Reparative Justice is a transformation, not a transaction.

Reparative Justice is a transformation, not a transaction.

When the Raleigh City Council offered an apology acknowledging the city’s past participation in slavery, segregation, and enforcement of Jim Crow it received headlines. But the attention soon faded because there was no follow-up on the most significant part of the resolution — to establish a Racial Equity and Reparative Justice Commission.

Six Forks Road. After 12 years the discussion is long overdue.

Six Forks Road. After 12 years the discussion is long overdue.

As you weigh the merits of the options of this road project, please note the same parameters that increased land value are the same that have increased the tax revenues to the City. Perhaps it is time to invest some of that revenue back into the infrastructure needs of the community. Let’s continue this discussion in committee. After 12 years, the discussion is long overdue.

Do we count? Do we matter?

Do we count? Do we matter?

I’m aware for some of you, we may not be on your radar, but we are not invisible. We are here to be seen and heard; And we have been. Your decision will reverberate throughout this city. So, I am asking, on behalf of the Ridgeloch Community and of the 1000’s of trail uses that consider Ironwood and its two bridges the “soul” of the Greenway, we ask you to be on our side of the fence.

Is it really a Christmas Parade if Santa has to walk?

Is it really a Christmas Parade if Santa has to walk?

I know it was not originally Council’s fault that the parade was cancelled. But if you take no action now, you will be responsible for cancelling half of it. Please pass a motion at your next meeting to allow the vehicles, with the new safety protocols.

Mayor Bald-whine lend me your ears

Mayor Bald-whine lend me your ears

I quote the Mayor, “Obviously that fell on deaf ears, so that’s unfortunate.” A couple of fitting expressions come to mind. “Welcome to the club!” and, “Now, the shoe is on the other foot.” Do our citizens who feel concerned about the sweeping changes proposed for the New Bern Avenue TOD corridor feel that ears are hearing what they have to say about the risks of gentrification and displacement of Raleigh’s most economically challenged citizens?

The City Clerk is NOT your secretary

The City Clerk is NOT your secretary

I am writing in response to the effort by some Raleigh City Council folks to move the City Clerk’s position into the City Manager’s office. I believe that the Raleigh community is best served by an independent City Clerk, who operates as a sworn City of Raleigh Official. Please honor the intent of the creation of the City Clerk position. The City Clerk is not your secretary!! 

Time is Money

Time is Money

I’m here asking that the council has staff go back to the original study goals, look at the budget and rework the project in a manner that improves the roadway in meaningful ways. The voters approved the funding for THAT purpose, CAMPO gave us money for that purpose, and we must honor that trust. I know that greater transparency is a goal of this council – Let’s get serious folks, there are residents and business owners in the ROW acquisition zones, who are living in limbo now, this indecision and constant delays are wreaking havoc with people’s lives.