James G. Bledsoe
Name: James G. Bledsoe
Which office are you seeking? City Council At-Large District
Campaign website: electjamesbledsoe.com
Social Media: X: @jamesgbledsoe1 Facebook: facebook.com/electbledsoe
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.
1) Reduce Regulatory Barriers: Focus on eliminating unnecessary regulations that hinder housing development. By reducing zoning restrictions and streamlining the approval process, we can encourage more private sector investment in housing. This approach increases the housing supply, which can help to lower prices through market competition. Additionally, allowing for higher-density developments and mixed-use projects can make better use of available land and resources.
2) Streamline Permitting and Zoning Processes: Reducing the bureaucratic hurdles and speeding up the approval process for new housing developments can significantly lower the costs for developers. This can be achieved by revising zoning laws to allow for higher-density housing and mixed-use developments, and by implementing a more efficient permitting process. By making it easier and faster to build, we can increase the housing supply more quickly, which can help to alleviate the pressure on housing prices.
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?
There are 2 large issues:
1) Council changing their terms, how much they earn, & limiting who can seek office in the future by changing to a primary system. 2 years ago, council raised their pay under the premise that they deserved better pay for "full time" work AND that an increase in pay would attract more candidates. Now in 2024 there are many more candidates on the ballot, but council changed voting rules to allow for a primary to occur so only the top contestants could be on the ballot. That essentially keeps every UNA & any party except Democrats off the ballot for contested races.
2) Murder, rape, and human trafficking are on the rise. We need to keep our police officers here instead of training them to leave for a better paying city that's more affordable. As on 2 September 2024 there have been 154 rapes, 21 murders, & 55 cases of human trafficking. For the past 2 years, human trafficking cases have doubled each year. We need more cops in Raleigh, and we need to keep them here instead of training police officers to serve in other municipalities.
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 is crucial. My military background has taught me the importance of communication and leadership. By actively listening to the concerns of affected groups and explaining the broader benefits to the community, we can foster understanding and find common ground. Public forums, town hall meetings, and surveys can be valuable tools for gathering input and building consensus.
Decisions should be based on comprehensive data and analysis. By presenting clear evidence of the benefits to the general public, we can make a compelling case for necessary actions, even if they may negatively impact a small group. Additionally, implementing measures to mitigate negative impacts, such as providing support or offering alternative solutions, can help reduce opposition and build trust. This approach ensures that decisions are transparent, ethical, and grounded in facts.
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, I strongly support allowing more Missing Middle housing in Raleigh. This type of housing is essential for creating a diverse and inclusive community, which aligns with the goals of Raleigh Forward. By increasing the availability of duplexes, triplexes, townhomes, and small apartment buildings, we can provide more affordable options for residents and help address the housing shortage.
To accomplish this, I would focus on revising zoning laws to permit higher-density housing types in more areas of the city. This can be done by expanding the areas where these housing types are allowed and reducing restrictions that limit their development. Additionally, simplifying and expediting the permitting and approval processes for Missing Middle housing projects can reduce costs and delays for developers, encouraging more investment in these types of housing.
By implementing these strategies, we can create a more inclusive and affordable housing market in Raleigh, benefiting both current and future residents. This approach not only addresses housing affordability but also promotes community prosperity and resident engagement, which are key themes of Raleigh Forward.
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?
While the concept of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) holds promise for improving public transportation in Raleigh, I believe it is prudent to evaluate the effectiveness of our current investments before committing to further expansion. The initial phases of BRT, such as the New Bern Avenue corridor, have shown potential benefits, but we need comprehensive data on ridership, cost efficiency, and overall impact on traffic congestion and community development.
Before moving forward with additional investments in the Western and Southern corridors, it is essential to conduct a thorough analysis of the existing BRT projects. This will help us understand their success and identify any areas for improvement. By basing our decisions on solid data, we can ensure that future investments are both effective and fiscally responsible.
In the meantime, we can focus on optimizing the current BRT infrastructure and exploring complementary measures, such as improving feeder bus services and enhancing pedestrian and cycling infrastructure around BRT stations. This approach allows us to make informed decisions that best serve the needs of our community.
What is your vision for how Raleigh’s built environment should evolve over the next 10 years?
My vision for Raleigh’s built environment over the next decade focuses on creating a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable city that meets the needs of all its residents. This includes ensuring diverse housing options, such as affordable and Missing Middle housing, to accommodate residents at different income levels and address the housing shortage.
Sustainable development is also a priority. By expanding green spaces, promoting energy-efficient buildings, and encouraging the use of wind and solar energy for homes and small businesses, we can reduce our environmental footprint and improve the quality of life for all residents. Engaging with community organizations and residents in the planning process is essential to create neighborhoods that reflect the needs and desires of those who live there, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in our city.
By focusing on these areas, we can ensure that Raleigh grows in a way that is equitable, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of its residents
How would you change the way the City's Office of Community Engagement operates?
I would transform the City’s Office of Community Engagement to be more innovative and responsive to the needs of our residents. One key initiative would be to leverage technology for real-time feedback. By implementing a digital platform where residents can provide immediate input on city projects and initiatives, we can use data analytics to identify trends and areas of concern, allowing the city to address issues promptly and transparently.
Another approach would be to create mobile engagement units that travel to different neighborhoods, bringing city services and engagement opportunities directly to residents. These units can host pop-up events, workshops, and information sessions, making it easier for all community members to participate, especially those who may not have easy access to city hall. This on-the-ground presence would ensure that engagement is convenient and inclusive.
Additionally, I would develop a program to train and support community ambassadors who can act as liaisons between the city and their neighborhoods. These ambassadors would help gather input, disseminate information, and foster a stronger sense of community involvement. By adopting these innovative approaches, we can ensure that the Office of Community Engagement is more dynamic, accessible, and effective in meeting the needs of Raleigh’s diverse population.
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?
To preserve Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing (NOAH) in Raleigh, I propose implementing a Right of First Refusal policy. This policy would give the city or designated non-profit organizations the opportunity to purchase NOAH properties when they go up for sale. By stepping in before these properties are sold to developers who might convert them to higher-priced units, we can ensure that these homes remain affordable for current and future residents.
Additionally, I advocate for encouraging the adaptive reuse of underutilized or vacant buildings for affordable housing. This approach involves converting old commercial buildings, warehouses, or other structures into residential units. By repurposing existing buildings, we can increase the housing supply without the need for new construction, which helps to keep costs down and preserve affordability.
These policies focus on maintaining the quality and availability of affordable housing through practical and cost-effective measures. By taking proactive steps to preserve NOAH properties and creatively utilizing existing structures, we can help prevent displacement and ensure that Raleigh remains an inclusive and affordable place to live. What other housing-related issues are you interested in addressing?
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about you or your campaign? (Optional)
1) My top 3 priorities are: Safety, budget reform, and housing affordability.
2) I will donate 50-100% of my council pay to high school seniors in Raleigh in the form of grants for those that go into STEM or the trades.
3) I’ve been endorsed by Andrew Yang, the Veterans Party of NC, FWD Party NC, Libertarian Party NC, Reform Party NC, and the Constitution Party NC. I am committed to fostering a community where every resident feels heard and valued. My campaign is built on transparency, inclusivity, and a dedication to innovative solutions that address our city’s most pressing challenges. With a diverse range of endorsements, I am uniquely positioned to bring together different perspectives and work collaboratively for the betterment of Raleigh. I look forward to the opportunity to serve and make a positive impact on our community.