Seven things to know from Oct. 19 Ann Arbor City Council Meeting

The Ann Arbor City Council met Monday, Oct. 19, 2026, and passed measures related to transportation safety, animal welfare, economic development, housing and homelessness, and sustainability, among other issues:

• Purchase of 124 Felch St.: Council approved purchasing the property at 124 Felch St. for up to $393,400, including closing costs. The property is located in the Allen Creek floodway, and the city intends to remove the existing structure to reduce flood risks. The site is adjacent to city-owned property at 721 N. Main St., where a future stormwater park is being explored.
• Carey Street one-way conversion: Council approved converting Carey Street to northbound-only traffic between Division and Depot streets. The change will eliminate a hazardous turning movement and improve safety as part of the Division Street Bikeway Project.
• Glue-trap ban: Council approved an ordinance to prohibit the sale and use of glue traps for capturing animals, including rodents, birds and reptiles. The prohibition does not apply to insects or spiders. The ordinance takes effect 60 days after official publication.
• Small business development: Council established small business development as a fifth strategic priority for the city Office of Economic Development. The initiative focuses on helping local businesses navigate city processes, access resources, overcome barriers and find opportunities to grow.
• Zoning near downtown and U-M Central Campus: Council requested the Planning Commission develop zoning amendment recommendations for areas south and east of downtown and the University of Michigan's Central Campus in line with the city’s recently approved Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The proposed amendments would allow greater housing density and a wider range of land uses while continuing to allow land uses permitted under current zoning. The Planning Commission was asked to seek input from nearby residents as it develops recommendations.
• Geothermal energy at city facilities: Council approved a resolution supporting expanded use of geothermal heating and cooling systems in city buildings. The resolution calls for studying potential locations and advancing installations while federal incentives could reimburse up to 50% of eligible installation costs through June 2027.
• Bill of rights for people experiencing homelessness: Council adopted a resolution affirming the rights of people experiencing homelessness to access public spaces and city services without discrimination based on housing status, while maintaining the city's authority to enforce lawful rules governing conduct in public places. The resolution also directs the City Administrator to review city policies and report back within 180 days with recommendations for implementation.

More information about these actions and other council business is available through the City of Ann Arbor Legistar meeting records.

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Media Contact: 

Steve Kilar, Communications Director, skilar@a2gov.org