FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – On April 29, 2025, at 6 p.m., more than 100 residents, elected officials, and County staff gathered in the Historic Courthouse, located at 130 Gillespie St., Fayetteville, for the 2025 State of the County Address. Led by Chairman Kirk deViere, the address highlighted the County’s progress, current priorities, and bold vision for the future.
Chairman deViere was joined by Vice Chairwoman Veronica Jones and Commissioners Henry Tyson, Jeannette Council, and Pavan Patel. The evening began with an invocation from Bishop Brian Thompson Sr., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by the Chairman’s son, Grey deViere.
Vice Chairwoman Highlights Strategic Vision
Vice Chairwoman Veronica Jones opened the evening by emphasizing the Board’s recently adopted three-year strategic plan, aligning with the County’s updated mission and vision.
“Cumberland County is moving forward with purpose and unity,” said Vice Chairwoman Jones. “Your Board of Commissioners has laid a solid foundation for growth, resilience, and opportunity.”
Major Themes and Initiatives
Chairman deViere’s address centered on building a stronger, more resilient Cumberland County by focusing on clean water, public safety innovation, education, health and wellness, and economic vitality. He praised community advocates for their efforts and for advocating for clean, safe, regulated drinking water and discussed a county-wide clean water strategy.
“Clean water isn’t a luxury. It’s a fundamental right for every Cumberland County resident,” Chairman deViere stated. “When contamination threatens one neighborhood, it’s a threat to our entire community’s health and future.”
Chairman deViere also discussed plans for investing in educational infrastructure and teacher compensation, as well as expanding early childhood education and youth intervention programs. He announced the development of a unified 911 Communications Center, a response to rising public safety demands and a demonstration of inter-agency collaboration.
Recognizing the economic future of the region, Chairman deViere detailed investments in infrastructure corridors, small business growth, and housing accessibility, all grounded in sound fiscal stewardship.
“We’re not just keeping pace with change, we’re driving it,” Chairman deViere said. “Our mission is clear: to create a Cumberland County where every resident can live with dignity, every child can dream with confidence, and every family can build a life of purpose.”
Chairman deViere closed the address by reaffirming the importance of community collaboration and civic engagement in achieving long-term goals.
“Government alone cannot build the future we imagine,” he said. “It depends on partnerships. And, most of all, it depends on you.”
The full State of the County Address is available on the County’s YouTube Channel.
For more information about Cumberland County visit cumberlandcountync.gov or follow the County on social media at @CCNCGov.