In this Chapel Hill Insider Issue…

⛅Chapel Hill Local Weather- High 86^o and Partly Cloudy

📰UNC Faculty Advocate for Amnesty Following Student Protests

📰Kidnapping and Shooting Suspect Arrested Due to Swift Acts of Hillsborough Police

📰Celebrate Spring with the Durham Bulls: A Week of Themed Games and Family Fun

🗓️Upcoming Events 

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UNC Faculty Advocate for Amnesty Following Student Protests

Chapel Hill Town Manager Chris Blue has presented a $156.2 million budget proposal for the fiscal year 2024-2025, which includes a 2-cent increase in property tax rates. This proposed hike is aimed at covering the escalating costs of town operations, which are budgeted at $89.4 million, and capital projects valued at $36.6 million, including essential maintenance and new vehicle purchases. Property taxes, which constitute nearly half of the town's revenue for daily operations, along with sales taxes making up about 26%, are critical financial resources for the town.

The slight increase in the tax rate will specifically help fund a 14% rise in the budget for Chapel Hill Transit to afford necessary supplies, repairs, and salaries for bus drivers. The town is also facing a yearly 3% to 5% increase in general operating costs due to inflation and the increased expense of goods and services.

Future fiscal plans include addressing substantial infrastructure needs through proposed debt issuance of $6.5 million, which will support the acquisition of a new ladder truck for the fire department, relocation of the police department to a leased space, and ongoing expenditures for a new parking deck project. A significant decision awaits in November, when voters will consider a bond referendum to potentially use the town’s remaining debt capacity for $44 million worth of projects, including the construction of fire stations, affordable housing, and improvements to recreational facilities.

The proposed new tax rate would mean a $100 increase in annual property taxes for a $500,000 home, with tax bills due at the start of 2025. Town council members have voiced concerns about the affordability of these tax increases for homeowners and renters, particularly affecting those least financially equipped to handle such hikes. The final decision on the budget will follow a series of council meetings and public hearings, with the new fiscal plan slated to begin on July 1.

Kidnapping and Shooting Suspect Arrested Due to Swift Acts of Hillsborough Police

In Hillsborough, a dramatic early Saturday morning incident resulted in the arrest of a 75-year-old Charlotte man. Police intervened after witnessing a woman with a gunshot wound fleeing across Cardinal Drive around 1:30 a.m. The victim, who had been shot in the chest, was promptly transported to Duke University Hospital where she was reported to be in stable condition.

The suspect, identified as Stephan Brooks, was apprehended shortly after when police stopped a vehicle attempting to leave the area. During the arrest, officers seized a firearm and determined that Brooks and the victim had been traveling together from Charlotte before the incident. Brooks faces charges of first-degree attempted murder and first-degree kidnapping and is currently held at the Orange County Detention Center without bond. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact Investigator Vidal Morales at 919-296-9571 or via email. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 919-296-9555.

Celebrate Spring with the Durham Bulls: A Week of Themed Games and Family Fun

The Durham Bulls are gearing up for an action-packed six-game homestand at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park starting Tuesday, May 7, against the Nashville Sounds, the Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The series promises a variety of themed nights and special promotions, ensuring entertainment for all ages.

The series kicks off with Education Day on May 7, featuring a special morning game at 11:05 AM, providing students a unique learning experience outside the traditional classroom environment. The excitement continues with Winning Wednesday on May 8, offering fans extra chances to win prizes and an opportunity to run the bases if the Bulls claim victory.

Bark in the Park takes the spotlight on Thursday, May 9, where fans can bring their dogs to the game and enjoy $1 hot dogs. This night also celebrates the return of the team’s Rays Throwback jerseys. The week rolls into a tropical vibe with Margaritaville Night on May 10, complete with themed giveaways and post-game fireworks.

The weekend features Bull Sharks Night on May 11, with special edition jerseys being auctioned for charity, and a Sunday celebration of Mother's Day on May 12, which includes a brunch and a post-game activity for kids to run the bases. Tickets for these exciting events are available online at DurhamBulls.com or by phone.

Center Theater Company in Carrboro

@ Flyleaf Books

Fridays on the Front Porch

Experience the charm of Chapel Hill each Friday at the Carolina Inn’s “Fridays on the Front Porch” event. Located at 211 Pittsboro Street, Chapel Hill, the event is sure to be a great way to enjoy the season. Running every Friday from April 19 through October 25, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, this local favorite is the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Although the first event on April 19th has been canceled due to anticipated bad weather, the series promises plenty of excitement with live music, handcrafted cocktails, North Carolina beers, and a diverse selection of food from local food trucks. The event caters to all age groups, making it an ideal outing for everyone looking to unwind in a festive atmosphere. Click here to see the lineup. (Linked has been updated) This Friday, May 10th, listen to the Lee Gildersleeve & The Bad Dogs and enjoy How Bout Burger and Poblanos Tacos food trucks!

Cat’s Cradle