In a compelling State of the County Address on Tuesday, Cumberland County Board of Commissioners Chairman Kirk deViere laid out an ambitious vision for the future, emphasizing collaboration and proactive progress. While acknowledging the county's inherent strengths and potential, deViere specifically highlighted two significant commitments aimed at enhancing community well-being and public safety: the development of a regional aquatic center and the establishment of a joint city-county 911 communications center.

Addressing the long-anticipated prospect of an Aquatic Center, Chairman deViere made a firm commitment to its realization. “We’re in the process of standing up a working group in early Summer, and from there we will begin to get community input and input from the different stakeholder groups. And then we will begin to move that forward in a very aggressive way,” deViere told Fay News 10 when asked about the status of the project. This facility would mark a significant addition to recreational opportunities in the Sandhills region, following the successful opening of the James A. Leach Aquatic Center in Hoke County in 2023, which boasts a 75-yard competition pool, a recreation pool, and various other amenities.

Beyond recreation, a substantial portion of deViere’s address focused on the health and safety of Cumberland County residents. This included discussions on evolving the county's approach to mental health crises and recognizing the potential arising from the forthcoming Cape Fear Valley and Methodist University School of Medicine. Underscoring this commitment to public safety, deViere announced a major initiative to consolidate city and county 911 communications under a single unified center.

“My conversations with Mayor Colvin have been very productive around how we get to this point,” deViere stated, highlighting the collaborative spirit driving this project. He further emphasized the progress already underway, noting that Stoney Point Fire Chief Freddy L. Johnson Sr. is currently leading discussions with emergency personnel countywide to determine the most effective implementation strategy. “We have been so close for so many years, probably four or five times. And I truly believe that this time our community is truly ready to collaborate and put together this joint 911 center,” deViere added, expressing optimism for the successful realization of this long-sought-after goal.

In his address to an audience of local leaders, county staff, and community members at the Historic Courthouse, deViere touched upon a range of critical issues facing the county, including public safety, water quality, education, and the vital relationship with Fort Bragg. He also reiterated the county’s commitment to exploring avenues for lowering the property tax rate, a topic of considerable discussion following the recent property revaluation.

DeViere emphasized the importance of community engagement, stating, “I have always believed that the best ideas come from listening to the people we serve.” He recalled impactful conversations with community members, highlighting the need for honest dialogue, collaboration, and decisive action to shape a brighter future for all residents.

Among the county’s ongoing priorities, deViere highlighted efforts to ensure clean water access through filtration systems, expanding municipal water services, and addressing PFAS contamination. He also underscored the commitment to competitive teacher salaries, modernizing school facilities, and strengthening early childhood education programs. In the realm of public safety, beyond the unified 911 center, deViere pledged support for the Sheriff’s Office and a shift towards treating mental health emergencies as healthcare matters.

While the ongoing assessment of the Crown Event Center was not directly mentioned, deViere affirmed the county’s dedication to the arts, stating, “Cumberland County’s diverse art scene, from live theater production to spoken word performances, from live concerts to visual exhibits — they all deserve bold expansion.”

Looking ahead, deViere outlined plans for a support center for the homeless and collaborative initiatives with local non-profits and Fayetteville Technical Community College to provide crucial safety nets and skills training. He also emphasized the county’s commitment to strengthening its ties with Fort Bragg, aiming to become “America’s premier military connected community.”

In closing, Chairman deViere conveyed a sense of optimism and determination. “The state of Cumberland County is strong and our potential is boundless,” he asserted. “We are grounded in our shared values of service, transparency and respect. By focusing on the future we want to create, not just the challenges we face, there is no limit to what we can achieve.” His address underscored a clear commitment to tangible progress through strategic investments in community well-being and public safety, with the aquatic center and joint 911 center serving as prominent pillars of this vision.