Your Future Neighbors
- Local70
- Mar 2
- 3 min read
A Town Built on Connection, Charm, and Opportunity
Smithfield is more than just a town—it’s a community where connection and opportunity thrive. In our new series, “Your Future Neighbors,” we highlight the people who make Smithfield special, from long-time residents to local leaders. In this first installment, we sat down with Smithfield’s Town Manager, Michael Scott, to discuss what makes this town unique and its exciting future.
What Makes Smithfield a Special Place to Live?
“Location, location, location. We’re situated between two major highways—Highway 70 and Highway 301—with Interstate 95 running along our eastern border. We’re about two hours from the North Carolina beaches and 2.5 hours from the mountains. With 13 hotels, an 88-store Premium Outlet Mall, a movie theater, and a variety of restaurants, Smithfield is an ideal place to live. We also offer a community college, municipal utilities, and outstanding government services.”
How would you describe Smithfield’s sense of community to someone considering moving here?
“Smithfield’s Community is built around its Parks and Recreation Services. Smithfield offers outstanding sports and park events for children of all ages. Our state-of-the-art recreation and aquatic center features an Olympic-sized pool, basketball courts, an indoor track, and fitness facilities. Community Park and Smith Collins Park host baseball leagues, tennis, and pickleball. Scenic walking trails, a splash pad, and a newly renovated outdoor amphitheater bring entertainment to the town year-round. We also offer many opportunities to become members of faith based groups and religious organizations.”
Are there unique traditions or events in Smithfield that you think define its character?
“The Ham & Yam Festival, now in its 39th year, kicks off summer with live music, a BBQ competition, and family-friendly activities. Over 10,000 people typically attend this one day event. Each August, the River Rat Regatta sees participants racing homemade cardboard boats down the Neuse River. Throughout the year, we host free concerts and community events downtown and at the amphitheater.”
Smithfield has seen exciting growth in recent years. Can you share your vision for the town’s future development?
"First and foremost, Smithfield is a “Town.” It is not a City and we fully expect to maintain and defend out “Town” charm and our “Town” atmosphere that everyone enjoys. With pharmaceutical manufacturers, Amazon’s distribution center, and expanding industrial developments, new job opportunities are growing. UNC/Johnston Hospital, nursing, and assisted living centers make us a place for all ages. Over 2,000 homes are planned to support our growth while keeping Smithfield’s small-town atmosphere."
How does the Town encourage community engagement and involvement from residents?
"The Town Council meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7:00pm in Town Hall, and residents can join various government committees. The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation (DSDC) managing the Town’s downtown district, Library, Museums and Social District. We keep the community informed through social media, local news, and digital alerts."
What role do you see Smithfield playing in the larger region over the next 5-10 years?
"Smithfield is currently the County Seat of Johnston County, one of the fastest growing Counties in North Carolina. Smithfield will continue to play a leadership role, working with our partners in County Government, our neighbors in municipal government and our state a federal leaders. But mostly we want to provide a great place for our citizens to work, live and play in a safe and fun environment."
As Town Manager, what is your proudest accomplishment in leading Smithfield?
“I still have lots of goals and things to accomplish here in Smithfield, so I hope my proudest moment is yet to come. I am happy that we have assembled the most diverse workforce in Smithfield’s history, and we have department leaders that treat everyone in the community like they are their own family members, working diligently to create an atmosphere that puts quality of life and service above self. This is further echoed by our elected officials who work tirelessly to keep service levels high and taxes and fees low.”
If you could share one message with current and future residents, what would it be?
“Smithfield—It’s where it’s at.”
Town Manager Scott’s passion for Smithfield shines through in every aspect of his work. Whether you’re already a resident or considering making Smithfield your home, there’s so much to love about this community. This series is just beginning! Stay tuned for more personal stories from the people who love Smithfield, giving you an insider’s look at what makes this town such a great place to live, work, and grow.
