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- 🌳 Barsa Opens in Downtown Durham
🌳 Barsa Opens in Downtown Durham
Jordan Parker
May 29, 2025
In this issue:
SBI Investigates Durham Political Committee
Violent Crime Down, But Homicides Rise
Michelin-Starred Talent Lands in Durham
Council Unveils $722M Proposed Budget for FY26
New LEGO Store Open!
APS Walk for the Animals
Approx Read Time: 3 mins
SBI Investigates Durham Political Committee
The NC State Bureau of Investigation is probing possible financial wrongdoing within the Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People, following allegations raised by its former vice chair.
Vice Chair Resigns: Donald Hughes stepped down after claiming campaign finance records didn’t match bank statements.
Questionable Charges: Hughes cited payments to makeup artists and beauty supply stores as inappropriate PAC expenses.
SBI Steps In: The state’s financial crimes unit is investigating at the request of Durham DA Satana Deberry.
Violent Crime Down, But Homicides Rise
Durham saw a significant drop in overall violent crime during the first quarter of 2025, according to a presentation by Police Chief Patrice Andrews. Still, homicides increased — and police response times remain slower than city targets.
22.6% Crime Drop: Violent crime declined from 451 incidents in Q1 2024 to 349 in 2025.
Homicides Up: Despite the drop in total crime, homicides rose from 6 to 9 — a 50% increase.
Staffing Still Low: The department is only 72.8% staffed for sworn officer positions, though recruitment is improving.
Michelin-Starred Talent Lands in Durham
Downtown Durham just got a serious culinary upgrade with the grand opening of Barsa, a bold new Southern Indian restaurant led by Chef Vinod Kumar — formerly of NYC’s Michelin-starred Semma. Located on W Morgan Street, the sleek new space is already generating buzz for its inventive menu and tropical cocktails.
Star Power: Chef Kumar brings Michelin-level experience and technique.
Modern Indian Cuisine: Dishes range from soft shell crab to lobster with bold regional flavors.
Ambiance on Point: “Barsa” means rain — expect umbrellas, color, and flair.
Council Unveils $722M Proposed Budget for FY26
At the May 19 Durham City Council meeting, City Manager Bo Ferguson presented a proposed $722 million budget for FY25–26 — an 8% increase over last year. The budget outlines major investments in parks, housing, and public safety — with a proposed tax rate of 43.71¢ per $100 of assessed value, which is 5.48¢ above the revenue-neutral rate.
Major Budget Highlights: The proposal includes $315M for water/sewer infrastructure, $115M for sidewalks and street repairs, and $85M for new parks — all part of the $200M bond voters approved last fall
Expanded Crisis Response: The HART program (non-police 911 response) would grow with 17 new staff positions; the city maintains its commitment to fare-free GoDurham buses.
New Minimum Wage: The city’s livable wage for full-time employees would increase to $21.90/hour, equivalent to a $45K salary.
Skate Park Donation Approved: Council unanimously approved a resolution to donate skate ramps to Scrap Exchange’s community skate park project.
Legislative Pushback: Council voted to oppose House Bill 765, a state measure that would undercut local control over zoning and land use decisions.
Tax Impact: Median homeowners could see a city property tax bill of about $1,814 — a rise driven by revaluation and new infrastructure spending.
New LEGO Store Now Open at Southpoint!
Triangle LEGO lovers, rejoice! A brand-new LEGO Store is now open at The Streets at Southpoint, bringing hands-on play tables, build-your-own minifigs, and wall-to-wall bricks to Durham. Whether you’re a collector or just looking for a creative afternoon with the kids, it’s a must-visit.
Walltown Children’s Theatre 25-Year Celebration
Walltown Children’s Theatre, Durham
May 28–June 1
A weeklong showcase celebrating 25 years of youth talent in dance, drama, and music — featuring performances from students ages 3–18.
Details >>
Walk for the Animals
Duke East Campus, Durham
May 31 • 9:00am–12:30pm
Join APS of Durham for a community walk with pet contests, games, and fundraising for shelter animals.
Details >>
Durham Bulls vs. Memphis
Durham Bulls Athletic Park
June 1 • 1:00–3:30pm
Catch the Bulls in action — and stick around after the game for Kids Run the Bases!
Details >>
Spring African American Walking Tour
Pope House Museum, Raleigh
Through June 22 • Tue–Sat 10am–2pm, Sun 1–3pm
Explore Raleigh’s historic Third Ward, once a vibrant Black community near Shaw University, on a free guided tour from the Pope House Museum.
Details >>
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