Voter Guide Wake County NC Election 2022 (Part 2)

Party: Republican

Background: Notary of Public for 5 years as a business officer. Work for the City of Raleigh for 4 years, division of Performing Art. Degree in Human Performance and Wellness. Licensed Healthcare Agent.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Smart Growth and Affordable Housing, ESSA Act (Every Student Succeed Act) and the Cares Act

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (affordable housing, jobs for youth, or climate change and conservation):
Affordable housing: I support the Smart growth for Affordable housing and NACA (Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America). Every American should have the opportunity to live in a safe area and have the right to own their own property at an affordable rate.

Website: facebook.com/District1Wake

Party: Democrat

Background: Military service, State Emp. receiving The Order of the Longleaf Pine, Precinct Chair, Wake County Board of Elections, N.C. Victim Comp. Comm., Raleigh Board of Adjust., Wake County Board of Adjust, NCSEA, and NCAE. MPA, M.S., B.A: A.A.S.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:

1. Education, adequate funding for our school system.
2. Safety, Sheriff Dept. EMS, Fire Depart. and Public Safety are properly funded.
3. Health & Human Resources – The delivery of Health and Human related services for all children, the elderly, disabled and low-income families is a must.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (affordable housing, jobs for youth, or climate change and conservation):
Affordable housing: We must approach this issue from a Regional perspective. Wake County consists of twelve municipalities and each are working on an affordable housing plan to include the county. It is my belief that we should create a Task Force and bring all stakeholders together and let’s work on a plan together.

Website: DonMial.com

Party: Democrat

Background: Wake County Commissioner since 2014, Raleigh attorney since 2009. Studied at UNC-Chapel Hill and Duke Law School. Volunteered with various nonprofits and charitable causes. Fuquay-Varina resident, husband, and father of one daughter.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: As Wake County grows, we must work to enhance our quality of life and keep cost-of-living manageable. Improving housing affordability, strengthening public education, and building more robust transportation options will help us do just that.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (affordable housing, jobs for youth, or climate change and conservation):
Affordable housing: The Commission should continue working toward more housing affordability for both renters and homeowners. This includes increasing our affordable housing stock, working with municipalities to enact forward-thinking planning and zoning policies, and keeping property taxes manageable.

Website: MattCalabria.com

Party: Republican

Background: I have been running a business for over 30 years and saved 25 Jobs in 2012 before the business closed down in Cary.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Deferred property tax for seniors, and Give Choice to our parents, and have true affordable housing in the county

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (affordable housing, jobs for youth, or climate change and conservation):
Affordable housing: Bring in Tiny housing from 125sq feet to 900 sq feet; four Tiny houses Per acre in the County

Jobs for youth: We have to make them a part of the job training and they will have to want to work first. There’s nothing a youth person can’t do. We need to give them a hand up, not a handout.

Climate change and conservation: Everyone has to do their part; we can work together and make it right.

Website: no response from candidate

Party: Republican

Background: I’m a first-generation immigrant, a finance professional, and a working mother. I began my career with PwC conducting financial analyses for very large companies, then earned an MBA from Stern and worked on Wall Street before opening my own business.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: My top priorities are lower taxes, improved public safety and school choice. Taxes should fund essential government services and nothing more. Public safety would benefit from well-compensated and well-trained service line professionals. Public schools would benefit from private school competition.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (affordable housing, jobs for youth, or climate change and conservation):
Affordable housing: Housing prices are a function of supply and demand. A limited supply drives up costs. Development of duplexes, fourplexes, and middleplexes requires sensible space availability and a fundamental shift in how the county views zoning and development restrictions, both of which are Commission focuses.

Website: IrinaForWake.com

Party: Democrat

Background: NC native, lived in Wake 30 years. Wife, mother, sister, organ donor, Ph.D. psychologist, small business owner, and Apex Town Council Member. Also served on Apex’s Finance Committee, Economic Development Committee, and Environmental Advisory Board.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: A healthy and sustainable economy, community, and environment for all. Will seek to expand economic development and clean energy jobs, increase diverse housing options, support public schools (pre-school to community college), invest in public health/mental health, and preserve green spaces.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (affordable housing, jobs for youth, or climate change and conservation):
Affordable housing: I will work to help support and expand the current Affordable Housing Plan which includes building and preserving more housing that our county residents can afford, working to end homelessness, and partnering with community stakeholders who provide case management and financial support.

Website: Cheryl4Wake.org

Party: Democrat
candidate is unopposed

Party: Democrat
candidate is unopposed

Party: Republican

Background: 16 years as Sheriff, retired from the NC Highway Patrol, former college and high school basketball referee, active in numerous civic and community organizations

Top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: 1. Dealing with the county’s mental health and substance abuse crisis; 2. Improve training and professionalism within the Sheriff’s Office; 3. Increase the number of patrol officers to improve public safety across the county

As Sheriff, what steps would you take to enhance community accountability, such as prompt release of law enforcement videos and funding for mental health personnel?

Accessibility.  Accountability. Transparency. Sheriffs across the state need to improve transparency with the public and news media. I also support using some of the Opioid settlement money in Wake County to hire more mental health professionals to answer calls with our EMS first responders.

Website: DonnieHarrison.com

Party: Democrat

Background: U.S. Army veteran and retired Major from the Wake County Sheriff’s Office with over forty years of experience in public safety. Served on the senior staff and assisted with developing and implementing policies and procedures, supervising and managing staff, resources and daily operations.

Top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: 1. Reduce crime and enhance public safety; 2. Restore public trust in the Sheriff’s Office leadership; 3. Increase staffing, improve morale and community engagement. The impact will ensure equal protection for all, create opportunity and safer communities.

As Sheriff, what steps would you take to enhance community accountability, such as prompt release of law enforcement videos and funding for mental health personnel?

Establish a Community Engagement Team to address the mental health crisis, drug addiction and teen bullying. Increase community interaction to foster positive relationships with the residents; and work with all stakeholders to secure the legal release of law enforcement videos in a timely manner.

Website: RoweforSheriff.com

no response from candidate

Background: Colonel (Ret) US Army; Project Manager – Booz Allen Hamilton; Adj. Professor of Management for Coker University; Chief of Modernization and Functional Division – US Army Forces Division at Fort Bragg; Awarded Legion of Merit and Bronze Star

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Parental Involvement and Partnership: Provide more opportunities for parents to understand curricula without placing burdens on educators, listening tours throughout district; Supporting/Retaining Teachers: respectable salaries/benefits, increase support staff in schools/buses.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
The BOE should task superintendent with providing increased support staff at schools not meeting academic growth. Partner with nonprofits to provide high-dosage tutoring, mental health supports, and food security to provide effective wrap-around services at no cost to WCPSS.

Website: BenForWakeSchools.com

Background: I am a concerned mother of three who has worked in WCPSS for several years. I have successfully operated Invictus performing arts program for 8 years. I love working with children, supporting and participating in their success.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: I support policies that will ensure that our students are life ready. If our children can’t read, write, and do math well enough to confidently go to the next level in life then, we have done them an injustice. Secondly, I believe that closing the achievement gap is an attainable goal.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
In addition to the ongoing support systems that are already in place, I believe substantial teacher training is imperative to reaching more students. Understanding the nuances that are associated with different cultures and varied instructional strategies will significantly help reach more students.

Website: Vote4Dorian.com

Background: During my tenure on the board I had the privilege to learn and lead as board chair and vice chair. Additionally, I am the Executive Director of the NC Coalition Against Sexual Assault with over 20 years of leadership and advocacy experience.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Ensuring a high quality education for all students, retaining and supporting educators and engaging parents are my priorities. These priorities create the conditions in which students can thrive, educators can inspire and parents and our community are invested.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
The board must intentionally work to end performance predictability based on race, income or zip code. The data should direct resources including educator professional development parental and community engagement and expand student services with more counselors, nurses and instructional assistants.

Website: MonikaForSchools.com

Background: I earned a B.S. in Microbiology from UMCP. I worked in labs at the FDA, NIH, and UCSD, before earning my M.S. in Secondary Ed. from ODU. I have worked for WCPSS as a sub, IA, and taught math and science 7th, Earth Science and Biology, CCK, and 5th.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Revamping the curricula and providing input from teachers and parents. Curriculum transparency for parents and a return to using textbooks. Fiscal accountability and prioritizing safe schools.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
Intensive tutoring in small groups to get the students caught up in the specific areas that they need. Creating a mentoring program for students.

Website: MonicaRuiz4Wake.com

Background: I’ve been a minister for thirty years helping people make ours a better world. I’m pretty good at helping inflamed, conflicted people move beyond their divides and work together. Seems pretty relevant for school boards these days.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: 1. Supporting Teachers. Our teachers have been devalued and underpaid. I’ll work to help recruit and retain skilled, passionate teachers for our children. 2. Less Fighting. More Problem Solving. Hyperpartisan ugliness isn’t in our children’s best interests. I’ll work to help us work together.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
Diverse schools have proven to be effective closing the achievement gap. Wake County has a history of great magnet schools. I’ll work to make magnets and community schools even stronger.

Website: DougForWake.com

no response from candidate

Background: I am a first generation Chinese American, father of child with Down Syndrome, physician in Raleigh for 17 years, former member of NC Council on Developmental Disabilities

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:

1. Raise educational standards through funding early literacy and tutoring programs, and returning to time-tested curriculum;
2. Support teachers through competitive wages, classroom resources, and training;
3. Empower parents through curriculum transparency and volunteer opportunities.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
The Board should provide students equal opportunities to achieve academic success, no matter the socioeconomic levels. Supplemental tutoring should be available to every student that needs it.

Website: WingForWakeSchools.com

no response from candidate

Background: I graduated from WCPSS/ NCSU. I have 20 yr experience in policy development, contract management and managing multi-million-dollar construction projects. Also, I am a school volunteer and active PTA member including PTA officer for several years.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Every choice the board makes should be measured by asking, does this decision provide a quality education? Programs and high-paid admin positions that do not provide this should be removed so funds can be directed to curriculum and teachers to provide kids with a quality unbiased education.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
OEA has spent $9M to date with no improvement on minority &special needs scores. Audit them to find why they have not achieved their directed deliverable. Address learning loss resulting from closures by evaluating students to ID areas of low proficiency & provide individualized afterschool tutoring.

Website: Becky4Wake.com

Background: I have experience with NC public schools as a student, employee, parent, volunteer, and school board member. I earned a Bachelor of Arts from NC State and a Master of Public Administration from ECU. I am also an experienced adult educator.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: I am committed to equity initiatives that nurture diversity, inclusion, and belonging. Working to close the achievement gap is priority.  I want to build trust between the District, families, educators, and community members.  Students are my number one focus and educators are our greatest asset.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
We should be ardent in looking for ways to address disparities and committed to applying an equity lens to decision-making. In that effort, it is important to ask: Does the decision have the potential to ignore or increase existing disparities? How will evaluation and monitoring ensure equity?

Website: Waters4Wake.com

Background: I am an Education Consultant I with the NC  Juvenile Justice. I am also a licensed school counselor, school principal, and Division Superintendent. I have earned degrees in Sociology, Counseling, and Educational Leadership.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Name Our Schools initiative to name two of the newest schools in our area after educational icons who reside in District 4. Advocating for resources for our schools to ensure equity and parity in their allocation and deployment. These initiatives will inspire, engage, and support our residents.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
Allocate resources based upon the numbers and needs of the students enrolled as indicated by the available data. Technological programs, intervention providers, and the most highly qualified teachers should be deployed in areas with the highest needs.

Website: no response from candidate

Background: Parent of 2 WCPSS graduates; both attended WCPSS K-12. Various PTA positions: Secretary, VP and President. Member of two WCPSS Board Advisory Councils: D4, Rosa Gill (2007), D5, Jim Martin (2012-present). Member At-Large, Wake Co Library Commission

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Addressing WCPSS staffing shortage is top priority. We cannot help students succeed academically or recover from impacts of COVID-19, without necessary staff including teachers, support staff, bus drivers, etc. I support teaching truth and facts, and the Freedom to Read (American Library Assoc.)

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
WCPSS must work to eliminate the predictability of achievement based on socio-economic status, race, or ethnicity. I support the recently updated WCPSS Strategic Plan, that recommits the district to equity-focused practices that will improve learning and well-being for all students.

Website: LynnForWake.com

Background: I am from South Louisiana. Started raising my 2 children. I was always involved in their class events and church activities. Then moved to N.C. in 1988. Was still involved until they graduated. Now I have 3 grandsons in public schools.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: My first concern is safety and security. How easy people have access to our kids; I would like to see armed guards as well. I personally don’t like the CRT curriculum. All children are special and have potential. I also think that the sexual preference discussions should not be with elemen. students.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
First throw out CRT. Funding should be fair and equitable. Teach children about love and acceptance. Help kids with their self-esteem. Help children prepare for life. TEACH them we are all the same even if we do not always agree, or look the same, or have the same faith. Parents please stay involved.

Website: no response from candidate

no response from candidate

Background: I graduated with a BA in Music and I’ve been an instrumental music educator for 40 years, teaching ages 4 through adult. My life has been dedicated to excellence in teaching as well as mentoring the individual student to achieve success. 

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: 2020-2021 Student Performance Grades 3 – 8: 50% of our students are NOT proficient in Math, 40% are not proficient in Reading. NC Math 1: 78% of students are NOT proficient; NC Math 3: 46% of students are NOT proficient. The curriculum needs to be changed.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
More teacher’s aides so students get the attention they need. Keep Arts in schools…lower income families can’t afford private lessons. WCPSS provides 92 cars for driver’s ed, they should provide instruments for students, because playing instrumental music affects academic & cognitive abilities!

Website: JackieBoegelforWakeBOE.com

Background: Special Education within the Public School System, testing proxy, small business owner for government contracts, community involvement, collaboration, advocacy, information and referral, City Council Secretary, Lobbied, Governor Advisory Board

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: How to encourage staff, students, and parents to seek mental health support. The Epidemic of COVID 19, homelessness, and fair housing. Teacher and classroom funding.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
Realize it is real, it is painful, it hurts  and it is not the student’s fault and many times not even the parents. The board has got to be empathetic and transparent. We must be that board that made a difference.

Website: no response from candidate

Background: I’m the only candidate in this race that’s worked for Wake County Public Schools, has a kid in Wake County Public Schools and is currently on a PTA board. I have a startup that is focused on end of life planning (justincaseplanning.com).

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:  Staffing Shortages – A major impact on our kids’ education and reducing learning loss. Learning Loss – Coming up with reasonable timelines to reduce learning loss and targeting those that are most behind. I have a list of issues at samforwake.com/issues

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
Just as we should focus on those kids most behind with Covid-related learning loss, we should focus resources to address disparities in learning. It’s also important we have a diverse and representative group of teachers as well as having materials that reflect all races and cultures.

Website: SamForWake.com

Background: I specialize in education. Currently, I am a teacher of English and History. I previously worked as an international teacher, teaching English in different provinces of China and Mexico. I have also contracted with colleges such as WTCC and Duke Univ.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Vocational Education options which will give scholars the opportunity to acquire qualifications deemed fit for employment and different careers. Public school safety to ensure that student scholars and staff are safe and secure within their school environment. And teacher retention resolution.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
By addressing all reasons for disparities within minority and low income families, will provide the information needed to address learning disparities for those children. Board members are responsible for supporting scholars and schools in acquiring necessary tools to achieve higher academic levels.

Website: DLivingston4Wake.com

no response from candidate

Background: I am a father, son, husband, entrepreneur, coach, employer, former franchisee for one of the oldest franchises, choreographer, dancer, and a big fan of DIY projects. I want to bring my business ownership experience to the Boardroom.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: 1. Teacher Burn-out / I will advocate for better resources, clearer guidance, and additional training for our teachers. 2. Mental Health of our students and teachers / I believe in the 3A’s – Academics, Athletics, and Arts. Feed the mind, body, and soul. 3. Budget / Fund from the classroom up.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
Schools should have the flexibility for internal assessments and we should work to provide the proper support needed, as needed. I would want to see students have the ability to improve their own GPA or even earn credits as TA’s or even Tutors.

Website: ChadStall.com

Background: I’m Vice Chair of our Board. I have 2 children in our public schools. I’m endorsed by the Wake Co. Democratic Party, our local teachers association, and many local officials & families. I built new schools, kept kids safe, and increased teacher pay.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: My top priority is ensuring academic recovery for students who lost classroom time during the pandemic, followed by strengthening our teacher recruitment and retention programs to ensure that we have the number of qualified teachers needed in our local schools.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
Our Board has a healthy engagement program for students of different languages and cultures and work intentionally to address engagement and learning barriers for families of all races and incomes. We must work to protect these programs and ensure equity across racial and income lines.

Website: Heagarty4Schools.org

no response from candidate

no response from candidate

Background: Teacher with 8 years of classroom experience, Mom of 3 children in WCPSS, Masters of Arts in Teaching Social Studies, Spent a year teaching in France, Former Girl Scout Troop Leader, Current Board of Education Chair & 6 years of Board Experience

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Whole Child Education – continue increasing the number of behavioral health professionals to meet the needs of our students;

Retain & Recruit Talent – continue methods like pay increases, including legislative changes;

Partnerships – parents, businesses, community members & other levels of government

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
Making sure we address all aspects of a child’s well-being from Maslow to Blooms. Making sure our students see themselves and feel centered in their schools. Leandro’s promise of a Sound Basic Education being funded from the State Legislature will help greatly with this.

Website: ElectLindsay.com

Background: Parent of 4 Wake County public school children. Air Force Veteran. Masters in Political Science. Current Airline Captain. Business experience managing contracts for DoD and Lockheed/Boeing in excess of $36B.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:

1. Parental engagement. (Renewed emphasis on the parent-teacher relationship)
2. Budgetary responsibility. (Correct WCPSS’ self-proclaimed “fiscal cliff”)
3. School safety. (Support SROs. Rid schools of drugs. Promote discipline for a positive learning environment)

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?

1. Before and after school tutoring to combat learning loss;
2. Teacher aids;
3. Continued emphasis on the arts (middle and low-income families cannot afford private lessons);
4. Early literacy program emphasis (Under my opponent, academic performance has plummeted among minority students in D8)

Website: facebook.com/steveforwakeschools

Background: As a scientist and a person who values education, I have learned discipline. I also exhibit leadership, problem-solving skills, effective communication skills and the ability to build partnerships across disciplines. These are key to being successful.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: My top priorities include:

1. Advocating for parental rights and involvement,
2. Opposing harmful curriculum content,
3. Promoting and investing in STEM and
4. Ensuring school safety.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
Identify high-risk groups and target resources and programs to support those in need.

Website: facebook.com/Cartwright4wake

Background: I am a wife and mother of 5, a nurse, educator, former missionary and foster parent, and have been engaged in civics for 7 years here in NC. I am solution-minded, principled, and have experience in advocating for others in the school system.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: My top priorities will be examining the budget to eliminate non-scholastic expenditures which hinder our students’ academic success and restrict our teachers’ salaries, providing strong curriculum that ensures mastery of reading, writing, and math, and strengthening the family/school connection.

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
Every school in Wake County should address the needs of the communities they serve, training volunteers to be tutors, and adding resources and staff where needs are highest. We should partner with local businesses to offer a wide range of trades, work study programs, and market specific trainings.

Website: Michele4WakeSchools.com

Background: As a former high school special education teacher, I understand the importance of having educators in every space where decisions are made regarding our schools.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Rebuilding from COVID and dealing with the interrupted learning created during the pandemic is one of my top priorities. In addition, we must address the staffing shortages we are facing in the district. For more information please visit my website swansonforwake.com/issues

How should the Board of Education address disparities in learning for students of different races and family incomes?
We must address learning gaps/growth for every student regardless of their demographics or the presence of a disability–deserves a free/effective education. WCPSS’s new partner, the HELP Education Fund, promotes education equity through free/low-cost programs/services for all teachers & students.

Website: SwansonForWake.com

Background: I have served as Mayor since December 2019, and as at large City Councilor from 2007 to 2017. I have served on numerous boards, such as GoTriangle and the Downtown Raleigh Alliance, and have worked in marketing and for several area non-profits.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Housing affordability and choice, the expansion of transit, and public safety. To deal with growth and climate change, we need to build denser, walkable communities and get people out of their cars. And we need to address gun violence. This will all have a positive impact on our residents.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
During my tenure as Mayor, we passed a historic $80M Affordable Housing Bond, which provides funding for affordable housing. We are participating in a housing fund with Wake County to preserve naturally occurring affordable housing. And we have a partnership with Campbell Law to prevent evictions.

Website: MaryAnnForRaleigh.com

Background: 25 years as a Community Organizer and Advocate, President of a Non-profit that provides resources to families in the Triangle area, Vice Chair of Wake County’s Health and Human Services Board & have the passion and drive to THE PEOPLE!

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Inclusive Communication with residents of the City, Affordable housing/Housing Affordability, & Prioritizing budget allocations. As Mayor, I will work to improve the quality of lives and not just the value of properties. I will also like to develop a citywide sustainable Youth mentoring program.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
I agree! I would like to provide housing education that provides continued support to obtain and sustain quality housing that will create generational wealth and equity accessible to all of Raleigh’s residents.

Website: dcopeland4mayor.wixsite.com/daquanta

Background: I was trained by school community leaders in Raleigh. I was trained through IOPL. I evaluated state & local policy at the Friday Institute. I was the ED for the NAACP. Leaders should build the capacity of communities to drive their own shared value.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: I would have to say that residents’ trust in leadership is fundamental and it is in a deficit. Over the past two years residents have expressed concerns over their inability to feel represented. This is evident in the affordability & community engagement concerns that have existed for the last 2 years.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Alter existing text changes around missing middle and ADUs for communities that are currently feeling the highest development pressures that is leading to displacement. Set meaningful, measured goals and outcomes for affordable housing. Activate leading industry in public private partnerships.

Website: TruthforRaleigh.com

Background: An Afghanistan & OIR Veteran with17 years in the US Army & an 8 year state employee with NC DPS/DHHS, it is my honor to serve my country, state, and hopefully soon the City of Raleigh.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: 1. Get Raleigh off the top 10 list for worst paid metros in the US for 1st responders. Raleigh Fire made $12/hr before August 1st, now they make $15/hr. They can get better pay & benefits at Sheetz. 2. Reducing spending and taxes by cutting DEI & frivolous spending from the 22-23 budget.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
I agree. I want to reduce/remove as many restrictions as possible from residential zoning so owners can build by right. It’s your land, you build on it what you want. I also want to upzone the land along the BRT to RX7 with 15% of residential for affordable housing.

Website: ElectJamesBledsoe.com

Background: Lived in Raleigh since ‘92 and been an activist since Occupy Raleigh (2010). I am secretary for the Northern Piedmont Local of the Socialist Party (I was Chair 2017-19) and the party’s National Committee. Member of the NC Green Party since 2019.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:

1. Increasing the supply of low-income housing;
2. Raising the wages of city workers and improving their working conditions;
3. Increasing access to public transit and keeping it free at the point of use; These priorities would increase equity and increase the standard of living for all residents.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Raleigh absolutely faces a housing crisis. Knowing this, I am committed to a housing first policy that prioritizes low-income residents (particularly those 30% AMI and below) and their housing needs. We must leverage city funding and resources to implement this approach.

Website: BradleyForRaleighWorkers.com

Background: Licensed as an attorney and real estate agent. Certified as an Ombudsman and Mediator. Currently serving as the District D City Council Member. Most of my work experience has been in roles where I have functioned as a counselor or negotiator.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Improving access to affordable housing, expanding efficient public transit options and evaluating the city’s infrastructure as it relates to the current rate of growth in the area. All of these issues impact many of the citizens of Raleigh on a daily basis.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Yes I agree. I would work with the City staff to find ways to expand leveraging assets we currently own to work with our nonprofit partners who are developing low income affordable housing options.

Website: Stormie4Raleigh.com

Background: Advocacy: transit, environmental conservation, racial equity, ERA,  public planning; campaign, advocacy trained and recruiting others. At-Large Raleigh City Councilor; Partners Environmental Justice; GoTriangle, NC Human Relations; Dix Park boards.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Invest in the combo of well-placed density + frequent transit + accessible green space. City workers, who support our clean water, sanitation, public safety and parks, must be able to afford to live in Raleigh. Listen to citizens’ views: communications in-person and virtual engagement. Honor citizen-developed plans

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Low-income families: Set bold goals incorporating affordability wherever homes are built or redeveloped, and for ownership, too. We need thousands of new units while retaining the existing number of affordable housing units. I have a record of bringing disparate people together to get things done.

Website: AnneFranklinForRaleigh.com

Background: I have served in this role since 2019. I’m also a Board Certified Family Law Specialist helping individuals navigate difficult personal circumstances with a goal of finding compromise solutions. Prior to public office, I worked with local nonprofits.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Increasing housing supply and reducing car dependency are my top 2 priorities. Both of these goals will substantially improve quality of life for Raleigh residents by reducing the cost of living while also building a more sustainable and accessible city.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
I agree; I have worked to increase housing supply as well as subsidies for deeply affordable housing, including supporting the 2020 Affordable Housing Bond and zoning reform to allow more types of housing. We should also prioritize city-owned land for construction of affordable housing.

Website: JonathanMelton.com

Background: 16 years on Raleigh City Council; Served as Mayor pro tem under 3 mayors; 50 years small business owner; 25 years with GRMA/Shop Local; 25 years directing Raleigh Christmas Parade; served on Raleigh Crime Stoppers Board for 30 years

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: 1 – Public Safety & Crime Prevention/ Crime is up 4% & we are having trouble keeping officers. Better pay and take home cars would be a start. 2 – Support small & local businesses/ Listen to them & lower taxes.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
We need to work with our builders, non-profits, churches, and community to solve the problem. We need to keep affordable housing and not let it turnover to market rate. Buying units at reasonable cost.

Website: JohnOdomNC.com

Background: Adjunct Professor Shaw University; Raleigh Human Relations Commission; VP & Social Action Chair, Raleigh Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance; President & 2nd VP Raleigh-Apex NAACP; Clergy: community outreach;

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:

1. Housing – I would help build a sound city council that looks at how redevelopment affects each citizen to decrease homelessness.
2. Equity in pay – I support a living wage of at least $15 an hour for our citizens. Workers would find affordable housing and sustains local businesses.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Agree. The rapid growth in Raleigh hinders low-income people from renting/purchasing homes.  They feel devalued. I will help produce solutions to integrate people to become homeowners. I would push to change policy to require developers to provide more low-income housing in their plan.

Website: RochelleForRaleigh.com

Background: 2 years Field Organizer w/ ClimateActionNC; Youngest member of Raleigh Environmental Advisory Board; Womens Earth Alliance Grassroots Accelerator participant; Currently communications manager for a Black frontline climate justice resource hub

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: a. Creating a community and culture for deep democracy and engagement that allows every resident to be part of the decision making process; b. Addressing the affordable housing crisis; c. Protecting our natural environment from over development and mitigating climate impacts

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Raleigh has an affordable housing crisis. Preserving existing affordable housing can be as simple as not selling city owned land to developers to build luxury apartments, requiring housing developers to provide affordable housing, and  inclusionary zoning policies.

Website: Mary4DistrictA.com

Background: NC State Computer Science Degree, volunteer work with Jobs for Life, 36 years of experience in corporate, chaired CEO Roundtable program Raleigh Chamber, years of networking within the Raleigh small business community and small business management.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Bring police and first responders back to par with salaries, positions filled and moral. Get Raleigh growth in line with housing availability so that people do not get pushed out of the Raleigh housing market.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Agree. We need to grow but within our means to house and to also maintain our quality of life for all citizens in Raleigh.

Website: WhitneyForRaleigh.org

Background: Cat Lawson is an attorney, educator, and advocate. She represented businesses in private practice and worked on the NC Supreme Court before teaching at Duke Law (current). Cat is an independent candidate who values consensus-based governance.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Fill vacancies in police and fire departments by offering competitive pay and community-based oversight. Focus on sustainable development and affordable housing by adding smart density and stronger infrastructure. Pass a code of ethics requiring council members to disclose financial interests.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Council should strategically allocate the remainder of the 2018 Affordable Housing Bond and identify city-owned properties that can be sold to increase affordable housing supply. I would also explore a housing grant or voucher program similar to successful experiments in other cities.

Website: CatLawson.com

Background: My experience ranges from being an on-the-ground organizer to co-founder of the youth civic innovation start-up, Young Americans Protest. I am adept at bringing together people from across disciplines and life experience to work towards a shared goal.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Housing Crisis. Community Engagement. Prison Industrial Complex. The people, especially the impacted, deserve affordable safe housing, the power to shape their neighborhoods, and to live without injustice and persecution. All of these are essential in shaping a collective future in Raleigh.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Housing is a basic human right. We need to sidestep capitalism and invest in getting everyone a home. I would stop selling city-owned land for private profit and only build low-income housing; put a moratorium on teardown of existing affordable housing; increase minimum wage to $22 per hour.

Website: Zainab4Raleigh.com

Background: – Commissioner, Raleigh Civil Service Commission; – Substitute Teacher, Wake County Public Schools System; – Guardian ad Litem, 10th District Court of North Carolina; – 2nd Vice-President, WCDP’s AAPI Caucus

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Affordable, Dense Housing: – Walkable neighborhoods, – Promote community land trusts; Reduce Traffic: – Expand our public transit options, – Invest in walkable, dense neighborhoods; Improve Our Small Business Economy: – Invest in grants and programs to assist entrepreneurs entering the economy

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
– Move towards more walkable, dense neighborhoods in a responsible manner; – Promote community land trusts; – Redefine “homeownership” to include all types of housing (i.e. townhomes, multiplexes, etc.); – End exclusionary zoning practices to allow for the development of more diverse housing city-wide.

Website: LeeForRaleigh.com

Background: I am a computer engineer by background and education. I believe my experience as a first time home owner in District B gives me the background to understand the people in my area.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Housing, Safety, Public Transportation

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
I do agree, we need to provide additional affordable housing within the city in addition to working to protect neighborhoods in danger of complete gentrification forcing people out of their existing homes without means to purchase a new one.

Website: JakobForRaleigh.com

Background: My background teaching, waiting tables, and managing diverse teams led me to value people-first policy. My experience as part of Moms Demand Action, my HOA, and my daughter’s PTA showed me the impact these policies can have on our community.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: My priorities are housing and sustainability. Providing access to housing that doesn’t leave folks rent-poor or tax-burdened should be built into our city’s DNA. Likewise, we must reduce emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change if we are to promise a thriving city to the next generation.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Raleigh is undoubtedly facing a housing crisis. We must continue to build stand-alone affordable housing, build mixed income housing, add density thoughtfully, and provide relief for tax-burdened residents so that all of our neighbors can experience financial stability in our rapidly growing city.

Website: PattonForRaleigh.com

Background: Small Business Owner, Teacher, Board Member Backpack Drive, Volunteer Coach, Volunteer Tutor, Restaurant Manager

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Affordable Housing – One big issue is most politicians only talk about 1 level to Affordable Housing. There are actually 3 levels. We need to bring on more grant writers and apply for the funds that are there to help us create Housing for all people. Constituent Services; Environmental Protections

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
As soon in above answer we need to go after the federal money available to us to help us build more affordable housing by grant writing for HUD grants.

Website: www.Pierce4NC.com

Background: Currently a board member on Artspace, Lightner Y Achievers, Go Triangle Board, and an alternate board member for CAMPO. I serve on the audio-visual team in a director’s role at Baptist Grove Church.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: I will work with our Economic Development Director to increase job opportunities for all residents towards a livable wage. I will continue to work to increase our city programs to help support and engage our youth in the community. The impact is in housing options and youth development.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Covid-19 highlighted a housing crisis we have been in for decades. Missing Middle is one tool to help address these challenges. I will continue to work diligently on funding and finding ways for our home rehab program to keep people in their current home, while pushing for city wide affordability.

Website: facebook.com/CoreyBranchforDistrictC

Background: Born and Raised in District C; PHD holder in Policy and Development from NC State; Local small business owner; Board of Directors YMCA; Community College employee (over 10 years); 20 year volunteer in community (YMCA, Boys Club)

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Increase employability, job-hunting opportunities, and access to employment by bolstering the Public Transportation system; Support the fight for affordable housing, both district and citywide; Increase investments in education, securing a solid future for our students, teachers and schools.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Make the City of Raleigh a more intentional “purchaser” of land so that we can be the landlords for our low-income residents. Be committed to providing outreach to people who need our help the most. FINDING the people who need help and not just waiting for them.

Website: FrankFieldsForDistrictC.com

Background: My formal educational background is in Accounting. My lived experiences are the foundation on which my qualifications are built. My qualifications are being relatable, respectful, and representative of the people I serve.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Raises for City workers will allow the people who make this city work have the opportunity to live where they work. An evaluation of  City owned Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing and the maintenance needed for that housing to be inhabitable.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
I agree there is a housing crisis and preserving Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing is one of the best tools that we could use to address the housing crisis. Setting higher goals of poor and low income units for rezoning request is also another option that could be utilized.

Website: Wanda4Raleigh.com

Background: 20 plus years of successful self-employment as a small business owner turned investor, most of which has occurred in District D. I have a passion for renovating older properties and my favorite hours of the week are coaching my boys’ hockey teams.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Top priorities to bring Raleigh passed 500,000 residents are creating truly affordable housing in the form of ADUs, increased density along transit corridors and revisiting archaic laws that are driving housing costs up. Transit for everyone with an aim of reducing traffic in favor of walkable living.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
I agree and see it in my world as a landlord. Rent is out of control. We need to promote Accessory Dwelling Units, increase density where prescribed, and allow our landlords to legally rent to groups larger than 4 unrelated persons in a home. We’re a city, not some darling town stuck in the 80’s.

Website: RobRaleigh.com

Background: I am an environmental economist who helps communities plan for a sustainable and inclusive future. I have a progressive vision and am a tireless advocate for my neighbors. I hold a Ph.D. in natural resource management and M.S. in economics.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: My priorities are community-led development, affordable housing, and environmental stewardship. I believe that better decisions are made when all voices are at the table. I want to ensure everyone can call Raleigh home and has the quality of life that makes our community a fabulous place to live.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
I am a proponent of economic growth that benefits all of Raleigh’s residents. We can’t leave people behind. I advocate for property tax relief for low income homeowners, community benefit agreements that require affordable housing in new developments, rent stabilization, and eviction protections.

Website: JaneForRaleigh.com

Background: Raleigh resident for 25+ years. Served as Human Relations Commission Chair, Environmental Board Vice-Chair, DHIC Board of Directors, and others. Professionally, I work in public infrastructure and environmental consulting and hold degrees from UNC.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Promote well-planned growth and community engagement while advancing transit, taking decisive action on housing, and supporting Dix Park. Further, address the large number of vacancies in the police department through better pay while also expanding the ACORNS crisis intervention unit city-wide.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
We should strengthen the affordable housing partnership with Raleigh Area Land Trust, preserve naturally occurring affordable housing, and use the bond to effectively address this segment. We also must have greater collaboration with our regional and state partners in the search for solutions.

Website: KennedyForRaleigh.com

Background: I am a designer, a leader, and an optimist. With 15 yrs in District D, my professional and volunteer efforts have consistently been collaborative and focused on solutions. I’ve been involved and I know how to create positive change in our community.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: I will focus on Equitable + Sustainable Growth, a Budget that reflects our People + Values, and greater Transit Choices + Walkability. Together we can build a better and different future for Raleigh where everyone is welcome to live, work and play.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Raleigh needs housing. I have a track record for advocating for the necessary zoning reforms and housing affordability policies that lead to building more housing. Raleigh needs to build more housing, both market rate and more subsidized affordable housing, to meet this generational housing crisis.

Website: JenniferTruman.com

Background: I am the current and longest serving chairperson for the Raleigh Citizens Advisory Council. Our organization was dismantled in 2020 by this council and residents lost their voice with government to make way for developer interest.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Community Engagement – educating and listening to residents will help the city make well rounded decisions instead of top down. Affordable Housing – ensuring ALL Raleigh residents have the option to live work and play in the city they help build.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
Inclusionary zoning – that is currently illegal in NC, but on council, I will first look to strengthen “community benefits” when it comes to rezonings to actually benefit the community. I will push the GA to change the law so that developers are required to uplift everyone, not just the wealthy.

Website: ChristinaForRaleigh.com

Background: Current Raleigh City Council Member. Environmental lawyer/consultant. NC Outdoor Recreation Industry Office Director. Assistant Secretary for Natural Resources-NC DENR. NC Nature Conservancy. Raleigh Parks & Greenways Board. Raleigh Water Task Force.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: My top priorities are sustainable growth, housing affordability, and environmental protection. Increasing our affordable housing supply, prioritizing walkability and connectivity, and investing in transit will help stop urban sprawl and improve quality of life for all of Raleigh.

Some people say Raleigh has a housing crisis, especially for poor and low-income families. If you agree, what steps would you take to preserve and add housing for families living in poverty? If you disagree, please explain.
I agree Raleigh has a housing crisis. I strongly advocated for the 2020 Affordable Housing Bond and I want to continue the City’s efforts to create more affordable housing units across the City, housing preservation, homeownership assistance, and partnering with housing nonprofits.

Website: KnightForRaleigh.com