Tuesday, September 16, 2025

REGULAR MEETING - THIRD TUESDAY
WORK SESSION & AFTERNOON SESSION

RALEIGH CITY COUNCIL MEETING

COUNCIL MINUTES

City Council Chamber, Room 201

222 West Hargett Street

 

 

PRESENT: Mayor Janet Cowell, Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Jonathan Lambert-Melton, Council Member Mitchell Silver, Council Member Megan Patton, Council Member Corey Branch, Council Member Jane Harrison and Council Member Christina Jones

 

Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 3:30 P.September 16. - Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 3:59 A.September 17.

A.

11:30 A.M. WORK SESSION CALLED TO ORDER BY THE MAYOR

Mayor Cowell called the meeting to order at 11:33 a.m., with Mayor Pro Tem Forte arriving to the meeting shortly thereafter.

A.1

Tax Increment Reimbursements

Assistant Planning Director Ken Bowers summarized the information noting the new policy proposed would be entitled Tax Increment Reimbursement Program (TIRP).

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Discussion took place regarding how projected tax assessments would be calculated as well as whether Wake County had a similar program with Council Member Patton encouraging staff to collaborate more with the County.  The discussion also included other economic tools available including development agreements and how implementing the new policy may impact the general fund with City Manager Marchell Adams-David and Planning and Development Director Patrick Young noting the policy would ensure a private investment was made for a public good and that the private sector could complete the related capital improvement projects faster and less expensive due to ongoing relationships with contractors.

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Council Member Jones requested that documents relating to the city’s Partnership Policy be made available and whether additional staffing would be needed to implement the policy with Council Member Patton requesting information on how the policy would benefit affordable housing with discussion taking place regarding how the policy would align with the Comprehensive Plan as well as impact on future rezonings.

A.2

Annexation Practices and Associated Growth Policies

Senior Planner Matthew Klem summarized the information noting Raleigh’s current size encompasses approximately 150 square miles.

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Council Member Branch suggested that staff’s recommendations include cost impacts on Raleigh’s regional partners as well as cost analyses on services provided outside Raleigh proper.

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Council Member Silver questioned whether utilities were provided to the undeveloped Rivertown tract and expressed concern regarding properties contiguous to the tract being eligible for annexation if utilities were not in place with discussion taking place regarding whether land in the Northeast and Southeast Special Study Areas would be included in the analysis.

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Council Member Patton stated she wanted all departments to be realistic in their estimates regarding costs and real-time responses especially regarding “donut hole” areas not incorporated into the city limits and expressed support for limiting the amount of land annexed over a 12-month period.

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Council Member Jones requested a debriefing on the Raleigh-Durham Annexation Agreement as well as policies on annexation in watershed areas with discussion taking place regarding costs for annexing properties in “service-committed” areas versus properties in “service extension” areas and Council Member Branch indicating he wanted staff to consider land size when bringing annexation petitions to the Council for consideration.

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There being no further business, Mayor Cowell declared the meeting adjourned at 12:30 p.m.

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Ralph L. Puccini, III

Assistant City Clerk

B.

TIME REGULAR SESSION CALLED TO ORDER BY THE MAYOR

Mayor Cowell called the meeting to order.  The following actions were taken as shown.

B.1

Pledge of Allegiance

C.

RECOGNITION OF SPECIAL AWARDS

C.1

Raleigh Aces - Women’s Semi-Pro Basketball - Team Recognition

The City Council recognized the Raleigh Aces Semi-Pro basketball team, who recently celebrated their inaugural season with an undefeated record.

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POLICE - HORSE RETIREMENT AND DONATION - COMMENTS MADE 

Staff from the Raleigh Police Department made a statement regarding the retirement and donation of Willow, a police horse, and thanked the initial donor of the horse for her contribution.

D.

CONSENT AGENDA

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch

  Recommended Action: Motion to approve all Items of the Consent Agenda.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

Note: Council Member Forte had stepped away from the table; however, she had not been excused from voting and therefore her vote counted in the affirmative.

D.1

CONSENT AGENDA - GENERAL ITEMS

D.1.a

Donation of Property - Police Horse Retirement - Resolution

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action:  Adopt the resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary instruments to donate the police horse.
  
  Adopted

See Resolution (2025) 705.

D.1.b

Disposition of Property - 8919 Hunting Trail Offer - Authorize Upset Bid Process

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch

  Recommended Action: Accept the bid of $10,000 for 8919 Hunting Trail from Jennifer and Dave Maldonado, subject to the upset bid process.

  
  Adopted

D.1.c

Raleigh Housing Authority Bond Issuance – Barton Oaks

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action:  Adopt a resolution to authorize the Raleigh Housing Authority to issue bonds for Barton Oaks affordable rental housing project.
  
  Adopted

See Resolution (2025) 706 and Resolution (2025) 707.

D.1.d

Raleigh Housing Authority Bond Issuance – Maple Ridge

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action:  Adopt a resolution to authorize the Raleigh Housing Authority to issue bonds for Maple Ridge affordable rental housing project.
  
  Adopted

D.2

CONSENT AGENDA - PETITION ANNEXATIONS

D.2.a

Petition Annexation- AX-21-25 Contiguous Outside ETJ 3101 Watkins Town Road (District B)

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action:  Acknowledge the annexation petition, direct the City Clerk to check the sufficiency of the petition pursuant to State statutes, and if found sufficient, authorize advertisement for public hearing to be held on October 21, 2025.
  
  Adopted

D.2.b

Petition Annexation- AX-23-25 Contiguous Inside ETJ 2203 Ray Road

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action:  Acknowledge the annexation petition, direct the City Clerk to check the sufficiency of the petition pursuant to State statutes, and if found sufficient, authorize advertisement for public hearing to be held on October 21, 2025.
  
  Adopted

D.3

CONSENT AGENDA - REQUEST FOR PUBLIC HEARINGS

D.3.a

Application for Historic Landmark Designation – Morley and Carol Kare House – 2204 Barfield Court

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action: Refer the application to the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Office of Archives and History for its analysis. Authorize a joint public hearing before the City Council and RHDC on the evening of November 4, 2025, to receive public comment on the historic landmark report and proposed landmark designation.
  
  Adopted

D.4

CONSENT AGENDA - GRANTS

D.4.a

Grant Award – Duke Energy Foundation – Helping Emergency Response Organizations (HERO) Grant

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action: Authorize staff to execute all required grant documentation; authorize a budget amendment in the amount of $25,000.
  
  Adopted

See Ordinance (2025) 787 TF 477.

D.5

CONSENT AGENDA - STORM DRAINAGE

D.5.a

Storm Drainage – Stream Stabilization Program – New Projects

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch

  Recommended Action:  Authorize the Stream Stabilization Program projects as recommended by the Stormwater Management Advisory Commission.

  
  Adopted

D.5.b

Storm Drainage – Drainage Assistance Program – New Projects

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action: Authorize the Drainage Assistance Program projects as recommended by the Stormwater Management Advisory Commission.
  
  Adopted

D.6

CONSENT AGENDA - CONTRACTS AND CONSULTANT SERVICES

D.6.a

Interlocal Agreement - GoRaleigh Access / GoWake Access Transit Facility - Wake County

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute the interlocal agreement.
  
  Adopted

D.6.b

Contract Services - Customer Care and Billing Software - Utility Solutions Partners, LLC - Amendment No. Four

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to execute the contract amendment with Utility Solutions Partners, LLC in the not to exceed $1,648,000.

   
  
  Adopted

D.6.c

Contract Services - Computer Aided Dispatch Software Support and Maintenance - CentralSquare Technologies, Inc. - Ratification and Amendment No. Seven

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action: Ratify the contract with Central Square Technologies Inc. and authorize the City Manager to extend the agreement to July 31, 2026, in an amount not to exceed $990,000. Authorize continuous renewals as needed as long as the software is in use by the City, contingent upon the annual budget appropriation of funds for this purpose.
  
  Adopted

D.7

CONSENT AGENDA - ENCROACHMENT REQUESTS

D.7.a

Encroachment - 9121 Six Forks Road - Permeable Paver Sidewalk

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action:  Authorize the encroachment subject to completion of a liability agreement and documentation of proof of insurance by the applicant.
  
  Adopted

D.7.b

Encroachment - 111 Cox Avenue - Irrigation System

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action:  Authorize the encroachment subject to completion of a liability agreement and documentation of proof of insurance by the applicant.
  
  Adopted

D.8

CONSENT AGENDA - BUDGET AMENDMENTS AND TRANSFERS

D.8.a

Budget Amendment – Property Lease – 127 West Hargett Street, Professional Building

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch

  Recommended Action: Authorize the budget transfer and budget amendments to appropriated funding.

  
  Adopted

See Ordinance (2025) 787 TF 477.

D.8.b

Budget Amendment - Federal Emergency Solutions Grant

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action: Authorize the budget amendment in the amount of $2,438 to the FY26 Emergency Solutions Grant program appropriation to align with the actual HUD allocation.
  
  Adopted

See Ordinance (2025) 787 TF 477.

D.9

CONSENT AGENDA - BIDS

D.9.a

Bid Rejection – Northeast Remote Operations Center - Fleet Services Building - Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Replacement Project

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action: Reject all bids and authorize re-advertisement of the project.
  
  Adopted

D.9.b

Bid Rejection – Northeast Remote Operations Center - Recreation Building - Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Replacement Project

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action: Reject all bids and authorize re-advertisement of the project.
  
  Adopted

D.10

CONSENT AGENDA - TRAFFIC

D.10.a

Controlled Residential ”K” Permit Parking Expansion

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action:  Authorize the changes in the Traffic Schedule included with the agenda materials.
  
  Adopted

See Ordinance (2025) 788.

D.10.b

No Parking Zones – Line of Sight - North Saint Mary‘s Street

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action:  Authorize the changes in the Traffic Schedule included with the agenda materials.
  
  Adopted

See Ordinance (2025) 788.

E.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Nikki W., Manzoor Cheema, and Ben Kuhn had signed up to speak; however, were not present at the meeting.

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• The following individuals expressed concerns as a result of ongoing development and rezoning cases.  Mayor Cowell requested that staff ensure the rules regarding public comments on rezoning cases already scheduled for public hearing are posted online.
  
  • Matthew Brown
  • Roy Attride
  • Chris Crew
• Kevin Kwong requested the City implement various bus service-related improvements.
• Robert Courts expressed various concerns relating to the potential advisory board mergers.
• The following individuals expressed concerns with the ongoing conflict in Gaza, urging the Council to adopt a ceasefire resolution.
  
  • Alexis Kennedy
  • Maysa Saoutari
  • Hanadee Ali
  • Asma Abu-Dahab
• Momma Kai Sanders touched on the convention center expansion, hospitality tax, Capital Boulevard improvements, and family-friendly downtown enhancements.
• Octavia Rainey expressed concerns relating to building security at the Raleigh Municipal Building.

E.1

Voice Mail Public Comment

F.

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION

F.1

Rezoning Z-05-25: Rock Quarry Road (District C upon annexation)

• Recommended Action: The City Council may set a date for a public hearing on this case. Alternatively, the request can be held or referred to committee for further review. If a hearing is authorized, staff recommends a hearing date of October 21, 2025.

Assistant Planning and Development Director Bynum Walter explained the item.

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch

  Motion to authorize an October 21, 2025 public hearing.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

F.2

Rezoning Z-08-25: 1011 Cross Link Road

• Recommended Action:  The City Council may set a date for a public hearing on this case. Alternatively, the request can be held or referred to committee for further review. if a hearing is authorized, staff recommends a hearing date of October 21, 2025. 

Assistant Planning and Development Director Bynum Walter explained the item.

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch

  Motion to authorize an October 21, 2025 public hearing.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

F.3

Rezoning Z-16-25: 6100 Creedmoor Road

• Recommended Action: The City Council may set a date for a public hearing on this case. Alternatively, the request can be held or referred to committee for further review. if a hearing is authorized, staff recommends a hearing date of October 21, 2025. 

Assistant Planning and Development Director Bynum Walter explained the item.

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch

  Motion to authorize an October 21, 2025 public hearing.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

F.4

Rezoning Z-22-25: 3101 Watkins Town Road

• Recommended Action:  The City Council may set a date for a public hearing on this case. Alternatively, the request can be held or referred to committee for further review. if a hearing is authorized, staff recommends a hearing date of October 21, 2025

Assistant Planning and Development Director Bynum Walter explained the item.  Per questioning from Council Member Patton, the Council clarified the direction provided to staff in the previous work session to proceed with a cost of service analysis and bring back a resolution for consideration, which would define an area of eligibility and timeline for pausing annexations.

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Branch

  Motion to authorize an October 21, 2025 public hearing.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

G.

SPECIAL ITEMS

G.1

Rezoning Z-10-25: 8125 Leesville Road, north of its intersection with Country Trails (District E)

• Recommended Action: The City Council may set a date for a public hearing on this case. Alternatively, the request can be held or referred to committee for further review. If a hearing is authorized, staff recommends a hearing date of October 7, 2025.

Assistant Planning and Development Director Bynum Walter explained the item, including updated conditions.

• Motion Council Member Patton
  Seconded Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte

  Motion to authorize an October 7, 2025 public hearing.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

Note: Council Member Lambert-Melton had stepped away from the table; however, he had not been excused from voting and therefore his vote counted in the affirmative.

G.2

Rezoning Z-12-25: Northeast of the intersection of Peace Street and West Street

• Recommended Action: If signed zoning conditions are received by the deadline, City Council may set a date for a public hearing on this case. Alternatively, the request can be held or referred to committee for further review. if a hearing is authorized, staff recommends a hearing date of October 7, 2025.

Assistant Planning and Development Director Bynum Walter explained the item, including updated conditions.  Per questioning from Council Member Jones, Deputy City Attorney Carolyn Bachl spoke to the enforceability of the affordable housing condition.

• Motion Council Member Harrison
  Seconded Council Member Lambert-Melton

  Motion to authorize an October 7, 2025 public hearing.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

G.3

Council Contingency Disbursement

• Recommended Action: Council May authorize disbursement of the Council Contingency allocation request as presented.

Chief of Staff Michele Mallette explained in accordance with appropriation procedures for Council contingency items, the following disbursement is being requested:

• Council Member Jones
  
  • $5,000 to A Place at the Table for programming support
  • Balance after Request - $10,750

• Motion Council Member Jones
  Seconded Mayor Cowell

  Motion to authorize the disbursement of $5,000 to A Place at the Table for programming support.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

See Ordinance (2025) 787 TF 477.

H.

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION OF THE CITY MANAGER

H.1

Social District - Application to Establish Received – Seaboard Station

• Motion Council Member Lambert-Melton
  Seconded Council Member Branch
  Recommended Action: Should Council desire to proceed, authorize staff to draft changes to the City Code to create an additional social district to be located within Seaboard Station.
  
  

  For (6):	Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Branch, and Council Member Harrison
  Against (2):	Council Member Patton, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (6 to 2)

Senior Events Manager Whitney Schoenfeld explained an application had been received from Hoffman & Associates requesting the creation of a new social district within Seaboard Station and highlighted the request.

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Council Members made various remarks relating to engagement efforts, proposed boundaries, and enforcement hours.  The applicant pointed out that the parcel omitted from the request, 111 Seaboard, has a different owner.  Council Member Lambert-Melton requested that staff make additional attempts to connect with the owner, as the parcel's omission from the social district could negatively impact user experience.

H.2

The Basics of Creating a Legislative Agenda

• Recommended Action: Receive as information.

Assistant Director of Governmental Affairs Sa'Metria Jones provided information on the process of creating a legislative agenda, noting the Council would have an opportunity to provide further input at their upcoming Council retreat.  The item was received as information.

H.3

RaleighNC.gov Website Redesign - Progress Update

• Recommended Action: Receive as information.

Communications Director Robin Deacle explained the item.  Council Members provided various suggestions and comments relating to enhanced greenway system information and accessibility.  The item was received as information.

H.4

2025 Community Climate Action Plan Implementation Report

• Recommended Action: Receive as information.

Sustainability Manager Megan Anderson presented highlights from the 2025 Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP) Implementation Report and responded to various comments from Council Members regarding City investments and grant opportunities, tree standards, transportation, and composting.  The item was received as information.

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CITY MANAGER - VARIOUS COMMENTS MADE

City Manager Marchell Adams-David highlighted the recent Engage Raleigh Expo, where 90 exhibitors and over 300 attendees participated.  Additionally, she announced an upcoming flood insurance discount for Raleigh homeowners due to the City's recent high rating from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Homeland Security.

I.

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION OF THE RALEIGH HISTORIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

I.1

Annual Report and Work Plan

• Motion Council Member Jones
  Seconded Council Member Silver
  Recommended Action: Receive the annual report as information. Approve the annual work plan.
  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

Raleigh Historic Development Commission (RHDC) Chairperson Rob Allen presented RHDC's 2024-25 annual report and 2025-26 annual work plan for consideration of approval.  Council Members commended various aspects of the work plan.

J.

MATTERS SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING

J.1

Public Nuisance Abatement - Property Liens

• Recommended Action: Conduct the hearings and adopt the resolution confirming liens against properties.

Housing Inspection Manager Bryce Abernethy presented the following properties for Council's consideration of adopting a resolution confirming the charges for abatement of public nuisances.  He noted the owner of 5311 Dillard Drive did not sign up for the public hearing; however, is requesting the hearing be held open.

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• 3305 Barker Place (A)
• 605 Bragg Street (C)
• 700 Cooper Road (C)
• 1909 Crawford Road (C)
• 112 Dickens Drive (C)
• 5311 Dillard Drive (ETJ)
• 1908 Hadley Road (C)
• 615 New Bern Avenue (C)
• 4105 Redington Drive (A)
• 2125 Star Sapphire Drive (C)

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Mayor Cowell opened and closed the hearings for each property (with the exception of the hearing for 5311 Dillard Drive, which was held open), as no one had signed up to speak.

• Motion Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte
  Seconded Council Member Harrison

  Motion to remove 5311 Dillard Drive from today's consideration and hold open the public hearing until October 21, 2025.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

• Motion Council Member Lambert-Melton
  Seconded Council Member Harrison

  Motion to adopt the resolution confirming liens against the remaining (omitting 5311 Dillard Drive) properties as presented.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

See Resolution (2025) 708.

J.2

Petition Annexation AX-10-25 Contiguous Inside ETJ - 13120 Strickland (District E)

• Recommended Action:  Conduct the public hearing. At the conclusion of the public hearing, City Council may: 1. Choose to approve the annexation by adopting an ordinance annexing the property on one of the following statutory allowed effective dates: September 16, 2025, or June 30, 2026, or June 30, 2027, then adopt a resolution placing the property in the appropriate electoral district. (If the effective date is delayed, the approval includes authorization to extend utilities). 2. Defer for further review by continuing the public hearing to a further date certain; or 3. Deny the case and approve connection to public water and sewer utilities (at outside rates). The approval of utility connections can be subject to any conditions offered by the applicant and agreed to by the Council.

Planning Supervisor Christopher Golden explained the item.  Mayor Cowell opened and closed the hearing, noting that no one had signed up to speak.

• Motion Council Member Jones
  Seconded Council Member Silver

  Motion to approve the annexation by adopting an ordinance annexing the property effective September 16, 2025, and adopt a resolution placing the property in the appropriate electoral district.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

See Ordinance (2025) 789 and Resolution (2025) 709.

J.3

Petition Annexation AX-17-25

• Recommended Action: Conduct the public hearing. At the conclusion of the public hearing, City Council may: 1. Choose to approve the annexation by adopting an ordinance annexing the property on one of the following statutory allowed effective dates: September 16, 2025, or June 30, 2026, or June 30, 2027, then adopt a resolution placing the property in the appropriate electoral district. (If the effective date is delayed, the approval includes authorization to extend utilities). 2. Defer for further review by continuing the public hearing to a further date certain; or 3. Deny the case and approve connection to public water and sewer utilities (at outside rates). The approval of utility connections can be subject to any conditions offered by the applicant and agreed to by the Council.

Planning Supervisor Christopher Golden explained the item.  Mayor Cowell opened and closed the hearing, noting that no one wished to speak.

• Motion Council Member Jones
  Seconded Council Member Branch

  Motion to approve the annexation by adopting an ordinance annexing the property effective September 16, 2025, and adopt a resolution placing the property in the appropriate electoral district.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

See Ordinance (2025) 790 and Resolution (2025) 709.

J.4

Petition Annexation AX-19-25 Contiguous Inside ETJ 8000 Ray Road (District A)

• Recommended Action:  Conduct the public hearing. At the conclusion of the public hearing, City Council may: 1. Choose to approve the annexation by adopting an ordinance annexing the property on one of the following statutory allowed effective dates: September 16, 2025, or June 30, 2026, or June 30, 2027, then adopt a resolution placing the property in the appropriate electoral district. (If the effective date is delayed, the approval includes authorization to extend utilities). 2. Defer for further review by continuing the public hearing to a further date certain; or 3. Deny the case and approve connection to public water and sewer utilities (at outside rates). The approval of utility connections can be subject to any conditions offered by the applicant and agreed to by the Council.

Planning Supervisor Christopher Golden explained the item.  Mayor Cowell opened and closed the hearing, noting that no one wished to speak.

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte

  Motion to approve the annexation by adopting an ordinance annexing the property effective September 16, 2025, and adopt a resolution placing the property in the appropriate electoral district.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

See Ordinance (2025) 791 and Resolution (2025) 709.

J.5

Petition Annexation AX-22-25 Contiguous Inside ETJ 5313 Tomahawk Trail (District C)

• Recommended Action:  Conduct the public hearing. At the conclusion of the public hearing, City Council may: 1. Choose to approve the annexation by adopting an ordinance annexing the property on one of the following statutory allowed effective dates: September 16, 2025, or June 30, 2026, or June 30, 2027, then adopt a resolution placing the property in the appropriate electoral district. (If the effective date is delayed, the approval includes authorization to extend utilities). 2. Defer for further review by continuing the public hearing to a further date certain; or 3. Deny the case and approve connection to public water and sewer utilities (at outside rates). The approval of utility connections can be subject to any conditions offered by the applicant and agreed to by the Council.

Planning Supervisor Christopher Golden indicated the application had been withdrawn by the applicant.

J.6

Petition Annexation AX-24-25 Contiguous Inside ETJ 7001 Destiny Drive (District B)

• Recommended Action:  Conduct the public hearing. At the conclusion of the public hearing, City Council may: 1. Choose to approve the annexation by adopting an ordinance annexing the property on one of the following statutory allowed effective dates: September 16, 2025, or June 30, 2026, or June 30, 2027, then adopt a resolution placing the property in the appropriate electoral district. (If the effective date is delayed, the approval includes authorization to extend utilities). 2. Defer for further review by continuing the public hearing to a further date certain; or 3. Deny the case and approve connection to public water and sewer utilities (at outside rates). The approval of utility connections can be subject to any conditions offered by the applicant and agreed to by the Council.

Planning Supervisor Christopher Golden explained the item.  Mayor Cowell opened and closed the hearing, noting that no one wished to speak.

• Motion Council Member Patton
  Seconded Mayor Cowell

  Motion to approve the annexation by adopting an ordinance annexing the property effective September 16, 2025, and adopt a resolution placing the property in the appropriate electoral district.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

See Ordinance (2025) 792 and Resolution (2025) 709.

J.7

Petition Annexation AX-26-25 Contiguous Inside ETJ - 2310 & 2314 Andor Place (District C)

• Recommended Action:   Conduct the public hearing. At the conclusion of the public hearing, City Council may: 1. Choose to approve the annexation by adopting an ordinance annexing the property on one of the following statutory allowed effective dates: September 16, 2025, or June 30, 2026, or June 30, 2027, then adopt a resolution placing the property in the appropriate electoral district. (If the effective date is delayed, the approval includes authorization to extend utilities). 2. Defer for further review by continuing the public hearing to a further date certain; or 3. Deny the case and approve connection to public water and sewer utilities (at outside rates). The approval of utility connections can be subject to any conditions offered by the applicant and agreed to by the Council.

Planning Supervisor Christopher Golden explained the item.  Mayor Cowell opened and closed the hearing, noting that no one had signed up to speak.

• Motion Council Member Branch
  Seconded Council Member Harrison

  Motion to approve the annexation by adopting an ordinance annexing the property effective September 16, 2025, and adopt a resolution placing the property in the appropriate electoral district.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

See Ordinance (2025) 792 and Resolution (2025) 709.

J.8

Rezoning Z-70-22: Glenwood Avenue, Lake Anne Drive, Winchester Drive, west of the intersection of Glenwood Avenue and Lake Anne Drive (District E)

• Recommended Action: Resume the hearing. Conduct the public hearing. At the conclusion of the public hearing, City Council may choose to act on the case or defer for further review. Alternately, the City Council may choose to continue the public hearing to a future date. The appropriate consistency statements are included in the agenda materials. If Council acts on the case, any ordinance approved shall be adopted this day and shall become effective five days following a favorable vote.

Planning Supervisor Christopher Golden explained the item.  Mayor Cowell opened and closed the hearing, noting that no one signed up to speak.

• Motion Council Member Jones
  Seconded Council Member Harrison

  Motion to adopt the proposed Consistency Statement (inserted below) dated September 16, 2025, contained in the agenda materials and to approve the zoning amendment with the adoption and effective dates described in the agenda item under Recommended Action.

  .

  Comprehensive Plan Consistency Statement

  September 16, 2025

  Zoning case no. Z-70-22

  Address: 8151 Glenwood Ave, 6805 Lake Anne Dr, 8265 Winchester Dr

  Applicant: Glenwood Lane LLC

  .

  After considering the policies, maps, and other materials included as a part of the comprehensive plan, the Planning Commission determines that the proposed zoning amendment is for a zoning district that closely corresponds with the development envisioned in the Future Land Use Map designation and is therefore CONSISTENT with the Future Land Use Map and CONSISTENT with the Comprehensive Plan and other adopted plans, and the request should be 
  APPROVED.

  .

  The action taken is reasonable and in the public interest because:

  • The request would permit a mix of uses, including residential and commercial, which could support shorten vehicle trips.
  • The request would continue to permit a mix of housing types, including those than tend to be more affordable, such as apartment and townhouse.
  
  

  For (7):	Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones
  Against (1):	Council Member Silver

  
  
  
  Adopted (7 to 1)

Later in the meeting, Council Member Silver indicated his intent to vote in favor of the rezoning case and made the following motion to reconsider.

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Mayor Cowell

  Motion to reconsider Rezoning Z-70-22.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

• Motion Council Member Silver
  Seconded Council Member Jones

  Motion to adopt the proposed Consistency Statement (inserted below) dated September 16, 2025, contained in the agenda materials and to approve the zoning amendment with the adoption and effective dates described in the agenda item under Recommended Action.

  .

  Comprehensive Plan Consistency Statement

  September 16, 2025

  Zoning case no. Z-70-22

  Address: 8151 Glenwood Ave, 6805 Lake Anne Dr, 8265 Winchester Dr

  Applicant: Glenwood Lane LLC

  .

  After considering the policies, maps, and other materials included as a part of the comprehensive plan, the Planning Commission determines that the proposed zoning amendment is for a zoning district that closely corresponds with the development envisioned in the Future Land Use Map designation and is therefore CONSISTENT with the Future Land Use Map and CONSISTENT with the Comprehensive Plan and other adopted plans, and the request should be 
  APPROVED.

  .

  The action taken is reasonable and in the public interest because:

  • The request would permit a mix of uses, including residential and commercial, which could support shorten vehicle trips.
  • The request would continue to permit a mix of housing types, including those than tend to be more affordable, such as apartment and townhouse.
  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

See Ordinance (2025) 794 ZC 907.

J.9

Rezoning Z-52-24: Tryon Road, west of the intersection of Tryon Road and S. Wilmington Street (District D).

• Recommended Action:  Resume the public hearing. At the conclusion of the public hearing, City Council may choose to act on the case or defer for further review. Alternately, the City Council may choose to continue the public hearing to a future date. The appropriate consistency statements are included in the agenda materials. If Council acts on the case, any ordinance approved shall be adopted this day and shall become effective five days following a favorable vote.

Planning Supervisor Hannah Reckhow explained the item, indicating the hearing has already been opened.

.

Supportive

Toby Coleman, representing the applicant, summarized the information.  Mayor Pro Tem Forte encouraged the applicant to consider removing certain parcels from the rezoning request which are not planned to be developed.

.

Opposed

Gene Cobb, representing Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity, expressed opposition to the request, citing concerns relating to buffering and screening.

.

Per questioning from Council Member Harrison, Chief of Police Rico Boyce spoke to crime statistics in the area.  Housing and Community Development Director Emila Sutton touched on the affordable housing location policy, pointing out that affordable housing development has a positive impact on crime and a neutral impact on surrounding property values. 

.

Further discussion took place regarding affordable housing and crime, with the Council directing that the public hearing be held open to the afternoon session on October 7, 2025, to allow the applicant to adjust the request.

K.

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION OF THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION COMMITTEE

K.1

No Report

K.2

Items Pending

L.

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION OF THE GROWTH AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE

L.1

No Report/No Items Pending

M.

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION OF THE SAFE, VIBRANT AND HEALTHY COMMUNITY COMMITTEE

M.1

No Report

M.2

Items Pending

N.

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION OF THE TRANSPORTATION AND TRANSIT COMMITTEE

N.1

No Report

N.2

Items Pending

O.

REPORT OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL

O.1

Individual Reports from the Mayor and Council Members

Various Council Members spoke to past and upcoming events.

.

Council Member Patton referenced the pending roll-out of the articulated buses to serve GoRaleigh Route 1, and requested ridership data to determine if the bus increases ridership.

P.

APPOINTMENTS

P.1

Arts Commission - One Regular Vacancy

No nominations were made, therefore the item will appear on the next ballot.

P.2

Fair Housing Advisory Board - One Regular Vacancy

Deputy City Clerk Cassidy Pritchard announced the following results, noting the item will be carried over to the next ballot.

• Damien Gu (Jones) - four votes received (Cowell, Forte, Harrison, Jones)
• Diana Youssef (Branch) - four votes received (Branch, Lambert-Melton, Patton, Silver)

P.3

Raleigh Sister Cities - One Regular Vacancy

Deputy City Clerk Cassidy Pritchard announced the following results, noting Sebastian Duca would be appointed.

• Sebastian Duca (Jones) - eight votes received (Branch, Cowell, Forte, Harrison, Jones, Lambert-Melton, Patton, Silver)

Q.

NOMINATIONS

Q.1

Police Advisory Board - One Regular Vacancy (Attorney Slot)

Deputy City Clerk Cassidy Pritchard announced a resignation had been received from Deonte Thomas, who filled the attorney-designated slot on the Police Advisory Board.  She noted the two current alternate members are not eligible to serve in this role, and that the item will appear on the next ballot.

Q.2

Various Advisory Board and Commissions - Pending Additional Council Direction

R.

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION OF THE CITY ATTORNEY

No report.

S.

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION OF THE CITY CLERK

• Motion Council Member Branch
  Seconded Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte

  Recommended Action: Approve the minutes.

  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

City Clerk Louis Buonpane announced draft copies of the following minutes are included in the agenda materials for consideration of approval:

• September 2, 2025 Regular Session
• September 9, 2025 Work Session
• September 9, 2025 Public Comment Session

T.

CLOSED SESSION

T.1

Enter Closed Session

• Motion Mayor Cowell
  Seconded Council Member Lambert-Melton

  Motion to enter into closed session pursuant to:

  • G.S. 143-318.11(a)(3) to consult with the City Attorney in order to preserve the Attorney-Client Privilege.
  • G.S. 143-318.11(a)(6) to consider the qualifications, competence, performance, character, fitness, conditions of appointment, or conditions of initial employment of individual public officers or employees.
  
  

  For (8):

  Mayor Cowell , Mayor Pro Tem Stormie Forte, Council Member Lambert-Melton, Council Member Silver, Council Member Patton, Council Member Branch, Council Member Harrison, and Council Member Jones

  
  
  
  Adopted (8 to 0)

U.

OPEN SESSION

U.1

Return to Open Session

The Council returned from closed session at 6:00 p.m. and announced that no action had been taken.

U.2

Adjourn Meeting

There being no further business, Mayor Cowell declared the meeting adjourned at 6:02 p.m.

.

Bryce Dunn

Assistant City Clerk