Highlights from All Governments

The Carrboro Town Council endorses an Orange County crisis diversion facility, reviews updated emergency operations and storm preparedness, and wrestles with a long‑range zoning rewrite under new state constraints. Council members press for more flexible neighborhood businesses and a leaner Unified Development Ordinance while tracking proposed 90‑day “shot clock” rules for development approvals.

The Orange County Board of Commissioners adopts the 2026 budget, setting new county tax bills, outlining school funding per student, and approving plans for opioid settlement spending and future use of occupancy tax revenue after a failed attempt to scale back the tax increase. The board also signs off on a 10-year, $863 million capital plan and unanimously locks in the final design, price, and added funding for the new crisis diversion facility.

The Durham City Council hears how an unprecedented drought pushed the city into Stage 2 water restrictions, then approves a one-year moratorium on new data centers and crypto mining to protect resources while new rules are written. Council members also navigate a difficult budget season and a closely watched East Durham rezoning aimed at balancing reinvestment, jobs, and environmental justice.

The Springfield City Council hears sharp questions about data center deals and electric rate changes, testimony on racial profiling and harm reduction in policing, and a heartfelt call to more visibly honor Sonya’s legacy. The council also gets an update on the city’s Juneteenth celebrations and a new Midnight Basketball League for young adults.