Cumberland County is set to embark on a significant strategic planning initiative after the Board of Commissioners voted to select Barry Dunn for the task during their meeting on May 8, 2025. This decision aims to address the county's outdated strategic plan, which has not been revised since 2008, and to better align the county's operations with its current financial realities.

Commissioners emphasized the importance of this strategic plan, noting that the county's budget has been structurally deficient, with expenses consistently outpacing revenues. The new plan is expected to provide a comprehensive assessment of county operations and identify areas for improvement, ensuring that taxpayer funds are utilized effectively.

The decision to move forward with Barry Dunn followed a rigorous Request for Proposal (RFP) process, which attracted interest from 20 firms. The selection was based on a thorough evaluation of the proposals, although some commissioners expressed concerns about the clarity and detail of the submissions. The estimated cost for the strategic planning initiative is between $150,000 and $200,000, with the possibility of securing state grants to offset expenses.

Despite the approval, there was notable dissent among commissioners regarding the timing and necessity of the plan, particularly in light of uncertainties surrounding federal funding. Some argued that the current economic climate makes it challenging to commit to long-term planning. However, proponents of the initiative stressed the need for proactive measures to prepare for future growth and challenges facing the county.

As the county moves forward with this strategic planning effort, officials are hopeful that it will lead to more informed decision-making and better resource allocation in the years to come. The next steps involve negotiating a contract with Barry Dunn, which will be presented for commissioner review and approval.