Council votes to finalize affordable‑housing staff position package Dec. 16 after task‑force review

The Garner Town Council on Oct. 21 agreed to move forward on creating a full‑time affordable‑housing staff position but deferred final action until Dec. 16 to allow the Affordable Housing Task Force to finalize scope and responsibilities.

Councilor Dellinger opened the item, saying the task force had recommended a full‑time position nearly a year earlier and expressing frustration that the council had not yet funded the role. Dellinger described the Central Pines housing assessment as complete and argued the council had met prerequisites for hiring.

Mayor Pro Tem Elmo Vance moved that council continue the discussion to Dec. 16, direct staff to work with human resources on a job description, classify the position and prepare a budget amendment to fund it. The motion was seconded by Councilor Matthews.

Debate focused on timing and funding: some council members urged immediate allocation of funds to show commitment and expedite help for residents, while others supported the task‑force process to ensure the position is well‑designed and sustainable. Town staff and the town manager said the December agenda item could include a single, final motion to create and fund the position (job creation plus budget amendment). Council approved the motion 4–1 (Councilor Dellinger opposed) to continue to Dec. 16 and direct staff to prepare the job description and budget amendment.

Council members asked that the job description include responsibilities such as neighborhood‑level assistance (programs to help seniors with home repairs) and grant‑administration duties. Staff committed to bring a comprehensive package to the Dec. 16 meeting that would include the position, classification and funding details.

The action sets a timeline for the position’s formal creation and funding pending the December council vote.