In a recent special meeting held on May 19, 2025, the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners confronted pressing issues surrounding emergency shelter services for the unhoused population in Fayetteville. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as board members discussed the financial and operational challenges facing their community.

The meeting revealed a stark reality: the board has withdrawn over $350,000 from unrestricted reserves since Christmas to maintain operations, a situation that board members acknowledged is unsustainable. “We’ve got some real work and real accountability with our board members,” one commissioner stated, emphasizing the need for transparency and effective communication within the board.

As discussions progressed, the focus shifted to the impending transition of leadership within the Salvation Army, which plays a crucial role in local shelter services. Concerns were raised about the timing of negotiations for a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the organization, given that new leadership may bring different perspectives and priorities. “It’s hard to make an agreement with someone on the way out the door,” one commissioner noted, highlighting the precariousness of the situation for those in need of shelter.

The board ultimately moved towards a decision, with Vice Chairwoman Jones proposing a motion to negotiate an MOU for emergency shelter services with the Salvation Army, not to exceed $463,000 annually. This proposal included provisions for environmental health inspections and ongoing assessments of the facilities. The board also expressed a desire to explore potential financial contributions from the city of Fayetteville, recognizing that addressing homelessness is a shared responsibility.

As the discussion unfolded, tensions emerged regarding the financial implications of the proposed agreement. Some commissioners voiced concerns about the county taking on responsibilities that should be shared with the city, emphasizing the need for collaboration. “We have to be mindful that the services they provide are the responsibility of both the county and the city,” one commissioner remarked, advocating for a balanced approach to funding.

The meeting concluded with a sense of determination among board members to tackle the challenges ahead. As they prepare to negotiate with the Salvation Army, the commissioners are acutely aware of the urgency of their mission: to provide support and shelter for those in need, while ensuring fiscal responsibility and community collaboration. The path forward remains uncertain, but the commitment to serve the community is clear.