Questions about Shaw University deserve answers

Eugene Myrick is a Raleigh native, community advocate, and former mayoral candidate committed to transparency, equitable development, and preserving the integrity of historic neighborhoods. A graduate of Shaw University, he serves as President of the Biltmore Hills Neighborhood Association and is the founder of the Save Our Shaw movement, a grassroots effort focused on protecting the university’s legacy through transparency, accountability, and community engagement. He has been a consistent voice at City Council meetings, advocating for informed decision-making that centers the people.

Eugene spoke to City Council April 14, 2026:  

“I had a slide because I went to an event downtown at the Memorial Auditorium and there was an exhibit of the displacement of black folks in Raleigh. A big exhibit about the fourth ward as well as this walking trail going through Shaw University’s campus. So, again, it left me with a bunch of questions as we still have no master plan.”

This map was submitted as part of Eugene Myrick’s public comment to illustrate key points referenced during his remarks. While visual aids were previously permitted in Council chambers, recent rule changes no longer allow residents to present images during public comment. This image is provided here to ensure that readers have full context for the concerns raised.

Mayor, Council, Good evening,

I have a series of questions, and I’m asking for clear answers, on the record.

To the Mayor:

Did Dix Park pay Shaw University for the use of its name on a trail that runs through its campus? At your very first meeting as Mayor, you asked where the Dix Trail was—and staff said property still needed to be acquired. What property was that? And are city funds being used to build this trail? We’ve also learned that Shaw has closed two main dorms for the remainder of the semester. At the same time, the City has blocked off surrounding streets for construction. What exactly is that construction for—and was there coordination with Shaw’s administration before disrupting students’ lives?

Council Member Melton:

The City accepted $3 million in federal funding for a strollway connecting Chavis Park to Dix Park—running through historic neighborhoods and Shaw University. Has any of that money gone directly to Shaw? And if not—how exactly are those federal dollars being spent?

Council Member Branch:

You are expected to be a neutral decision-maker. So why did you solicit letters in favor of a rezoning case? One of those letters was later read into the record before a vote. Why did you involve yourself in advocacy instead of maintaining neutrality?

Council Member Harrison:

Many believed you were a “no” vote on the rezoning. But during that meeting, something unusual happened. After the motion and second, there were only two votes in favor—yet the process didn’t follow standard procedure. Instead, the Mayor approached you, whispered to you, and tapped your shoulder—during a public meeting. What was said? Was there pressure? Was there influence? Because whatever that conversation was—it belongs in the public record.

Council Member Silver:

You were part of an Urban Land Institute study involving Shaw. In a November 15, 2019 News & Observer article—“Land Rich & Cash Poor”—it was suggested Shaw sell 75 acres of land to address debt. Even at best, that plan would leave Shaw with millions still owed—just with far less land. At the same time, another study was advancing Downtown South. So I’ll ask plainly: Did you believe that was a responsible recommendation? Or did it look like the early stages of a land grab—targeting a historic Black institution?

Because here’s the concern:

When public funds, private interests, and historic institutions intersect—transparency is not optional. Neutrality is not optional. Accountability is not optional. And right now, the public deserves answers—not silence, not side conversations, and not decisions made in whispers.

Thank you.

NOTE – If Mr. Myrick gets any answers to the questions he posed to members of the Ciy Council, we will be sure to publish them here.

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