Leaders of Cumberland County government and the City of Fayetteville have historically had different governance styles, which have affected their collaboration. However, recent efforts led by Chairman Kirk deViere's re-election for an unprecedented second year and Fayetteville's 5th-term mayor, Mitch Colvin, have significantly improved that relationship. This shift aims to boost residents' confidence in ongoing community efforts and future collaboration, fostering a sense of unity and shared progress.
Colvin and deViere, once political rivals, are now dedicated to bridging the leadership gap between city and county. Their focus on community progress and addressing key issues, such as the county's Tier One status, aims to inspire residents and stakeholders by demonstrating a united effort to improve our community and foster hope and collective pride.
A critical community concern is the county-wide 911 call center, a vital part of public safety. It offers a direct connection to law enforcement, medical, and fire services, ensuring help reaches those in need quickly and efficiently. deViere and Colvin are solidly backing centralized, county-wide 911, which is essential for building trust and confidence in our community's safety infrastructure and reassuring residents about their safety and well-being.
Mayor Colvin welcomed three new Fayetteville Council Members to his legislative body. The integration of these first-term members into the mayor's agenda will be closely watched. Early signs from at least one new council member might indicate a potential conflict with the mayor. While respect and unity are essential for sound decision-making, a push-and-pull dynamic can often lead to more robust discussions and outcomes. Understanding these leadership dynamics helps residents stay informed about local governance and decision-making processes.
Colvin defeated Mario Benavente, a harsh critic of the mayor and a former District 3 Councilmember. The question is whether one of the new members will bring the same negative energy to the meetings as he did.
Just a block away on Dick Street, Commissioner Chairman Kirk deViere marked one year of leadership. On Dec. 1, his colleagues expressed strong confidence in him by re-electing him as their chairman for another year. Typically, the board of commissioners does not re-elect chairs for consecutive terms; however, deViere's impressive leadership skills won the support of all but one of his colleagues. Commissioner Glenn Adams, the naysayer, publicly criticized deViere's re-election as chair and his influence regarding a controversial community project.
Kirk deViere, a former Fayetteville city council member and state senator, is a solid consensus builder and visionary, the kind of leadership that has been lacking in our community at times. The collaboration between Fayetteville's mayor and the board of commissioners' chairman is refreshing. Finally, two elected leaders are seemingly more interested in building a better community than in displaying competing egos or advancing personal agendas. Let's hope they can keep this going and bring about the kind of changes our community desperately needs.
2025 is ushering out the old, while 2026 is bringing in the new, hopefully, a different brand of politics with elected leaders committed to positive change for our community.