These projects include Dunham's Sports, Popeyes and Sheetz.

Lasky said a building permit has been issued for Popeyes and construction should be completed by the end of the year.

Dunham's received its certificate of compliance and is currently stocking the store. It is eyeing a November 15 opening.

Following the meeting Lasky told reporters that Sheetz has submitted preliminary site plans, mainly for discussion purposes.

She said the Roanoke Rapids Sheetz, planned to be built on the location of the former Ryan's, will be built in the style of one in Rocky Mount.

Construction of the Sheetz, however, will be following a specific order as the Pennsylvania company expands into the region, meaning building may start as late as 2015 or 2016.

Meanwhile, in her report to council this evening, Cathy Scott, director of the county development commission, referenced Dunham's and Sheetz, along with the completed Nissan dealership.

Scott said Dunham's, which is located in what will be the building planned for Farm Fresh off Premier Boulevard, and their representatives will be working “diligently to fill the other spaces” in the proposed shopping center.

From left, Vandeventer, Wells, Turner and Glenn.

In another matter this evening, Fire Chief Stacy Coggins held a promotion and new hire ceremony.

Coggins recognized new firefighters Jeremy Wells and Lee Vandeventer and recognized the promotions of Matt Glenn to lieutenant and Chad Turner to engineer.