Economic & Community Development

ECD Economic Development Manager Receives Excellence in Action Award

ECD Economic Development Manager Derrick McArthur received the City's Excellence in Action award from City Manager Dr. Doug Hewett on August 5, 2026. Derrick was recognized for his contributions to the City through his economic development programming, and was one of four employees who received the honor. ECD is proud of Derrick and thankful for the hard work and dedication he brings to the team. Congratulations, Derrick!

City Invests More Than $1M in Nonprofit Programs Serving Residents

The City of Fayetteville is investing $1,020,471 in resident-centered programs that address everyday barriers to stability and opportunity. The 2026-2027 awards will help residents prepare for employment, access food and health care, remain safely housed, connect to treatment and supportive services, participate in youth mentoring and complete critical home repairs.

This investment advances the Economic and Community Development Department’s mission to strengthen neighborhoods, support economic growth and improve quality of life for all residents. It also aligns with City Council priorities related to community safety, economic growth, housing and neighborhood revitalization and resident connectivity.

To read more, click here.

ECD Leaders Earn Prestigious Professional Certifications

ECD is celebrating two significant professional achievements within the department. Director Chris Cauley and Economic Development Manager Derrick McArthur have earned nationally and statewide recognized economic development certifications that further strengthen the City's ability to support business growth, redevelopment, and investment.

Chris earned the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation from the International Economic Development Council, one of the profession's most respected credentials, and Derrick recently earned the North Carolina Certified Economic Developer (NCCED) designation through the North Carolina Economic Development Association.

These achievements reflect the department's ongoing commitment to professional excellence and continuous learning, ensuring Fayetteville's residents, businesses, and development partners are served by knowledgeable professionals equipped to meet the community's evolving needs.

ECD Launches New "Can Do" Economic Programs

The City of Fayetteville is committed to partnering with business leaders to build a stronger economy for all residents. Economic development efforts in the City include economic incentives, federally funded programs, and strategies that support disadvantaged business enterprises.

The City’s Can-Do Economic Development Programs are designed to support small businesses, encourage private investment, revitalize commercial corridors, and strengthen economic growth throughout the community. The program focuses on creating flexible, business-friendly tools that help businesses start, expand, improve properties, and reinvest in Fayetteville.

Together, the Can-Do programs create a coordinated economic development strategy focused on business growth, corridor revitalization, job creation, and building a stronger, more vibrant Fayetteville economy.

Chris Cauley serves as Director of the City of Fayetteville's Economic and Community Development Department. With more than a decade of local government experience, he brings expertise in strategic planning, budget management, organizational excellence, and community economic development. Chris is also a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), a globally recognized credential that reflects his commitment to advancing economic development through professional excellence.

Since joining ECD in 2019 as Assistant Director, Chris has led the department in expanding funding opportunities, strengthening the City's use of federal resources, and fostering a collaborative, team-oriented culture.

In 2022, Chris was recognized as one of the Fayetteville Observer's 40 Under 40. He also serves on the board of the Fayetteville-Cumberland County Continuum of Care on Homelessness, supporting initiatives that improve quality of life throughout the community.

At the Economic and Community Development (ECD) Department, our work is powered by a dedicated team committed to strengthening Fayetteville. With expertise in housing, economic development, community partnerships, and federal grant management, we work collaboratively to create lasting, positive change for our residents.

The Fayetteville Redevelopment Commission (FRC) is a seven-member board appointed by City Council that serves as the primary citizen participation body for projects funded through the City’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG), and HOME Investment Partnership programs.

The FRC works in partnership with the Economic and Community Development (ECD) Department to provide guidance on housing, community, and economic development priorities, with a focus on supporting older, declining, and low- to moderate-income neighborhoods.

Following annual public hearings, the Commission submits its recommendations and an annual progress report to City Council and other stakeholders.

Members

• Mr. Derek Scott - Chair
• Mr. Teddy Warner - Vice Chair
• Ms. Brittany McLaurin
• Ms. Dineen Morton
• Ms. Katherine Smalls
• Ms. Keshonta Williams
• Mr. Tyler Patton

Meetings

FRC meetings take place on the first Wednesday of each month from 2 to 3 PM in the OD&T Training Classroom at 225 Ray Avenue, Suite 122. For more information about the City’s Boards and Commissions, including how to apply for a position, please visit the City Council’s website.