Ordinance 2025-10 for Federal Transit Administration FY24 grant NC-2024-075-00 and required local match. - Adopted Capital Project Ordinance appropriating $166,185 from FY24 Community Policing Development Microgrants for crime analysis GIS capacity. - Adopted Special Revenue Fund Project Ordinance appropriating $500,000 from the Office on Violence Against Women FY2024 Local Law Enforcement Grants for cybercrime enforcement. - Approved PWC consent items: construction for Butler Warner Generation Plant gas line replacement (bid recommendation), sole source for Cla-Val pump control valve and solenoid valves, and sole source for 10 M420D PCS/PCS Omni device kits and 10 M400D Single SPM-900 extensions. - Item 8.0A2 (transportation for St. Avold visitors) was pulled from the consent agenda for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Gwendolyn Fuller (resident, McPhee Drive area): Raised concerns about speeding on short streets (McPhee, McBain, McCrae, McGill), inadequate speed bumps, and a request for police to sit on private property. Also noted a “no trucks” sign being ignored. - Tosco Lindsay (Outlaw Horse Club): Thanked the city and Axe Baptist Church for a microgrant that supported an educational day event on October 5, 2024, with about 170 attendees. Recapped activities (horse riding, bouncy houses, arts and crafts) and invited council to view the Facebook recap. - Jackie Duncker (resident, Argyle Road): Requested council approval to create a dog therapy program for first responders (police, fire, EMS, dispatch, forensics, 911 callers). Noted that Sergeant Nicole Burton would donate a trained golden retriever named Archie at no cost to the city except insurance, which Police Chief Braden confirmed could be covered within his budget. Provided a folder with supporting articles. - Eric Hall (first-time speaker): Discussed unemployment statistics (5.7% in August), advocated for tax incentives for corporations to hire apprentices/interns, trade programs (e.g., Home Builders Institute, Habitat for Humanity), property tax incentives for development, and more recreational opportunities for youth. Mentioned difficulty accessing PPP loans despite having a real business. Councilmember Banks McLaughlin suggested the HOPE Program at FTCC and NC Works as resources. Discussion Items - 8.0A2 – Transportation for St. Avold Visitors (Pulled from Consent): Council member Benevente moved to approve transportation only within Fayetteville city limits, citing liability and promotion of Fayetteville Airport. Council members Thompson and others argued that the visitors needed transport to/from Raleigh-Durham and to Durham for scheduled outings. Thompson’s alternative motion to provide transportation from Raleigh to Durham (three days) passed 7–2 after the initial motion failed 2–7. (See Key Outcomes for vote tally.) - 9.01 – Recreation District Cost Allocation & Funding: Assistant City Manager Lindsay and Director Gibson presented an update on the 20-year-old Parks and Recreation operating agreement with Cumberland County. The city seeks to amend line 18, which has held the county’s annual indirect cost payment at $60,000 since consolidation in 2004. The proposed change would tie indirect costs to the city’s most recent cost allocation plan, recalculated annually using generally accepted accounting standards. The county requested an updated cost study, which was provided in September 2024. The county indicated a possible counterproposal for November. Councilmember Green noted that county residents disproportionately use facilities and that direct costs should also be reviewed. Councilmember Hondras moved to accept the report and direct staff to present the amended agreement to county commissioners no later than 45 days. Motion passed unanimously (9–0). - 9.02 – Glenville Lake Crossing & East Shore Trail Update: Director Gibson reported that the design for the trail from Mary McDonald Park to Filter Plant Road is moving forward with $350,000 in design funding and a $2.1 million FAMPO grant for construction. The crossing bridge over Glenville Lake is not yet funded (estimated $4 million). Public outreach will continue. Councilmember Hare praised the connectivity benefits, including access to Fayetteville State University and the new senior center. Councilmember Benevente clarified that public meetings occurred after the budget was approved. Motion to receive the report passed unanimously (9–0). - 10.01 – Potential Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Grant for Siple Avenue: Mr. Reeves presented options for addressing Tropical Storm Debbie damage at Siple Avenue, where a private road (former city street closed in 2017) has experienced severe erosion and culvert failure. The EWP program could cover 75% of sediment removal and bank stabilization (estimated at $750,000–$1 million total, requiring a 25% sponsor share). Previous efforts in 2020 failed because homeowners declined to grant permanent easements. Staff recommended submitting a formal request to trigger an NRCS damage survey, which would not commit the city. Councilmember Thompson expressed concern about private road maintenance and taxpayer funding; she argued the road should become public if city funds are used. Councilmember Hare supported the motion but was cautioned about discussing closed-session matters. The motion to direct staff to request EWP assistance and seek state funds for the 25% match passed 8–1 (one dissenting). - 10.02 – NEXT Commission Amendment of Bylaws – Membership: Councilmember Hare, chair of the Appointments Committee, reported that the NEXT Commission requested reducing its membership from 30 to 20 members and establishing five alternates to ensure quorum. The amendment also allows alternates to count toward quorum (to be included in final language). Motion passed unanimously (9–0). - 10.03 – Appointments Committee Recommendations for Boards and Commissions: Hare recommended appointments for several boards: Board of Appeals (David Pershakbacker, Jacqueline Tucker); NEXT Commission (Ari Spears, Celeste Goston, Inesto Hassan, Frederick Lowe, James Howes Jr., Jessica Tandler, Maya Martin, Roxy Eppinger, Sarah Ben Dorga, Tara Peel, Timothy Jacobs Jr.); Planning Commission (Alexander Keith, Ernest Logan III, Heather Holmes); and North Carolina Fire Relief Fund Board of Trustees (former Fire Chief Benjamin Majors). Councilmember Banks McLaughlin noted remaining vacancies will be filled through ongoing recruitment. Motion passed unanimously (9–0). Key Outcomes - Transportation for St. Avold Visitors: Initial motion (Benevente) to provide transportation only within city limits failed 2–7. Subsequent motion (Thompson) to provide transportation to/from Raleigh and Durham passed 7–2. - Recreation District Indirect Cost Amendment: Council directed staff to present the amended operating agreement (tying indirect costs to the city’s cost allocation plan) to the Cumberland County Commissioners, with a deadline of no later than 45 days. Unanimous (9–0). - Glenville Lake Trail Report: Report received; no further directive. Unanimous (9–0). - Emergency Watershed Protection Grant: Council directed staff to submit a formal request for EWP assistance for Siple Avenue and to seek state funds for the 25% match. Passed 8–1. - NEXT Commission Bylaws: Approved amendment reducing membership from 30 to 20 and adding five alternates (with alternates counting toward quorum). Unanimous (9–0). - Boards and Commissions Appointments: Approved all recommended appointments as listed. Unanimous (9–0).

The Fayetteville City Council met on Monday, October 7, 2024, at 2:00 PM in the Council Chamber for a work session. The meeting covered multiple topics including updates on Hurricane Helene response, partnerships with Fort Liberty, funding for a cultural exchange with Saint Avold, France, PWC rezoning authority, the 2025 meeting calendar, the Residential Traffic Management Program (RTMP), and two council member requests regarding driving equality laws and transit improvements. Several items were discussed with votes and consensus reached. City Manager Report - Emergency Management Coordinator Laura provided an update on Hurricane Helene response: 30 city personnel deployed (police and fire); the state requests monetary donations only, not tangible items; 140,000 without power at peak, 15 counties with EOCs activated, 25 states of emergency, 100,000 FEMA applications, $33 million distributed, 77 confirmed fatalities in NC, over 600 roads still closed. The city's 911 system handled overflow from Buncombe County for 72 hours. Council agreed to have staff produce a video update for the public and to receive a further update in one month. Consent Calendar - Approval of agenda with deletion of item 6.06 (Emergency Watershed Protection Grant) was moved by Councilmember Benavente, seconded by Councilmember McNair, and passed unanimously. Discussion Items 6.01 Fort Liberty and City of Fayetteville Partnerships - Staff presented an intergovernmental service agreement (IGSA) concept for solid waste management and elevator maintenance at Fort Liberty. Lawrence Pico, Deputy Director of Public Works, Fort Liberty, spoke on mutual benefits. Councilmember Thompson moved to continue collaboration, seconded by Councilmember Hare. The consensus was to proceed with due diligence and bring back a detailed proposal. Councilmember Hondros asked about partnership for cleanup along Bragg Boulevard corridor. 6.02 Funding for Fayetteville-Saint Avold Friendship Alliance Cultural and Educational Exchange - Sylvia James and Stacey Ferry requested $15,000 for a 12-day visit by 9 teachers and 3 students from Saint Avold, France. Discussion included the city's sister city program and the need for a formalized structure. Councilmember Benavente moved to direct staff to develop a recommendation for an expanded sister city program (unanimous). A motion by Mayor Pro Tem to appropriate $10,000 for housing failed for lack of a second. Council agreed to consider in-kind transportation (a city van) if the organization resubmits a revised request by the next regular meeting. 6.03 PWC Rezoning Authority - Richard Galt, Deputy General Counsel for PWC, explained that PWC seeks affirmation of its authority to rezone properties, specifically for a solar farm on Carvers Falls Road. The county requested the mayor's signature, but PWC believes its charter grants authority. Council expressed concern about the broad nature of the original resolution. A motion by Councilmember Thompson to rezone the single property and have PWC return with a specific resolution passed unanimously. Council will discuss broader authority later. 6.04 Proposed 2025 City Council Meeting Dates Calendar - City Clerk presented the draft calendar. Councilmember Hondros asked about the strategic planning retreat date (to be determined) and starting budget discussions earlier. Councilmember Benavente moved to approve the calendar as presented, with amendments possible. Motion carried unanimously. 6.05 Residential Traffic Management Program (RTMP) - Brian McGill, Interim Assistant Public Services Director, presented an overview of the RTMP, including speed hump requests, petition process, and budget. Current budget is $10,000 (average speed hump cost $3,300). 34 open petitions, oldest from September 2021. Staff recommended waiting for the Safe Streets for All (SS4A) study due fall 2025, but council expressed desire for quicker action. Councilmember Benavente moved to direct staff to bring back a menu of traffic calming options and a detailed analysis of petition success rates and thresholds. The motion lacked a second, but after further discussion, council gave consensus to staff to return with process data and options at the November work session. 6.07 Review of Special Use Permit Peer and Text Amendment Recommendations - This item was moved to the November work session by consensus. 6.08 City Council Agenda Item Request - Driving Equality Laws (Councilmember Benavente) - Councilmember Benavente requested information from experts in other communities on driving equality laws. He asked for a presentation at the next work session. A motion to receive this information at the November work session passed with a vote of 4 in favor (Councilmembers Benavente, McNair, Hare, Banks-McLaughlin; others opposed? The transcript indicates

The Fayetteville City Council met on September 23, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included proclamations, reports from commissions, a public hearing on annexation, a budget ordinance amendment for a French exchange program, and a discussion on renewing the ShotSpotter gunshot detection contract. The council approved the annexation, tabled the exchange funding, and approved a one-year renewal of ShotSpotter. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes for five previous meetings. - Approved rezoning of 2.97 acres at 3895 Clinton Road from County Planned Commercial (C(P)) to Community Commercial (CC) (P24-29). - Approved Order of Approval for Special Use Permit SUP24-05 for eight townhomes at 1011 Cain Road. - Adopted Special Revenue Project Ordinance for $120,000 from NC Department of Commerce for Phillips Towing Service. - Adopted Special Revenue Fund Project Ordinance for $50,000 from NC Association of Chiefs of Police for wellness software. - Adopted Capital Project Ordinance for $1,450,000 in GO Bond funds for NCDOT municipal agreements. - Authorized municipal agreement with NCDOT for Raeford Road improvements. - Adopted Capital Project Ordinance Amendment for $668,861 for Segra Stadium improvements. - Approved airport improvement grants and adopted Capital Project Ordinance for $1,300,000 for International Arrivals Facility. - Approved $102,740 preliminary engineering agreement with CSX for Russell & Person Street Bridge project. - Authorized easement to Piedmont Natural Gas for Fields Road project. - Authorized quitclaim deed for 400 Buhmann Drive to expedite sale. - Approved revised FAMPO Memorandum of Understanding. - Approved demolition recommendations for three uninhabitable structures. - Provided letter of support for The Tulsa Initiative grant application. - Adopted resolution authorizing PWC CEO/General Manager to seek rezoning of properties (item 7.0A16) – pulled from consent and moved to work session on motion by Councilmember Hare, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem. The motion passed with clarification that the resolution would allow PWC to rezone without coming to City Council. Public Comments & Testimony - Public hearing on annexation AX24-03: Kevin Paul, owner of 3 Happy Campers LLC, and Bart McClain, engineer, spoke in support of annexing 2.97 acres at 3895 Clinton Road for a 295-unit indoor climate-controlled self-storage facility. They noted the property meets land use requirements and that sewer extension will benefit other properties. No opposition speakers. Discussion Items - Planning Commission Annual Report: Victor Sharp, Chairman, presented highlights of the commission's work over the past year, including nine text amendments, approval of an eight-unit cottage development for homeless veterans, and an alternative sign plan for FSU. Council accepted the report unanimously. - Fayetteville NEXT Commission Update: Nathan Cuffey, Chair, presented the commission's rebranding and activities, including community cleanups, networking events, the 40 Under 40 event, and a Next Generation Business Summit. The commission reported 196 volunteer hours valued at $33,356. Council accepted the report unanimously. - Budget Ordinance Amendment 2025-6 for Saint-Avold Friendship Alliance: The council considered a request to appropriate $15,000 for a cultural and educational exchange with Saint-Avold, France (nine teachers and three students visiting Oct 18-30). Councilmember Benevente moved to table the item to the October work session for further discussion. The motion passed 7-3 (Councilmembers Thompson, Jensen, and Green opposed). - ShotSpotter Gunshot Detection Contract Renewal: Chief Braden presented a 10-month performance review, including 569 alerts, 1,920 shots fired, 562 shell casings recovered, 15 guns recovered, 22 arrests, and 462 alerts with no associated 911 call. He noted a 57% reduction in homicides, 35% reduction in aggravated assaults, and 18% reduction in robberies. Councilmember Benevente moved to renew for one year with an independent evaluation and success metrics. After debate, the motion carried (opposed by Councilmembers Hair, Colvin, Jensen, Thompson). The one-year renewal costs $210,000, with the first year funded by ARPA and subsequent years from the general fund. The council also noted a $100,000 gun violence study by UNC Charlotte is underway. Key Outcomes - Annexation AX24-03: Approved unanimously with an effective date of September 23, 2024. - Saint-Avold Exchange Funding: Tabled to October work session (7-3 vote). - ShotSpotter Renewal: Approved one-year renewal (vote carried with 4 opposed). - Consent Agenda: Approved with item 7.0A16 moved to work session. - Reports: Both the Planning Commission and Fayetteville NEXT reports were accepted unanimously. - Administrative Reports: No action taken; items noted for information.

The Fayetteville City Council met on Monday, September 9, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included recognitions, public forum, approval of a consent agenda, and appointments to various boards and commissions. Mayor Mitch Colvin presided. Announcements & Recognitions - Proclamation for Tyler Brandon Moore: A proclamation declared September 9, 2024, as “Tyler Brandon Moore Day” in honor of the Northwood Temple Academy student who maintains a 4.3 GPA, is a student-athlete, and is working toward becoming one of the youngest licensed pilots in North Carolina, with aspirations to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy. - National Information Technology Professionals Day: September 17, 2024, was proclaimed as such, recognizing the city’s IT department. - National Day of Remembrance: September 11, 2024, was proclaimed to honor the victims and heroes of the September 11, 2001 attacks. - New Fire Marshal: Fire Marshal Justin McLaurin was introduced; he was promoted from deputy fire marshal after a nationwide search and has 15 years of fire service experience. - State Representative Marvin Lucas was acknowledged in attendance. City Manager Report - City Manager Hewitt yielded his time to Fire Chief Dove, who presented the new Fire Marshal. No additional report was given. Public Forum Six residents signed up; four spoke (two were absent). - John Garusso (308 Third Street) urged the council to develop a crisis intervention program under the Office of Community Safety, emphasizing peer support specialists dispatched with emergency services. He stated, “The only thing we’re missing is action from you.” - Peggy Thompson (516 Bravery Lane) raised concerns about mental health resources for youth, specifically the 988 crisis line, and affordable housing. She noted that her 17-year-old faced difficulties accessing treatment and that unsafe housing environments affect children’s education. - Charles Matthews (3618 Tendle Court) criticized the city manager and PWC over flooding downtown, the breach of Rosa Lake Dam, and leaking sewer manholes on his property. He called for replacement of the dam and accountability. In response, City Manager Hewitt clarified he has no control over PWC. Sheila Thomas, Public Services director, reported that a FEMA BRIC grant application for Rosa Lake was not awarded this year; the city will fine-tune and resubmit in the next cycle. She noted the benefit-cost ratio was above one but the primary beneficiaries are private properties. - Sean McMillan called for transparency regarding the police-involved death of Lawrence Artis (October 2023), release of camera footage previously requested by Council (8-1 vote), and a sentinel review of that incident and the homicides of Jada Johnson and Demarcus Brody. He also urged the council to reject renewal of the ShotSpotter (now SoundThinking) contract and requested an update on the hiring of an OCS director and data specialists. Consent Calendar The consent agenda was approved unanimously by a motion from Councilmember Hondros, seconded by Councilmember Hare. Items included: - Approval of four sets of meeting minutes (August 5, 12, and 21, 2024). - Budget Ordinance Amendment 2025 to accept $37,617 in grant funding for senior centers from Mid-Carolina Regional Council. - Capital Project Ordinance Amendments 2026, 2027, and 2028 funding $1,596,633 for North Street and Sunbury Drainage Improvement Projects. - Capital Project Ordinance Amendment 2031 allocating $5,000,000 in Powell Bill funding for pavement preservation. - Policy revisions for Streets, Traffic, and Parking (seven policies updated). - Professional service contract of $564,037 for Russell & Person Street Bridge and Stream Improvement project management. - Resolution authorizing outside counsel for quiet title action on Lot 249, College Park. - Bid recommendation of $3,986,745 for resurfacing various streets (Phase I, 2025). - PWC bid recommendations: $4,149,400 for water main rehabilitation and $247,046 for substation disconnect switches. Discussion Items: Boards and Commissions Appointments Councilmember Hare, chair of the Appointments Committee, presented recommendations. - Tabled: The Ethics Commission and Linear Park Commission appointments were tabled by a unanimous vote (motion by Hare, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Jensen) pending updates from staff. - Approved: The following appointments were approved unanimously (motion by Hare, seconded by Councilmember Thompson): - Audit Commission: Tall at Skikes - Board of Appeals: William Hedgepeth - Fayetteville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (FAMPO) Transit Advisory Committee: Sharon Moyer, Stephanie Jones - Fair Housing Board: Lawrence King Jr., Melanie Shorter - Human Relations Commission: Lindorah Thompson, Toshiba Casi, Tracy Pelt - Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee: Zora Cole - Planning Commission: Austin Joseph - Redevelopment Commission: Teddy Warner - Stormwater Advisory Board: Timothy Ingram - Record Review Board: Philomena Lodaza (spelling approximated) - Zoning Commission: Robert Height Key Outcomes - Approved: Consent agenda (unanimous). - Tabled: Appointments to Ethics Commission and Linear Park Commission (unanimous). - Approved: Appointments to 11 boards/commissions as listed (unanimous). - Noted: The city will continue pursuing a FEMA BRIC grant for Rosa Lake dam flood mitigation. A public information session will be scheduled for the next grant cycle. - Acknowledged: Several vacancies remain; residents are encouraged to apply. - Meeting adjourned after the appointments vote.

The Fayetteville City Council held a special meeting on September 5, 2024, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting focused on three major agenda items: an in-depth affordable housing strategies update, a proposal for loan forgiveness under the Homeownership Program, and the introduction of a Section 108 Loan Fund Policy for development finance. Mayor Pro Tem presided in the absence of the Mayor. The council heard presentations from Chris Collie (Housing and Community Development), Jeff Moran (Housing Program Manager), and Derrick MacArthur (Economic Development Manager). Key outcomes included unanimous approval of the affordable housing report, a 6-1 vote to forgive remaining homeownership loan balances, and acceptance of the Section 108 policy report for further review and a future vote. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion by Councilmember Davis, second by Councilmember Hare, passed unanimously with those present. - Excusal of Councilmember Hondras: Motion by Councilmember Banks McLaughlin, second by Councilmember Thompson, passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Affordable Housing Strategies and Update (24-4185): Chris Collie presented an extensive overview of affordable housing definitions, income ranges, single-family and rental market analyses, legal constraints, current programs, and funding gaps. Key statistics: 23% of households earn $50,000-$74,000; 45% of housing stock is older than 1979; fair market rents increased 25% year-over-year and are 91% more expensive than the national average. The presentation covered existing tools (HOME, CDBG, LIHTC 9% and 4%) and identified a need for approximately $6 million to support a 4% LIHTC project. Council members discussed land trusts, tiny homes, mobile home parks, and the need for more small-scale developers. Council member Thompson raised concerns about veteran assistance and fixed-income seniors. The report was accepted by unanimous vote (8-0). - Homeownership Program Loan Forgiveness (24-4185): Housing Program Manager Jeff Moran presented four options for handling approximately $644,000 in outstanding loans from prior programs (mortgage assistance, down payment assistance, rehab). The loans were originally $1.7 million in deeds of trust with $1.5 million disbursed; $441,000 had been collected, and $270,000 was deemed uncollectible due to foreclosures, bankruptcies, or deaths. The recommended Option 1 was to forgive remaining balances and close out loans, relieving low-to-moderate income residents (many seniors) of financial burden and reducing staff time across departments. After discussion, Councilmember Hare moved to instruct ECD, Finance, and Legal to forgive remaining balances and close loans. The motion passed 6-1, with Councilmember McNair voting no. - Section 108 Loan Policy Draft for Development Finance (24-4213): Economic Development Manager Derrick MacArthur introduced the Section 108 Loan Fund policy, which allows the city to pledge up to five times its annual CDBG allocation ($1.7 million) for a borrowing capacity of about $8.5 million. The funds can be used for economic development, housing, public facilities, and infrastructure. Chris Collie provided examples of projects using Section 108 loans, including a mixed-use development, a botanical garden, a historic hotel, and a community development financial institution project. The policy is intended as gap financing, leveraging private investment. The city manager requested that the policy be fully briefed to absent council members before a final vote. Councilmember Banks McLaughlin moved to accept the report and allow staff to brief absent members; the motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Vote on Affordable Housing Report: Unanimous acceptance (8-0). - Vote on Loan Forgiveness: Approved 6-1 (Councilmember McNair dissenting) to forgive remaining homeownership loan balances and close out the program. - Vote on Section 108 Policy Report: Unanimous acceptance to receive the report and provide briefings to absent council members, with a future vote expected.

The City Council met on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at 2:00 PM in the Council Chamber for a work session. The meeting covered three major items: pedestrian and traffic improvements around the Market House, a new scoring matrix for prioritizing demolition projects, and a proposal to create an innovation and entrepreneurship district. Council members expressed frustration over study timelines and sought to balance pedestrian safety with traffic flow, while staff presented data‑driven approaches to resource allocation. Discussion Items Market House Pedestrian Improvement and Traffic Mobility - City Engineer Mr. Reeves presented two options from a prior repurposing study: expanding the circular brick promenade (Option A) or creating a square “about” (Option B). Council had previously directed staff to study the square option. - Staff recommended a comprehensive traffic operational and safety analysis (5–6 months) to evaluate impacts, including pedestrian safety, traffic queuing, emergency vehicle access, and 18‑wheeler deterrence. Full design and construction would take an additional 18 months, with completion estimated in August 2026. - Several council members voiced frustration over the lengthy timeline. Councilmember Green stated, “I am very frustrated… it seems like we study it and we study it.” Councilmember Banks McLaughlin expressed opposition to spending $102,000 on a pedestrian walkway, arguing the community’s feedback was about repurposing, not pedestrian access. - Councilmember Davis made a motion to adopt Option A (circle) to address traffic flow concerns. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Hare and passed 7–3. The analysis will proceed under the circle option, including a study of Hay Street closure impacts at Councilmember Banks McLaughlin’s request (though not added to the formal motion). Establishing a Scoring Matrix to Prioritize Demolition Projects - Ms. Baptiste and Dr. Newton presented a proposed scoring matrix based on criteria such as structural damage, time on demolition list, demolition ordinance status, cost, crime, and location. The matrix, inspired by Genesee County Land Bank’s process, aims to objectively rank pending demolitions and better steward the city’s $150,000 annual demolition budget. - Examples of ranked properties: Bell Street (82 points), Bever Road (82), Chairland Street (80), Rose Hill Road (80), Rayfoot Road (80), Mercinson Road/BJ’s property (72), and North Pearl Street (57). - Council discussion focused on recouping costs through liens and foreclosure. The city attorney noted that liens are rarely enforced and often expire after 10 years. Councilmember Hare pushed for better cost recovery processes. - Councilmember Hondros moved to receive the report. The motion was seconded and carried without objection. Innovation District – Mayor Colvin - Mayor Colvin proposed creating an innovation and entrepreneurship district, possibly near the university, to cluster health, defense, and small business sectors. He cited demographic data: only 7% of residents earn over $100,000, and the city has the lowest degree‑holder rate among peers. An innovation district could attract higher‑income jobs and amenities like Trader Joe’s. - Councilmember Hare moved to support the concept, seconded by Councilmember Thompson. The motion passed. Key Outcomes - Market House: Council voted 7‑3 to proceed with the circle option (Option A) and direct staff to conduct a traffic operational and safety analysis, survey, and conceptual evaluations. Completion of the project is not expected before August 2026. - Demolition Matrix: Council voted unanimously to receive the report on the scoring matrix, allowing staff to initiate its use for prioritizing demolitions. - Innovation District: Council voted to support the concept and direct staff to research and report back on creating an innovation and entrepreneurship district.

The provided transcript does not contain a city meeting; it consists of song lyrics. Therefore, no meeting proceedings, discussions, or decisions are available for summarization.

The Fayetteville City Council held a regular meeting on August 12, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included announcements, recognition of interns and community organizations, a city manager report, public forum, consent agenda approval with one item pulled for discussion, two public hearings, a motion to petition for release of police body camera footage, and a vote on an amusement park feasibility study referral. Several key votes and decisions were made, including approval of school resource officer contracts and housing bond reauthorization. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes from multiple June and July 2024 meetings. - Approved rezoning requests: P24-28 (6966 and 6962 Nexus Court from OI to LC), P24-30 (0 Dundle Road from AR to SF-15), P24-31 (0? Drive from SF-10 to LC), and P24-32 (2620 Bragg Blvd to CC). - Adopted Special Revenue Ordinance Close-outs 2025-1 through 2025-5 for Rural Economic Development Grants. - Adopted Capital Project Ordinances 2025-18 and 2025-19 for federal transit grants and local match for paratransit software and ADA vehicles. - Adopted Capital Project Ordinance Amendment 2025-20 for Blounts Creek Stream Enhancement grant. - Adopted Budget Ordinance Amendment 2025-3 for Homeless Coordination Grant. - Approved legislative actions for FY2025 Capital Improvement Plan funding adjustments. - Approved resolutions authorizing condemnation of easements for sidewalk projects on Morganton Road, Old Wilmington Road, Rosehill Road, and Cliffdale Road Phase I. - Authorized the city manager to negotiate acquisition of 144 Airport Road for the Airport Corridor Project. - Approved Master Operations Agreement with Brightspeed of NC LLC. - Approved School Resource Officer (SRO) and Traffic Control Officer (TCO) contracts with Cumberland County Schools (item pulled from consent for discussion, approved separately). - Approved PWC resolutions: state loan for lead and copper rule compliance, and bid recommendations for Gas Turbine 6 exhaust plenum, turbidimeter replacement, lift station rehabilitation, rejection of bids for relay control houses, and purchase of ICP mass-spectrophotometer. Public Comments & Testimony Twelve speakers addressed the council. Melissa Williams requested enforcement of property maintenance standards and street dead-ending near Bryan Street. Chaliko Hearst urged hiring felons for city jobs (citing national precedent), emphasized urgency for homeless housing, criticized school superintendent salary, noted rising COVID rates among staff, and raised concerns about church burial policies. John Garyusso advocated for a crisis intervention team to support emergency services for mental health and substance abuse calls. A resident (Mrs. May O'Callan?—name unclear) requested assistance with Rayford Road traffic safety, citing accidents and pedestrian danger. Lizette Rodriguez called for release of K9 incident body camera footage, independent oversight of police (OCS), and updates on the OCS director hiring and past police-involved deaths. Sean McMillan demanded sentinel reviews for K9 incident and police homicides, independent oversight, and OCS transparency. Christina Mathis (PETA) urged release of body camera footage and independent investigation into K9 training and treatment. Euda King (dog trainer) argued the K9 handler failed the dog, and called for release of footage and information on the dog's fate. Enrique Marillo promoted the Man 22 Suicide Awareness Run on September 7 at Festival Park. Two registered speakers (Tina Jacobs, Rudlin Brown) were not present. Discussion Items - SRO/TCO Contracts (Item 8.0A15): City Manager Hewitt reported that by August 26, six SROs will be assigned to high schools, with three more by January 2025, and 40 of 66 TCOs hired (20 more expected by August 19). Chief Braden noted 90 applicants. Councilmember Benevente expressed concerns about the one-year contract, police staffing deficits (80 vacancies plus 23 new positions), missed opportunity to address school-to-prison pipeline, and lack of deeper reform. Councilmember Hondros suggested the city consider taking over the school system. The motion to approve the contracts passed 8-2 (opposed: Hondros, Benevente). - Public Hearing 9.01 – Private Activity Bonds: Staff presented a reauthorization for two mixed-income housing developments at 1701 Owen Drive and 1944 Cedar Creek Road (up to $80 million total). No public speakers. The council unanimously approved the resolution. - Public Hearing 9.02 – HUD Consolidated Plan Amendments: Staff presented a substantial amendment to accept a $155,000 Emergency Solutions Grant and reallocate $200,000 from home development to down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers (expanded to county and school employees). No public speakers. The council unanimously adopted the amendments. - K-9 Body Camera Footage (Item 10.01): Councilmember Benevente moved to petition Cumberland County courts to release body camera footage from a June 23 traffic stop where an officer was filmed punching a police K9. The city attorney clarified that the process requires the city to sue itself, with a judge deciding release. The motion passed 8-2 (opposed: Thompson, Mayor Pro Tem Jensen). - Amusement Park Feasibility Study (Item 11.03): Councilmember McNair moved to send the report to a work session for further information. After discussion that county and other partners cited resource constraints and interest in an aquatic center instead, the motion failed (4-6, opponents not explicitly named but motion failed). Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved with exception of item 8.0A15 (SRO/TCO contracts), which was approved separately 8-2. - SRO/TCO one-year contracts approved (8-2), providing six SROs by August 26 and 66 TCOs by August 19, with a goal of one SRO per high school by January 2025. - Resolution authorizing up to $80 million in private activity bonds for two affordable housing developments passed unanimously. - Substantial amendments to 2020-2024 HUD Consolidated Plan and 2024-2025 Annual Action Plan adopted unanimously, allowing $155,000 ESG grant and $200,000 for down payment assistance. - Motion to petition court for release of K9 body camera footage passed 8-2; legal process to follow. - Motion to refer amusement park feasibility study to work session failed (4-6).