By David Bracken, The News & Observer, Raleigh, N.C. Jun. 18--RALEIGH -- The City Council approved a new annual fee on rental properties Tuesday that was described as "excessive" and "an abomination" by dissenting council members.

By David Bracken, The News & Observer, Raleigh, N.C. Jun. 11--RALEIGH -- After more than two years of discussion, the City Council is poised to make major changes to how Raleigh deals with problem rental properties.

By David Bracken, The News & Observer, Raleigh, N.C. Mar. 5--RALEIGH -- Maybe it's time to start calling the Raleigh City Council the Drought Council.

By David Bracken, The News & Observer, Raleigh, N.C. Mar. 4--RALEIGH -- By slashing the amount of water it releases from Falls Lake by almost half, the Army Corps of Engineers made the one remaining move that could significantly extend Raleigh's water supply.

By David Bracken, The News & Observer, Raleigh, N.C. Mar. 3--RALEIGH -- Mayor Charles Meeker said today the Army Corps of Engineers has agreed to cut the amount of water it releases from Falls Lake by half beginning today.