Rocky Mount ends AECOM contract, will re-start 02/50 comprehensive-plan process; city to discuss housing funding

Interim City Manager Peter F. Varney announced that the city has ended its contract with AECOM and plans to restart work on the 02/50 comprehensive plan by filling the development services director vacancy and soliciting proposals from planning firms.

"We have ended the contract with AECOM. At the moment, we're planning to fill the development services department director vacancy and then solicit proposals for a planning firm to assist us in preparing the 02/50 comprehensive plan," Varney said. He added that the city plans to reuse data collected during AECOM workshops in the new process.

Varney said the comprehensive-plan timeline and related priorities will be discussed at the city council retreat scheduled for March 19, 2021, and in the committee of the whole meeting following the council session. He said the city will also discuss a proposal to initiate redevelopment of inner-city neighborhoods and strategies to address homelessness.

During public comment, a speaker identified as Dr. Ku addressed homelessness and housing affordability, citing national trends and calling for stronger public-housing solutions. Dr. Ku said homelessness had "gone up by 18%" this year and argued the city should consider larger public-housing investments; Dr. Ku pointed to international models and urged local action to alleviate housing insecurity.

Varney told the council officials that the city will bring proposals on spending funds received from the state general assembly to committee and the retreat for further consideration.

No formal policy decision to adopt a new comprehensive plan or a particular housing program was made at the meeting; staff outlined next steps for a restarted planning procurement process and upcoming council discussion.