🌳 Chef Katsuji Opens La Taqueria at Boxyard RTP

In this issue:

• Protesters Rally in Durham Over CFPB Cuts

• Durham Launches New ADU Loan Program

• Chef Katsuji Opens New Taco Spot at Boxyard RTP

• Council Approves Major Housing Project

• Events This Week: Earth Day, Festival of Legends, and More

Approx Read Time: 3 mins

Protesters Rally in Durham Over CFPB Cuts

Dozens of Durham residents rallied outside Bank of America on April 14 to protest federal plans to gut the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), which employs multiple local residents.

• Backlash to Layoffs: The Trump administration’s plan to slash the CFPB from 1,700 to 5 staffers triggered the protest.

• Local Voices: Advocates say the CFPB plays a key role in curbing predatory lending and wrongful foreclosures.

• Court Intervention: A federal judge temporarily blocked the layoffs in March pending further review.

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Durham Launches New ADU Loan Program

Durham is piloting a $1.75 million low-interest loan program to help property owners build accessory dwelling units (ADUs), part of its “Forever Home, Durham” housing initiative.

• Local Access Focus: Homeowners must live in Durham and cap rents at 80% AMI to qualify.

• Gap Financing: The loan supports construction of backyard units like tiny homes or garage apartments.

• Equity in Housing: City leaders say ADUs offer both affordable rentals and income options for landowners.

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Chef Katsuji Opens New Taco Spot at Boxyard RTP

Chef Katsuji Tanabe — a Top Chef alum — has debuted La Taqueria at Boxyard RTP, bringing Mexico City-style street tacos to the food hall.

• Tacos Return to RTP: The spot fills a void left by Lawrence Barbecue and Leroy Tacos, which relocated to downtown Cary.

• Chef’s Second Act: Tanabe also runs Flour & Barrel in downtown Raleigh.

• Menu Highlights: Suadero brisket, local chorizo, sweet potato tacos, plus agave-forward cocktails and beer.

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Council Approves Major Housing Project

The Durham City Council met on April 21, 2025, to advance a 160-unit affordable housing development, approve substantial amendments to its federal housing fund plans, and respond to powerful public testimony about the city’s approach to HIV housing and community equity.

• Page Corners Affordable Project Approved: Council unanimously approved the rezoning, annexation, and development agreement for a 160-unit complex at Page Road. All units will be affordable at 60% AMI or below for at least 30 years, with the developer receiving waivers on open space (15% vs. 20%) and tree coverage (7%) requirements​.

• Federal HUD Plan Amended: The city adopted four major amendments to its Consolidated and Annual Action Plans, reallocating CDBG and HOME-ARP funds and expanding eligible HOPWA activities for persons living with HIV/AIDS​.

• Community Advocates Push for Inclusion: Members of the End HIV Durham Coalition called on Council to redirect HOPWA funds toward community-led organizations, citing barriers to access and a lack of decision-making power under the city’s current model​.

• Public Housing Crisis Raised: Residents, including leaders from Cornwallis public housing, described rising evictions and a lack of on-site mental health support. Council acknowledged the urgency and signaled interest in a future work session on Housing Authority oversight​.

• Hotel Incentive Deferred: A proposed $600,000 public incentive for a downtown hotel project was withdrawn from the agenda without discussion, indicating a pause for further consideration​.

Council’s actions showed continued investment in affordable housing — but public testimony highlighted deeper issues of equity and community trust in how Durham allocates its resources.

Watch the Full Discussion >>

The 12th Annual Festival of Legends
Sugg Farm at Bass Lake Park
April 26–27 (Sat 10 AM–7 PM, Sun 11 AM–5 PM)
A magical weekend of music, mythical creatures, performances, and fantasy-filled fun — free for kids under 12.
Details >>

Earth Day Festival
Durham Central Park
April 27, 12:00 PM–5:00 PM
Celebrate with live music, green vendors, and kid-friendly activities.
Details >>

Dave Ramsey & Dr. John Delony: Building Wealth Live
Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC)
April 30, 7:00 PM
An evening of financial coaching and personal development strategies from two bestselling authors.
Details >>