City Manager's Report

The Latest from Doug

As we step into February, I invite you to embrace Black History Month, recognizing the African American heritage intertwined with our city's history. Our community has been a witness to remarkable contributions from historical black figures, like Dr. Ezekiel Ezra Smith, an advocate for education amongst the black communities in Fayetteville, embodying the resilient spirit that defines our community. 

The commemoration extends to Dr. Joseph Charles Price, a prominent African American educator and founder of Livingstone College. Born in Fayetteville, his legacy echoes through the halls of education, inspiring generations to come. 

In celebrating Black History Month, we pay homage to these pioneers and the countless others who have left an indelible mark on our community. It is a time to reflect, honor, and amplify the voices and stories that have shaped Fayetteville into the vibrant city it is today. 

Shifting our focus to the future, our City Council completed a two-day strategic planning retreat that will serve as the cornerstone for priorities and focus for our City Staff to ensure we are in line with city goals.

During our retreat, the Fort Liberty Garrison commander spoke and I am thrilled to amplify the news about the Sunset Liberty March, a poignant initiative that began June 1, 2022 with the renaming of the military installation. This daily half-mile march at Honeycutt and Liberty Trail will honor the legacy of those who have served. The march is a tribute to the sacrifices of our brave heroes. 

Col. Wilcox assured me that volunteers, including military veterans, active-duty service members, Gold Star family members, or anyone inspired to participate, are welcome to join this solemn march. The Sunset Liberty March embodies our commitment to remembering, honoring, and carrying forward the ideals of liberty that have defined Fort Liberty. 

Let us remember and honor the heroism, sacrifices, and values of those who have served and continue to serve.  

For those interested in participating in this daily march, I encourage you to visit https://sunsetlibertymarch.com and become part of this meaningful tribute. 

As always, I want to thank you for being a part of our great community.  

Best,

Douglas J. Hewett

City Council discusses city goals; Updates strategic priorities for year ahead

On Jan. 29, the City Council met for a two-day strategic planning retreat at the Dorothy Gilmore Therapeutic Recreation Center to set priorities and goals for the City in the year ahead. MORE

City council adopts new meeting times

Starting Feb. 5, city council work sessions will now take place at 2 p.m. instead of 6 p.m. and city council regular meetings will now take place at 6:30 p.m. instead of 7 p.m. These meetings are held in city hall in council chambers and open to the public. MORE

CSX will close 2 railroad crossings for maintenance

CSX will temporarily close two railroad crossings beginning on Feb. 5 to conduct railroad maintenance. The roads that will be impacted by the closures are Cumberland Street and Moore Street. MORE

Kiwanis Playground will temporarily close for improvements

Starting on Monday, Jan. 29, the Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation Department will be removing the current playground equipment to install new and improved equipment at the Kiwanis Playground. This playground is located at the Kiwanis Recreation Center, 352 Devers St. MORE

Radio personality Jeff 'Goldy' Goldberg to host the Human Relations Community Recognition Awards

Former “Good Morning Fayetteville” radio personality Jeff ‘Goldy’ Goldberg will host the FCHR 2024 Community Recognition Awards. The awards luncheon is set for Feb. 15 at 11 a.m. at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden. MORE