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?
As Durham sits at a crossroads, I am prepared to do the work, the research, the listening, to ensure we move forward in a way that moves our residents forward as well. I understand that this job is more than just the votes, and that’s the work I’m most excited about. Including the community in decision-making is more than just mandatory community meetings. It’s fostering conversations to hear honest feedback.
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?
I think Durham deserves a City Council member who is doing the hard work of pursuing the projects our community needs. This includes meeting with the community to understand exactly what affordable and accessible housing looks like in practice, and then lowering barriers to make that happen. This could look like expedited permitting for affordable developments or developments that prioritize accessibility for folks with disabilities.
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?
Since we moved to Durham, my husband has been working in home healthcare. Because of this, I understand the importance of this vital field. I also understand the challenges these workers face – unusual hours, lack of childcare availability when working, cost of living increases in Durham. Because of this, I’m dedicated to addressing this issue head-on. This means looking at it from a workforce development perspective and collaborating with our local colleges and universities. It also means building systems that work for shift workers like home healthcare workers – advocating for late night childcare options, improved bus stop infrastructure to ensure rider safety late at night and early in the morning, and availability of affordable and attainable housing.
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?
I want to see greater access to meaningful recreation for Durhamites of all ages, including our elderly population. That includes empowering existing organizations as well as expanding our own public offerings. Durham needs more accessible public spaces, reliable transportation options, and programs that promote social engagement and health for older adults. By including the needs of seniors in every planning and development decision, we can build a city that respects and values its older residents, helping them thrive in place as they age.
One way to support this vision is by updating zoning policies to allow more flexible and diverse housing options, such as increased access to building options like Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) that allow for multi-generational living and aging in place in a safe, dignified, accessible and affordable way. In this setup, seniors can live independently but close to a caregiver living on site, providing both companionship and assistance when needed.
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.
So much of my platform is about not reacting to a fire, but focusing on how to prevent the fire in the first place. Given that, there is so much we can do in terms of prevention when it comes to healthcare, especially with regards to our living conditions. Specifically, I think this includes the following:
1) Empower tenants by building more housing. With more options available to tenants, landlords will be forced to improve living conditions or risk carrying empty units.
2) Invest in Durham’s Parks & Recreation. By improving programming and facilities for our seniors, we can ensure they are able to stay engaged and foster community.
3) Design for connectivity. By improving walkability and access to public transit, we can shape mobility and isolation for older adults.
