Community. I hear this word so often and in so many different situations but the one that matters the most to me is the community where I live. The City of Fayetteville is actively working towards building our community – one citizen at a time. I recently had a chance to see that work for myself as part of the Citizens’ Academy.
The Citizens’ Academy
The Citizens’ Academy is the City of Fayetteville’s purpose in action. Four times a year they accept applications from everyday citizens – city workers, business owners, veterans and even Bloggers – who want to impact a change in their community. The Academy is a full day of hands on experience with what it takes to make our city work.
Be The Good
I remember the day I saw the announcement for this month’s Citizens’ Academy. I wasn’t sure what it was but I knew I needed to move beyond my comfort zone and be a part of the force moving my city forward. As a Blogger, I often share, support and cover the events and happenings within our city. Yet is that enough? I have come to a place where I want to have an active voice in the decisions that help make the changes we need the most. For me the Citizens’ Academy is my first step.
Citizens In Charge
The Citizens’ Academy started with introductions and presentations from the Assistant City Manager – Jay Reinstein, Director of Development Services – Gerald Newton and Assistant Director of Permitting & Inspections, Planning & Code Enforcement. – Michael Martin. Although they carry the responsibility for many of the decision made in our city they presented themselves as citizens – just like us – who want nothing but the best for Fayetteville.
I was most surprised by how passionate and excited they were to share what they do and why they do it. I was impressed by their willingness to answer questions and spark interaction with each of us.
Did You Know?
The City of Fayetteville was Voted “Most Innovative City In The United States”
Fayetteville Observer
Assistant City Manager Jay Reinstein shared the vision for where Fayetteville as a city is headed. The new developments underway including 2 hotels, a baseball stadium, airpot renovations and the recently completed FAST Transit Center. I could tell that for Mr. Reinstein being a part of this growth is more than a job title. It is something he believes in enough to move beyond the traditional rules of city government and bring in the citizens to help accomplish goals that will benefit all involved.
As someone who has worked from every level of development from Contractor to developer, Director Newton has the unique skill set that allows him to lead assertively, judiciously and with innovation. I was excited when Director Newton drew upon his skills as a teacher to give the members of the academy a quick lesson on the values needed to be in public service. If you guys know me you know I love learning.
Public Service Values:
Accountability and Representation
Efficiency and Effectiveness
Social Equity and Diversity
Justice in both Individual and Collective Rights
Throughout the day I saw Director Newton’s passion and dedication to being a true example of each of these values in his interaction and support of those around him.
Michael Martin comes from a background of Public Service. As a former Fire Fighter he knows the importance of safety and as Assistant Director of Permitting & Inspections, Planning & Code Enforcement he takes that natural concern and puts it to work for our city.
Did You Know?
The Fayetteville Code Enforcement Department addresses and responds to
14,000 Code Issues Per Year
For every structure and building in Fayetteville from businesses to homes there are 6 Codes that need to be followed and reviewed to ensure they are built with the safety of our citizens in mind.
Building, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fuel/Gas, Fire and Accessibility. *For homes there is also the NC Residential code.
Prince Charles Hotel
The next part of the Academy introduced us to the brains and passion behind the ongoing renovations and construction of the Prince Charles Hotel – Project Manager Jordan Jones. Jordan shared the vision of not only the restoration of this Historical Landmark but the innovation behind the baseball stadium, hotel and retail spaces meant to surround it.
The Prince Charles hotel was built between 1923 and 1925 as one of the premier hotels in Fayetteville. The hotel has gone through several renovations and updates that resulted in code violations and finally closing in 2010. Now with a renewed determination and new visions for this historical building the entire city of Fayetteville is excited for what’s ahead.
Did You Know?
The Prince Charles Hotel marque used to read FIREPROOF.
This was because during the 1920s many structure were built from wood and very flammable.
The Prince Charles was built with steel and therefore less likely to burn as fast.
After Jordan shared the plans for not only the Prince Charles but the surrounding area the entire Citizen’s Academy took a field trip across the street where we had the chance to see things first-hand.
Out & About
As you can see in the video, once we finished our hard hat tour of The Prince Charles we went on to explore and experience a few of the Departments and people who help keep things running in Fayetteville.
My favorite part of the day had to be the chance to test my high school archery skills at Arnette Park. I was new to the crossbow but still able to make the target and have a bit of fun at the same time!
Did You Know?
Fayetteville’s J. Bayard Clark Park offers archery classes.
Children and Adults alike can learn all they need to know to have their own archery fun.
J. Bayard Clark Park
At The End Of The Day
I can truly say after my experience as a part of the Citizens’ Academy I have a brand new understanding and appreciation for what it takes to run a city. I admire the passion and commitment I have witnessed in the men and women working hard to make Fayetteville the city we all know it can be.
Are you active within your city government?
Would you like to be a part of a Citizens’ Academy for your city?
“Believe in yourself, your passions, and your dreams. Your voice is unique - build on that. Embrace what is different about you and make it your greatest asset!”
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