CPRC News & Updates

May 28, 2026

Welcome to "The Pine Needler," your go-to source for all things happening in the Central Pines Region! We're here to keep you in the loop with our bi-monthly updates on upcoming events and regional news. Stay connected with us as we bring you the latest happenings and stories that will surely make your day pine-tastic!

In This Edition:

FTZ Annual Report Takeaways
UNITE Vision Clinic
Weatherization Assistance Program RFPs
Council-Manager Relationships

In Every Edition:

Popular Links & Resources
Career Opportunities
Upcoming Events

2025 Foreign Trade Zone Annual Report Takeaways

In 2025, FTZ 93 continued to play a significant role in supporting international trade in the region, with 83.9% of shipments into the zone ultimately re-shipped out of the zone and more than $45.3 million in exports shipped to foreign countries. Total shipment value exceeded $109 million, including $37.8 million in foreign-status merchandise received into FTZ 93. The largest import category was textiles, footwear, and leather products from China, with additional imports including tobacco, consumer products, and industrial materials.

Approximately 88% of foreign-status merchandise entered under privileged foreign status, reflecting current trade conditions and tariff policies that are increasingly limiting operators’ ability to fully utilize inverted tariff benefits. FTZ activity directly supported 138 warehouse and distribution positions, while operators supported more than 5,000 regional jobs overall and remained deeply integrated into global supply chains across Europe, Latin America, and Asia.

View the Report

UNITE Vision Clinic

UNITE, in partnership with Durham Tech’s Community Health Lab, recently hosted a Vision Clinic at Open Table Ministries to provide free eye care services and eyeglasses to unhoused neighbors in Durham. Held alongside Open Table Ministry’s weekly Free Store, the clinic successfully served more than 50 individuals by offering vision screenings, eye care support, and prescription eyeglasses at no cost. Open Table Ministry’s Free Store provides essential resources every Tuesday, including free clothing, toiletries, haircuts, and showers to neighbors experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity. By hosting the Vision Clinic within this trusted community space, partners were able to meet individuals where they already gather for support and services, helping reduce barriers to accessing healthcare.

The collaboration brought together students, volunteers, and community organizations committed to the well-being of our unhoused neighbors in Durham. For many participants, receiving vision care and eyeglasses can improve daily functioning, increase safety, support employment opportunities, and enhance overall quality of life. The event highlighted the power of community partnerships in addressing critical healthcare needs while fostering dignity, connection, and care for Durham’s unhoused neighbors.

Learn More About UNITE

Request for Proposals: Weatherization Assistance Program

Central Pines Regional Council (CPRC) is accepting licensed subcontractor proposals for a home energy improvement project under the North Carolina Energy Division's annual Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and the Regional Weatherization - Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). CPRC is requesting proposals from interested parties who are properly licensed contractors in the State of North Carolina in the following individual trades: Plumbing, HVAC, Shell, Energy Auditor, Quality Control Inspector, Electrician. Please see Request for Proposal below for each individual trade.

SUBMISSION SCHEDULE AND CONTACT INFORMATION:

RFP Release: May 21, 2026
Pre-bid Conference Meeting: June 5, 2026
Deadline for written questions and clarifications: June 10, 2026
Deadline for submissions of qualifications: June 17, 2026
Notify selected firm and begin contract negotiations and NCDEQ approval process: June 30, 2026
Receive final approval from NCDEQ, complete contract negotiations and award contract: July 31, 2026
Contact: Hunter Fillers, hfillers@centralpinesnc.gov

View RFPs

Council-Manager Roles & Relationships in Local Government

September 2, 2026 | 10:00 - 11:15 am

Online | Free

This course introduces local elected officials to the legal and practical foundations of the council-manager form of government. It examines the distinct roles, responsibilities, and relationships that support effective local governance. Participants will learn how elected officials set policy and strategic direction while the professional manager oversees administration and implementation.

The course also explores how boards and managers can build productive working relationships grounded in respect, transparency, clear communication, and routine feedback.

Career Opportunities

CPRC Openings

Work Local in the Central Pines Region

There are so many amazing career opportunities to serve your community and work for local government in the Central Pines Region. Check out the most recent job postings here!