Cumberland County's Board of Commissioners made significant strides in community support during their regular meeting on May 19, 2025, approving a series of community impact grants aimed at enhancing local services across various sectors.

The board unanimously approved a community impact grant list for faith-based services, which will provide essential funding to support local initiatives. This decision reflects the county's commitment to fostering community resilience and support networks.

In a further demonstration of their dedication to public safety, the commissioners allocated substantial funding to emergency response services. Grants totaling $250,000 were distributed among several volunteer fire departments, including $40,000 each to the Pierce Military Mills Fire Department and the Wade Community Fire Department. This funding is expected to bolster the capabilities of these vital services, ensuring they can respond effectively to emergencies in the community.

The board also recognized the importance of youth development by approving grants for educational programs. Organizations such as the Young Men's Christian Association and the Future Starts Now Incorporation received funding to support their initiatives, which aim to empower and educate the youth of Cumberland County.

Additionally, the commissioners addressed the arts and culture sector by approving grants for various organizations, including the Federal Symphony Orchestra and the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens. These grants are intended to enhance cultural offerings and community engagement through the arts.

In a separate but equally important discussion, the board reviewed a new three-year contract with ProactiveMD for employee health services. The contract, which includes performance metrics and accountability measures, aims to improve healthcare access for county employees while ensuring quality service delivery. The contract stipulates that if performance targets are not met, financial penalties will be imposed, reinforcing the county's commitment to high standards in employee health services.

Lastly, the board discussed a new ordinance regulating the use of explosives at firing ranges, which aims to enhance safety and compliance with federal regulations. This ordinance reflects the county's proactive approach to managing public safety concerns related to firearms and explosives.

Overall, the decisions made during this meeting highlight Cumberland County's commitment to enhancing community services, supporting public safety, and fostering a vibrant cultural landscape. The board's actions are expected to have a lasting positive impact on the community, addressing critical needs and promoting growth across various sectors.