Categories
Calendar Community Conservation Events

Durham City Council Vote: Stop Harmful Development

You have another chance to save Sandy Creek Park and its incredible variety of wildlife and birds from the effects of an oversized development on adjoining property! 

Last month, the Durham City Council delayed its decision on allowing a 4-5 story building, plus parking (together covering more than 80% of buildable land), to be built next to Sandy Creek Park. It asked the developer to address bird protection. The developer ignored NHBA’s recommendations on best practices for bird-safe building and lighting, and has promised only inadequate measures.

Next week, March 17, the Durham City Council will vote. Two council members missed the previous meeting. We hope they will agree with the Planning Commission’s decision not to support this development. Other council members may still be persuadable.
 

Act Now: Two Ways to Help

1) Contact City Council members before March 17 (email template and phone number below)

2) Join us at the March 17th meeting (City Hall, beginning 7:00 p.m.) to show support for the team of speakers planning to address the several reasons why this development is too large for such an environmentally-sensitive site. 

Suggested email message:

TO: citycouncilonly@durhamnc.gov

SUBJECT: Please Vote No Rezoning Petition Z2400001, Pickett Rd. Apartments

  • Thank you for listening to concerns about protecting Sandy Creek Park, a critical habitat in the City of Durham for birds and wildlife, and renowned nationally as a birding “Hot Spot.” More than 180 bird species have been identified by park visitors from all over the city, region, and beyond.
  • Please follow the Planning Commission’s recommendation not to allow such a large development next to sensitive wetlands and already-impaired Sandy Creek.
  • The developer’s proffer to “treat” windows is vague and ineffective. The developer’s plan also fails to prevent light trespass into critical breeding habitat for birds already threatened by habitat loss elsewhere.
  • We support building more affordable housing in Durham, but this is the wrong site and size. Many apartments, constructed or planned in the vicinity, are closer to public transportation and sidewalks and do not threaten a rare wetland habitat and the wildlife it supports.

    Or call: (919) 560-4396 to get in touch with the Durham City Council and voice your concerns. 
Categories
Community Conservation Partner Organizations

Join the Eno River Association as Director of Stewardship

The Eno River Association is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to serve as our Director of Conservation and Stewardship.

This role works closely with the Executive Director, land and stewardship staff, and the ERA’s conservation partners to develop and implement strategies for acquisition of conservation lands and easements and oversees and executes the land protection and stewardship programs of the Association. Responsibilities include managing a growing portfolio of conservation easement and Association-owned fee lands while also assisting with the management of conservation partner protected lands.

Join a dynamic organization dedicated to protecting the natural and cultural resources of the Eno River basin. Lead impactful land protection and stewardship initiatives while advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in conservation.

If you feel you or someone you know would be a good fit for this role, we encourage you to read more about this position here: https://www.enoriver.org/now-hiring-director-of-conservation-and-stewardship-position/

Categories
Community Partner Organizations

Working Lands Manager Position at Triangle Land Conservancy

Triangle Land Conservancy (TLC) is hiring for a Working Lands Manager! Application deadline: 11/18/24   Salary: $50-53k/year

This new position will administer a five-year $6 million grant awarded to TLC by the Natural Resource Conservation Service. The Working Lands Manager’s focus will be in Chatham County where they will assist with closing existing projects, seeking funding for new projects, and meeting with landowners to explore their conservation options. People of color, people with disabilities and LGBTQ+ candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. We are committed to a diverse workplace and to supporting our staff with ongoing career development opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package. To learn more, visit: https://triangleland.org/about/job-opportunities

Categories
Community Conservation

Participate in Durham’s UDO Draft Rules Discussions

Join the Durham City-County Planning Department for one of these upcoming engagements on draft rules for the New Unified Development Ordinance (UDO):

Each session will include a presentation on proposed new zoning districts and zoning map and time for discussion and input. Snacks, children’s activities, and Spanish language materials and interpretation will be provided. 

Registration is optional for the in-person engagements and will help them prepare adequate materials. Register here

Registration is required for the Zoom virtual session. Register here.

The Planning Department has changed the webpage for the online Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). Visit the webpage here to view the new online version and pdf version.

Questions? Please email Planning@durhamnc.gov or call 919-560-4137.