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Developer says grocery store, two‑story coffee shop moving forward; permits under county review
Summary
United Partners of Health representative Jerome Brown told the board building work is progressing: equipment is purchased and stored, structural issues are being addressed, and the project is under Pitt County zoning review with documents expected in June.
Jerome Brown, representing United Partners of Health, updated the board on progress at the planned Bethel grocery store and an adjoining two‑story coffee shop.
Brown told the commissioners the project encountered structural issues that required additional foundation and canopy support work. "The steel is in the current ceiling ... cannot currently hold pretty much anything," he said, explaining why deeper footings and new structural work are needed. He said refrigeration equipment and other grocery‑store fixtures have been purchased and are being held in storage, ready to be installed once site work and permitting are complete.
Brown said the town manager and mayor have reviewed documents that are being sent to Pitt County zoning for review; he expects county review activity in June. He also described plans for a two‑story coffee shop with an upper level for small meetings and community performances.
Town staff and commissioners asked timing and operational questions; Brown said the coffee shop plans include a menu of coffee, bagels, baked goods and light items, and said staffing and hours are being developed. He asked residents to support hiring and local applications when positions open.
No formal action was required; the board thanked Brown for the update and moved on to the next agenda item.
