SE North Carolina News

The Wilmington City Council has announced that it will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 23 at 6:30 p.m. inside Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting will cover a range of important topics that impact the community.

One of the items on the agenda is the annual update from the City of Wilmington/New Hanover County Workforce Housing Advisory Committee. This report will provide insights into the progress made in addressing the housing needs of the city and county.

The meeting will also include a presentation of the Wilmington Police Department's 2023 Year End Crime Statistics. This report will shed light on the crime trends and patterns in the city, helping to shape future strategies for maintaining public safety.

Another significant item on the agenda is the Annual Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report. This report will provide an overview of the city's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and mitigate the effects of climate change.

In addition, the City Council will discuss a contract for the removal and stump-grinding of 31 dead and dying trees from City rights-of-way. This includes the removal of up to 19 dying trees on Market Street between 12th and 21st streets. The work is expected to take about four weeks to complete, with tree replacement occurring during the planting season in the spring and fall of 2024.

Furthermore, the City Council will consider a cost-sharing agreement with New Hanover County and the New Hanover County Schools for the replacement of the synthetic turf at Legion Stadium. The $690,000 cost would be shared equally among the three agencies, and the work is scheduled to take place this spring.

During the meeting, the City Council will also discuss a resolution establishing a framework for the Steering Committee for the Greater Downtown Special Area Plan. This plan aims to provide a comprehensive vision for the development and revitalization of the downtown area. The committee will play a crucial role in guiding community engagement efforts and the implementation of the plan.

Additionally, the City Council will consider a ten-year lease of office space on the 4th floor of the Skyline Center to the Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau. This lease will provide the bureau with a dedicated space to promote tourism and attract visitors to the city.

The public is encouraged to participate in the meeting by providing written comments for any public hearing. These comments can be submitted through an online comment form, and those received prior to noon on Monday, January 22 will be entered into the public record.

For those unable to attend in person, the meeting will be available for remote viewing through various channels, including GTV8 (Spectrum channel 8), the city's website, and YouTube.

The Wilmington City Council's meeting on Jan. 23 will address important issues affecting the city. It provides an opportunity for residents to stay informed and engaged in the decision-making process.