Public Meetings - Chapel Hill, North Carolina

The Chapel Hill Community Design Commission met virtually on April 30, 2026, at 5:30 PM. The meeting included approval of the consent agenda, review and action on two new business items (701 Martin Luther King Blvd and 11 White Oak Drive), and a recommendation to council for two new commissioner applicants. Chair Heather Washburn and Commissioner Annie Ullman announced their upcoming departures at the end of June. Consent Calendar - Approved two items: (1) an elevation modification for the affordable housing project at 107 Johnson (Peach Apartments) and (2) a minor Certificate of Appropriateness modification for a mural on a screen wall and pool equipment room at 1301 Fordham Blvd (Millennium Chapel Hill). Both were approved unanimously without discussion. Discussion Items - 701 Martin Luther King Blvd – The Paces (Landmark Properties): The applicant presented a five-level podium project with 190 units, a public plaza, and a multi-use path. The design includes a masonry base, metal panels, fiber cement siding, and a “mountain scape” parapet. Commissioners raised concerns about the building’s height (seven stories), monolithic massing, lack of pedestrian-scale features, and material choices (too much fiber cement, gray color). Some praised the public plaza and transit connections. The commission voted 4–2 to approve the project. Voting in favor: Kim Andrews, John Biggs, Jim Faron, Kelsey Brinkley, Patrick Brennan. Voting against: Annie Ullman, Heather Washburn (who expressed a desire for more design refinement). - 11 White Oak Drive – Muze Chapel Hill (Zom Living): The applicant presented a 400-unit project (384 flats and 16 townhomes) on a site with an ephemeral stream and preserved vegetation. The design features gable and flat-roof forms, dark brick, fiber cement siding, and extensive landscaping with a pet park, greenway, and outdoor amenities. Commissioners praised the thoughtful site design, massing, materials, and integration with nature. A few comments suggested using red brick instead of black brick to match regional vernacular. The commission voted unanimously to approve (all voting members in favor). Key Outcomes - The Paces: Approved (4–2) with a note that no further commission action is required. - Muze Chapel Hill: Approved unanimously. - Commissioner Vacancies: The commission reviewed two applicants (Kelly Mills and Rachel), discussed their limited design background, but ultimately voted unanimously to recommend both to Town Council for appointment. The recusing chair and outgoing commissioner abstained. The next meeting is scheduled for May 26, 2026.

On April 29, 2026, at 6:00 PM, the Chapel Hill Town Council convened in the Council Chamber. The meeting featured three proclamations, a public hearing on proposed charter amendments, updates on the 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan and planning for the Southern Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ), discussion of a proposed OWASA reimbursement policy, and action to join a national opioid settlement. The council also approved a consent agenda and entered closed session. The meeting adjourned at 10:52 PM. Proclamations - Bike Month (May 2026): Council Member Rivers invited Shift Chapel Hill-Carrboro to the podium. The proclamation highlighted biking benefits and invited participation in Bike and Roll to School Day (May 6) and Bike to Work Week (May 11-17). - Small Business Week (May 3-9, 2026): Council Member Sharp invited Economic Development Director David Putnam and local business representatives (Growler Grlz, Olmaz Jewelers) to the podium. The council recognized small businesses' role in jobs, innovation, and community character. - Period Poverty Awareness Week (May 11-17, 2026): Council Member Ryan invited Madison Lewis from the Diaper Bank of North Carolina to the podium. The council acknowledged challenges accessing menstrual products and encouraged support for local initiatives. Announcements by Council Members - Mayor Anderson: Concluded Poetry Month with a library event; pickleball courts at Ephesus Park closed for 3 weeks for resurfacing; community survey launched; reminded of May 6 meeting where Town Manager will present recommended budget. - Council Member Nollert: Encouraged advocacy for Workforce Housing Loan program; raised concerns about recent Medicaid rebase provisions including work requirements and reporting requirements for non-citizens. - Council Member McMahon: Requested that the Planning Commission be allowed to meet in-person at Town Hall for LUMO review and training. Council members affirmed support; Town Manager noted ongoing work to enable in-person meetings once a month. Consent Calendar The consent agenda was approved unanimously (motion by Council Member Ryan, second by Council Member Miller-Foushee). Items included: - Recommended 2026-27 Community Development Block Grant Annual Action Plan (Resolution R-1, Ordinance O-1) - FY 2025-26 Audit Services – Authority to extend contract with Mauldin & Jenkins for $61,000 (Resolution R-2) - Appointment to OWASA Board of Directors – Judith Miller appointed effective April 30, 2026 Public Comments & Testimony Charter Amendments Public Hearing (Item 7): Eight speakers addressed the council. Key positions: - Danita Mason-Hogans (generational Black Chapel Hillian): Opposed reducing council size, stating it would consolidate power and raise barriers for marginalized communities. Urged expanding meaningful representation. - Mark Kleinschmidt (former mayor): Opposed reduction; cited historical context (1975 expansion to eight seats) and argued four-year mayoral term would create two classes of council members and reduce voter turnout in non-mayoral years. - Betty Curry (community advocate, Empowerment Inc. board): Opposed process and lack of outreach to Black, Latino, low-income, and renter communities. Called for pause and meaningful engagement. - Nancy Oates (former council member): Opposed four-year mayoral term as a form of gerrymandering; argued it nullifies voter voice. Favored referendum, not council vote. - Yvette Mathews (community organizer): Opposed reduction; expressed concern that smaller council would reduce representation for people of color. Noted she only learned of proposal through word of mouth. - Will Raymond: Opposed reduction; criticized limited outreach and timing (May during exams). Favored keeping current arrangement and adding recall provision and term limits. - Delores Bailey (Empowerment Inc. executive director): Opposed reduction and four-year mayoral term; stated lack of outreach to NAACP and community. Argued two-year terms ensure accountability. - Michelle Laws: Opposed reduction and four-year term, citing national context (Voting Rights Act ruling). Noted Chapel Hill's achievement gap and housing crisis require many voices, not fewer. OWASA Reimbursement Policy (Item 9): Ian Scott (Chamber of Commerce) spoke in support, stating the policy could catalyze development, reduce infrastructure barriers, and advance economic goals. He encouraged council to authorize mayor to transmit comments. Discussion Items - 7. Public Hearing: Proposed Charter Amendments – Council Size and Mayoral Term - Proposal: Reduce council from 8 to 6 members; extend mayor's term from 2 to 4 years. - Process: Town Manager outlined two options – council ordinance or referendum. Public could petition for referendum within 30 days of ordinance adoption. Timeline to appear on November 2026 ballot required action by June. - Council Deliberation: After hearing public comments, council members expressed concerns about insufficient community engagement, potential negative impact on representation, and pace. Several members stated they could not support changes without broader input. Mayor Anderson noted no ordinance would be drafted absent further direction. Hearing closed without action; proposal effectively dead. - 8. 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan Update - Presentation: Colleen McGue (Triangle West TPO) presented "Destination 2055," projecting 1.5 million new residents by 2055 (population from 2 to 3.4 million). Plan includes transit expansion (bus rapid transit, intercity rail), bicycle/pedestrian facilities, and roadway modernization. Fiscally constrained with 80% federal, 20% local match. - Council Discussion: Questions about local funding liability, project scoring, and connections to airport (RTP line with I-40 connection planned for third decade). Council received and filed the update. - 10. Update Regarding Planning in the Southern Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) - Presentation (Tas Lagoo, Planning): History of Water and Sewer Management, Planning and Boundary Agreement (WASMPBA) expansion (360 acres, 139 parcels) to allow local planning. Development potential constrained by environmental and economic factors. Sewer alignment study: technically feasible but expensive – creekside gravity option $20 million, 15-501 alignment $40 million. Estimated gross density 3-6 units/acre across 360 acres, translating to 1,100-2,200 units. After excluding roads, stream buffers, high-value properties, and other constraints, 90 acres likely developable at 12-25 units/acre. - Council Discussion: Questions about soil conditions, greenway alignment possibilities, feasibility of missing-middle housing (limited due to high infrastructure costs), and potential for public investment or density nodes. Council received and filed the update; expressed desire for future reports. - 9. Proposed OWASA Reimbursement Policy - Presentation: Policy would allow developers who extend water/sewer lines to receive partial reimbursement from future benefiting property owners, reducing "first-mover disadvantage." OWASA Deputy Executive Director Monica Dudson clarified eligibility and administration. - Council Discussion: Support for policy with comments on equity, affordable housing, 20-year reimbursement timeline (vs. proposed 10), and need to assist low-income households already in the area. Council adopted Resolution R-3 authorizing Mayor to transmit comments reflecting these themes. Unanimous vote. - 11. Participate in the National Opioid Settlement with the Six Remnant Defendants - Action: Resolution authorizing Town Manager to execute participation and release form for one-time settlement payment for opioid abatement activities. Unanimous vote. Key Outcomes - Charter Amendments: Public hearing closed; no ordinance drafted; proposal not to appear on future agenda. Council committed to ongoing dialogue with community. - 2055 MTP: Update received and filed. - Southern ETJ Planning: Update received and filed. - OWASA Reimbursement Policy: Resolution R-3 adopted unanimously to transmit council comments (support with emphasis on equity, affordable housing, 20-year timeline). - Opioid Settlement: Resolution R-4 adopted unanimously to authorize participation. - Closed Session: Council entered closed session at 9:52 PM under GS 143-318.11(a)(4) and adjourned at 10:52 PM.

The Chapel Hill Planning Commission met virtually on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting primarily addressed a technical modification to a previously approved conditional zoning for 11 White Oak Drive and a discussion on pending Planning Commission applications. The board unanimously recommended approval of the modification and deferred action on applications to the May 19 meeting. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Discussion Items - Conditional Zoning District Modification for 11 White Oak Drive [26-0116]: The applicant, represented by Brian (Well Design Studio) and Ben Stevens, requested a minor technical adjustment to the building height measurement. The original building design was approved in 2025, but a discrepancy arose because the town's method of calculating average grade plane differs from the International Building Code. The site's slopes caused the technical height to exceed the 62-foot limit in a few areas, even though the building's physical form and massing remained unchanged. The applicant emphasized no change in design intent, density, or massing. Staff planner Sharnika confirmed the summary. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about the grade changes and were satisfied. Vice-Chair Geoff Green noted it was a technical error in choosing the wrong measurement method, not a layman vs. code distinction. No public comments were received. - Planning Commission Applications [26-0117]: The board reviewed a 98-page packet of 14 distinct applications (some duplicates) for upcoming vacancies. The council had not requested a formal recommendation or interviews. Chair Jonathan Mitchell noted that past recommendations were often not heeded by council. The board discussed the need to first ask council if they want input, and to confirm applicants' continued interest. Commissioner Mike Zibaie suggested emailing applicants. Staff agreed to handle outreach. It was decided to defer substantive discussion to the May 19 meeting, which will also include a conditional rezoning case and a presentation from Taz on the LUMO (Land Use Management Ordinance) timeline and the commission's role. - LUMO Update: The commission requested information on the LUMO timeline and their engagement role. Staff noted a draft LUMO is expected in June, with public engagement over the summer. Taz is tentatively scheduled to present at the May 19 meeting. - Minutes Approval: Minutes from the prior meeting were not available; approval was deferred to the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Vote on 11 White Oak Drive: A motion by Geoff Green, seconded by Mike Zibaie, to recommend that the Town Council approve Resolution A (consistency and reasonableness with the comprehensive plan) and Ordinance A (amending the conditional zoning district) passed unanimously, 5-0 (Chair Mitchell, Vice-Chair Green, Chuck Mills, Libby Thomas, Mike Zibaie aye; Elizabeth Losos excused). - Planning Commission Applications: No action taken. The board will ask the council whether a recommendation is desired and will have staff verify applicant interest. The matter will be revisited at the regular May 19 meeting. - May Meeting Schedule: The May 5 meeting was cancelled unless new business arises. The May 19 meeting will include the applications discussion, a conditional rezoning item, and a LUMO presentation by Taz.

The Town Council held its annual Legislative Breakfast on April 16, 2026, at the Library Meeting Room B. Mayor Jessica Anderson convened the meeting at 8:35 a.m. with council members, state legislators, and partner organizations to discuss Chapel Hill's recovery from Tropical Storm Chantal, legislative priorities, and fiscal challenges. The meeting adjourned at 10:06 a.m. Mayor's Update on Complete Community - Mayor Anderson described extensive recovery work from Tropical Storm Chantal, including greenway repairs, re-housing public housing residents, and supporting local businesses. - She highlighted progress on housing supply through missing-middle housing and LUMO rewrite in final phase, expected adoption in fall. - Investments in North-South Bus Rapid Transit and the Everywhere-to-Everywhere greenway system were noted. - She stressed preservation of local authority over property taxation as essential for fiscal sustainability. Staff Updates - Economic Development: David Putnam discussed strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem, Propel NC, and the Launch Local program with Carrboro and Launch Inc. to support main-street businesses. - Police: Assistant Chief Joshua Mecimore outlined concerns about permitless concealed carry legislation, highlighted Chapel Hill's 50-year history of embedding social workers in public safety, expansion of the CARE Team and peer support, and need to address predatory towing practices. - Sustainability: John Richardson thanked legislators for supporting C-PACE, noted Chapel Hill's greenhouse gas emissions are 32% below 2005 levels, and described opportunities from Duke Energy's Clean Transition Tariff and Non-Residential Power Pair program. - Mobility: Bergen Watterson acknowledged partnerships with NCDOT and CDOT, groundbreaking on sidewalk projects in high pedestrian injury areas, and progress on three federally supported projects: Fordham sidepath, Bolin Creek Greenway extension, and multimodal enhancements. - Transit: Brian Litchfield emphasized need for increased state transit operating assistance, noting SMAP funding has remained flat for over 20 years with most funds directed to Charlotte; Chapel Hill receives about $3 million for transit. - Planning and Affordable Housing: Deputy Town Manager Loryn Clark reported adopted LUMO amendments expanding missing-middle opportunities, ongoing developments at Trinity Court and Homestead Gardens, and efforts to break ground on projects initiated as early as 2016. Town Manager's Legislative Priorities - Town Manager Theodore Voorhees explained that property taxes are the Town's only flexible revenue lever and opposed proposed state caps, citing California as a cautionary example. - He called for targeted, needs-based tax relief rather than broad restrictions. - He highlighted innovative partnerships with universities and businesses but stressed need for flexibility. State Legislators' Discussion - Rep. Allen Buansi: Prioritized adoption of the state budget (North Carolina was the only state without an adopted budget), raised concerns about proposed property tax levy limits that would disproportionately harm municipalities. - Rep. Renee Price: Emphasized investment in public education, teacher and state employee pay raises, public safety and mental health resources (citing Durham's HEART program), and concerns about tax reforms reducing revenues for core services. - Sen. Jonah Garson: Discussed transition of staff responsibilities, needs for storm recovery, gaps in federal and state funding, and uncertainty around committee assignments. - Council members and legislators discussed unmet needs from Tropical Storm Chantal, limitations of FEMA and state assistance, low-income housing tax credit reform, and delayed budget negotiations due to House-Senate disagreements. Partner Organizations - UNC at Chapel Hill: Dr. Ivy Taylor reiterated commitment to partnership, highlighted shared priorities on Franklin Street safety, mental health support, and a day-center lease with Orange County; provided updates on Carolina North planning and uncertain enrollment funding. - North Carolina League of Municipalities: Seth Palmer overviewed state legislative trends affecting municipalities, including property tax authority, land-use regulation reforms, DEI initiatives, and misalignment between House and Senate priorities. - Central Pines Regional Council: Lee Worsley described regional planning challenges with nearly 4 million residents and a Regional Planning Act unchanged since 1968; emphasized need for investment in aging services, particularly understaffed ombudsman programs. Key Outcomes - The Town Council and legislators agreed on the importance of passing the state budget and preserving local property tax authority. - Legislators acknowledged the need for increased state transit operating assistance and flexible storm recovery funding. - Support was expressed for C-PACE and Duke Energy programs to advance renewable energy without taxpayer burden. - No formal votes were taken; the meeting served as an information-sharing and advocacy session.

The Chapel Hill Town Council met on April 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chamber. The meeting included proclamations, a resolution honoring Mae McLendon, announcements, a consent agenda, and several discussion items including a resolution of intent to consider changes to council size and mayor's term, affordable housing funding allocations, a CDBG public hearing, a climate action update, and an incentive agreement for a downtown hotel project. The council also made appointments to the OWASA board and entered closed session. The meeting adjourned at 10:03 PM. Opening Items - Resolution Honoring Mae McLendon: Council adopted R-1 honoring Mae McLendon for her decades of service. Unanimous vote. - Proclamations: April 2026 proclaimed as Poetry Month (accepted by Poet Laureate Dr. Donovan Livingston), April 27-May 4 as Volunteer Appreciation Week, and April 22 as Earth Day. Announcements - Mayor Anderson thanked staff for the Savannah Bananas event, announced the Legislative Breakfast on April 16, and the next meeting on April 29, 2026. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously after removing two items: 7 (Campaign Contribution Limitations) and 10 (Resolution of Intent to Consider Changes to Council Size and Mayor's Term). Item 7 was deferred. Item 10 was moved to discussion. - Approved items included: Budget Ordinance Amendment, Street Resurfacing Contract, 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 Public Housing Capital Fund Plans, 2026 Heat Action Plan for Orange County, 2013 Work Session Minutes, 2026 Closed Session Minutes, and March 18 and 25, 2026 Meeting Minutes. Discussion Items 10. Resolution of Intent to Consider Changes to Town Council Size and Mayor’s Term - Council discussed a resolution to consider reducing council size from eight to six members and extending the mayor’s term from two to four years. Council Member Nollert expressed support for a public hearing but doubts about shrinking the council. Council Member Miller-Foushee strongly opposed, citing equity and representation concerns, and noted the potential impact on diverse candidates. Council Member Rivers supported extending the mayor's term. Council Member Sharp supported a public hearing to gather data. After debate, the council voted 8-1 to adopt R-5, scheduling a public hearing on April 29, 2026. Miller-Foushee voted no. 14. Local Affordable Housing Funding Program Allocations - Assistant Director Emily Holt proposed increasing the Town Manager’s authority to approve allocations up to $250,000 from the $1.15 million received from the Hillmont development. Council discussed the need for flexibility and oversight, with several members expressing interest in a broader review of manager discretion policies. Council adopted R-6 unanimously. 15. Public Hearing: 2026-27 CDBG Annual Action Plan Draft - Funding Programs Coordinator Melissa Peters presented the draft plan. The town received $432,113 in new CDBG funds and reallocated $173,482, totaling $605,595. Staff recommended funding for seven partner projects and one internal program, including affordable housing rehabilitation, roof replacements at HomeStart shelter, refugee farmer support, and youth employment. Council opened the public hearing unanimously. The plan will return for final approval on consent on April 29. 16. Update on Climate Action Implementation - Sustainability Manager John Richardson reported that Chapel Hill is ahead of schedule on emissions reduction targets, currently at 32% below 2005 levels (target was 26-28%). Highlights included EV charging expansion, an e-bike lending library, an electric refuse truck, and the Leave Your Leaves campaign. Council discussed infrastructure investment, resilience planning, and the upcoming plan update. The matter was received and filed. 17. Public Hearing: Chapel Hill Ventures LLC Incentive Agreement - Economic Development Director David Putnam presented a proposed incentive agreement for a downtown hotel project. The agreement includes a performance-based parking credit not to exceed $280,000 over five years, contingent on capital investment and job creation (35 jobs, salaries $40,000-$112,000). The project is expected to generate a net positive fiscal return. Council opened and closed the public hearing unanimously, then adopted R-7 unanimously. Appointments - The council re-appointed Susana Dancey and appointed Judith Miller to the Orange Water and Sewer Authority Board of Directors. Key Outcomes - Adopted R-1 (Honoring Mae McLendon) – unanimous. - Approved Consent Agenda (amended) – unanimous. - Adopted R-5 (Resolution of Intent to schedule public hearing on council size and mayor’s term) – 8-1 vote. - Adopted R-6 (Increased manager authority for affordable housing allocations) – unanimous. - Opened public hearing for CDBG Annual Action Plan – unanimous; final approval on consent April 29. - Received and filed Climate Action Update – unanimous. - Adopted R-7 (Chapel Hill Ventures LLC incentive agreement) – unanimous. - Appointments to OWASA board – unanimous. - Entered closed session under NCGS 143-318.11(a)(6) – unanimous. - Deferred item 7 (Campaign Contribution Limitations) to a future meeting.

On April 14, 2026, the Chapel Hill Historic District Commission (HDC) met at 6:30 PM in Room 110, Council Chamber. Chair Don Tise presided, with Vice-Chair Brian Daniels and members Glenn Connolly, Josh Gurlitz, Nancy McCormick (attending her final meeting), and Laura Moore present (6 members). The meeting opened with roll call, a Deaf History Month acknowledgment, reading of procedures and public charge. The agenda was approved unanimously. Information - Administrative COA Approvals and Maintenance Work Report [26-0086]: Staff briefed commissioners on recent administrative COA approvals and maintenance work; no action taken. Old Business 208 Glandon Drive [26-0087] – Unanimously Approved Applicant and homeowner Sean Murphy presented a hardscape and landscaping project at his property in the Gimghoul Historic District. The work included repairing two stone columns, replacing a slate walkway with a red brick walkway, replacing a wood step with a brick stoop, constructing two new sets of stone steps with stone cheek walls and a metal railing, and reconfiguring low-voltage lighting. Murphy noted the slate was dangerously slippery when wet, and the impervious surface area would increase by approximately 2%. He also documented that over half of the 37 houses in the neighborhood use brick walkways, and the proposed combination of brick and stone is common. Commissioner McCormick initially suggested a grayer brick to match the existing slate, but Murphy explained red brick was chosen to match the house’s existing brick stoop. Chair Tise remarked that blending red brick with stone was typical in the area. No public comment. Vote: Vice-Chair Daniels moved, seconded by Gurlitz, that the application is not incongruous with the special character of the historic district, and authorized the Chair to issue a COA. Unanimous (6-0). 209 N. Boundary Street [26-0088] – Unanimously Approved Architect Sasha Berghausen and contractor/designer Jennifer Hoffman presented a renovation of a circa 1920 home, built by notable builder Brodie Stewart Thompson, in the Franklin-Rosemary Historic District. The project added a first-floor primary suite by extending an existing rear bump-out with a cross-gable addition, stepped back 4 inches from the existing foundation. The floor was lowered by 21 inches. Other work included replacing 13 ill-fitting, moisture-damaged windows with Marvin Ultimate Pine Wood windows (simulated divided lights with raised ovolo profiles) and replacing three sagging French doors with 12-light Marvin doors. Stained-glass windows would remain. Commissioners questioned the gable roof choice; Berghausen explained it preserved the existing bump-out form and minimized yard intrusion. No public comment. Vote: Vice-Chair Daniels moved, seconded by Connolly, that the application is not incongruous with the special character of the district, and authorized the Chair to issue a COA. Unanimous (6-0). Discussion Items Education and Outreach [26-0090] The Commission reviewed the 2025-2034 NC State Preservation Plan, particularly Goal 1 on outreach. Discussion included continuing the May Historic Preservation Month proclamation and recruiting new commissioners, as two members are departing. One applicant is scheduled for an interview in May. The Commission agreed to further discuss education and outreach at the June 2026 meeting after new members are seated. Design Standards [26-0091] The Commission discussed updating the Historic District Design Standards, possibly creating a “lookbook” or other guidance that better describes the character of each district. Counsel Kevin Hornik emphasized that the commission’s role is determining congruity with the special character of the historic district, not applying rigid standards. Members noted the need to align standards with recent Land Use Management Ordinance (LUMO) changes. Potential grant funding (e.g., from the Covington Foundation) was mentioned for hiring a professional consultant. The Commission agreed to continue this discussion after the special meeting on April 30, 2026. Key Outcomes - 208 Glandon Drive: COA granted (unanimous 6-0). - 209 N. Boundary Street: COA granted (unanimous 6-0). - Education outreach: Deferred to June 2026; proactive recruitment underway. - Design standards revision: Deferred to after April 30 special meeting; grant funding considered. - Next regular meeting: Scheduled for May 12, 2026. - Special meeting: Set for April 30, 2026 to continue hearing a case carried over from March.

The Town Council held a work session on April 8, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:31 PM at the Library Meeting Room B. The meeting focused on two major agenda items: an update from the Economic Development Department and a discussion on the Land Use Management Ordinance (LUMO) rewrite. A third item on planning in the Southern Extraterritorial Jurisdiction was postponed due to time constraints. All nine council members were present. Economic Development Department Update - Economic Development Director David Putnam, along with Business Vitality Manager Sarah Potter and Marketing Communications Coordinator Sarah Grace Acker, presented the department's work plan, strategic initiatives, and alignment with the Council's four strategic priorities: complete community, environmental resiliency, housing, and organizational and fiscal sustainability. - The department's five pillars were outlined: product and posture, community partnership, business vitality, real estate and active projects, and access to opportunity. - Key highlights included efforts to strengthen commercial activity nodes (focus on downtown and innovation district), business visitation program (approximately 350 businesses visited), Launch Local program (oversubscribed with 45 applicants for 20–25 spots), and the Economic Recovery Center for Sham Towel support. - Council and staff discussed the need for a refreshed economic development strategic plan to reflect post-pandemic realities and evolving community priorities. Council expressed support for updating the plan at a mid-range level, building on the current annual work program rather than starting from scratch. - Other topics included barriers to small business entry (aging infrastructure, high upfit costs), opportunity zones (2.0 update), CPACE financing for energy improvements, and the potential of a North-South Rapid Corridor Investment Strategy with possible 70% federal funding. Land Use Management Ordinance (LUMO) Rewrite Discussion - Long-Range Planning Manager Tas Lagoo presented a framework of five high-level 'key interests' to guide Council's review of the draft LUMO: housing, economic development, sustainability, public realm, and process/ease of use. - Council engaged in extensive discussion to refine these interests, emphasizing the need for high-level, flexible goals that integrate cross-cutting values such as equity, complete community, and sustainability. - After review, Council affirmed a revised framework with five goals: 1) User Friendliness, 2) Housing Diversity, Attainability, and Supply, 3) Economic Development, 4) Built Environment and Public Realm, and 5) Environment and Resilience. Some sub-bullets were removed or revised to ensure they were actionable through land use regulation (e.g., removing references to specific business types or infeasible mandates). - Council agreed to use this framework as the foundation for reviewing the draft LUMO, with staff to provide an alignment document and summary of the full draft at a future meeting (expected in June). Key Outcomes - Economic Development Department update: Received and filed. Council directed staff to develop a refreshed economic development strategic plan at a mid-range level, building on current work program, to include clear policy choices and alignment with Council priorities. - LUMO rewrite: Council affirmed the revised key interests framework. Staff will prepare an alignment document and draft LUMO summary for June discussions. The LUMO rewrite process will continue with ongoing monitoring and future amendments. - Southern ETJ update: Deferred to a future meeting to allow adequate time for Council review and public engagement. Note: No public comments were taken during this work session; opportunities for public input were directed to the upcoming regular business meeting on April 15, 2026.

The Chapel Hill Town Council met on March 25, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included two proclamations, public comments, a consent agenda, and two discussion items: a $3 million excess fund balance appropriation and updates to the Public Housing Annual Plan and Admissions and Continued Occupancy Policy (ACOP). Council also entered closed session to discuss "Project Periodic". Votes were taken on both discussion items. Opening and Proclamations - Mayor Anderson opened by honoring the late Mae McLendon, a community leader, and announced a formal recognition at a future meeting. - Council proclaimed April 19-25, 2026 as National Library Week, presented by Council Member Nollert and accepted by Assistant Library Director Laura Brown. - Council proclaimed March 25, 2026 as EMPOWERment Day, presented by Council Member Miller-Foushee and accepted by Executive Director Delores Bailey, recognizing 30 years of service. Announcements by Council Members - Mayor Anderson announced the 5th Annual Creek Week, the March 27 groundbreaking for 2200 Homestead Affordable Housing, and the April 6 grand opening of Homestead Skate Park. - Mayor Pro Tem Berry congratulated UNC women’s basketball on advancing to the Sweet Sixteen. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Bulbrook and Jim Kitchen spoke about noise from high-decibel gas-powered equipment used by Chapel Hill Country Club, which operates under a 2014 noise ordinance exemption. They requested revocation of the exemption and application of standard noise rules. They stated the club had not transitioned to quieter electric equipment as promised and that current equipment generates up to 128 decibels. - Salima Smith, a resident of Elliott Woods apartments, expressed concerns about the relocation plan for the rehabilitation project by Vitus. She requested written guarantees regarding rental rates, hotel accommodations, construction timelines, and mold remediation, stating that residents are not adequately informed. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (8-0) the consent agenda as amended, which included: - FY 2026 Arts and Culture Awards Program Recommendations (Resolution 2026-03-25/R-1). - Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds Issuance for the acquisition and rehabilitation of Elliott Woods and Chase Park Apartments. - Approval of February 25 and March 4, 2026 meeting minutes. - Designation of a voting delegate for the 2026-27 NCLM Board of Directors election. Discussion Items FY 2025 Excess Fund Balance Appropriation Proposal - Business Management Director Amy Oland presented a proposal to appropriate $3 million in one-time general fund excess balance for unfunded needs: Greene Tract planning ($100,000), FEMA Public Assistance grant management ($140,000), a leaf vacuum truck ($400,000), downtown safety/wayfinding improvements, demolition for Fire Station 4 ($500,000), and parking fund debt service stabilization. - Council members questioned the process, construction cost overruns, and lack of information. Concerns were raised about funding choices for public housing, stormwater, and greenways. Mayor Anderson expressed reluctance to vote due to late information. - Motion to adopt O-1 passed 6-2 (Aye: Berry, McCullough, Miller-Foushee, Nollert, Rivers, Sharp; Nay: Anderson, McMahon; Absent: Ryan). Council Member Rivers later inquired about changing his vote but did not pursue. Town’s Public Housing Program Annual Plan and Admissions and Continued Occupancy Policy (ACOP) - Deputy Town Manager Loryn Clark and Housing Officer Andrea Mebane presented the updated plans required for HUD submission by April 17, 2026. The town manages 296 public housing units. The plans include changes to income verification (from 2 to 4 pay stubs, bank statements), reduced criminal exclusion periods (from 12 categories to streamlined, with 3-year exclusions for most activities), updated guest and pet policies, and preference for Orange County residents, working households, and unhoused individuals. - Council asked about verification barriers, HUD data sharing concerns, and connection to reentry housing. Staff explained the changes follow consultant recommendations and aim to reduce barriers and increase equity. - Motion to adopt R-3 passed unanimously (8-0). Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda (8-0). - Enacted O-1 appropriating $3 million in excess fund balance (6-2). - Approved R-3 adopting the Public Housing Annual Plan and ACOP (8-0). - Council entered closed session at 8:04 PM to discuss "Project Periodic" and adjourned at 8:35 PM.

The Chapel Hill Community Design Commission met virtually on March 24, 2026, at 5:30 PM. The meeting included approval of the agenda, February minutes, and a consent agenda item for AURA Booth Park, followed by a final plans review for 201 S. Estes, Unit 500 (University Place). All items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - AURA Booth Park (Item 26-0073): Final Plans Review – The Commission reviewed and approved elevation modifications as part of the consent agenda. These modifications were noted during Planning/Zoning Final Inspections. The motion carried unanimously. Discussion Items - 201 S. Estes, Unit 500 (Item 26-0074): Final Plans Review – The Commission reviewed elevations and site lighting fixtures for a tenant upfit at the existing University Place mall building. Commissioners discussed the context of the changes, referencing University Place design standards. No applicant representative was present. The Commission agreed they had sufficient information to make a decision. Patrick Brennan moved to approve the lighting cut sheets and elevation set based on the University Place design standards; Kim Andrews seconded. The motion passed unanimously (all present voted in favor). Key Outcomes - Approval of Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Approval of February Minutes: Approved unanimously. - Consent Agenda (AURA Booth Park): Approved unanimously. - New Business (201 S. Estes, Unit 500): Approved unanimously. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned with no further business.