March Update

At the Housing Matters Meeting: Marilyn Carter, Phyllis Portie-Ascott, Jennifer Williams, Betsy Blackwell, Theo Nollert

Affordable Housing

As a realtor, a homeowner, and a parent, I operate in the complexities of housing on a daily basis. As your commissioner, I remain committed to looking for innovative solutions to meet the housing needs of Orange County. Many essential workers—teachers, first responders, service workers - cannot afford to live here. I know we need to build more housing while preserving existing homes and offering rental units with affordable rents and lease options.

Recently, The NC Association of Realtors, The NC Association of Homebuilders, and the NC Chamber Association commissioned Bowen National Research to conduct a State-wide housing analysis. I was able to attend a presentation of the results which pinpointed housing supply gaps across our state. While it may seem like new housing is popping up everywhere, the pace is actually not fast enough. The results show that Orange County will be short 13,689 housing units by 2029. Specifically, we will need 7,557 rental units for working families, seniors, and young professionals, and an additional 6,132 for-sale homes to help families build wealth. I am working with my fellow commissioners, local foundations, and nonprofits to face this reality with responsible solutions - solutions that keep our county diverse and welcoming.

Tax Revaluation

The recent revaluation results are about to be released to the public. Yes, home values have soared in our area. While that can be a good thing, it can also bring anxiety about property taxes. I want to reassure you about this process. We are taking a revenue neutral approach. For example, if your home value went from $125K to $250K, your tax burden should not necessarily double. The tax rate will be set – later this year – based on county needs to generate the revenue we need to cover our expenses, and there are many unanswered questions about how federal funding will affect our local budget. Some tax bills might rise while others will remain the same. When you get your revaluation, be sure to look at it closely and make sure it is accurate. Here is a short video about how to appeal your revaluation.

Mental Health and Wellness

I have heard from a lot of my constituents that the first 45 days of the new federal administration have been stressful. I feel it too. There seems to be a lot of intentional confusion and action without clear reason. Such things are stressful. In talking with the other electeds, we agree - NC is better positioned than most states. Orange County is better positioned than most counties. For now, I think it is important that we follow the British advice during WWII - when they were being bombed daily. Keep Calm and Carry On. Your local government is unwavering in its care and support for this community. Our community is strong. If you are feeling lonely, if you are feeling nervous, if you need help, please reach out to one of our community centers, one of our senior centers, or our department of social services. You can find all of our departments on our website.

County Updates

The Agenda for the Last Night’s BOCC Meeting

Land Use Plan 2050: Orange County is updating its Land Use Plan to guide growth over the next 25 years. The choices we make today will determine whether working class folks, young professionals, new families, and others just starting out can afford to live and work here in the future. We must balance growth, protect the environment, and diversify our tax base using the land we have.

Volunteer Boards: As stated on the county website “One way residents can have a positive impact on the future of Orange County is to volunteer to serve on a volunteer board or commission. Orange County strives for diverse representation on boards and commissions. Residents of all demographic backgrounds, identities, and perspectives are encouraged to apply. Volunteers appointed by the Board of County Commissioners can directly influence the County’s decisions, policies, and priorities.” We will be looking to fill vacancies on various boards and commissions in the county. Because the county is large and our community is complex, we count on the work of the boards to offer perspective, gather information, and make informed recommendations. Please consider getting involved. > Learn More

On Monday, March 17th at 8:30 am, we will hold a legislative breakfast at the Whitted Building. NC Senator Graig Meyer, and NC Representatives Renèe Price and Alan Buansi will join the BOCC to discuss legislative priorities. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Our next business meeting is March 18th at 7 pm at the Southern Human Services Building in Chapel Hill.

Let’s keep the conversation going. Email me, attend a meeting, or stop me when you see me around the county. I want to hear from you!

Yours in service,