Goldsboro signs contracts with Crossroads Strategies and Friends of Seymour; council adds language on legislative input and reporting

The Goldsboro City Council on Sept. 8, 2025, unanimously authorized execution of a consulting agreement with Crossroads Strategies and approved a modified agreement with Friends of Seymour that adds explicit council input on legislative priorities and reporting expectations.

Council members debated whether the Crossroads contract should be expanded beyond its current mission to pursue quality-of-life objectives (housing, childcare, education, public safety). Several council members urged written direction and clarity on the scope of work; staff and council were clear that expanding Crossroads’ scope would require renegotiation and additional funding. Staff said Crossroads has indicated willingness to provide additional services under a revised contract.

Council amended the Friends of Seymour agreement to add language under Section 13 specifying that Friends of Seymour should engage on quality-of-life matters “including but not limited to childcare, housing, public safety, infrastructure, public education, and other legislative initiatives as defined in resolution by council.” Council also clarified expectations for liaison reporting: liaisons should report to elected bodies no less than quarterly and as often as necessary when conditions require. Council discussed monthly written updates from Crossroads as a possibility; Crossroads indicated openness to providing consistent reports.

The council noted coordination with Wayne County and said county leadership indicated support for extending or broadening joint consulting efforts should the city pursue that path. Council approved the Crossroads resolution authorizing the mayor to execute an agreement and approved the modified Friends of Seymour agreement; both votes were unanimous.

During the discussion, Ken Gerard of Friends of Seymour briefed council on ongoing federal advocacy tied to the National Defense Authorization Act and said the organization and Crossroads were actively pursuing language to protect operational squadrons at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. Gerard and council emphasized the interconnectedness of protecting mission assets and addressing quality-of-life needs that support military families.

Council directed staff to finalize the Crossroads and Friends of Seymour agreements as modified and to return with any proposed addenda or changes (including potential joint city–county language) if council decides to expand the consultants’ scope.