Highlights about Public Engagement

The council passed a new budget with a significant tax increase, expanded investments in worker pay, fare-free buses, and homelessness services, while also approving a $1.5 million loan for public housing. Two townhouse rezoning requests sparked debate over affordable housing and small developers, and a major Hayti neighborhood rezoning was continued for further community input.

The council held its last public hearing on the budget, heard about a milestone in the Mayor's Bull City Future Fund, and finalized a resolution supporting Amazon workers’ right to unionize. Residents weighed in on affordable housing, street safety, and expanding the HEART program.

The council approved a major 25-year solar energy contract and debated a new fee for assisted living facilities needing lift assists, raising questions about fairness and public input. Members also responded to the sudden Wyndham hotel closure, discussed downtown redevelopment, and heard calls for more support for harm reduction and public comment access.

The council delves into public comment rules, addressing consistency and enforcement, while debating bus bench agreements, including political signage and potential revenue use for shelter improvements. Concerns about diversity in the Growth Alliance and stalled Eastside plans are also raised.