Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Housing And Economic Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents press council on Viscon Air job losses, property-tax bill and housing-code enforcement
Summary
Public commenters raised concerns about Viscon Air’s closure and 50 job losses, urged the council to oppose House Bill 1518 (proposed move from three- to five-year property reassessments), and called for stronger code enforcement and supports for unhoused residents; administration described inspection processes and economic-development outreach.
During public comment at the March 9 Salisbury City Council meeting, residents pressed the council on multiple community concerns: the reported closure or consolidation of Viscon Air and possible local job losses, a state bill that would change property-assessment cycles, and persistent housing and homelessness issues.
Julie Bellamy asked whether the city had reached out to Viscon Air after a reported reduction in local operations and noted the potential loss of about 50 jobs. Administration said economic-development staff are exploring 'exit strategies' and working to refill the facility with a new operator.
Robert Taylor, a city resident, praised recent municipal services (snow removal, garbage) but raised environmental concerns about dust from the City Park water-main project and urged the council to consider sending a letter opposing House Bill 1518, which would move property-assessment cycles from three to five years; he said county and municipal associations have opposed the bill because it could reduce local revenue if enacted.
Several public commenters urged more proactive code enforcement and tenant protections for seniors and low-income residents; Michael Langford (a property manager) advocated routine inspections rather than complaint-only enforcement and recommended annexation of properties currently receiving city water and sewer but not paying city taxes.
Administration responded that tenants can request inspections without landlord permission, that the city has landlord-licensing and inspection protocols and that staff are coordinating with state and county housing departments to improve enforcement. The city also said it is working with economic development on strategies to address Viscon Air’s facility vacancy.
No formal council action to adopt new tenant protections, rent-control mechanisms or a letter on HB1518 was taken at the session; commenters asked the council to consider further steps and staff follow-up.
