Fayetteville Today

Fayetteville City Council met on February 5, 2024, for their monthly work session to address important matters for the city. The meeting commenced with an invocation by Councilman D.J. Haire, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Jensen.

During the session, the council approved the agenda with the removal of two items related to a "Veteran Service Live Event" and "Hiring a City Attorney." Councilman Deno Hondros made the motion, which was seconded by Councilwoman Courtney Banks-McLaughlin.

One of the key discussions during the meeting revolved around the Office of Community Safety. Dr. Gerard Tate, Executive Director of the N.C. Office of Violence Prevention, provided insights on this matter. Following the discussion, a consensus was reached to hold a special meeting to further develop and clarify the role of the Office of Community Safety Director and office.

The council also received a presentation on the Fayetteville Market House Administrative Report. After assessing different options, the council agreed on "Option B," which entails an overall square configuration around the Market House.

The Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation Department presented two topics: the Wayfinding Plan & African American Heritage Trail and the Mazarick Park Neighborhood Connections Concept Plan. These presentations highlighted plans to improve connectivity and enhance recreational opportunities in the city.

Furthermore, the council was updated on the completed, current, and upcoming projects by the Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation Department through the presentation of the Report Card.

A presentation concerning the Special Use Permit Peer Review and Text Amendment Recommendations was also delivered. The council decided to move this item to the Planning Commission for further consideration.

Several agenda items were proposed during the meeting. Councilman Thompson suggested requesting legislation to fund the revitalization of breached and abandoned lakes across the city. Mayor Mitch Colvin proposed discussing reentry requirement support to aid individuals released from the Department of Corrections. Additionally, Councilman Hondros proposed mandatory training for elected officials to ensure they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to serve the public effectively. Councilman Davis also presented an agenda item regarding 901 Person Street.

The meeting concluded at 5:15 p.m., and the next City Council Regular Meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 12, at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers in City Hall. The meeting will be broadcasted live on Spectrum Channel 7, FayTV.net, and the FayTV app.

For more information about the Fayetteville City Council and to access meeting agendas, supporting documentation, and minutes, please visit fayettevillenc.gov/citycouncil.