Daniel Lamar Grant-King
Name: Daniel Lamar Grant-King
Which office are you seeking? City Council District C
Campaign website: DanielGrantKingForRaleigh
Social media: Twitter: @MrDanielGrantK1
The income of many households in Raleigh is too high to qualify for income-restricted/subsidized housing, yet these residents are cost-burdened by climbing prices and rents across market-rate housing. Explain at least 2 policies you will seek to implement to address the rising costs of market-rate housing in Raleigh.
Policy Proposal 1: Implement Inclusionary Zoning
In order to address the rising costs of market-rate housing in Raleigh, one key policy to consider implementing is inclusionary zoning. This policy requires developers to include a certain percentage of affordable housing units in new residential developments. By mandating developers to allocate a portion of their housing stock for affordable units, we can increase the overall supply of affordable housing in Raleigh. This serves to stabilize prices in the market-rate housing sector and provide options for middle-income households who are currently struggling with high living costs. Inclusionary zoning not only benefits residents in need of affordable housing, but also promotes economic diversity and mixed-income communities.
Policy Proposal 2: Expand Housing Voucher Programs
Another effective policy to address the affordability crisis in Raleigh is to expand housing voucher programs. Housing vouchers provide financial assistance to low and moderate-income families, enabling them to afford housing in the private market. By increasing funding for these programs and expanding eligibility criteria, more households with incomes slightly above the threshold for income-restricted housing can receive support in paying their rent. This helps alleviate the burden of high housing costs on these residents and allows them to access safe and stable housing options within the market-rate sector. Expanding housing voucher programs not only benefits individual households, but also contributes to the overall economic stability and well-being of the community.
By implementing both inclusionary zoning and expanding housing voucher programs, Raleigh can take significant steps towards addressing the rising costs of market-rate housing and improving housing affordability for a broader range of residents. These policies align with the principles of social equity, economic sustainability, and community development, making them essential components of a comprehensive strategy to tackle the housing affordability crisis in the city.
What is an issue in Raleigh that deserves critical attention, but isn't talked about much in the media or the community because it's not sensational or obviously apparent?
An issue in Raleigh that deserves critical attention but often flies under the radar is the lack of affordable housing options for lower-income residents. While this may not be as sensational or immediately apparent as other pressing issues, such as crime or traffic congestion, it is a fundamental problem that has wide-reaching implications for the city's socio-economic dynamics. The shortage of affordable housing in Raleigh has contributed to rising homelessness, displacement of communities, and increased economic inequality. This issue is exacerbated by factors such as gentrification, inadequate urban planning, and insufficient government intervention. Addressing affordable housing challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including increasing funding for affordable housing initiatives, implementing zoning policies that promote affordable housing development, and engaging with community stakeholders to develop long-term solutions. By shedding light on this overlooked issue and mobilizing resources to tackle it, Raleigh can work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive city for all its residents.
How will you balance the interests of individuals with those of the general public? Especially when voting on an issue that will negatively impact a small, but vocal group of residents, but which offers significant benefits to the general public?
Balancing the interests of individuals with those of the general public when faced with a decision that may negatively impact a small, vocal group of residents while offering significant benefits to the overall population requires a nuanced approach in a democratic society. As a democratic decision-maker, it is essential to uphold the principles of equality, fairness, and the common good.
One approach is to carefully weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of the decision by considering various factors such as the scale of impact, the nature of the benefits, and the long-term implications for both the minority group and the broader public. Engaging in open and transparent dialogue with all stakeholders to understand their perspectives and concerns can help in making an informed decision that takes into account diverse viewpoints.
Furthermore, it is crucial to adhere to ethical principles such as respect for individual rights, non-discrimination, and social justice. While it may be challenging to navigate conflicting interests, prioritizing the greater good and ensuring that the decision aligns with democratic values and principles can guide the decision-making process.
Ultimately, fostering a collaborative and inclusive decision-making process that values the input of all affected parties can help strike a balance between individual interests and the public good. By upholding democratic principles, promoting transparency, and considering the well-being of both the minority group and the general public, it is possible to make decisions that are fair, just, and beneficial for society as a whole.
Should Council allow more Missing Middle housing (duplex, triplex, townhomes and small apartment buildings) to be built in the City? If yes, how would you accomplish this? If not, why not?
Yes, Council should allow more Missing Middle housing to be built in the City in order to address the pressing need for diverse housing options, promote affordability, and foster inclusive and sustainable communities. This can be accomplished through a multi-faceted approach that involves revising zoning regulations to permit Missing Middle developments in more areas, streamlining the permitting process to reduce barriers to construction, providing financial incentives to developers who prioritize Missing Middle projects, and actively engaging with community stakeholders to ensure that new developments align with the needs and character of the neighborhoods.
By enabling the construction of duplexes, triplexes, townhomes, and small apartment buildings, Council can significantly increase the housing supply, which in turn can help alleviate housing shortages and affordability challenges. Moreover, Missing Middle housing tends to be more affordable than single-family homes or large apartment buildings, making it a key tool in promoting socioeconomic diversity and inclusive communities.
In addition to the tangible benefits of increased housing options and affordability, allowing more Missing Middle housing can also contribute to the creation of more walkable, transit-friendly, and environmentally sustainable neighborhoods. By concentrating more housing units in smaller, mixed-use developments, Council can help reduce urban sprawl, promote energy efficiency, and support local businesses.
It is essential for Council to engage in comprehensive planning and collaboration with residents, developers, and other stakeholders to ensure that the expansion of Missing Middle housing is done thoughtfully and sustainably. This may involve conducting neighborhood assessments, organizing community meetings, and establishing design guidelines to ensure that new developments enhance the overall quality of life in the City.
In conclusion, embracing Missing Middle housing as a key component of the City's development strategy can lead to a more vibrant, equitable, and resilient urban environment. By implementing the outlined strategies and actively engaging with the community, Council can lay the foundation for a more inclusive and sustainable future for all residents.
Should the City continue investing in Bus Rapid Transit? If so, what additional investments and/or land use regulatory changes should the City make to support the successful implementation of the Western and Southern corridors? If no, why?
**Opinion:**
The City should indeed continue investing in Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) as a sustainable and efficient solution for improving urban mobility and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. To support the successful implementation of the Western and Southern corridors, the City should consider a multipronged approach that includes additional investments and land use regulatory changes.
**Additional Investments:**
1. **Infrastructure Development:** Enhance existing BRT infrastructure by investing in dedicated bus lanes, stations, and real-time information systems to improve reliability and attract more riders.
2. **Fleet Expansion:** Increase the fleet size of BRT buses to cater to rising demand, ensuring that there are enough vehicles to maintain frequency and accommodate passengers during peak hours.
3. **Technological Upgrades:** Integrate smart technologies such as contactless payment systems, bus tracking apps, and real-time passenger information displays to enhance the overall user experience and attract tech-savvy riders.
4. **Maintenance and Upkeep:** Allocate funds for regular maintenance and upkeep of BRT infrastructure and vehicles to ensure operational efficiency and safety.
**Land Use Regulatory Changes:**
1. **Transit-Oriented Development (TOD):** Implement zoning regulations that encourage mixed-use developments around BRT stations to promote compact, walkable neighborhoods and maximize ridership.
2. **Increased Density:** Relax density restrictions in designated BRT corridors to allow for higher-density developments that support a diverse mix of housing, commercial, and recreational spaces, fostering vibrant and sustainable communities.
3. **First-Last Mile Connectivity:** Require new developments to include pedestrian and cycling infrastructure that facilitates easy access to BRT stations, promoting active transportation modes and reducing car dependency.
4. **Public Space Enhancements:** Enhance the streetscape along BRT corridors through landscaping, public art installations, and pedestrian-friendly amenities to create attractive and inviting environments that encourage transit use.
**Conclusion:**
In conclusion, investing in BRT is a crucial step towards building a more sustainable and equitable transportation system in the City. By making strategic investments and land use regulatory changes, the City can support the successful implementation of the Western and Southern corridors, enhance the overall quality of life for residents, and contribute to the long-term prosperity of the community.
What is your vision for how Raleigh’s built environment should evolve over the next 10 years?
In the next decade, Raleigh's built environment should evolve into a model of sustainable, equitable, and inclusive urban development. Key strategies should include prioritizing affordable housing through mixed-income developments, investing in green infrastructure to mitigate climate change, fostering vibrant public spaces that promote social interaction, and enhancing transportation networks to support a more connected and accessible city. Embracing innovative architecture and adaptive reuse of existing structures can preserve the city's cultural heritage while accommodating growth. Community engagement and collaborative planning processes are essential to ensure that diverse voices are heard and represented in shaping Raleigh's future. By fostering a sense of belonging, promoting environmental stewardship, and supporting economic vitality, Raleigh can become a thriving, resilient, and livable city for all its residents.
How would you change the way the City's Office of Community Engagement operates?
To enhance the City's Office of Community Engagement, I propose the following changes:
1. Implement a bottom-up approach: Prioritize engaging with grassroots organizations and community leaders to ensure diverse perspectives are heard and valued.
2. Increase accessibility: Utilize multiple communication channels, such as social media, community forums, and newsletters, to reach a wider audience and facilitate two-way communication.
3. Foster collaboration: Establish partnerships with local businesses, schools, and non-profits to create innovative solutions and initiatives that address community needs effectively.
4. Empower residents: Develop programs that enable residents to participate in decision-making processes and community projects, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in their neighborhoods.
5. Enhance accountability: Implement mechanisms for transparent feedback and evaluation of the Office's initiatives, ensuring that community input is considered in the decision-making process.
6. Prioritize equity: Integrate equity considerations into all aspects of the Office's work to address systemic inequalities and ensure that marginalized communities have equal access to resources and opportunities.
By implementing these changes, the City's Office of Community Engagement can become a more inclusive, responsive, and effective entity that truly serves the needs and aspirations of all residents.
Should the City preserve existing moderately priced housing (Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing) to help slow the rate of resident displacement? If yes, please provide 2-3 specific policies that you would ask your fellow Councilors to support. If no, what other policies do you support to address resident displacement?
As a Democratic advocate who specializes in urban policy and housing issues, I strongly believe that preserving existing moderately priced housing, also known as Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing (NOAH), is crucial in slowing the rate of resident displacement in cities facing gentrification and rising housing costs. In order to address this issue effectively, I would propose the following policies to my fellow Councilors:
1. Preservation and Acquisition Funds: Establish a dedicated fund to provide financial support for nonprofits, community land trusts, and affordable housing developers to acquire and preserve NOAH properties. This fund could be used for acquiring buildings at risk of being sold to developers or renovating existing units to maintain affordability.
2. Rent Stabilization and Tenant Protections: Implement rent stabilization measures to limit rent increases in NOAH properties and protect tenants from unjust evictions. This can include enacting just-cause eviction policies, rent control ordinances, and requiring landlords to provide long-term leases to tenants in NOAH buildings.
3. Community Land Trusts: Encourage the creation of community land trusts as a model for permanently affordable housing. By transferring ownership of NOAH properties to community land trusts, residents can collectively control the management and affordability of their housing, ensuring long-term stability for current and future residents.
By implementing these policies, cities can actively preserve existing moderately priced housing and prevent the displacement of long-time residents in the face of gentrification and escalating housing costs. Through a combination of financial support, tenant protections, and community-led solutions, cities can create a more equitable and sustainable housing market that prioritizes the needs of all residents, not just those with the means to afford skyrocketing rents and property prices.
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about you or your campaign? (Optional)
As a democratic candidate running for public office, I believe it is crucial for voters to have a complete understanding of my background, values, and vision for the future. My commitment to serving the people stems from a lifelong dedication to promoting equality, justice, and progress for all members of our community.
Throughout my career, I have consistently advocated for policies that prioritize education, healthcare, and economic opportunity for every individual, regardless of their background. My platform is rooted in the belief that investing in our people is the key to building a stronger, more prosperous society.
I am dedicated to fostering a political environment that is transparent, accountable, and responsive to the needs of our citizens. I am committed to listening to the concerns of all constituents and working tirelessly to address them in a fair and equitable manner.
Above all, I am running for office not to promote my own interests or agenda, but to be a voice for the voiceless and a champion for those who have been marginalized or disenfranchised. I humbly ask for the support of voters who share my values and aspirations for a brighter future for all. Together, we can work towards building a more inclusive and thriving community for generations to come.