Durham Reporter

The Durham County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) convened for a regular session on March 24, 2025. The meeting was held in person with a virtual hybrid option at the commissioners' chambers.

Board Chair Nida Allam initiated the meeting, while Commissioner Jacobs requested an excused absence. Commissioner Valentine led the Pledge of Allegiance.

There were no changes to the agenda. Monica Wallace, Board Clerk, announced several upcoming events and initiatives:

Chair Allam will participate in the 22nd Annual Women's Forum titled "Moving Forward Together" on March 27, honoring Women's History Month. This event will be broadcast live via Durham Television Network and YouTube.

Durham residents are encouraged to share their budget priorities as part of the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget development process through an online survey available until May 30.

A Community Day and Legal Eagle Social Justice Fair is scheduled for March 29 at the Main Library, offering free legal resources and information sessions on current legal topics.

The Durham Youth Leadership Fund is accepting applications for community projects led by youth for 2025-2026. Applications are due by March 30.

Residents can schedule meetings with the Tax Office regarding property revaluation notices received recently. Meetings are available until April 12.

Volunteers conducting the Community Health Assessment Survey will be present at various locations in Durham County. Participants completing the survey will receive a gift.

A Community Mural Painting Day is planned for April 12 at a parking deck location next to Durham Police Department headquarters.

Young women in grades 9-12 from Durham County can apply for a free five-day North Carolina Emergency Management Experience program taking place June 23-27 in Raleigh.

Public comments on the fiscal year 2025-26 budget are being solicited. The recommended budget will be presented to the BOCC on May 12, with work sessions scheduled between May and June. A public hearing is set for May 27 during a regular session, with final adoption expected on June 9.

The minutes from the March 10 session were approved unanimously by commissioners.

Ceremonial items included proclamations honoring John Hope and Aurelia Whittington Franklin with an Orchid Appreciation Day, Pearl Fryar with a Gardening Appreciation Day, and recognizing April as National County Government Month. A resolution was also passed celebrating women in construction within Durham County.

Agreed agenda items included amendments to various budgets and contracts related to county services such as inmate welfare, technology projects, fire alarm systems upgrades, security equipment installations, tax audits, and more.

Appointments were made to several boards and commissions including Gwendolyn Price to the Adult Care Home Community Advisory Committee and Indranil Ghosh to Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority among others.

No items were removed from consideration during this session. The meeting concluded after a closed session under General Statutes G.S.143-318.11(a)(5).

The next regular BOCC meeting is scheduled for April 14, 2025. For further details or inquiries about board meetings, contact the Board Clerk's office via phone or email provided above.