Highlights from Durham City Council

The council adopts a renters’ rights ordinance setting safety, maintenance, and dignity standards after debate over legal caveats and keeping a key list aligned with other cities. Members weigh tenant leverage against preemption concerns before a unanimous vote.

The council approved closing a 402‑foot segment of Cliff Street after the applicant added two Greenway easements to maintain trail access. A resident supported the plan with a call for the city to finish nearby "paper streets" to strengthen neighborhood connectivity.

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 celebrated proclamations—from MedWeek to water awareness and arts—then unanimously set new contract approval thresholds, landing at $250k for services and $500k for goods, construction, and electric utility purchases. Public hearings crowned the Chicken Hut a local historic landmark and closed with a 4–3 annexation vote for Heartland Park townhomes, after debate on affordability and environmental protections.