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PWC begins water changeover, adopts electric rate adjustments; City seeking community partners

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Tuesday, 03 March 2026
Written by Staff Report

8PWC begins annual water treatment changeover
The Fayetteville Public Works Commission will begin its annual water treatment disinfectant changeover on Sunday, March 1. This temporary, month-long change is an annual requirement by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality for all public water systems that normally use chloramines for disinfection.
Throughout March, PWC will shift from its standard chloramine disinfectant to free chlorine. Customers may notice a slight chlorine smell or experience temporary changes in water taste or appearance. These effects are normal and are not harmful.
This annual changeover includes all PWC customers: residential, commercial, and wholesale consumers- including those in Fort Bragg, the Town of Spring Lake, Hoke County, and the Town of Stedman. PWC will continuously monitor disinfectant levels to ensure safety and reliability.
PWC will return to using chloramines on April 1, 2026. Customers who normally pre-treat their water to remove chloramines (including manufacturers, dialysis providers, and aquatic pet owners) should continue pre-treatment during the month of March.
Hydrant flushing may occur during this period, which can cause temporary low pressure or mild discoloration. These conditions are cosmetic only and go away as the system is flushed.
More information about PWC’s water quality and testing practices is available in the Annual Water Quality Report, published online at: FayPWC.com/Water-Quality-Report/.

PWC adopts electric rate adjustments
At the February 25, Fayetteville Public Works Commission meeting, a public hearing was held regarding adjusting electric rates and PWC fees. Following public comment, the Board voted to adopt new rates and fees over a two-year period. The updated rates will apply to bills sent on or after May 1, while adjusted fees will be effective immediately.
The rates are anticipated to increase PWC’s overall revenue by 5.5% in each of the next two years to cover the actual cost of providing utility services. PWC rates and fees are set as low as possible while still covering actual costs.
According to J.D. Power, average utility prices have risen 34% since 2020. PWC electric rates, including the May 1 increase, have risen 16.5% since then, about half of the national average, as a result of continuing to cut costs whenever possible before raising rates.
PWC’s cost of delivering safe and reliable electric services has increased, which requires rate and fee adjustments to keep pace. Projected increases include:
• $16 million annual increase in Purchased Power from Duke Energy
• $6 million in debt service costs for Capital Projects
• $4 million in electrical systems & operating expenses
“Our priority at PWC is to continue delivering safe, reliable, and affordable electric, water, and wastewater services to all of our customers” said Timothy Bryant, P.E. CEO/General Manager of Fayetteville PWC. “Before PWC considered any rate increase, staff was intentional about spending and implemented significant cost saving measures across the business. Unfortunately, uncontrollable cost increases are out-pacing cost savings exponentially.”
PWC revenue has remained relatively flat, increasing only 3.26% over the last 7 years. Over the past four years, PWC has reduced costs below its budget on average by $15.8 million per year in operations and maintenance costs in addition to another $7.6 million per year in project deferments and job scope reclassifications.
A residential customer using 1000 kWh per month may see increases of $8.02 in May 2026 and $8.59 in May 2027. Even with the approved rate changes, PWC residential customers continue to pay less than the state average and less than all other electric providers in Cumberland County. Additionally, PWC reliability, measured in minutes of outage time, continues to be the best among all Cumberland County electric utilities and among the best in North Carolina.
The approved rates include a new non-residential rate designed to support economic development for large power users requiring more than 5 megawatts of capacity.
The proposed adjustments follow an independent, third-party cost-of-service study conducted every two years to ensure rates fairly reflect the actual cost of providing reliable electric service. The temporary Power Supply Adjustment (PSA) that has been in place since August 2025 will end in August 2026. The PSA is approximately $5.41 per 1000 kWh.
For additional information about the rate adjustments, visit FayPWC.com.

City seeks community partners for Safe Spaces Activation initiative
The City’s Office of Community Safety is seeking to partner with community-based organizations to lead trauma-informed, community-led events to support youth, young adults and families, prioritizing communities identified for violence prevention, resource connection and strengthening community trust.
Qualified organizations are encouraged to apply to the Safe Spaces Activation request for proposal.
Safe Space Activations are intended to activate public and community spaces to support community engagement, resource coordination and community violence intervention strategies. The total funding available under this RFP is $100,000. The City will award up to four contracts, each for $25,000.
Proposals are due by Friday, March 12 at 2 p.m.
"Our goal is to partner with local organizations to build a network of support so we can provide safe events for all young residents and families,” says OCS Director John Jones.

Government Watch: No parking zones rejected; County begins annual budget

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Tuesday, 03 March 2026
Written by Jami McLaughlin

7On Feb. 23, the Fayetteville City Council rejected a proposal 9-1 that would have allowed residents to petition for “no parking” zones in residential multi-use lanes after residents said that the change could negatively impact property values. The proposed plan required a 70% neighbor approval threshold to ban parking on designated residential blocks.
Police Chief Roberto Bryan Jr. presented the 2025 Fourth Quarter Review. While overall crime dropped and property crime saw a 9% decrease (including a 12% dip in motor vehicle thefts), the report highlighted a troubling rise in youth-related violent crime, specifically assaults and robberies involving juveniles.
The city also announced the awarding of $115,500 in micro-grants to 22 community-led organizations aimed at preventing crime and violence through the Empowering Community Safety Microgrant Program.
In other news, the Office of Community Safety is looking for local, community-based organizations to partner with for activities and events. The Safe Space Activations initiative is currently accepting proposals due March 12 to fund community events designed to foster trust and reduce cycles of violence.
Safe Space Activations are intended to activate public and community spaces to support community engagement, resource coordination and community violence intervention strategies. The total funding available under this RFP is $100,000. The City will award up to four contracts, each for $25,000.
For more information and to find out more via a virtual information session on Wednesday, Feb. 25, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., visit fayettevillenc.gov/OCS.
If you would like to sign up for public comment at the Fayetteville City Council meetings, the public forum will be held on the first Monday of every month at 6:15 a.m., following announcements and recognitions, according to City staff.
It has also been changed from 30 minutes to one hour to accommodate more citizen speakers. Sign-ups may be completed in person with the City Clerk at City Hall, 433 Hay Street, by phone at (910) 433-1992, by email at PublicComments@fayettevillenc.gov or by using the online form at FayettevilleNC.gov/Clerk.

Cumberland County
The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners held a Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Workshop on Thursday, Feb. 26, marking the start of the county's formal budget planning cycle.
Commissioners met to discuss revenue strategies for the upcoming fiscal year. Discussions focused on property tax rate adjustments, potential new fees and evaluating the fund balance and reserve targets.
According to staff, the Board provided direction on key initiatives, including:

• Water and sewer infrastructure expansion
• School construction and operations
• Unhoused Support Center
• Crown Complex redevelopment
• Regional Aquatic Center
• Mental Health Diversion Center
• 911 consolidation
• Parks and recreation
• County facilities and parking
• Future planning opportunities for the Gillespie Street lot
The board will receive the manager’s recommended budget in May and budget workshops and public hearing dates will be announced.
The process will include additional budget workshops and public engagement opportunities. All Budget Workshops will be also livestreamed on the County’s website at cumberlandcountync.gov and on YouTube.

About the Greater Fayetteville Chamber
Advocacy is a cornerstone of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber. Every week, the Chamber dedicates staff to attend City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County meetings as well as monitoring updates on the state and federal levels.
We monitor legislation locally, statewide and federally to protect our community’s business interests. With 91% of U.S. adults recognizing a Chamber of Commerce's impact on growth, membership ensures a strong voice shaping policies, driving economic success and building a thriving business community—together.
To learn more, visit www.faybiz.com or email jmclaughlin@faybiz.com.

(Photo: Cumberland County Commissioners chat during a budget workshop held on Feb. 26. The meeting marked the start of the County's formal budget planning cycle. Photo courtesy of Cumberland County NC Government's Facebook page)

Build a future underground: FTCC’s new utility program

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Tuesday, 24 February 2026
Written by Luis Velez, FTCC Dean of Corporate & Industry Training

20bWhat if you could launch a career in just 11 weeks? That's exactly what Fayetteville Technical Community College's new Utility Construction Technician (Underground) program offers—a fast track to a high-demand career with competitive pay and room to grow.
The underground utility construction field is experiencing significant labor shortages, with workers needed to install and maintain essential infrastructure such as water lines, sewer systems, electrical distribution systems and telecommunications networks. These aren't jobs that can be outsourced or automated—they're hands-on careers that keep our communities running. In North Carolina, entry-level utility construction workers typically earn between $38,000 and $46,000 annually, with experienced technicians earning $55,000 or more as they develop specialized skills.
FTCC's program is designed for people ready to roll up their sleeves and learn a trade that matters. Starting March 2 and running through May 13, this 306-hour course meets Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at FTCC's Fayetteville campus. Students gain real-world skills and industry-recognized certifications that employers are actively seeking.
Here's what makes this program unique: you're not just learning theory. You'll receive hands-on training in heavy equipment operation, master safety protocols through OSHA 10 certification, learn trenching and shoring techniques, and prepare for your Commercial Driver's License. The curriculum also covers confined space training, basic electrical and distribution systems, CPR/First Aid/AED certification, and even employability skills to help you succeed in job interviews and on the work site.
Every certification you earn opens doors. The NCCER CORE credential is nationally recognized in the construction industry. The work zone flagger certification allows you to immediately qualify for traffic control positions. These aren't just pieces of paper—they're proof to employers that you know what you're doing and can work safely.
What many people don't realize about utility construction is the variety it offers. One day you might operate an excavator, the next you could be working with fiber optic installations or water distribution systems. It's physical work that keeps you moving and problem-solving, perfect for those who prefer moving over sitting at a desk.
The best part? The registration fee is only $180, and funding is available through the FTCC Forward Scholarship for North Carolina residents. This scholarship was specifically established to help people access short-term workforce training that leads to real credentials and real jobs. Additional costs include a $2 insurance fee, $20 CPR/AED fee, $28.89 NCCER registration fee, and $10 OSHA card fee.
The industry needs you. Companies across North Carolina and beyond are competing for skilled underground utility workers. With infrastructure investments increasing nationwide, now is the ideal time to enter this field. After completing FTCC's program, you'll have the knowledge, certifications, and hands-on experience to start your career immediately.
If you're looking for a career change, want to learn a valuable trade, or simply need to get job-ready quickly, this program could be your answer. You'll be learning alongside others who share your goals, taught by instructors who know the industry inside and out.
For more information about the Utility Construction Technician (Underground) program, contact FTCC's Industry Training department at 910-678-8230 or email industrytraining@faytechcc.edu. Don't wait—registration is open now for the March 2 start date. Your future is underground, and it's calling.

Lost in Leviticus: How to read the Bible year round

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Tuesday, 24 February 2026
Written by Dan DeBruler
20Every January, gyms get crowded with new members, salad sales spike, and Bible-in-a-year reading plans get downloaded by the millions. And by this time in February… only the kale is still hanging on.
In 2025, Bible sales hit a surprising high. But with so many people buying it again, the deeper question lingers: How do you actually read it — not just finish it — and come away with something you understand?
Along with being a religious text, the Bible is the most quoted, banned, printed and translated book in history. Its influence is quickly evident in art, law, music, and pop culture—even among those who don’t identify with its message of faith.
It’s among those things we know more about than we actually know. That alone puts the Bible on par with Tolstoy and Shakespeare — opened with good intentions and quietly abandoned halfway through. Reading Genesis to Revelation straight through is like starting “War and Peace” because you liked a meme about Napoleon — great idea, rough execution.
Whether you added to the sales figures this past year or you’ve had several translations on your shelf for years, I want to encourage you to approach the Bible differently. Consider it for what it is: a library, not a single book. A total of 66 works of poetry, history letters and prophecy which collectively span several millennia. If you opened up The Lord of the Rings and started reading the appendices, you might judge Tolkien’s storytelling based on Elvish family trees. That’s how some people feel when they hit the book of Numbers in mid-February.
The Bible, at its core, is a story. And like any good story, it helps to know where you are in it.
You wouldn’t walk into a gym for the first time, wander past the treadmills, and randomly start yanking cables on a machine labeled “advanced resistance” without a clue what it targets. Well… some of us might. But we shouldn’t. The machine isn’t the problem. The confusion is. The same is true with Scripture.
Each part of the Bible has a purpose, a genre, and a place in the larger arc. Poetry speaks differently from history. Letters read differently from law. When you recognize that, the frustration level drops dramatically.
If you’re new to reading the Bible, start with the Gospels. Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. Meet Jesus before you try to interpret Ezekiel’s wheels. Read a short letter like Philippians or James in one sitting. Notice themes. Ask simple questions: What does this show me about God? What does this reveal about people? How might this shape how I live?
You don’t need a seminary degree. You need patience and perspective.
So, if you’re still in Genesis — great. If you’re currently lost somewhere between Leviticus and late-night snacking — that’s okay too. Just don’t quit because you wandered into a section that feels like spiritual leg day.

Celebrating life, activism of Dr. Ora Mobley Sweeting

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Tuesday, 24 February 2026
Written by John Riggio

19When you meet Dr. Ora Mobley Sweeting, the first thing you notice is her kindness. Soon after, her quiet strength begins to shine. She grew up in Monroe, North Carolina, where she was raised by her aunt, Mama Cora. Mama Cora was a pillar of the community. She helped raise 19 children, including Dr. Sweeting and her twin, after their mother passed away. She also cared for Robert F. Williams, who later became a well‑known civil rights leader and author. In their family, education and Black history were part of daily life. Mama Cora often spoke to the children about the struggles of their community, which planted the first seeds of activism in Dr. Sweeting.
Dr. Sweeting’s father was one of six boys, all of whom went to college, which was rare at the time. Their strong belief in education shaped her early love of learning and her desire to teach. This family environment taught her to care for others and to speak up when things were unfair.
Dr. Sweeting attended Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina, and after graduating, she went on to teach and moved to Whiteville. Following Mama Cora’s example, she “went off script,” as her daughter, Candida, says, and taught Black history, even when it was unsafe to do so. When the school board told her to stop teaching it, her students held a sit‑in to support her. This drew the attention of the Ku Klux Klan, and her life was threatened. She was arrested “for the crime of educating,” as her daughter explains. A group of Black doctors bailed her out, and she was told she could either stay in North Carolina and face jail time or leave the state. In 1951, she headed north for safety.
Dr. Sweeting moved to Harlem, where her activism grew even stronger. As a young mother, she wanted her community’s children to be safe, supported, and heard. She founded the Central Harlem Mothers’ Association. They worked tirelessly for nearly 30 years and focused on improving conditions around schools, shutting down unsafe bars, closing dangerous roads near school buildings, advocating for equal job opportunities, and making sure Black students were part of every important conversation.
During her time in Harlem, Dr. Sweeting also led the St. Nicholas Tenants’ Association, helping residents of public housing fight for safe, livable buildings and get access to state services like food assistance.
Dr. Sweeting believed children of color should be honored and celebrated. She created “The Pursuit of Excellence Pageant,” which invited students from kindergarten through 12th grade to wear caps and gowns and be recognized for their achievements. Every child received a “Certificate of Excellence,” because, to her, no success was too small to celebrate.
Her boldest moments have become part of Harlem’s history. After helping to rename her neighborhood school the Harriet Tubman School, she fought to protect children from speeding cars on unsafe roadways. When the city refused to act, she lay down in the street between two kitchen chairs to stop traffic. Candida recalls seeing her there, remembering a police officer stepping over her mother to arrest her. Sweeting told him, “When you stepped over me, you stepped over every mother in Harlem ... That’s who you’re looking at right now.” Her protest was a success, and the city closed the nearby streets during school hours.
Over the course of roughly thirty years (1960’s – 1990’s), Dr. Sweeting pushed for decentralization by serving on the Executive Board of P.S. 157, a local public school. She helped organize the first Decentralization Community Control movement so schools would better reflect the needs of local families in Harlem’s schools. Due to threats connected to her advocacy work, Dr. Sweeting moved to California in 1990.
Candida says her mother’s story is a reminder today for young advocates to use their voices. In 2019, after nearly seven decades away, Dr. Sweeting finally returned to North Carolina.
Dr. Sweeting joined LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines in 2023. Her journey has since come full circle. The strength she once used to lift her community is now met with care, dignity, and support. As a PACE program, LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines helps seniors stay independent and connected to the places they love. Dr. Sweeting’s story reminds us that when one person stands with conviction, entire communities rise.
Today, she is surrounded by support, community, and peace. Her daughter says, “I must tell you, Mom is aging backwards. She said, “I feel like I'm 16 … So, something wonderful is happening here!”

(Photo: Dr. Ora Mobley Sweeting, a part of the LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines community, has been an activist and community leader her entire life. Photo courtesy of LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines)

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