Durham City Council advanced an ambitious destination tourism plan requiring legislative approval by late April, proposing $5 million annually for tourism projects starting in fiscal year 2026 along with a phased redistribution of occupancy tax revenue. Mayor Leonardo Williams emphasized preserving historically significant neighborhoods like Hayti, Walltown, and Black Wall Street as tourist attractions while protecting them from gentrification.
The meeting grew contentious over salary increases, with council members frustrated they must finalize budget guidelines worth millions in taxpayer money before receiving market study data. Council Member Chelsea Cook worried about "meaningful engagement" on policy without upfront information, while Council Member Franklin Freeman stressed the need for pay equity analysis broken down by race and gender. The guidelines passed 4-3, though the market study won't be available until May—after the April budget adoption. City Manager Paige defended the timeline, noting the consultant process began last July and requires 12-18 months.
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