City Council

Council moves forward on new facilities

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The Raleigh City Council approved moving forward on three major projects in their capital improvement plan:
$2.4 million to finish plans for the Clarence E. Lightner Public Safety Center, the construction of an outdoor amphitheater next to Raleigh’s convention center and funding for new Solid Waste Services facilities.

The Lightner center will house the police and fire departments, and now has funding to finalize development plans that are currently 50 percent done. The amphitheater will host cultural events, art expos and a partnership with Live Nation, which will bring big-name acts downtown. Approving the projects now takes advantage of the poor economy, keeping the costs down for the public, said City Manager Russel Allen.

City Council

New council sworn in

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Wake County District Judge Vince Rozier administered the oath of office to Raleigh’s mayor and city council members Monday night. The 2009-2011 term has seven returning faces, including John Odom representing District B who took a couple years off. This is the first time on the council for Bonner Gaylor, District E, who replaces longtime councilor Philip Isley.

Raleigh Mayor Charles Meeker, returning for his fifth term, commended the outgoing council for their successes, “between the worst drought in a long time and the worst economic downturn in a long time.” Meeker pointed to the comprehensive plan and the redesign of Hillsborough Street as examples of their success.

City Council

Council preview: Lightner Center, Moore Square up for review

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The Raleigh City Council will get an update on the Lightner Public Safety Center design. Councilors will also meet the winner of the Moore Square design competition.

The city council will consider more parking stations for downtown and Glenwood South, stimulus finding to make loans to private businesses and reorganizing the police department.

Business

Hillsborough St. businesses down 30 to 50 percent, owners say

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Business owners along Hillsborough Street across from N.C. State University report that sales are down 30 to 50 percent since construction began over the summer. Construction on the $10-million Hillsborough Street Improvement project began in mid-August and should be done by September 2010.

Police Blotter

November 24 blotter

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Someone reported being mugged on the 400 block of West South Street at 3 p.m. saying the thief made off with a wallet, $1200 cash and 7 grams of crack.