The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing in Room 118 of the County Courthouse at 117 Dick Street, June 17, 2024. The purpose of the hearing is to receive public comments on a proposed Economic Development Incentive being considered for "Project Smartie," an internationally headquartered company that is considering an existing building on Corporation Drive, for a new manufacturing facility. The company manufactures products for the solar industry.

Details of the project were shared in a public notice on June 7. The project shall create a significant investment in real estate and equipment in Cumberland County exceeding $159,000,000 over the next five years, and create 815 full-time jobs in the County by 2028 with an average wage exceeding $53,000.

“This project exemplifies the direction we want to head in terms of economic development.  Attracting next generation jobs and FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) are two of our top goals.  We are going to do everything we can to attract these good paying jobs to our community,” remarked Robert Van Geons, President and CEO of the Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Center.

The County's proposed incentive offer consists of an incentive grant, not to exceed $3,500,000, paid over five years. All persons interested in this project are invited to attend this public hearing and present their views.