WUNC News

The Raleigh City Council hears sharp concerns from residents over a six‑month data center moratorium, including calls for up to a 32‑month pause, stronger environmental justice protections, and removal of the five‑megawatt exemption due to cumulative impacts on energy, water, and vulnerable communities.

The Durham County Board of Commissioners and DPS school board discuss why population and property value growth are not keeping up with the rising costs of schools and county services.

The Durham County Board of Commissioners hears a sobering update on slowing revenue growth as the county manager recommends a two-cent property tax rate increase to sustain funding for Durham Public Schools, expand pre-K, and cover rising mandated service and employee costs. The board also reviews how local school funding has grown in recent years and the limits of doing more without recurring tax hikes or service cuts.

The Wake County Board of Commissioners hears a stark budget presentation linking a tough budget year to state underfunding of schools, prisons, and foster care. The Wake County Manager says homeowners could save $900 on their property tax bill if the state met its obligations.

The Wake County Board of Commissioners explains its limited legal role in the WakeMed–Atrium Health combination while detailing governance changes that preserve county-appointed seats, protect indigent and community healthcare, and keep WakeMed anchored as a community asset through a reversion clause.