Durham Council members advocate for stronger local land use authority to boost housing affordability

The Durham City Council held a work session on May 8, 2025, focusing on critical discussions surrounding land use and housing affordability in the region. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by local governments in addressing these issues amid state-level constraints.

Council member Freeman initiated the conversation by emphasizing the importance of local governance in land use decisions. He pointed out that cities, towns, and villages are essential in managing land effectively, especially given the pressing housing affordability crisis in North Carolina. Freeman advocated for a collective message from local governments to address these challenges, suggesting that collaboration with regional councils of governments (COGs) could strengthen their position.

Council member Caballero echoed Freeman's sentiments, calling for an update from city staff on recent legislative developments at both the federal and state levels. She noted that several bills aimed at improving land use—such as allowing triplexes and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by right—were under consideration. Caballero asserted that Durham is already making strides in these areas and criticized any perception that the city is not proactive in reforming land use policies to enhance affordability.

The discussions underscored a shared concern among council members regarding the need for legislative support to empower local governments in their efforts to manage land use effectively. The council members expressed a desire for a unified approach to advocate for housing stability and affordability, highlighting the importance of local autonomy in addressing these pressing issues.

As the meeting concluded, the council recognized the need for ongoing dialogue and collaboration with regional partners to ensure that Durham remains a leader in housing reform and land use management. The next steps will likely involve further discussions with COGs and monitoring legislative developments that impact local governance.