Get to know the candidates competing for seats on the Charlotte City Council. With some competitive primary races to be determined on September 12th, this is your opportunity to come and meet the candidates so you will be better informed as you cast your vote. Engage with the candidates and learn more about their views and how they see the future of Charlotte. A panel of candidates will participate in conversation with the group, including a question-and-answer period. Time will be allowed for you to meet and greet the candidates following the event.
This free event is open to members & non-members. Prior registration is required. Please click the applicable link below to register. There are a limited number of seats that remain available.
My take: The outcome of practically all of the Charlotte City Council races will be known following the Primary Election which takes place next Tuesday, September 12th. The only competitive contest to be determined by the General Election in November will be the race in District 6. Additional early voting sites opened earlier today. Click this link for locations, hours of operation, and additional information.
2. Charlotte City Council Committees Meet, UDO Changes and NEST Recommendations Discussed
Transportation, Planning, & Development Committee
My take: During her presentation to the committee, Charlotte Planning Director Alyson Craig suggested some UDO regulations may need to be reworked to allow for adequate townhome development to meet current and future housing needs. This acknowledgement is a big deal. Also discussed was the process for community engagement as additional changes are suggested going forward. Here’s a link to her presentation.
Jobs & Economic Development Committee
Housing, Safety, & Community Committee
My take: The Committee will receive a presentation from NEST Commission Co-Chairs on initial recommendations aimed at supporting the first three goals of its strategy to mitigate displacement in the city: 1. supporting residents, 2. strengthening communities, and 3. fostering inclusivity. Details and a copy of the presentation should be available at the agenda link above later this evening. I’m also thrilled to mention that Canopy Realtor® Government Affairs Committee Member Deon Smith was appointed to the Commission early last week. He is well positioned to provide a common sense and practical perspective to that group. That’s advocacy in action!
Budget, Governance, & Intergovernmental Relations Committee
My take: Did you know the City of Charlotte hosts a website that allows residents to easily track development related activities near any given address in the city? It’s worth a look: Development Near Me (charlottenc.gov). Let’s hope the word gets out and community members utilize this as a tool to become informed rather than a weapon used to galvanize the NIMBYs. Here’s a link to the presentation.
Bonus: New WOTUS Rule Further Muddies the Waters
The Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have issued an amended final waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule in the aftermath of the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in the case of Sackett v. EPA.
Unfortunately, the revised WOTUS rule — which was made with no public input from interested stakeholders — represents a blow to housing affordability. Click here to read more about how this lack of clarity may affect you.
Rob Nanfelt
Executive Director, REBIC
