Highlights from All Governments

The Board had conducted two closed sessions, in addition to a short public meeting. It welcomed two public health hires supporting HIV services and community resilience, and approved a proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. A Commissioner also noted a local resident’s 113th birthday.

The council reviews a $45.3M Durham Rail Trail plan with new timelines, permitting confidence, and design features shaped by public input. Leaders also outline a five‑mile Central Durham BRT corridor, strong partner support, and a fast‑tracked schedule toward a $150M build.

The council grappled with reports of a city employee using a racial slur and called for a united, transparent response, while a resident pressed for clearer mayoral outreach and ward meetings. Residents also raised alarms about ICE tactics and questioned email practices that could limit FOIA access.

The County Board reviews a draft plan to convert 18 miles of inactive rail into a multi‑use trail, outlining phased buildout over 10–20 years, flexible road crossings, and an estimated $46–$57 million price tag. Public input showed strong support alongside concerns about safety, gentrification, and environmental impacts, with trailheads sited on public land to avoid eminent domain.