Cumberland County Chief Deputy Sheriff Ennis Wright is serving as interim sheriff until the 2018 election. He succeeds Sheriff Moose Butler who retired the end of December, two years before his term expires. County Commissioners unanimously selected Wright. He was one of 10 individuals who indicated an interest in serving. Commissioners set Wright’s annual salary at $145,025. It was based on the average of salaries of sheriffs in the seven largest counties in the state, said County Manager Amy Cannon. Wright is a 20-year veteran of the sheriff’s office and served as chief deputy for several years. He’s the first African-American to hold the position of sheriff of Cumberland County. The three highest ranking public safety officials in Cumberland County are black; Wright, Interim Fayetteville Police Chief Anthony Kelly and Fayetteville Fire Chief Ben Major.

Storm Damage Grants
The City of Fayetteville and County of Cumberland continue to help victims of Hurricane Matthew with housing repair grants. The Community Development departments are taking applications to help those in need recover from damage caused by the October storm. Assistance is available to low- and moderate-income homeowners and some rental property owners. The goal is to relieve the financial burden of property owners with housing repair costs not covered by FEMA, SBA or private insurance. The city is offering grants and no-interest loans of up to $5,000. Persons who meet HUD’s income guidelines are eligible to apply. The county is offering $10,000 housing rehab grants. The respective Community Development departments can provide information.

Hurricane Debris Collection
Storm debris collection in rural areas of Cumberland County has resumed. So far, the county’s contractors have picked up 270 tons of storm debris in neighborhoods outside the city limits. Cumberland County has contracted with two companies for debris-related services. Residents are asked to separate construction and building materials from leaves and tree branches. Major appliances should also be separated from other debris. Regular household trash should not be included with the debris. The Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center at 923 Wilkes Road will be open on Jan. 14 and 28 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Questions regarding debris removal can be answered at 910-678-7633.