TO: Mayor and Members of City Council
THRU: Douglas J. Hewett, ICMA-CM, City Manager
FROM: Chris Williams, Management Analyst
DATE: March 23, 2026
RE:Title
Senior Technology Literacy InitiativeTitle
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COUNCIL DISTRICT(S):
Council District(s)
ALL
b
Relationship To Strategic Plan:
Goal II: The City of Fayetteville will have a Responsive City Government Supporting a Diverse and Viable Economy
Executive Summary:
The Senior Technology Literacy Initiative agenda item explores opportunities to expand technology learning resources for older adults at City senior and recreation centers. Technology classes are already offered at both senior centers through partnerships with the Cumberland County Library, with recurring sessions and periodic special programming.
Staff review also identified several considerations related to equipment availability and partnership opportunities. Currently, IT is evaluating options for deploying approximately 15-20 City-managed devices to support technology instruction at recreation facilities. Staff also initiated discussions with the Fayetteville-Cumberland Youth Council and the Cumberland County Council on Older Adults to explore potential partnerships that could enhance technology learning opportunities and outreach to seniors.
Background:
This Agenda Item was a request to explore opportunities to expand technology learning resources for older adults within City facilities.
Issues/Analysis:
Technology learning opportunities are currently offered at both City senior centers through partnerships with the Cumberland County Library. Expanding programming would likely build upon these existing partnerships rather than require development of an entirely new program.
This agenda item also included consideration of accepting donated devices such as computers or tablets. While recreation centers may occasionally have limited equipment available, staff feedback indicates that many seniors prefer learning on personal devices they already own and use. Establishing a formal donation program may also introduce operational considerations such as device compatibility, maintenance, storage, and potential liability. IT has also noted that several policy and operational issues are currently being evaluated regarding the disposition of City technology equipment, including compliance with North Carolina General Statutes and the identification of devices acquired through grant funding that cannot be resold or donated. As an alternative approach, Information Technology is exploring the procurement of approximately 15-20 devices that could be placed under the oversight of Parks and Rec to support technology instruction at recreation facilities, particularly senior centers.
Staff also explored potential partnership opportunities that could support expanded technology learning access. Discussions with the Fayetteville-Cumberland Youth Council identified a concept in which youth participants could develop and deliver a multi-session technology learning curriculum for seniors. Additionally, staff have initiated coordination with the Cumberland County Council on Older Adults to exchange ideas and explore opportunities to improve outreach and identify community needs related to senior technology learning.
Budget Impact:
No additional funding has been identified to support the technology programming currently offered at City senior centers in partnership with the Cumberland County Library. Currently, programs operate using existing facilities and staff coordination.
If future program expansion or development of a device donation process is pursued, minor operational costs related to equipment management, storage, or maintenance may occur. Any future costs would be evaluated through the normal departmental budgeting process.
Options:
This report is for information only
Recommended Action::Recommended Action
For information only, no action required unless Council moves to add to an upcoming Work Session.
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Attachments:
Admin memo and Rec Center Calendar