Highlights about Housing Policy

The council engaged in a heated debate over a $1.1 million grant for Helping Hands, weighing calls for a more open funding process and greater oversight. After a failed amendment to reduce the funding and open bids, the council approved the grant, while public comments highlighted ongoing struggles faced by vulnerable residents and the organizations supporting them.

The council held its last public hearing on the budget, heard about a milestone in the Mayor's Bull City Future Fund, and finalized a resolution supporting Amazon workers’ right to unionize. Residents weighed in on affordable housing, street safety, and expanding the HEART program.

The council unanimously approved the Strauss Drive Townhouses, citing affordable housing and environmental commitments, while a 4-3 vote on the Howard Property annexation followed heated debate over growth, infrastructure, and environmental impacts.

The council heard urgent calls from community leaders to address housing needs for people with HIV and prevent federal funds from going unused, then approved substantial amendments to housing plans. Major rezoning and annexation decisions also advanced 160 new income-restricted apartments and more 'missing middle' housing in Durham.