Highlights about Housing Policy

The council weighed changes to contract approval thresholds, debating how best to balance transparency, efficiency, and public access to information. Members also discussed a proposed ordinance to strengthen tenant protections for those facing hazardous living conditions, with advocates and city staff highlighting both legal challenges and urgent community needs.

The commission detailed a proposal for major property tax exemptions for residents aged 65 and 75, discussed the legislative steps required, and heard a few public concerns about the impact of that proposal. New occupation taxes for short-term accommodations and a land donation for a fire station were also addressed.

The council approved a billboard variance after hearing concerns about driver distraction and sign height. Persistent issues with derelict properties and code enforcement sparked heated discussion, with calls for stronger action and policy changes to address vacant buildings and overgrown lots.

The council passed a new budget with a significant tax increase, expanded investments in worker pay, fare-free buses, and homelessness services, while also approving a $1.5 million loan for public housing. Two townhouse rezoning requests sparked debate over affordable housing and small developers, and a major Hayti neighborhood rezoning was continued for further community input.