Highlights about Public Engagement

The council removed a proposed firearms ordinance after public opposition, then faced pointed questions about who put it on the agenda and how. Members denied prior knowledge, affirmed support for gun rights, and signaled a push to change how agendas are reviewed.

The board brought a proposal to eliminate the per capita tax and approved parameters for a 2026 bond issue increased to $55 million, with an update on Oak Ridge Elementary’s HVAC promised at the next operations meeting. Residents pressed transparency around lawsuits and challenged the high school’s closed rear gate, while the district highlighted tech work and AI testimony.

The board announces public workshops and an online survey for residents to share feedback on the proposed 18-mile rail trail connecting Durham and Roxboro.

The council allowed the applicant to withdraw a long-running Hayti rezoning case after promised benefits failed to win community support. A separate proposal to rezone parcels for a Durham Rescue Mission career center was also denied, following concerns about neighborhood impact and building design.