Dees: Board was proactive during retreat
Eddie Dees
Hope Mills mayor
Hope Mills may soon have two much anticipated recreation facilities.
At their annual retreat on Feb. 17, town commissioners took action that moved the skate park and the historic Heritage Park closer to reality.
Using approximately $27,000 set aside in a project fund for the skate park, the board approved an additional $11,000 to finish the project. A site was selected for the location of the park, behind the concession stand at Municipal Park, to utilize the existing lighting and restroom facilities.
The board also discussed the development of the Heritage Park, at the site of the original cotton factory beside the lake. The board unanimously agreed to proceed with plans to have N.C. State University develop a plan for the park. The funds needed to implement the plan would be used from revenue received from developer Parks and Recreation fees.
The board was proactive in other action as well.
Commissioners discussed annexation plans and agreed to review all existing water and sewer annexation agreements and prioritize voluntary annexation plans. They also agreed to work with the Cumberland County Planning Department to implement plans to close up "doughnut holes" through the town and explore other opportunities in the town's Municipal Influence Area.
The board approved a capital improvement plan and prioritized needs for the town, including the Public Works building, the police station and the necessity of a satellite fire station. Increased staffing needs for both the police and fire departments also were discussed and action was taken to hire additional personal in accord with growth and annexation.
Commissioners also agree to utilize town property off of Legion Road for parks and recreation soccer fields and discussed the need for lighting of the Hope Mills Lake Dam. Money was approved to replace the town pier at the lake.
The board also discussed public transportation, the possibility of a town funded shuttle program and the possibility of working with Fayetteville's existing bus system. Marketing was also discussed, particularly the area around the Exit 41, interchange at Interstate 95.
The board made this year's retreat a down-to-business meeting and it was unfortunate that the media has been unable to report these events. Actions taken at this retreat will go a long way in continuing to improve the town's quality of life.
Eddie Dees is mayor of Hope Mills.