What I am seeing in Orange County

Feb 14

Joining neighbors in the Northern Orange MLK March | Jan 28

I was tempted to start this newsletter as I have in the past —by updating you on my work as an Orange County Commissioner, but I’ll save that for later in this email.

Right now, I want to talk about what I am seeing and hearing from Orange County residents every day.

There are very real concerns, deep uncertainty, and outright fear about events originating at the federal level of our government. Everything from federal funding cuts that impact life-saving research and critical community programs to uncertainty around tariffs and how they might affect household budgets to federal money for schools and farms. I am also aware of the enormous fear of being harassed and even harmed because of the immigration status (legal or otherwise) or perceived immigration status of our friends, family, and neighbors.

These challenges feel heavy and we need each other to get through each day, but we are not powerless. There are actions we can take. I am only one County Commissioner and can only speak about my personal commitment. So please know, I will fight for you. I am looking at every way to streamline meeting the needs of our community members as efficiently as possible. Local governments can help, but we are also dependent on state and federal money for some of our services. The news is worrisome. As things continue to develop, I encourage you to stay informed-even when the news is hard to take. And please, focus on the most important things in this moment:

First and foremost: Take Care of Yourself

We need you for the long haul. Please, do whatever you need to do to sustain yourself. This work—whether in advocacy or public service—is a marathon, not a sprint.

Protect the Vote

Justice Allison Riggs won her seat on the NC Supreme Court, but her opponent, Judge Jefferson Griffin, is still trying to overturn the election. More than 60,000 valid ballots are at risk of being thrown out.

Here’s how you can help:

Make calls to voters whose ballots have been challenged. Sign up here.
Check if your vote was challenged using this search tool.
Share this with friends and family. We cannot let votes be thrown out arbitrarily.
And finally, if you are able, attend the Voter Protection Rally being in Hillsborough on Monday. Register here.

Join an Advocacy Group

Institutions make our society strong and recent declines in “joining” have not helped our causes. Find a group that speaks to you and help them champion a cause. Whether it is gun safety, voter’s rights, worker’s rights, civil rights, or equality in any and all of its forms, there are multiple groups in our community that already have infrastructure, resources, expertise and other good people like you. Get involved locally. Build connections. There is strength in community, and no one should feel like they are in this alone.

Remember, you can make a difference!

We must work to stay focused and hopeful. I believe justice and democracy will prevail.

Now, here is information about important upcoming events and a little about what I have been doing as well.

Events for Black History Month

Historic Marker Unveiling February 15 at 1:00 pm at the Orange County Historical Courthouse.

Join the OC Remembrance Coaltion for the unveiling of a historic marker honoring three brothers, Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Daniel Morrow, who were lynched in Orange County 1869. This event will take place this month, as we honor Black History.

“Let’s commit to shaping a future that is inclusive, just, and forward-thinking. Our work isn’t just to remember the past—it’s about taking action today to create a better tomorrow.”

Friday, February 21, 2025 at 6 pm at the Eno Arts Center

Witness, Reflect and Engage. Hosted by the Office of Equity and Inclusion. ORIGIN by Ava DuVernay: Film Screening

Learn more

February 27th 6-7:30 pm at the Bonnie B. Davis Environment and Ag Center

Community Book Read: The Sum of Us by Heather McGhee

Learn more

Commissioner Update

$27 Million Investment Coming to Buckhorn Economic Development District

Montrena Hadley, Phyllis Portie-Ascott, Sally Greene

Big things are happening in Mebane—Orange County! Creekside Logistics I & II is breaking ground in the Buckhorn Economic Development District. This project will bring two industrial buildings totaling 196,827 square feet, set to be completed by the end of 2025.

This investment means a stronger tax base, more job opportunities, and new high-quality employers in Orange County. It also expands industrial growth, funds critical infrastructure improvements, and reinforces our commitment to smart economic development. Griffin Partners and CBRE in collaboration with Orange County Economic Development Department are marketing the site, with a focus on attracting businesses that offer competitive wages and long-term benefits to our community.

Learn more

Essentials of County Government

Larissa Williamson, Marilyn Carter, Michelle Burton, Phyllis Portie-Ascott, Stephen J. Valentine

I attended the Essentials of County Government training, a great opportunity to connect with fellow commissioners from across the state. While I’m featured in a photo with Durham commissioners, I also had insightful conversations with commissioners from Person, Forsyth, Scotland, Martin, Bertie, Mecklenburg, and Burke counties. We shared the work we’re doing in our respective counties while also learning about innovative approaches in each other's communities. Discussing challenges like housing, economic development, and limited financial resources reinforced the importance of regional collaboration. I’m excited to continue finding new ways to better serve Orange County.

Orange County Agriculture Summit

I have the honor of serving on 7 boards and commissions, including the Cooperative Extension Advisory Council. In February, we held our annual Orange County Agriculture Summit, a one-day seminar bringing together farmers and suppliers, government officials, and other specialists to explore the state of farming in Orange County and contiguous counties, discussing topics and trends that are impacting our agricultural industry.