Public Meetings - Raleigh, North Carolina

The Raleigh City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, with an afternoon session at 1:00 PM and an evening session at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chamber, 222 West Hargett Street. The meeting covered a consent calendar, planning commission reports, special items including the Capital Boulevard tolling study, an affordable housing project adjustment, the 2024 community survey results, public hearings on zoning cases, and approvals of schematic designs for two park projects. Mayor Janet Cowell presided. Consent Calendar - Donation of Equipment – Police Greenway Unit: Accepted four electric motorcycles from the Raleigh Police Foundation. - NCDEM Designation – Authorized the city to serve as applicant agent for FEMA grants. - Petition Annexations – AX-04-25 (9440, 9500 Durant Road) and AX-06-25 (6325 Rock Quarry Road) approved. - Public Hearing Requests – Set a hearing for Historic Landmark Designation (Bill and Betty Weber House, 1514 Delmont Drive). - Contracts and Consultant Services – Approved lease renewal for 1601 Cross Link Road (Police Southeast District Station), utility construction agreement for NCDOT intersection improvements (Old Stage Road/Ten Ten Road), change order for Durant Nature Preserve Training Lodge renovation, and amendment for Convention Center security services. - Street Closing – Approved STC-08-2024 for Clover Lane right-of-way. - Bid Awards – Stormwater rehabilitation (Applied Polymeric, Inc.) and Dillon Building HVAC replacement (MSS Solutions, LLC). - Traffic – Approved all-way stops as recommended. - All consent items were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - TCZ-41-24 (3616 Louisbury Road) – Applicant Carlos Cahill stated he worked with neighboring property owners; neighbors on the side emailed council indicating satisfaction. No other public testimony. - Z-46-24 (4349 & 4353 Pearl Road) – Applicant Worth Mills described added conditions (fence, evergreen shrubs, traffic calming). One resident, F.J. Hale, was present but did not speak after the hearing was closed. Discussion Items - Planning Commission Report – Staff presented three items: - Rezoning Z-43-24 (Athens Drive) – Two lots (under 3 acres) from R-4 to R-3 mixed-use with conditions. Planning Commission recommended approval (split vote) with an additional recommendation for setbacks. Council debated setting the public hearing for June 3 vs. allowing applicant to add buffer conditions beforehand. Councilmember Harrison moved to set public hearing for June 3; applicant preferred that date despite not being able to add conditions until after the hearing. Motion passed 7-1. The public hearing set for June 3 evening session. - Text Change TC-10-2024 (Cottage Court Garages) – Amends maximum size of principal structures to regulate conditioned vs. unconditioned space, allowing attached two-car garages. Recommended for public hearing on May 20. - Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District (NCOD) Process Modification – Planning Commission proposed a text change to improve community engagement after issues in Forest Park and Mordecai. Council requested staff bring back more information as a special item on June 3. - Special Items – - Council Contingency – Appropriations to various organizations approved unanimously after brief presentation by Evan Raleigh. - NCDOT STIP – US 1 North/Capital Boulevard Tolling – Kenneth Ritchie (Transportation) presented four tolling scenarios for a 10-mile segment from I-540 to Wake/Franklin County line. Key statistics: project first programmed in 2012, current draft start year 2031, completion after 2035. Council discussion focused on regional impact, equity, and future transit options. Councilmember Lambert-Melton opposed all tolled scenarios on behalf of constituents preferring no build. Councilmember Branch and Mayor Pro Tem Forte supported scenarios 1 or 2 for regional benefits and financing capacity. Council voted 7-1 to recommend Scenario 2 (tolled expressway added to the Triangle Expressway system). - City Manager’s Report – - Affordable Housing – Cottages of Idlewild – Erica Brant (Housing) and Rhett Fussel (Raleigh Area Land Trust) requested modification to allow income limits to rise to 80% AMI in case of foreclosure only, due to a $938,000 funding gap created by State Employees Credit Union reallocating funds to western NC hurricane recovery. The city subsidy totals $3 million (land value $1.8M + $1.26M gap financing). The change was needed for Self-Help Ventures Fund to provide construction financing. Council approved the modification unanimously. Construction completion expected end of 2026. - 2024 Community Survey Results – Macy Rush (Strategy & Innovation) and Jason Morato (ETC Institute) presented. Survey administered to 1,108 residents (margin of error ±2.9%). Key findings: - Overall satisfaction with city services: 73% (national average for large cities: 41%). - Customer service satisfaction: 66% (national: 32%). - Top priorities: Affordable housing (first), pace of growth (second), transportation (third) – consistent across demographics. - Housing cost burden: 30% of residents experienced financial burden; 57% of those are renters. - Transportation: 73% never used GoRaleigh bus; 19% cited routes not serving needed areas. A planned Route 32 in 2026 would address an identified gap. - Direction of city: 55% positive (up from 52% in 2022). Council noted the data’s alignment with other public input and highlighted the need for action on housing, growth, and transit. - Parks, Recreation, and Greenway Advisory Board – - River Cane Wetland Park Schematic Design – Emma Lyles presented. Funded by 2022 Parks Bond ($8.94M). Features include a boomerang boardwalk, food forest, basketball half-court, nature play, and removal of invasive species. Community engagement included public art events. Council approved the design unanimously. - Sertoma Arts Center Schematic Design – Terry Naranjo presented. Budget $15.275M (bond) plus $85,000 for public art. New construction with expanded ceramics, painting, jewelry, fiber studios, elevator, accessible parking, and enhanced gallery. Construction expected summer 2026 to summer 2027. Council approved unanimously. - Committees – Updates from Growth and Natural Resources (May 27, tree items), Safe, Vibrant, and Healthy Community (May 27, nightlife/residential intersection), and Transportation and Transit (May 20, street closure process). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved unanimously. - Z-43-24 (Athens Drive) set for public hearing on June 3 (7-1 vote). - TC-10-2024 (Cottage Court Garages) set for public hearing on May 20. - NCOD process – Staff to return with information on June 3. - Council Contingency appropriations approved. - Capital Boulevard tolling – Council endorsed Scenario 2 via resolution (7-1). - Cottages of Idlewild – Contract modification approved unanimously. - TCZ-41-24 (Louisbury Road) – Zoning amendment approved unanimously. - Z-46-24 (Pearl Road) – Zoning amendment approved unanimously. - River Cane Wetland Park and Sertoma Arts Center schematic designs approved. - Appointments and Nominations: - Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission: Ethan Gallagher and Amy Newabike appointed. - Design Review Commission (alternates): Rachel Derrian Bodyn appointed. - Fair Housing Hearing Board: Quanta Monique Edwards appointed. - Hispanic and Immigrant Affairs Board (alternate): Nomination deferred to next meeting. - Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau: Shira Nagaraj term extended one year; Max Houseworth appointed. - Parks, Recreation, and Greenway Advisory Board: Gregory Etheridge and Douglas Johnston reappointed; Councilmember Patton nominated Stephen McGuinness for one vacancy. - Planning Commission: Reeves Peeler reappointed; Mark Shelburne and Nick Neptune appointed as new members. - Raleigh Historic Development Commission: Jonathan Anderson, David Serxner, Melissa Todd, and Lauren Woodard reappointed; two vacancies deferred. - Closed Session – Council entered closed session to consult with the city attorney on pending litigation (City of Raleigh v. Kirby LLC and City of Raleigh v. 10 F 3301 Atlantic Avenue). Note: Meeting adjourned after closed session at approximately [time not specified].

The meeting began with an afternoon session (1:00 PM) that included consent agenda items, but no transcript is available. The evening session (7:00 PM) focused solely on a public hearing for Rezoning Z-39-24 (Honeycutt Road). The applicant requested a deferral to the June 3, 2025 afternoon session, which the council unanimously approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Graham Smith, Chair of the Stormwater Management Advisory Commission, expressed that after productive discussions with the applicant, the commission is satisfied with proposed conditions addressing permanent stormwater detention and temporary erosion control. He stated the commission has no opposition to the rezoning. Discussion Items - Rezoning Z-39-24: A request to rezone 84-15 Honeycutt Road (approx. 14.4 acres) from R-1 with Falls Watershed Protection Overlay District to R-6 (Retaining the overlay). The site is undeveloped, located north of Falls of Neuse Road and Honeycutt Road intersection, near Lafayette Village and Bent Tree subdivision. Proposed zoning conditions: cap at 56 dwelling units (4 units/acre), 15% tree conservation area, 30% open space, exemption from certain UDO standards, a 10-foot-wide path from Chatterson Drive stub to internal pedestrian network, an option for sidewalks or multi-use path, and a high-visibility crosswalk across Honeycutt Road. The applicant, Michael Birch (Longleaf Law Partners), announced plans to add conditions: increased stormwater detention, enhanced erosion control, a public bicycle/pedestrian easement to ensure continuous connection to Chatterson Drive, and an emergency vehicle access easement with collapsible bollards. The Planning Commission recommended approval by a 4-2 vote, with dissenting members citing pedestrian safety and environmental concerns. The rezoning is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan but inconsistent with the Future Land Use Map (rural residential), so approval would amend the map to low-scale residential. Falls Lake area plan supports the density (4 units/acre) and residential-only use. - Councilmember Silver thanked the applicant for addressing emergency access concerns and acknowledged collaboration with the Bent Tree HOA, noting the neighborhood's desire for connectivity due to lack of sidewalks. Key Outcomes - Council voted unanimously to hold open the public hearing and continue the rezoning to the June 3, 2025 afternoon session (originally moved to the evening session, but corrected to afternoon after adjournment).

The Raleigh City Council held its regular meeting on April 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The meeting included a consent agenda, public comments, planning commission reports, a major tolling study update for Capital Boulevard, approval of $17.28 million in affordable housing funding, and several rezoning decisions. The council also heard public input on the FY 2026-30 Consolidated Plan and numerous other items. Consent Calendar - Solid Waste Services Code Amendments: Councilmember Jones raised questions about removing the city manager and council from the appeals process for administrative fees, increasing fees from $250 to $500, and eliminating the fire chief's role in trash burning enforcement. The Solid Waste Director reported about 5,000 residents receive backyard pickup. The motion to approve passed unanimously. - Other Consent Items: Approved en bloc, including budget transfers for three affordable housing projects (Burrell Lofts, Lorimer Spring, Maple Ridge), Raleigh Rainwater Rewards for rain gardens and cisterns, a contract for RPD vehicle wrapping, and a NOAA grant for climate education. Public Comments & Testimony - Octavia Rainey (Fourth Ward Association): Requested $300,000 in CDBG funds for the Fourth Ward, emphasizing that urban renewal had destroyed the community. She asked for signage and inclusion in the Consolidated Plan. - Mama Kai Sanders: Encouraged the city to apply for the All American Cities Award, noting Raleigh last won in 1975. She highlighted the importance of community engagement and compassion. - Valerie Smith: Supported preserving Fourth Ward’s legacy, sharing personal memories and urging council to honor the community's history. - Jonathan Kramer: Requested parking permit relief for his quadplex rental near NC State, noting that single-family and townhouse units qualify but quads do not. He suggested removing the permit sign or reclassifying the building. - Nikki W.: Spoke on National Child Abuse Prevention Month and fair housing, using a fable to illustrate the ripple effect of ignoring problems. - Athena Wallen: Advocated for reanalyzing stormwater creek management on private land, proposing community land trusts or easements to improve maintenance and environmental resilience. - Hua Huang (UE Local 150): Urged council to meet with city workers before the budget hearing, calling for a $25 per hour minimum wage and budget reallocation to prioritize worker pay. - Fourth Ward Community Members (during Consolidated Plan hearing): Rosa Rand, Dakia Davis, IKEA Williams, and others requested signage, historic district designation, and funding for preservation, reunions, and use of Dix Park. They emphasized the community's history and need for recognition. Discussion Items - Planning Commission Report: Bynum Walter presented five rezoning cases. For Z-70-22 (Glenwood Ave), a 60-day extension was granted after lengthy neighborhood negotiations. For TCZ-3-25 (200 West St / GoTriangle), council decided to bring it as a special item on June 3 with a public hearing set for July, due to concerns about payment-in-lieu of affordable housing and fairness. Other cases (Z-19-24, Z-47-24, Z-54-24) were scheduled for May 20 public hearings. Motions passed. - Special Item – Z-39-24 (Honeycutt Road): Council set a May 6 public hearing despite a request from the Stormwater Advisory Commission for more time. The applicant added conditions for a multi-use path and no vehicular connection. Councilmembers debated emergency access but the motion passed 6-1. - Council Contingency Items: Approved $13,628 for Governor Morehead School, Women's Center of Wake County, LGBTQ+ Center, and Communities in Schools, with funds to be encumbered by end of June. - US 1 North/Capital Boulevard Tolling Study: CAMPO and Turnpike Authority presented four tolling scenarios to accelerate the $1.65-1.8 billion project, which has faced five delays since 2012. Councilmember Patton expressed concern for local residents who have no alternative routes; Councilmember Silver supported tolling to avoid further delays. Mayor Cowell noted the council would send feedback to CAMPO before their May 21 vote. - Affordable Housing Joint Venture Rental Development: Annie Bauman Mitchell recommended $17.28 million in gap financing for six projects (Grosvenor Gardens, Heritage Park, Fisher Grove, Chapanok, Garner Station, Biltmore Hills) creating 670 affordable units. Council approved, noting that this would use most available funds for 2025. - Design Review Commission Annual Report: Chair Will Gaskins presented trends (transparency, self-storage facilities) and the 2025 work plan. Council approved the work plan. - Parks, Recreation, and Greenway Advisory Board: Approved renaming John P. "Top" Greene Community Center to the John P. "Top" Greene African American Cultural Center and the park to African American Cultural Park, with $9.25 million in bond funds for renovation and expansion. - Raleigh Historic Development Commission: Presented a historic context study of LGBTQ+ places in Raleigh, received as information. Councilmember Harrison requested a manager's update on follow-up recommendations like digital mapping and physical markers. - Matters Scheduled for Public Hearing: The FY 2026-30 Consolidated Plan and FY 2025-26 Annual Action Plan were presented. Public comments focused on Fourth Ward inclusion and deeply affordable housing. The hearing was closed; staff will return with a final plan in May. - Rezonings and Annexations: - AX-31-24 (5300 Daleview Dr): Approved for immediate annexation. - Z-31-24 (901 Nowell Rd): Approved with height limit condition. - Z-35-24 (4409 Creedmoor Rd): Approved for a six-story hotel. - Z-38-24 (1400 Edwards Mill Rd / Lenovo Center): Approved after revised conditions for community meetings and bicycle/pedestrian planning, despite opposition from Cardinal Gibbons students citing safety concerns. - Z-46-24 (Pearl Rd): Continued to May 6 for additional screening conditions. - Z-53-24 (John P. Top Greene): Approved to remove conservation overlay for park expansion. - TCZ-41-24 (Louisburg Rd): Continued to May 6 for signed conditions. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously, including solid waste fee increases. - Planning Commission: Extended Z-70-22 review by 60 days; set public hearings for May 20 for multiple cases; set special item for June 3 on TCZ-3-25. - Special Item Z-39-24: Set public hearing for May 6 (vote 6-1). - Council Contingency: Approved $13,628 in allocations. - Affordable Housing: Authorized $17.28 million for 670 units (unanimous). - Design Review Work Plan: Approved. - Top Greene Renaming: Approved. - Rezonings: Approved Z-31-24, Z-35-24, Z-38-24, Z-53-24; continued Z-46-24 and TCZ-41-24. - Annexation: Approved AX-31-24. - Appointments: Board of Adjustment – Keith Satiski; Design Review Commission – Claire Craven elevated to regular; Environmental Advisory Board – Jeffrey Bullard; Stormwater Management – Marinel Ubaldo; Bicycle and Pedestrian – nominations returned; Environmental Advisory Board reappointment – Denzel Burnside; Fair Housing Hearing Board – nominations returned; Hispanic and Immigrant Affairs Board – reappointed three members and elevated alternate. - Closed Session: Entered to discuss potential claims and real property negotiations; no action taken after returning to open session.

During the 11:30 a.m. work session, the Raleigh City Council received a detailed presentation from Housing and Neighborhoods Director Emily Sutton on the city's progress and future plans for affordable housing and homelessness. The presentation covered the state of housing in Raleigh, the status of the 2020 housing bond, and introduced a new five-year plan titled "A Home for Every Neighbor" along with an unsheltered homelessness response strategy. Council members asked questions about production metrics, funding sources, program utilization, and policy alignment. Discussion Items - State of Housing and Homelessness: Emily Sutton presented data showing that unsheltered homelessness has doubled in recent years. She cited a U.S. Government Accountability Office finding that for every $100 increase in rent, homelessness increases by 9%. She also noted that Raleigh Parks and NCDOT each spent more than $200,000 in one year on camp cleanup. A comparison was made with Dallas, which spends over $200 million annually on homelessness-related costs, while housing someone with case management costs $24,000–$36,000 per year. - 2020 Housing Bond Progress: The $80 million bond (the city's largest to date) is 75% committed or spent with one year of its five-year budget remaining. It has supported 1,100 affordable units, 100 households through home repair and buyer assistance, and site acquisition funds are expected to yield over 300 units. Councilmember Corey Branch asked about the number of new units approved versus built and the backlog. Staff will provide a detailed breakdown. - Eviction Prevention Clinic: A partnership with Campbell Law School has opened about 100 cases since August 2022, prevented 62 evictions, and provided legal advice to 29 clients. Every case represented in court has been won. The clinic also addresses non-legal needs via an NC State intern. - New Plan: "A Home for Every Neighbor": The five-year plan sets three goals: increasing affordable housing supply (target of 1,345 units by 2030), improving overall market affordability, and ending/preventing homelessness. The 1,345-unit target is based on recent production capacity and inflation-adjusted costs. Councilmember Jane Harrison questioned whether additional funding would be needed; staff confirmed that the bond is nearly exhausted and new funds will be required. - Unsheltered Homelessness Response Strategy: A community-wide planning initiative led by a 48-member steering committee, including people with lived experience, aims to achieve functional zero for unsheltered homelessness. No specific year was set, as it depends on resources. A consultant is facilitating the process with city funds. - Councilmember Questions and Clarifications: - Councilmember Mitchell Silver asked about the relationship between housing supply and affordable housing. Sutton explained that supply alone is insufficient; demand-side interventions are also needed. He also asked about streamlining development; Pat Young (Planning and Development) reported a 15% time savings (over three weeks) from process improvements, and noted that the comprehensive plan update will consider reducing discretionary approvals. - Councilmember Corey Branch inquired about the homeowner repair program utilization; Erica Brandt stated it is fully utilized but has some padding due to project pace. He also asked about the per-unit subsidy of $40,000 (city and county combined) and whether it will be updated to reflect rising costs; staff will provide a new analysis. - Councilmember Christina Jones asked about the payment-in-lieu fund and whether a flex fund exists for homelessness. Current payment-in-lieu funds go into the bond program income bucket. She also suggested that investing in homelessness (at $24,000–$36,000 per year) may be more cost-effective than down payment assistance ($60,000 per household). - Councilmember Mitchell Silver also asked about the NOFA for joint venture gap financing; Erica Brandt clarified it is citywide but subject to the city's affordable housing location policy, which has exemptions for transit proximity and rehabs. - Councilmember Jane Harrison raised the need for a metrics dashboard to reduce repetitive questions; staff agreed to build out the existing bond dashboard. - Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte asked about the next housing bond; the city manager's office is internally discussing whether to bring a housing bond, a transportation bond, or both, and will coordinate with the county to avoid voter fatigue. A clearer picture is expected by summer 2025. Key Outcomes - Staff will provide council with detailed data on affordable units approved vs. built, the backlog, and a per-unit subsidy analysis updated for current costs. - The city will continue to develop the unsheltered homelessness response plan with community partners and will provide future work session updates. - The city manager's office will begin public engagement on the next bond referendum, with housing as a potential candidate. - No formal votes were taken during the work session.

The Special Committee on Council Advisory Boards and Commissions held its first organizational meeting on April 15, 2025, at 9:00 AM in the City Council Chamber. The committee focused on establishing its scope, reviewing the current structure of boards and commissions, and identifying areas for improvement. Key topics included clarifying the purpose and effectiveness of advisory boards, potential mergers, council liaison roles, and standardizing bylaws. Discussion Items - Overview and Scope: Staff presented an overview of the 29 boards and commissions, including 16 advisory boards and 4 quasi-judicial boards. The committee discussed the need to align boards with the city's strategic plan and assess their original purpose (the "why") and ongoing relevance. - Potential Board Mergers: Specific mergers were discussed, including combining Historic Cemeteries with Historic Resources (both boards reportedly receptive) and the potential consolidation of Human Relations, Hispanic and Immigrant Affairs, and a proposed African American Affairs board into a single entity with subcommittees. Wayne Miles from Engineering Services expressed opposition to merging the Stormwater Management Advisory Commission (SMAC) with the Environmental Advisory Board, citing SMAC's already full agenda and different focus areas. He noted existing collaboration between the boards. - Council Liaison Roles: Council members discussed inconsistent expectations for liaisons. Some reported that board members felt confused about their mission and direction, especially when council direction was unclear. There was support for developing a formal policy or procedure document outlining liaison responsibilities, including regular check-ins with board chairs and attendance at meetings. - Board Member Engagement and Feedback: The committee discussed surveying current and former board members to assess their sense of purpose, time commitment, and whether they feel their service is worthwhile. Staff noted an exit survey already exists and can be incorporated. A suggestion was made to institutionalize a periodic pulse check every two years. - Standardizing Bylaws: Staff noted that many boards have inconsistent bylaws and subcommittee structures. The committee expressed interest in a template for bylaws that could be adopted by all advisory boards, with room for customization. This process was compared to the earlier standardization of CAC bylaws. - Plenary Session Concept: Councilmember Jones proposed a plenary session where all board members could gather annually to hear about city initiatives (e.g., BRT, comprehensive plan) and choose topics to provide input on. Staff will explore how this could be structured, possibly using the existing summer social event as a foundation. - Specific Boards Requiring Attention: The committee identified several boards with unclear missions or confusion among members: Community Engagement, Fair Housing Hearing Board, Police Advisory Board, Hispanic Immigrant Affairs, Human Relations, Substance Use Advisory Board, and the proposed African American Affairs board. Staff will provide their latest work plans and bylaws for review. - Meeting Cadence: The committee agreed to meet on the second council meeting in May, specifically May 20, 2025, at 9:30 AM (not before). Future meetings may be needed in June or July, but the committee has until July 1 to deliver recommendations. Key Outcomes - Staff will develop a survey for current and former board members to gauge effectiveness and clarity of purpose. - Staff will prepare a policy manual or procedure document for council member engagement with boards and commissions. - Staff will work on a standard bylaws template for advisory boards and commissions, to be presented at the next meeting. - Staff will provide detailed information on the specific boards flagged for clarification (Fair Housing, Police Advisory, Substance Use, Community Engagement, etc.). - Staff will explore the feasibility of a plenary session to foster cross-board collaboration. - The next meeting is scheduled for May 20, 2025, at 9:30 AM (on a council day), with a final recommendation due by July 1, 2025.

This was an evening public comment session held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, in the City Council Chamber in Raleigh, North Carolina. Mayor Janet Cowell presided. The council listened to 17 speakers on a variety of local and national issues. No votes or formal decisions were taken. Public Comments & Testimony - Olivia Cisneros (resident of Brookside Drive, on behalf of herself and six other households): Expressed concern about the proposed bike lanes on Brookside Drive. Asked the council to reconsider the current plan and instead adopt a compromise proposal (presented at the March 18 meeting) that includes a cycle track for Con Elementary students while preserving street parking for residents. She stated that while not opposed to bike lanes, removing all street parking would create a hardship for residents with short driveways. - Ezekiel Snyder: Called for bolder climate action, stating that Raleigh’s climate goals (80% reduction by 2050) are insufficient. Urged the council to commit to a Green New Deal, full decarbonization by 2040, expanded public transit, and elimination of food deserts. - Octavia Rainey (civil rights activist): Raised concerns about the Housing Appeals Board being merged into the Board of Adjustment but not hearing any housing appeal cases. Asked three questions: whether the Board of Adjustment knows it should hear these cases, whether members are trained, and whether citizens know they can bring appeals. Cautioned against merging boards until the issue is resolved. - Jessica Turner (member of Southeast Raleigh Table, part of One Wake): Spoke in support of One Wake’s request for increased city funding for affordable housing—specifically $70 million per year and 100 acres of city-owned land for affordable housing communities. Thanked Mayor Cowell, Councilors Forte, and Melton for agreeing to attend a Nehemiah development visit in New York. - Hanadi Ali: Read a poem and expressed exhaustion with the Israeli occupation of Palestine. Called for a ceasefire, questioned US funding of Israel, and asked council to vote for a ceasefire. - Myssa Saltari: Condemned the killing of 15 paramedics in Gaza on March 23, calling it an execution. Demanded accountability, international investigations, and sanctions. - Hasina Sanders: Celebrated a community health fair and summer camp organized by Mr. Anderson, which provides STEM opportunities for disadvantaged youth. Requested that council members attend and consider providing financial support from discretionary funds. - Chris Remaley (director of Little Makers Academy, a child care center): Described challenges from federal funding cuts (English language tutoring program lost funding) and the voucher crisis in Wake County. Noted that child care professionals are underpaid and lack benefits. Invited council to visit his center to discuss solutions. - Alexis Andrews (owner of Youth First organization and Flex Fitness): Shared her work providing meals, community events, youth programs, and mental health support. Requested assistance from the city to acquire a building (zoned and owned by Wake County) for a permanent location, plus guidance and funding. - Paul Thompson: Advocated for inclusion of skate parks in future city park developments, noting Raleigh’s large skateboarding population and inadequate space. - Riley Murphy: Returned to advocate for a public, legally sanctioned DIY skate park. Reported progress (design, fundraising) since the previous March 11 session, and noted that the previous Graveside DIY skate spot was torn down six weeks ago and the Skate Raleigh space will soon be demolished. Suggested multiple smaller spaces. - Donna Bailey: Opposed the city’s policy of accepting money in lieu of actual affordable units, citing the Go Triangle Hoffman project next to Union Station (which was to provide 39 affordable units at 10% of total) and a rezoning case at Peace and West Street. Stated that affordable units must be included, especially near transit, and that paying a fee sets a bad precedent. - Chris Crewe (retired resident): Urged the council not to limit or remove public input opportunities. Spoke in favor of historic preservation and neighborhood character overlay districts, warning against piecemeal zoning changes that contradict the Comprehensive Plan and UDO. - Alex Bursett: Thanked the council for approving the bike lane plan on Brookside Drive, stating it is best for multimodal infrastructure, public health, safety, and climate outcomes. - Chris Servicki: Condemned the killing of 15 aid workers in Gaza by Israeli forces, urged the council to do more to address the situation, and called for enforcement of international laws (Leahy law) and ICC warrants. - Athena Wallen (resident of Brookside Drive): Supported the approved bike lane plan as a step toward breaking car-centric infrastructure and accommodating multiple transportation modes. Encouraged the council to continue making decisions that prioritize people over cars and address infrastructure gaps.

The Raleigh City Council convened a work session on April 8, 2025. Councilmember Jones was excused. The council discussed two major Solid Waste and Transportation initiatives: incorporating food waste into the Yard Waste Center program and evaluating the future of the Loose Leaf Collection program. Yard Waste Center Organics Management Feasibility Study Presentation: Gregory Jenkins, Interim Director of Solid Waste Services, presented feasibility options for composting food waste. Key Statistics: - 25% of landfill waste (25,000 tons per year) is food waste. - Current permit allows for a short-term processing pilot at the Yard Waste Center. Collection Options Discussed: 1. Drop-off Sites: 18-20 convenience sites across the city. 2. Third-Party Contract: Partner with an existing vendor offering curbside subscription services. 3. City Curbside: City-run program requiring a fourth cart for single-family homes. Council Positions: - Councilor Branch: Opposed Option 3 due to cost and resident burden; supported a hybrid of Options 1 and 2 for the pilot. - Councilor Silver: Supported starting with Option 1 (drop-off) to test resident engagement. - Councilor Patton: Supported Options 2 or 3 for the highest waste diversion fidelity, expressing concern that drop-offs would yield poor participation and underestimate public interest. - Councilor Lambert-Melton: Supported a hybrid approach to gather data from both collection methods. - Mayor Cowell: Emphasized the need for accessible, free participation options, suggesting partnerships with parks for drop-off locations. Noted lessons from a past clothing recycling pilot. Outcome: Council directed staff to explore a hybrid pilot combining drop-off sites (Option 1) and a third-party collection contract (Option 2), with a request for detailed cost projections. Loose Leaf Collection Program - Overview, Challenges, and Recommendations Presentation: Steve Halsey, Assistant Director of Transportation Maintenance, provided an overview of the program's challenges and four potential paths forward. Key Statistics: - 14,000 new collection points added between 2010 and 2023. - No significant program changes since 2011. - The program uses 61 staff (48 flexed from core maintenance duties). - Average of 64,383 cubic yards of leaves collected annually in the last two seasons. - Annual program cost: $3.1 million. Options Presented: 1. No Change: Acknowledged increasing resident dissatisfaction. 2. Enhance Existing: Previously proposed as a budget note (2023), not adopted. 3. Privatization: Contractor-based model (cited Henrico County, VA). 4. Transition to Enhanced Yard Waste: Weekly/bi-weekly collection by Solid Waste Services (cited Greensboro, NC). Council Positions: - Councilor Lambert-Melton: Described the current program as unsustainable, stating none of the four options seemed fully viable but acknowledging change must happen. - Councilor Branch: Strongly supported Option 4 (enhanced yard waste), citing existing equipment and green cart infrastructure. - Councilor Silver: Supported Option 4, framing it as a public safety issue due to blocked bike lanes, sidewalks, and storm drains. - Councilor Harrison: Supported a transition, asking about feasibility of on-demand bulk leaf pickup and a single-pass schedule as an interim step. - Councilor Patton: Advocated for an "off-ramp" from the large-scale loose leaf program, including subsidizing biodegradable bags and partnering with groups like Trees for the Triangle for on-site mulching. - Mayor Cowell: Acknowledged significant potential resident backlash but expressed support for Option 4, specifically requesting analysis of a paid "bulky load" on-demand service for residents with large properties. Outcome: Council directed staff to conduct a detailed investigation of Option 4 (Enhanced Yard Waste Program). The analysis should include service frequency (weekly vs. bi-weekly), staffing models (new hires vs. existing), potential on-demand bulky leaf services, and resident transition support (e.g., free bags, education campaigns).

The Raleigh City Council held a budget work session on April 7, 2025, at 4:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The meeting covered FY2026 agency grant recommendations, Raleigh Water Enterprise, Stormwater Management Enterprise, and Solid Waste Services. The council approved motions to authorize notifications and system programming for proposed rate increases, with final approval contingent on the full budget adoption later. Councilmembers Jonathan Lambert-Melton and Christina Jones were excused. Agency Grant Recommendations Katie Conyers (Grants and Program Manager) provided an overview of the City of Raleigh’s competitive grant programs in arts, community enhancement, and human services. Key details: maximum funding request is 25% of an agency’s prior-year operating expenditures; agencies may receive awards in only two grant categories; applicants requesting $25,000 or more must submit an audit. Tony Gatson (Arts Commission) reported that 35 organizations submitted applications requesting over $2.3 million. New applicant Little Raleigh Radio was recommended for funding. Robert Quartz (Human Relations Commission) stated that 31 competitive nonprofits received $810,500 in total awards. Nick Doula (Housing and Neighborhoods) recommended four community enhancement grants totaling $200,000 in federal Community Development Block Grant funds. No formal vote was taken; the recommendations will be included in the final budget approval. Raleigh Water Enterprise Witt Wheeler presented the FY2026 budget. Highlights: over 26,000 fire hydrants inspected, 244,000 811 tickets, 223 water main breaks, 2,500 miles of water main, 21.5 billion gallons produced, 217,000 metered services. The operating budget is $372 million (48% operating, 52% capital). The 10-year capital improvement plan is $2.2 billion, with pipe replacement (32%) and water treatment plant expansion (E.M. Johnson, $375 million) as major items. The proposed rate increase for a median single-family home is $1.91/month (3.5% increase), bringing the total bill to $55.36. The customer assistance program helped 2,700 customers with $535,000. Councilmember Harrison asked about future rate increases; Wheeler noted that Raleigh’s rates are lower than neighbors due to existing infrastructure reuse. Councilmember Silver asked about pipe lifespan (100 years for new ductile iron) and the Little River Reservoir project (needed by 2045–2062). Councilmember Patton asked about consequences of no rate increase; Wheeler stated capital project deferral would be necessary. Council voted unanimously to authorize Raleigh Water to program the billing system and notify largest customers of the proposed rate increase. Stormwater Management Enterprise Wayne Miles presented the FY2026 budget. Key points: FY26 will be the first year using debt service to fund capital improvements, increasing the CIP from $14 million to $31 million. The proposed fee increase is $0.57/month for single-family homes (from $7.65 to $8.22), raising the total budget from $39.2 million to $42.7 million. The Stormwater Management Advisory Commission unanimously endorsed the plan. Councilmember Patton asked about trade-offs without the increase; Miles cited reduced capital project delivery. Councilmember Harrison inquired about the fund balance restoration ($7 million this year, similar next year). The council voted unanimously to authorize using the proposed rate increase for billing system programming and to notify the largest 250 customers. Solid Waste Services Overview Gregory Jenkins II presented the FY2026 budget. Accomplishments: reduced vacancy rate from 24% to 6%; added 8,000 service points since 2017 without increasing fleet or staff. Proposed monthly fee increase of $1.85 (7.7% to $25.95), a yard waste tip fee increase, and a new bulky pickup fee of $35 per pickup (previously free every 90 days). The fund balance subsidy drops from $5.8 million to $500,000, achieving full enterprise status four years early. Discussion: Councilmember Harrison asked about switching to weekly recycling and biweekly trash; the city manager cautioned against it due to resident opposition. Councilmember Silver noted that out-of-service vehicles and staffing are pressing issues. Councilmember Patton asked about downtown and transit stop efficiency; Jenkins noted ongoing conversations with DRA. The council voted unanimously to authorize notifications and system programming. Key Outcomes - Agency Grant Recommendations: No formal vote; will be included in final budget approval. - Raleigh Water: Motion passed unanimously to authorize billing system programming and notification of largest customers about the proposed rate increase. - Stormwater Management: Motion passed unanimously to authorize billing system programming and notification of the largest 250 customers about the proposed rate increase. - Solid Waste Services: Motion passed unanimously to authorize notifications and system programming for the proposed fee increases and new bulky pickup fee.

The Raleigh City Council met on April 1, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. Mayor Janet Cowell presided, with Councilor Mitchell Silver arriving late. The meeting included a consent agenda, a rezoning case, a text change authorization for stormwater regulations, citizen-initiated street closing petitions, a bequest to the police K9 unit, a strategic plan update, a comprehensive classification and compensation study update, and committee reports. Several items were voted on, while others were referred to committees for further discussion. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda (items B-G, I-J, K.1, L.1) except for item H.2. Items included bond issuances for affordable housing (Burrell Lofts and Tryon Flats), petition annexations, public hearing requests for the FY2026-30 Consolidated Plan, grants, easements, contracts, bids, and traffic amendments. Councilor Patton noted that the public hearing for the consolidated plan was set for April 15, 2025. - Item H.2 – Bid Rejection: Pullen Park Lake Howell Retaining Wall Repairs was pulled for discussion. Adam Foreman from Parks explained that the current contractor was inexperienced and the project would disrupt summer operations and revenue. Staff recommended rejecting the bid and rebidding in June for a January start, expecting simpler logistics and more bidders. The council voted unanimously to reject the bid. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during this session. (Public comments referenced for Willow Street were from a prior meeting.) Discussion Items - Rezoning Z-39-24 (Honeycutt Road): Hannah Reckau of Planning and Development presented a request to rezone approximately 14 acres from R-1 to R-6 conditional use with the Falls Watershed Overlay District. The Planning Commission recommended approval 4-2 with amendments to resolve a condition conflict with the UDO (a condition seeking a design alternative, which is prohibited). Council members expressed concerns about pedestrian safety on Honeycutt Road, water quality, and the loss of a planned street connection, which would impede emergency access. Councilor Branch noted the area is difficult to access. The council voted to set the public hearing as a special item on April 15, 2025, to allow condition revisions. - Council Contingency Item: Michelle Millette presented a request from Councilmembers Jones and Patton for $8,190 to the Raleigh Council of the Blind for Braille education. Councilor Jones explained the purpose. The request was approved unanimously. - Text Change Authorization – Stormwater Regulations: Eric Brown of Planning and Development requested authorization for two text changes to align city code with state statutes. The first change would tie stormwater requirements for one- or two-unit dwellings on parcels over one acre to land disturbance area (rather than parcel size), affecting about 1,000 properties. The second change would treat decks, artificial turf, and gravel as pervious surfaces per updated state definitions. Councilor Jones asked about workload; Brown said it would not increase. The council voted unanimously to authorize the text change and send it to the Planning Commission. - Citizen-Initiated Street Closing Petitions – Special Cases: Daniel King of Transportation presented two non-conforming petitions. For Woodside Drive (Farrier Hills subdivision), the petitioner wanted to acquire right-of-way to subdivide for high-end homes; staff found it inconsistent with the comprehensive plan and of primarily private benefit. For Willow Street (near Conn Elementary), the application was incomplete and the adjacent property owner opposed closure. Councilor Patton recommended updating the process and referred both cases to the Transportation and Transit Committee meeting on April 24, 2025. Councilor Branch suggested considering fair-market purchase for Woodside. The council voted to send the topic to committee. - Acceptance of Gift – Police K9 Unit: Deputy Chief Lachetti was absent, but Mr. Gorman, executor of Virginia Lee Parker's estate, presented a bequest of $50,000 to the Raleigh Police Canine Unit. He noted additional funds would follow. The council accepted the gift unanimously. - Strategic Planning Update: Christina Leos presented proposed changes to the strategic plan’s key focus areas, expanding from six to seven (adding Community Safety and Housing, renaming Growth & Natural Resources to Environmental Resilience, and renaming Arts & Cultural Resources). Council members discussed aligning the seven areas with four council committees and naming the arts/resilience cluster. Councilor Harrison suggested merging Economic Development & Innovation with arts/sports. Councilor Patton proposed sending a poll to gauge consensus. The city manager noted the final plan will return in June. - Employee Classification and Compensation Study Update: Patrick Bracken of Siegel Consulting presented final results. Key findings: Raleigh's pay ranges are below market (minimum: 86% of market midpoint: 91%, maximum: 93%). Proposed changes include moving from step-based to open-range pay structures with five pay plans (non-exempt, exempt, police, fire, ECC), reducing the number of pay grades, and using at least 5% midpoint differentials. Three implementation options were presented: 1) bring employees below minimum to new minimum; 2) option 1 plus a general wage increase of 8-12%; 3) option 2 with a cap. Council members asked about costs, compression, and employee feedback. The city manager stated that final cost projections and a comprehensive memo on benefits will be provided before the FY26 budget presentation on May 20, 2025. - Growth and Natural Resources Committee Report: Chair Harrison reported that the committee voted 2-1 to authorize a text change reducing forestation requirements in the Urban Watershed Protection Overlay District (District B) from 40% to 30% for commercial and large residential lots, with options for small residential lots (0%, 10%, or 25%). Councilor Silver argued the overlay is no longer needed as the watershed no longer supplies water. The full council voted to support the committee's recommendation and send the text change to the Planning Commission with options. - Transportation and Transit Committee Report: Chair Jones reported on two actions. First, the committee recommended lowering Neighborhood Traffic Management Program (NTMP) approval thresholds from 70% (on-street) and 60% (neighborhood) to 60% and 50%, respectively. The council approved this change. Second, the committee recommended moving forward with the Falls River Avenue traffic calming project, which had narrowly missed thresholds; the council approved. On West Raleigh Blue Ridge traffic issues, the committee took no action after hearing public comments on pedestrian safety. Key Outcomes - Approved: Consent agenda (with H.2 rejected); acceptance of $50,000 bequest to police K9 unit; $8,190 council contingency to Raleigh Council of the Blind; lowering NTMP thresholds to 60%/50%; Falls River Avenue traffic calming project; text change for stormwater regulations (sent to Planning Commission); authorization for forestation text change (with options sent to Planning Commission); minutes from March 18, 2025 meeting. - Postponed/Referred: Z-39-24 public hearing set as special item on April 15, 2025; street closing petitions (Willow and Woodside) referred to Transportation and Transit Committee on April 24, 2025. - No Formal Action: Strategic plan update (feedback to be incorporated); compensation study (final costs to come with FY26 budget). - Appointments: Design Review Commission (Dylan Davis); Parks, Recreation and Greenway Advisory Board (Daniel Gilligan, Jack Hilton, Linda Pearce); Planning Commission (Brian Burnett); Design Review Commission alternate elevate (Dave Toms); Human Relations Commission (Christina Espanya reappointed). Other nominations carried over.