Pittsburgh · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pittsburgh public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Housing Opportunity Fund Advisory Board Appointment
The city is reviewing the appointment of Marita Bradley to the Housing Opportunity Fund Advisory Board, which oversees affordable housing resources and gap financing.
Affordable Housing Bonus Program reporting
A new ordinance would require the Planning department to file regular reports on the Affordable Housing Bonus Program, adding transparency to how affordable housing incentives perform.
Revived Side Yard Sale Program
A new ordinance would create a formal program letting adjacent property owners buy city-owned side yards, a common ask from neighbors of vacant lots.
Housing Opportunity Fund Funding and Program Priorities
A new ordinance would require the Planning department to file regular reports on the Affordable Housing Bonus Program, adding transparency to how affordable housing incentives perform.
Sale of tax-acquired properties
Council will consider selling 31 vacant or tax-delinquent properties the city acquired, putting them back into private hands and on the tax rolls across five districts.
East Liberty Transit Revitalization Investment District Phase III
Council will consider adopting the East Liberty TRID Phase III Implementation Plan, covering transit-oriented development in Districts 7, 8 and 9.
Sale of Block 174-N lots for redevelopment
Six parcels in the 13th Ward (District 9) would be sold through the URA to developer McCormack Baron Salazar at no cost to the city, setting the stage for redevelopment.
Data Center Development
Neighbors near a proposed massive data center in Butler County are fighting for a voice in the development, signaling upcoming local zoning battles over major industrial projects. If you live near these sites, expect rapid changes to your neighborhood and heated community debates.
Workforce Development
Pittsburgh Water just launched a "Bridge to Careers" program to train locals for skilled trade jobs, helping fill their own staff shortages while getting people paid work. It's a win-win for local employment and keeping our water system running smoothly.
Closure of Roots Drop-In Center
Community members and service providers raised urgent concerns about the recent closure of the Roots drop-in center on the North Side, warning that unhoused residents lack vital support as winter approaches.
Kelly Street Affordable Housing Rezoning
Action Housing is seeking a zoning change on Kelly Street in Homewood West to build a 38-unit affordable housing complex on long-vacant city-owned land. The project aims to bring much-needed affordable rentals and revitalize a vacant gateway site.
Pittsburgh Land Bank Property Acquisitions
Council discussed expanding Pittsburgh Land Bank staffing through a $157,175 URA PAYGO agreement amendment to aggressively acquire and stabilize vacant, blighted residential properties.
Northside Real Estate Tax Exemption Program
The city is considering tax breaks to encourage developers to turn older, empty office buildings on the Northside into housing and other uses. Supporters hope this will spark investment similar to downtown programs and bring more residents to the neighborhood.
LGBTQ+ History Context Statement
The city planning department is accepting a $25,000 state grant to conduct a comprehensive historical study of LGBTQ+ places and people in Pittsburgh. This study will guide future historic preservation and landmark nominations.