If elected, how would you ensure that older adults who live in Durham are included in zoning decisions, particularly individuals from communities that have been historically marginalized?
If reelected, I would continue to ensure older adults, especially those from historically marginalized communities – have a real seat at the table in zoning and land-use decisions. That means proactively engaging seniors through community meetings, advisory councils, and targeted outreach, making sure their voices shape policies that affect their neighborhoods. I would also prioritize their input when evaluating development projects, zoning changes, or affordable housing initiatives, ensuring that Durham grows in a way that protects and includes all residents.
Do you support requiring developers to build accessible, affordable housing? We are aware of the state-level limitations on local municipalities.
Yes
If elected, how would you use the City’s contracting process to incentivize the expansion of affordable and accessible housing for older adults and people who have disabilities?
If re-elected, I would use the City’s contracting and procurement processes as a lever to ensure our housing investments reflect Durham’s values of equity and inclusion. That means requiring developers who receive City contracts, subsidies, or land to set aside units that are both affordable and accessible—especially for older adults and people with disabilities who are too often left out of the housing market. I support: Stronger contract requirements that tie City support to producing units at income levels that seniors on fixed incomes can truly afford. Accessibility standards in all publicly supported housing projects, going beyond ADA minimums to universal design that allows residents to age in place. Prioritizing local and mission-driven developers in our contracting process who demonstrate commitment to affordability and accessibility. Accountability measures to track whether developers meet affordability and accessibility commitments before new contracts are awarded. By attaching clear expectations to City dollars, we can expand the supply of housing that meets the real needs of Durham’s older adults and residents with disabilities while holding developers accountable for equitable outcomes.
Durham currently has at least 1 public school building that is not being used. Considering the examples of New Bethel Homes and the Veranda at Whitted senior housing communities, do you support renovating former schools into housing for older adults?
Yes
Because of factors like low salaries, lack of professional advancement, the growing aging population and burnout – Durham has a shortage in people who are working in home health. One of the objectives in the City of Durham’s current strategic plan is to build a talented and competitive workforce. If elected, what will you do to support current home health workers?
My vision is for Durham to be a city where older adults can age in place safely, with dignity, and fully participate in their communities. If re-elected, I will continue to support organizations that provide resources and advocacy for seniors by partnering with them to expand services, funding, and programming, ensuring that older residents have access to safe housing, transportation, healthcare, and social supports that meet their needs.
What is your vision for the City to support older adults so that they can age in-place safely and with dignity? If elected, how will you support organizations that are currently providing resources to older adults, including advocacy?
If re-elected, I will continue supporting home health workers by advocating for fair pay, professional advancement, and protections against burnout. I will also explore cooperative, worker-owned models that give employees a stake in their work, ensuring stability, autonomy, and sustainable growth. By valuing and investing in those who care for our aging and vulnerable residents, we strengthen both our community and our local economy.
The federal bill H.R. 1 (Big Beautiful Bill) will significantly reduce access to essential resources that people in Durham need including SNAP, Medicaid and affordable health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace (Obamacare).
If elected, give 2-3 examples of how you will support Durham’s collective well-being given that there will be less access to essential needs like food and healthcare.
If re-elected, I will continue to support Durham’s collective well-being by strengthening local mutual aid networks and coordinating resources with Durham County to ensure residents have access to food, healthcare, and other essential services. I will also work to expand city-led programs that provide emergency assistance, and advocate for policies that protect vulnerable residents from the impacts of federal cuts.
