The May Special Council Meeting for the Borough of Carlisle, held on May 23, 2025, focused on community engagement regarding the redevelopment of the Tyre and Mill site. The meeting began with a discussion on the importance of involving local residents in decisions that affect their neighborhoods, particularly concerning the demolition of buildings in the area.

A resident, who lives near the Tyre and Mill site, expressed concerns about the lack of community input in the redevelopment process. They highlighted their experiences with previous brownfield site demolitions and renovations, emphasizing the need for a pause in the current plans to allow for more dialogue with the community. The resident noted that many community members felt blindsided by the announcement of funding for the removal of 40 buildings, indicating that there had not been sufficient discussion about the implications of such actions.

The council members acknowledged the urgency of the situation and the necessity for structured conversations with developers. They recognized that preserving the historical aspects of the community is vital and that losing buildings without community input could erase significant parts of Carlisle's history. The resident's comments prompted further discussion about the importance of engaging marginalized groups in the decision-making process, ensuring that their voices are heard and considered.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to prioritize community engagement and to explore ways to involve residents more effectively in future discussions about redevelopment projects. The council plans to continue these conversations in upcoming meetings, aiming to create a more inclusive approach to urban development in Carlisle.