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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 07-28-2026; 11-a - Discussion and Appointment for the Vacant Position on the Orange County Board of Commissioners 1 ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: July 28, 2026 Action Agenda Item No. 11-a SUBJECT: Discussion and Appointment for the Vacant Position on the Orange County Board of Commissioners DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: Recommendation and Correspondence Laura Jensen, Clerk to the Board, 919- from the Orange County Democratic 245-2130 Party, and Applications for BOCC Vacancy PURPOSE: To discuss nominees to the vacant position on the Board of County Commissioners and make an appointment. BACKGROUND: Commissioner Jamezetta Bedford passed away on June 21, 2026. Orange County is subject to North Carolina General Statute (NCGS) 153A-27, which provides that in Orange County, a vacancy is filled by the BOCC subject to several pre-requisites. The nominee must be a member of the same political party as that of the member being replaced and a resident of the same district. Before filling the vacancy, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) must also consult the appropriate political party, but is not bound by the party's recommendation. The BOCC must fill the vacancy within 60 days of the date the vacancy became effective — June 21, 2026. The deadline for the Board to fill the vacancy is August 20, 2026. If not filled by that date, the Clerk of Superior Court must fill the vacancy. Pursuant to NCGS 153A-27, the appointee will serve in the position for the remainder of Commissioner Bedford's unexpired term. At its July 9, 2026 Business Meeting, the Board of County Commissioners discussed the issue of filling the vacant District 1 seat on the Board. The BOCC also amended its 2026 meeting calendar to add this July 28, 2026 meeting. On July 1, 2026, the Orange County Democratic Party (OCDP) released a candidate nomination form and announced the process the Party would follow for making a recommendation for filling the vacancy for the remainder of Commissioner Bedford's term. It should be noted that the BOCC had the option of conducting the applicant evaluation process itself, or utilizing the OCDP`s application process. The Board on July 9, 2026 confirmed utilizing the Democratic Party's application process to receive one or more recommended applicants from the Party. The OCDP received applications for the vacancy from the following six (6) individuals: • Rani Dasi • Leah Bergman • Maria Palmer 2 • Pam Hemminger • Renuka Soll • Erik Valera Correspondence from the Orange County Democratic Party is attached regarding consideration of the applicants. The applications from each applicant as submitted to the OCDP are also attached. The Orange County Board of Elections has confirmed that all six (6) applicants are registered Democrats and reside in District 1, making them eligible for appointment to the vacant seat. On July 20, 2026, the County Executive Committee of the OCDP met to determine a vacancy recommendation to be sent to the BOCC. After thoughtful deliberation and tallying of weighted votes, Rani Dasi was selected as the recommended nominee. The person chosen by the Board of Commissioners will take the Oath of Office at the August 25, 2026 Board Business meeting and begin service at that meeting. The selected individual will serve until December 7, 2026, and a general election will occur on November 4, 2026 to elect an individual to serve a full, four-year term through 2030. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item. ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports: • VISION STATEMENT — We are a diverse, inclusive, and healthy county working together to strengthen our community and enhance the quality of life for all residents. • GUIDING PRINCIPLE — DEDICATION AND RESPECT We commit to our roles in public service and organizational excellence by fostering the skills, talents, and innovation of our residents, employees, volunteers, and boards needed to carry out this work. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends the Board discuss the nominees for the vacant BOCC position and consider voting by ballot to appoint an individual to serve in the vacant position on the Board of Commissioners through December 7, 2026. 3 From: Laura Jensen To: Greg Wilder;Travis Myren;Caitlin Fenhaaen Subject: FW: Recommendation to Fill vacant District 1 Commissioner Position Date: Tuesday,July 21,2026 4:57:43 PM Letter from OCDP about Rani Dasi's recommendation. Laura Jensen Clerk to the Board Orange County, North Carolina liensen@orangecountync.gov 919-245-2130 From: Lynn McGee (Orange Dems Chair) <chair@orangedems.com> Sent:Tuesday, July 21, 2026 4:41 PM To: Laura Jensen <Ijensen@orangecountync.gov> Subject: Fwd: Recommendation to Fill vacant District 1 Commissioner Position suspiciousCAUTION: External email. Do not click links or open attachments unless verified. Report Phish Alert Button located on • Outlook menu bar on • Good afternoon Laura, Please find the fighting email sent to Jean Hamilton and county commissioners regarding our recommendation to fill the District 1 County Commissioner position. I will work on the packet of candidate nomination forms and send by tomorrow, All the best, Lynn Lynn McGee 336-263-4573 Orange County Democratic Party Chair B ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: Lynn McGee (Orange Dems Chair) <chairCcoorangedems.com> Date: Mon, Jul 20, 2026 at 9:40 PM 4 Subject: Recommendation to Fill vacant District 1 Commissioner Position To: Jean Hamilton <jhamiltonCcoorangecountync.gov>, Amy Fowler <afowler(EOorangecountync.gov> CC: Leadership Group (OrangeDems) <leadership(cborangedems.com>, Stephen Rawson <sgrawson(a-)gmail.com>, Phyllis Portie-Ascott <paortie- ascottC@orangecountync.gov>, <mcarterC-oorangecountync.gov>, Sally Greene <sgreeneC-oorangecountync.gov>, <emckeeCcborangecountync.gov> Dear Chair Hamilton and Members of the Orange County Board of Commissioners, On behalf of the Orange County Democratic Parry, I am pleased to formally submit our recommendation that Rani Dasi be appointed to fill the vacant District I seat on the Orange County Board of Commissioners. Following an open application process,public outreach, and a meeting of the Orange County Democratic applicable County Executive Committee members, our voting members carefully considered an outstanding field of applicants. Each candidate brought unique strengths, a commitment to public service, and a deep concern for the future of Orange County. We are grateful to every applicant who stepped forward and demonstrated a willingness to serve our community. After thoughtful deliberation and tallying of weighted votes, we selected Rani Dasi as our recommended nominee. We believe she possesses the experience,judgment, collaborative spirit, and commitment to public service necessary to serve the residents of District 1 and all of Orange County with distinction. This recommendation reflects the confidence of the Democratic Party organization entrusted with conducting this selection process. We respectfully ask that the Board of County Commissioners consider our recommendation and appoint Rani Dasi to serve the remainder of the vacant term. We appreciate the Board's commitment to ensuring a smooth transition during this vacancy and thank you for your continued service to the people of Orange County. Respectfully, Lynn McGee 336-263-4573 Orange County Democratic Party Chair ®❑ 5 From: Laura Jensen To: Greg Wilder Subject: FW: Candidate Nomination Forms(6x)for District 1 County Commissioner Vacancy Date: Wednesday,July 22,2026 10:24:45 AM Attachments: OC Dem Party County Commissioner Vacancy Nomination Forms-6 Candidates-07-20-26.pdf Applications for BOCC vacancy attached. Laura Jensen Clerk to the Board Orange County, North Carolina liensenCa)orangecountync.gov 919-245-2130 From: Lynn McGee (Orange Dems Chair) <chair@orangedems.com> Sent:Tuesday, July 21, 2026 5:20 PM To: Laura Jensen <Ijensen@orangecountync.gov> Subject: Candidate Nomination Forms (6x) for District 1 County Commissioner Vacancy CAUTION: External email. Do not click links or open attachments unless verified. Report suspicious emails with the Phish AleButton located on • Outlook menu bar on • Hi Laura, This was easier than I anticipated. Please find the attached PDF file listing all six candidates who ran for the District 1 Commissioner vacancy for the balance of the current term and for the position on the ballot for the Nov 3, 2026 election. Please note that originally, Pam Hemminger only wanted to fill the current vacancy. However,when nominations were called from the floor of the July 20, 2026 Democratic Party meeting, Pam nominated herself to also be considered for placement on the ballot in the fall. Her attached nomination form does not reflect her interest in both elections. For reference, the Democratic Party's voting body elected Rani Dasi to also be named on the ballot for the November 3, 2026 election. All commissioners should be aware of our recommendation to the NC Board of Elections for the fall election. This is an unopposed race, so Rani Dasi will be the commissioner for the next full term for District 1. Many thanks, Lynn 6 Many thanks, Lynn McGee 336-263-4573 Orange County Democratic Party Chair 7 2026 District 1 County Commissioner Vacancy Self- Nomination Form It is with a heavy heart that we ask for nominations to fill the seat on the Orange County Board of Commissioners vacated by our beloved commissioner, Jamezetta Bedford. If you are interested in serving as the candidate to fill the vacancy for the balance of the term ending December, 2026 and to appear on the ballot for the November 3, 2026 Election, please complete this form. The following information will guide you in this process: 1. Nominees must reside in Orange County in Commissioner District 1 (Chapel Hill/Carrboro) and be a registered Democrat. 2. The deadline for submitting the application form is 5 p.m., Monday, July 13, 2026. 3. Please note that nominations from the floor will also be accepted at the OCDP County Executive Meeting on July 20, 2026. 4. BOCC Duties and Authorities o Adopting the county's annual budget by June 30 of each year o Establishing the annual property tax rate o Appointing the county manager, county clerk, county attorney and tax administrator o Appointing various officials and representatives to advisory boards and commissions o Providing funding for construction of public school facilities for both public school systems in the county o Determining level of local current expense funding for both public school systems in the county o Regulating land-use and zoning outside municipal boundaries o Providing for safety and welfare of all Orange County residents o Long-range planning for county needs (Capital Investment Plan) o Enacting local ordinances o Calling for bond referenda o Entering into contracts o Establishing new programs and departments o Serving as liaisons to local, state and federal boards and commissions For questions or concerns, you may contact Kelly Pollock, attorney@orangedems.com Email * ranidasi@yahoo.com ............................................ 8 Qualifications: Is the Nominee a registered Democratic living in District 1 for the Board of County Commissioners? Q Yes No Nominee's Full Legal Name (as it appears on your voter registration) Radharani Dasi Nominee's Email ranidasi@yahoo.com Nominee's Phone Number* 513-325-0116 Nominee's Physical Address 8509 Balmoral PI, Chapel Hill, NC 27516 Nominee's Home Precinct Rogers-Eubank 9 Please check the appropriate boxes: 0 1 want to fill the vacancy of the District 1 Commissioner's seat for the balance of the term (Dec, 2026) 0 1 want to appear on the ballot for Commissioner of District 1 for the November 3, 2026 Election. Please include a short bio here for posting to the OrangeDems.com website listing your qualifications. Identify why you would like to serve in this role. Several questions will follow this bio to identify your stance on pertinent issues. Bio Length: 250 words, maximum I would like to serve on the Board of County Commissioners because I am committed to strengthening systems that help our communities thrive. With reduced state and federal funding — where the BOCC must increasingly assess difficult tradeoffs to ensure residents can meet basic needs — my finance and strategy experience can directly support the community's most immediate considerations. If selected, my near-term priorities would focus on basic needs, housing, health supports, and fostering economic development to create stability while reducing the tax burden on residential property owners. I understand how investing in these areas strengthens outcomes in education, food security, and overall community well being. These priorities reflect my belief that strong financial stewardship, paired with thoughtful investment in people and infrastructure, is essential for a thriving community. My professional experience, service on the CHCCS Board of Education, and involvement in multiple community organizations position me to contribute meaningfully from day one. As Vice President of Operations Finance at RTI, I manage key budgeting and financial processes that guide strategic decisions. My earlier engineering work strengthened my focus on structural, people centered solutions — experience that aligns directly with the Board's need for strong fiscal stewardship during a period of increasing service demands. Personally, my husband and I raised our children in Orange County and our commitment to this community is rooted in our family's experiences, values, and hopes for its future. I would be honored to bring my experience to serve our community with integrity, thoughtful analysis, and a collaborative spirit. Please upload a headshot for the website here. DSC-4948 e- Ra... T Add file 10 Questions #1: Being an Orange County Commissioner is a significant commitment of time. In addition to attending Board Meetings, there are Work Sessions and retreats. Preparation for meetings typically includes reading packets that can be several hundred pages long. Each Commissioner serves on 5-7 Boards and Commissions, most of which meet monthly. Commissioners also attend numerous community events. Do you have the available bandwidth required to meet the demands of the position? What approaches will you use to balance the commitment required to ensure you are effective in the role? Answer limit: 200 words I have demonstrated the ability to balance significant professional responsibilities with elected board service. While serving on the Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools Board of Education, I managed a demanding workload at RTI while still fully engaging in board meetings, committee work, community events, and preparation outside of formal sessions. That experience strengthened my ability to prioritize, manage time intentionally, and maintain clarity even when navigating complex issues. I approach public service with seriousness and respect, and understand the importance of being present, engaged, and reliable. I am also prepared to adjust my current commitments to ensure I can serve effectively and if appointed, I will use structured planning and proactive communication to ensure I am prepared for meetings, responsive to community needs, and able to contribute meaningfully to the Board's work. Questions #2: Orange County depends heavily on residential property taxes, while nearby counties such as Durham, Wake, and Alamance have developed larger commercial, industrial, retail, or employment- based tax bases. What specific strategies would you support to diversify Orange County's revenue base without undermining our environmental, educational, and community values so that homeowners are not repeatedly asked to carry the primary burden? Answer limit: 200 words Orange County's heavy reliance on residential property taxes creates real pressure for homeowners. We can benefit from a broader commercial and employment based tax base, and I believe we can pursue this in ways that strengthen— rather than compromise—our environmental, educational, and community values. I would work collaboratively with fellow commissioners, county staff, and our municipal partners to identify targeted areas where thoughtful commercial development can occur. This includes focusing on small business growth, mission aligned employers, and innovation oriented enterprises that fit our community's character. Strengthening partnerships with the towns, the Chamber, and regional organizations can help attract employers who value sustainability, equity, and long term community investment. I also support streamlining processes for appropriate commercial development while maintaining strong environmental protections. Prioritizing density—particularly near existing transit corridors and infrastructure—can minimize environmental impact, reduce sprawl, and create walkable, vibrant employment centers. Leveraging university adjacent innovation ecosystems offers additional opportunities for growth that aligns with our values. 11 Questions #3: Orange County supports two separate public school systems despite limited tax revenue outside of residential property taxes. Would you support a study which gives consideration to a hybrid service model regarding the sharing of central office functions, transportation, purchasing, technology services, or specialized staff to reduce costs while maintaining or improving educational quality for all students? Please explain why or why not. Answer limit: 200 words Given current financial constraints, rather than investing in a formal study, I would encourage both school districts to collaborate directly and bring forward recommendations on opportunities to deepen shared services that could generate meaningful efficiencies and net savings. Any proposal must focus on financial sustainability and operational efficiency, with the clear goal of maintaining or improving educational quality for all students. Shared services often require new structures for oversight, communication, and alignment, and those added costs must be weighed carefully against projected savings. For example, shared purchasing might reduce unit costs, but net savings would only be realized if coordination does not introduce delays or inefficiencies that offset those unit cost gains. There are already successful examples of collaboration between the districts — such as shared transportation maintenance — demonstrating that hybrid service models can work when they are operationally feasible and aligned with both districts' needs. My priority would be encouraging thoughtful, practical collaboration that optimizes financial sustainability and strengthens both districts while respecting their distinct needs and identities. 12 Questions #4: Orange County faces a growing affordability challenge. Rising housing costs make it difficult for teachers, first responders, county employees, young families, and recent graduates to live in the communities they serve. This also contributes to declining school enrollment and places additional pressure on homeowners to fund county services through property taxes. Governor Josh Stein's Executive Order No. 36 calls for increasing housing opportunities and affordability across North Carolina. What specific actions would you take as a county commissioner to increase the supply of affordable and workforce housing while preserving Orange County's environmental resources and quality of life? Where do you see access to water and sewer capacity fitting into your vision for the county? Answer limit: 200 words Orange County's affordability challenges require a focused, practical approach to increasing the supply of affordable and workforce housing while preserving our environmental resources and quality of life. Housing is a basic need, and addressing it is critical in this moment. As a commissioner, I would prioritize density in areas where water and sewer capacity already exist, allowing us to expand housing options while minimizing environmental impact and avoiding costly new infrastructure. In addition, I would continue strengthening programs the BOCC already has in place—such as land banking, leveraging partnerships to reduce the financial burden on the county, and targeted incentives—to build on proven strategies rather than starting from scratch. Access to water and sewer capacity is central to my vision: we must ensure Orange County has a sustainable reliable water supply while directing growth to areas where infrastructure can support it. Thoughtful planning, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to environmental stewardship will allow us to expand housing options without compromising the character or sustainability of Orange County. Please clearly communicate any comments, questions, or concerns. Thank you for your leadership in guiding this complex selection process and for your care in organizing a process that reflects Orange County's values and is transparent and accessible, allowing the public to understand how candidates are evaluated and ensuring everyone has a fair opportunity to be considered. When decisions rely heavily on behind-the- scenes discussions,the community loses the chance to engage meaningfully, offer input, and build trust in the outcome. Public roles require public accountability, and the process should reflect that. I appreciate your commitment to stewarding this process thoughtfully and with integrity. This form was created inside of Orange County Democratic Party. Google Forms 13 2026 District 1 County Commissioner Vacancy Self- Nomination Form It is with a heavy heart that we ask for nominations to fill the seat on the Orange County Board of Commissioners vacated by our beloved commissioner, Jamezetta Bedford. If you are interested in serving as the candidate to fill the vacancy for the balance of the term ending December, 2026 and to appear on the ballot for the November 3, 2026 Election, please complete this form. The following information will guide you in this process: 1. Nominees must reside in Orange County in Commissioner District 1 (Chapel Hill/Carrboro) and be a registered Democrat. 2. The deadline for submitting the application form is 5 p.m., Monday, July 13, 2026. 3. Please note that nominations from the floor will also be accepted at the OCDP County Executive Meeting on July 20, 2026. 4. BOCC Duties and Authorities o Adopting the county's annual budget by June 30 of each year o Establishing the annual property tax rate o Appointing the county manager, county clerk, county attorney and tax administrator o Appointing various officials and representatives to advisory boards and commissions o Providing funding for construction of public school facilities for both public school systems in the county o Determining level of local current expense funding for both public school systems in the county o Regulating land-use and zoning outside municipal boundaries o Providing for safety and welfare of all Orange County residents o Long-range planning for county needs (Capital Investment Plan) o Enacting local ordinances o Calling for bond referenda o Entering into contracts o Establishing new programs and departments o Serving as liaisons to local, state and federal boards and commissions For questions or concerns,you may contact Kelly Pollock, attorney@orangedems.com Email * Leah@brrapartments.com 14 Qualifications: Is the Nominee a registered Democratic living in District 1 for the Board of County Commissioners? 0 Yes No Nominee's Full Legal Name (as it appears on your voter registration) Leah Marie Bergman Nominee's Email leah@brrapartments.com Nominee's Phone Number* 9177149601 Nominee's Physical Address 875 Weaver Dairy Road, Chapel Hill NC 27514 Nominee's Home Precinct WEAVER DAIRY 15 Please check the appropriate boxes: 0 1 want to fill the vacancy of the District 1 Commissioner's seat for the balance of the term (Dec, 2026) 0 1 want to appear on the ballot for Commissioner of District 1 for the November 3, 2026 Election. Please include a short bio here for posting to the OrangeDems.com website listing your qualifications. Identify why you would like to serve in this role. Several questions will follow this bio to identify your stance on pertinent issues. Bio Length: 250 words, maximum Leah Bergman is President of Southern Repair Service Incorporated and Lee Ray Bergman, LLC, commonly known as "Bergman Rentals" (https:Hbr-apartments.com). The company owns and manages over 1,300 housing units in Durham, Raleigh and Western NC with a concentration on workforce and affordable housing. Founded by Leah's grandfather Mitchell Bergman in the late 1940s and grown significantly by her father, Lee Ray Bergman, the company passed to Leah upon his death in 2008. Leah has expanded the business into new development, constructing the 180-unit workforce community Park Crossing Apartments in Rutherfordton (https://www.parkcrossing- nc.com). The company is currently developing McKissick Square in Durham (66 units, all affordable, delivering mid- 2027) and Duncan Terrace in Hendersonville (132 workforce units). All developments are delivered while working with local municipalities to achieve their stated goals. Leah is active in Durham's affordable housing initiative "Unlocking Doors;' partnering with nonprofits and participating in the Housing Choice Voucher, HUD-VASH, and Rapid Re-Housing programs. She also serves on the boards of the Alliance of Disability Advocates and the Foundation for Good Business. Leah is keen to get involved in Orange County and is strongly interested in being an Orange County Commissioner. A graduate of NYU's Stern School of Business (Finance and Accounting), Leah holds the CFA and C3P designations. She previously worked at JP Morgan Asset Management and Morgan Creek Capital Management. Leah and her husband, Ted Roach, live in Orange County with their three children,TJ, Rosie, and Mitchell. She is an avid horse competitor. Please upload a headshot for the website here. Leah Bergman H... T Add file 16 Questions #1: Being an Orange County Commissioner is a significant commitment of time. In addition to attending Board Meetings, there are Work Sessions and retreats. Preparation for meetings typically includes reading packets that can be several hundred pages long. Each Commissioner serves on 5-7 Boards and Commissions, most of which meet monthly. Commissioners also attend numerous community events. Do you have the available bandwidth required to meet the demands of the position? What approaches will you use to balance the commitment required to ensure you are effective in the role? Answer limit: 200 words Yes, I have both the bandwidth and the genuine desire to meet the demands of serving as an Orange County Commissioner. My professional background has prepared me well. I own and operate several extended-use tax credit affordable rental communities, work that requires careful interpretation of complex land use restrictions and ongoing coordination with the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency. Reading dense packets and processing legal documents are already part of my daily work. I also bring direct experience with the processes this role involves. I have attended countless planning commission, city, and county meetings, and I understand how rezonings move forward. I have worked with communities across North Carolina, including Durham, Hendersonville, and Rutherfordton,to deliver housing that reflects each municipality's goals, and I have seen firsthand how elected officials, staff, and stakeholders collaborate. 0 n a personal level, I am highly energetic and disciplined, waking at 5:15 each morning to make the most of my day. To balance this commitment, I will manage my time deliberately: preparing thoroughly for meetings in advance, prioritizing my board assignments, and staying organized so I can be present and effective at both official meetings and community events. I am confident I can serve Orange County effectively. 17 Questions #2: Orange County depends heavily on residential property taxes, while nearby counties such as Durham, Wake, and Alamance have developed larger commercial, industrial, retail, or employment- based tax bases. What specific strategies would you support to diversify Orange County's revenue base without undermining our environmental, educational, and community values so that homeowners are not repeatedly asked to carry the primary burden? Answer limit: 200 words The ultimate goal is to lower the aggregate cost of living in Orange County during these inflationary times. By broadening the revenue base, we can, over time, reduce the rate burden of residential property taxes. The 2027 designated Opportunity Zones present a unique opening to attract commercial, industrial, and retail development in targeted areas. Importantly,to use this structure well,the land must be held and developed by private companies or individuals. The tracts are not yet finalized, so I would review the final designations before proposing specific projects, ensuring each fits its surrounding community. Initial ideas include advanced manufacturing facilities and industrial parks attracting local trades like electricians, HVAC companies, plumbers, and welders. Another is a sports complex geared toward travel teams. The World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida, an Opportunity Zone, offers a strong model, combining housing, retail, and restaurants with sports and trade shows. This increases weekend traffic but puts little stress on roads, infrastructure, and schools while generating considerable revenue. Opportunity Zones are very also suitable for multifamily housing. My family and I are building 132 units in a Hendersonville Opportunity Zone, committing at zoning to affordability at 80%AMI Questions #3: Orange County supports two separate public school systems despite limited tax revenue outside of residential property taxes. Would you support a study which gives consideration to a hybrid service model regarding the sharing of central office functions, transportation, purchasing, technology services, or specialized staff to reduce costs while maintaining or improving educational quality for all students? Please explain why or why not. Answer limit: 200 words Yes. I strongly support studying opportunities to make County operations more efficient. When services such as administration,transportation, purchasing, and technology can be shared or improved without reducing educational quality, the County should evaluate those options carefully so taxpayer dollars go further. 18 Questions #4: Orange County faces a growing affordability challenge. Rising housing costs make it difficult for teachers, first responders, county employees, young families, and recent graduates to live in the communities they serve. This also contributes to declining school enrollment and places additional pressure on homeowners to fund county services through property taxes. Governor Josh Stein's Executive Order No. 36 calls for increasing housing opportunities and affordability across North Carolina. What specific actions would you take as a county commissioner to increase the supply of affordable and workforce housing while preserving Orange County's environmental resources and quality of life? Where do you see access to water and sewer capacity fitting into your vision for the county? Answer limit: 200 words I have direct experience developing housing targeted at 80% Area Median Income,the exact type this question references, taking projects from raw land through municipal planning and construction. These developments succeeded because municipalities did more than talk about affordability;they attracted developers and worked through zoning to make it happen. And yes, residents showed up asking about the trees. The reality is that achieving this goal requires cutting some trees and increasing density if we want young families, first responders, and teachers to afford living here. I am not describing a handful of units through a nonprofit or land trust; I mean developments producing hundreds of units. If Orange County is serious about supply, I would support expedited zoning for workforce rental and ownership projects, density deviations, and, candidly, a modification to the rural buffer, which has created a genuine pinch in housing supply. Consider the math: starting salaries for our teachers, EMTs, and county employees sit around $48,000. At one third of income, that supports only about $1,333 per month in rent or mortgage. Delivering housing at that price point requires the County to incentivize developers through favorable and efficient zoning. I have tried to get a meeting with Steve Brantley to discuss current capacity and goals but have not yet been successful. I will continue to try prior to the meeting on the 20th. Please clearly communicate any comments, questions, or concerns. I look forward to sharing my ideas with you and welcome any and all questions on the 20th or earlier. Thank you for your consideration. This form was created inside of Orange County Democratic Party. Google Forms 19 2026 District 1 County Commissioner Vacancy Self- Nomination Form It is with a heavy heart that we ask for nominations to fill the seat on the Orange County Board of Commissioners vacated by our beloved commissioner, Jamezetta Bedford. If you are interested in serving as the candidate to fill the vacancy for the balance of the term ending December, 2026 and to appear on the ballot for the November 3, 2026 Election, please complete this form. The following information will guide you in this process: 1. Nominees must reside in Orange County in Commissioner District 1 (Chapel Hill/Carrboro) and be a registered Democrat. 2. The deadline for submitting the application form is 5 p.m., Monday, July 13, 2026. 3. Please note that nominations from the floor will also be accepted at the OCDP County Executive Meeting on July 20, 2026. 4. BOCC Duties and Authorities o Adopting the county's annual budget by June 30 of each year o Establishing the annual property tax rate o Appointing the county manager, county clerk, county attorney and tax administrator o Appointing various officials and representatives to advisory boards and commissions o Providing funding for construction of public school facilities for both public school systems in the county o Determining level of local current expense funding for both public school systems in the county o Regulating land-use and zoning outside municipal boundaries o Providing for safety and welfare of all Orange County residents o Long-range planning for county needs (Capital Investment Plan) o Enacting local ordinances o Calling for bond referenda o Entering into contracts o Establishing new programs and departments o Serving as liaisons to local, state and federal boards and commissions For questions or concerns,you may contact Kelly Pollock, attorney@orangedems.com Email * mariatpalmer@gmail.com 20 Qualifications: Is the Nominee a registered Democratic living in District 1 for the Board of County Commissioners? 0 Yes No Nominee's Full Legal Name (as it appears on your voter registration) Maria Teresa Unger Palmer Nominee's Email mariatpalmer@gmail.com Nominee's Phone Number* 9192604361 Nominee's Physical Address 303 Forbush Mountain Drive Nominee's Home Precinct Weaver Dairy 21 Please check the appropriate boxes: 0 1 want to fill the vacancy of the District 1 Commissioner's seat for the balance of the term (Dec, 2026) 0 1 want to appear on the ballot for Commissioner of District 1 for the November 3, 2026 Election. Please include a short bio here for posting to the OrangeDems.com website listing your qualifications. Identify why you would like to serve in this role. Several questions will follow this bio to identify your stance on pertinent issues. Bio Length: 250 words, maximum I am Dr. Maria Teresa Unger Palmer, a 30+ year resident, mother, and grandmother of Orange Co. residents. I ran for Commissioner in the primary to work for the safety of all my community, alleviate the affordability crisis, and address our over-reliance on property taxes and the inequitable property revaluations' impact on our Black communities. I came to the US as an exchange student in 1978, married Micheal, and made the South my home. I have worked as teacher, pastor, principal, chaplain, university administrator, and most recently a family support coordinator for organ transplantation in hospitals across NC. I founded the Hispanic congregation at United Church of Chapel Hill and started Mi Escuelita,the first Spanish immersion daycare in the Triangle. I completed my doctorate in Education at UNC and helped bring language immersion to CHCCS. I have worked to register voters and elect progressive democrats to office for decades, and served as precinct co-chair of Orange Co.'s Weaver Dairy precinct. I have served in state and local positions including as an Orange Co. Human Rights Commissioner, a member of Chapel Hill Town Council, and as a member of the State Board of Education. 6,802 Orange Co. residents gave me their vote in March, and many others urged me to run again after expressing that they were already pledged to Jamezetta, but would like to see us both on the board. I believe all my training and experience have prepared me to continue my public service on the County Commission. Please upload a headshot for the website here. DSC-3919 - Mari... T Add file 22 Questions #1: Being an Orange County Commissioner is a significant commitment of time. In addition to attending Board Meetings, there are Work Sessions and retreats. Preparation for meetings typically includes reading packets that can be several hundred pages long. Each Commissioner serves on 5-7 Boards and Commissions, most of which meet monthly. Commissioners also attend numerous community events. Do you have the available bandwidth required to meet the demands of the position? What approaches will you use to balance the commitment required to ensure you are effective in the role? Answer limit: 200 words I have recently retired and do occasional contract work, so I have the time to devote to public service. Having served on multiple boards and commissions while working full time and raising a family, I am certain I have the bandwidth and energy necessary to do the work of County Commissioner. Questions #2: Orange County depends heavily on residential property taxes, while nearby counties such as Durham, Wake, and Alamance have developed larger commercial, industrial, retail, or employment- based tax bases. What specific strategies would you support to diversify Orange County's revenue base without undermining our environmental, educational, and community values so that homeowners are not repeatedly asked to carry the primary burden? Answer limit: 200 words We need to think outside the box and bring businesses and industry that help us solve some of the problems we face while at the same time bringing good paying jobs and tax revenue. For example, what if we made manufactured homes in Orange County to bring building costs down? We could pre-approve certain designs, as Mississippi and Louisiana did after Katrina, and work with local builders, Durham Tech, and the Chamber of Commerce to train local workers. What about making Orange Co. a sports destination that brings tournaments and tourism dollars?There are opportunities in every sport, from Volleyball to Pickleball. What about micro-loans to seed new business ventures, allowing farmers to diversify their income. We need to incentivize creative ideas and support entrepreneurship. 23 Questions #3: Orange County supports two separate public school systems despite limited tax revenue outside of residential property taxes. Would you support a study which gives consideration to a hybrid service model regarding the sharing of central office functions, transportation, purchasing, technology services, or specialized staff to reduce costs while maintaining or improving educational quality for all students? Please explain why or why not. Answer limit: 200 words Absolutely. Having served on the NC State Board of Education, I have seen every possible model for collaboration (such as regional consortia in WNC) and studied them as part of my Ed. D. in Educational Leadership. There are many cost- saving models that also benefit all our children through increased access to specialized programs. Orange Co. can and must be a center for educational innovation. Questions #4: Orange County faces a growing affordability challenge. Rising housing costs make it difficult for teachers, first responders, county employees, young families, and recent graduates to live in the communities they serve. This also contributes to declining school enrollment and places additional pressure on homeowners to fund county services through property taxes. Governor Josh Stein's Executive Order No. 36 calls for increasing housing opportunities and affordability across North Carolina. What specific actions would you take as a county commissioner to increase the supply of affordable and workforce housing while preserving Orange County's environmental resources and quality of life? Where do you see access to water and sewer capacity fitting into your vision for the county? Answer limit: 200 words Sustainable development that addresses climate change and provides much-needed housing is one of my top three agenda items. I will work with our municipalities to encourage more dense, urban development and multimodal transportation and development corridors linking our towns. I will bring to the table UNC, Durham Tech,the Chamber of Commerce, and non-profit housing providers, and invest in partnerships that preserve and develop affordable (especially employee/workforce) housing, Expanding access to water and sewer is a must for our urban areas so that we can attract new businesses, expand our tax base and address our housing crisis. I have served on the Chapel Hill Town Council, so I'm very familiar with issues of development, particularly in my district (Southern Orange County), and look forward to working on the development of the Green Tract and bringing expertise gained from working on the Land Use Management Ordinance in Chapel Hill to the County's work on land-use. 24 Please clearly communicate any comments, questions, or concerns. If elected, I will be the first Hispanic to ever serve on our OCBOCC. In that sense, I will bring a new perspective to the board and represent an important segment of our population. I also have decades of professional experience that have put me close to immigrants, refugees, and fist generation citizens. Please take into consideration that over 6,800 residents of Orange County already voted for me to be the next County Commissioner. As primary voters, they are the most engaged and active residents of our county. If you added all the immigrant community members who contribute greatly to the prosperity of Orange Co. but cannot vote,you would hear a loud "Maria Palmer for County Commissioner!" ringing today. I pledge that if elected, I will work to protect our air, water, forests and farms—the natural beauty of Orange County—and I will work hard so all our residents can continue to live and work and can afford to age in this wonderful community. This form was created inside of Orange County Democratic Party. Google Forms 25 2026 District 1 County Commissioner Vacancy Self- Nomination Form It is with a heavy heart that we ask for nominations to fill the seat on the Orange County Board of Commissioners vacated by our beloved commissioner, Jamezetta Bedford. If you are interested in serving as the candidate to fill the vacancy for the balance of the term ending December, 2026 and to appear on the ballot for the November 3, 2026 Election, please complete this form. The following information will guide you in this process: 1. Nominees must reside in Orange County in Commissioner District 1 (Chapel Hill/Carrboro) and be a registered Democrat. 2. The deadline for submitting the application form is 5 p.m., Monday, July 13, 2026. 3. Please note that nominations from the floor will also be accepted at the OCDP County Executive Meeting on July 20, 2026. 4. BOCC Duties and Authorities o Adopting the county's annual budget by June 30 of each year o Establishing the annual property tax rate o Appointing the county manager, county clerk, county attorney and tax administrator o Appointing various officials and representatives to advisory boards and commissions o Providing funding for construction of public school facilities for both public school systems in the county o Determining level of local current expense funding for both public school systems in the county o Regulating land-use and zoning outside municipal boundaries o Providing for safety and welfare of all Orange County residents o Long-range planning for county needs (Capital Investment Plan) o Enacting local ordinances o Calling for bond referenda o Entering into contracts o Establishing new programs and departments o Serving as liaisons to local, state and federal boards and commissions For questions or concerns,you may contact Kelly Pollock, attorney@orangedems.com Email * pshemminger@gmail.com 26 Qualifications: Is the Nominee a registered Democratic living in District 1 for the Board of County Commissioners? Q Yes No Nominee's Full Legal Name (as it appears on your voter registration) Pamela Somers Hemminger Nominee's Email Pshemminger@gmail.com Nominee's Phone Number* 919 616-5568 Nominee's Physical Address 108 Boxwood Place, Chapel Hill, NC 27517 Nominee's Home Precinct Ridgewood 27 Please check the appropriate boxes: Q 1 want to fill the vacancy of the District 1 Commissioner's seat for the balance of the term (Dec, 2026) I want to appear on the ballot for Commissioner of District 1 for the November 3, 2026 Election. Please include a short bio here for posting to the OrangeDems.com website listing your qualifications. Identify why you would like to serve in this role. Several questions will follow this bio to identify your stance on pertinent issues. Bio Length: 250 words, maximum Former Mayor of Chapel Hill 2015-2023, former Orange County Commissioner 2008-2012, former CHCCS School Board 2004-2008, served on multiple town & county boards for over 17 years. Former chair of UNRBA, Orange Sierra Club, (vice chair) Triangle Land Conservancy, Orange Habitat (vice chair). Current Chair of Extraordinary Ventures and serving on Triangle YMCA Board, NC Environmental Defense Fund and Carolina North Committee. I have a long and extensive history of serving our community and can hit the ground running with the BOCC for the remainder of 2026. Jamezetta Bedford was a close friend and colleague, I would be honored to help fill her seat for the remainder of the year. I have worked with many of the current BOCC members & staff. This would allow the group to move forward and give time for a new candidate to be prepared to take over in December. This would also allow the staff to train all three new Commissioners at the same time. I have the time and energy to commit to this position and know that I could be helpful with upcoming issues. Please upload a headshot for the website here. MayorPicWebsit... T Add file 28 Questions #1: Being an Orange County Commissioner is a significant commitment of time. In addition to attending Board Meetings, there are Work Sessions and retreats. Preparation for meetings typically includes reading packets that can be several hundred pages long. Each Commissioner serves on 5-7 Boards and Commissions, most of which meet monthly. Commissioners also attend numerous community events. Do you have the available bandwidth required to meet the demands of the position? What approaches will you use to balance the commitment required to ensure you are effective in the role? Answer limit: 200 words I have the time, energy and commitment to serve at BOCC meetings and assigned boards. I am a strategic planner and am used to balancing commitments with personal life. Knowing how to prepare for a meeting is important as well as asking questions and talking to others before a meeting. Questions #2: Orange County depends heavily on residential property taxes, while nearby counties such as Durham, Wake, and Alamance have developed larger commercial, industrial, retail, or employment- based tax bases. What specific strategies would you support to diversify Orange County's revenue base without undermining our environmental, educational, and community values so that homeowners are not repeatedly asked to carry the primary burden? Answer limit: 200 words We need more good commercial businesses in Orange County! We have many opportunities to partner with the towns to retain and grow existing businesses and to harness the energy that is coming from UNC, Launch,the Junction and more. We have a strong entrepreneurial community and we need to find more ways to encourage them to stay and grow in Orange County. I have a history in helping partner with the county to bring good companies like Wegmans, Well Dot and commercial buildings like Glen Lennox and Carraway Vlllage. We need more energy to bring more Enterprise Zones and commercial development along our highway corridors. We can grow our commercial base in a sustainable way so that it provides more local jobs (reducing transportation pollution) and takes the tax burden off the property owners. My background is business and financial forecasting which helped Chapel HIII shift its balance to more commercial tax revenue and more local jobs. I was also part of the BOCC when we decided to bring water and sewer to the economic development zones to encourage commercial development like Morinaga. Orange County is a very desirable area for companies to locate and we can develop strategies to grow and retain businesses along our commercial areas. 29 Questions #3: Orange County supports two separate public school systems despite limited tax revenue outside of residential property taxes. Would you support a study which gives consideration to a hybrid service model regarding the sharing of central office functions, transportation, purchasing, technology services, or specialized staff to reduce costs while maintaining or improving educational quality for all students? Please explain why or why not. Answer limit: 200 words Absolutely support a study! There are many benefits from having our two wonderful school systems work together for economies of scale and sharing mutual information. The study would show what savings and benefits could be accomplished to give the information needed to make a decision that could benefit all our students &families . We could benefit from sharing bus maintenance, storage and driver training -this is just one example! There are many possibilities and great resources to be shared! Questions #4: Orange County faces a growing affordability challenge. Rising housing costs make it difficult for teachers, first responders, county employees, young families, and recent graduates to live in the communities they serve. This also contributes to declining school enrollment and places additional pressure on homeowners to fund county services through property taxes. Governor Josh Stein's Executive Order No. 36 calls for increasing housing opportunities and affordability across North Carolina. What specific actions would you take as a county commissioner to increase the supply of affordable and workforce housing while preserving Orange County's environmental resources and quality of life? Where do you see access to water and sewer capacity fitting into your vision for the county? Answer limit: 200 words As mayor, I led the effort to do a study of current housing supply and needs in Chapel Hill. We determined how much more affordable housing we needed and how much we had already (NOAH) that we did not want to lose. In working with our affordable housing partners (of which boards I have also served on), we came up with strategies for how to stretch our dollars and which areas work best for creating the most housing. There are many variables in creating truly affordable housing such as transportation, utilities, housing upkeep and healthy living. Being on water and sewer is very important and building densely helps reduce those infrastructure costs. Being close transit and grocery are all key. We used many different strategies in Chapel Hill and Orange County has many options for doing some of the same strategies with land that is close to infrastructure. Partnerships are key as building costs have skyrocketed and developers are not legally bound to help. It is a priority for our community and we have made great strides in increasing supply, but we still have a long way to go. Many of our newer affordable housing stock is built environmentally efficient and supported by groups to encourage solar, water reduction and less impervious surface. With increasing drought conditions, it is imperative that we work together to use our water resources more responsibility. I have served both on UNRBA and Jordan Lake One Water and understand the value of good clean and abundant drinking water. 30 Please clearly communicate any comments, questions, or concerns. I would be honored to serve and help where needed. We are traveling until mid August so I would not be able to make a forum before then unless by video. I bring a great deal of prior experience and relationships that can help with this transition. In my many many years of working with Commissioner Bedford both as a colleague and friend, I know I can represent some of the same values she held close. This form was created inside of Orange County Democratic Party. Google Forms 31 2026 District 1 County Commissioner Vacancy Self- Nomination Form It is with a heavy heart that we ask for nominations to fill the seat on the Orange County Board of Commissioners vacated by our beloved commissioner, Jamezetta Bedford. If you are interested in serving as the candidate to fill the vacancy for the balance of the term ending December, 2026 and to appear on the ballot for the November 3, 2026 Election, please complete this form. The following information will guide you in this process: 1. Nominees must reside in Orange County in Commissioner District 1 (Chapel Hill/Carrboro) and be a registered Democrat. 2. The deadline for submitting the application form is 5 p.m., Monday, July 13, 2026. 3. Please note that nominations from the floor will also be accepted at the OCDP County Executive Meeting on July 20, 2026. 4. BOCC Duties and Authorities o Adopting the county's annual budget by June 30 of each year o Establishing the annual property tax rate o Appointing the county manager, county clerk, county attorney and tax administrator o Appointing various officials and representatives to advisory boards and commissions o Providing funding for construction of public school facilities for both public school systems in the county o Determining level of local current expense funding for both public school systems in the county o Regulating land-use and zoning outside municipal boundaries o Providing for safety and welfare of all Orange County residents o Long-range planning for county needs (Capital Investment Plan) o Enacting local ordinances o Calling for bond referenda o Entering into contracts o Establishing new programs and departments o Serving as liaisons to local, state and federal boards and commissions For questions or concerns,you may contact Kelly Pollock, attorney@orangedems.com Email * renukes@gmail.com 32 Qualifications: Is the Nominee a registered Democratic living in District 1 for the Board of County Commissioners? 0 Yes No Nominee's Full Legal Name (as it appears on your voter registration) Renuka Vidya Soll Nominee's Email renukes@gmail.com Nominee's Phone Number* 9196196051 Nominee's Physical Address 302 Old Larkspur Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27516 Nominee's Home Precinct Rogers-Eubanks 33 Please check the appropriate boxes: 0 1 want to fill the vacancy of the District 1 Commissioner's seat for the balance of the term (Dec, 2026) 0 1 want to appear on the ballot for Commissioner of District 1 for the November 3, 2026 Election. Please include a short bio here for posting to the OrangeDems.com website listing your qualifications. Identify why you would like to serve in this role. Several questions will follow this bio to identify your stance on pertinent issues. Bio Length: 250 words, maximum I have lived in Orange County since 2005 and have dedicated more than two decades to serving our community through public education, local government, and public safety advocacy. I am a first generation Asian American, holding a B.A. in Chemistry from Wellesley College, an M.S. in Computer Information Systems from Bentley University, and an MBA in Marketing from the University of Chicago. I served as PTA President,Treasurer, and Secretary in Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and spent ten years as a volunteer mountain bike coach at the local high school. Today, I tutor math at New Hope Elementary School, where I see firsthand the importance of investing in safe, well-maintained schools and ensuring every child has the resources needed to succeed. After serving two full terms on Chapel Hill's Parks and Recreation Commission, I gained valuable experience in public facility planning, local government, and community engagement. I also served for seven years on the Board of North Carolinians against Gun Violence (NCGV), where I received the Effie Steele Memorial Award for my advocacy. In addition, I organized three Gun Give Back events that permanently removed unwanted firearms from our community. Throughout my public service, I have learned that the best decisions come from listening carefully to residents, studying the facts, and building consensus whenever possible. As County Commissioner, I will work hard to expand opportunity, protect public safety, invest in our schools and infrastructure, and ensure county government remains fiscally responsible, transparent, and responsive to the people it serves. Please upload a headshot for the website here. Renuka Soll phot... T Add file 34 Questions #1: Being an Orange County Commissioner is a significant commitment of time. In addition to attending Board Meetings, there are Work Sessions and retreats. Preparation for meetings typically includes reading packets that can be several hundred pages long. Each Commissioner serves on 5-7 Boards and Commissions, most of which meet monthly. Commissioners also attend numerous community events. Do you have the available bandwidth required to meet the demands of the position? What approaches will you use to balance the commitment required to ensure you are effective in the role? Answer limit: 200 words Yes, I have the time, energy and commitment necessary to meet the demands of serving as an Orange County Commissioner. My part-time work as a math tutor at New Hope Elementary requires approximately 10-15 hours per week. Having recently completed my service on previous boards and commissions, I am prepared to make this role my primary public service commitment. I understand that effective commissioners spend as much time preparing as they do in meetings. Carefully reviewing agenda packets, understanding the policy and financial implications of each issue, and asking thoughtful questions are essential responsibilities of every commissioner. I will approach this work with the same discipline and preparation I have brought to my previous leadership roles. Equally important is being present in the community, listening to residents, collaborating with fellow commissioners and county staff, serving on boards and commissions, and attending community events are all critical to making informed decisions. My goal is to be a commissioner who is well prepared, accessible, and responsive. 35 Questions #2: Orange County depends heavily on residential property taxes, while nearby counties such as Durham, Wake, and Alamance have developed larger commercial, industrial, retail, or employment- based tax bases. What specific strategies would you support to diversify Orange County's revenue base without undermining our environmental, educational, and community values so that homeowners are not repeatedly asked to carry the primary burden? Answer limit: 200 words Orange County needs a more balanced tax base so homeowners are not expected to shoulder a disproportionate share of county revenues. New commercial development is constrained by access to water and sewer infrastructure. As a result,the Buckhorn Economic Development District is currently Orange County's best opportunity for expanding commercial development and creating jobs. Existing infrastructure connected to Mebane can support near-term growth, while continued investment in infrastructure around the Hillsborough Economic Development District will create additional opportunities in the future. Economic development must align with our environmental values, Climate Action Plan, and long-term strategic goals. I support attracting businesses industries in clean industries that provide high-quality jobs while protecting our natural resources. We should encourage responsible private investment without compromising community values. Finally, we must support the businesses already here by expanding appropriately scaled retail to meet the needs of growing communities, continuing to invest in agritourism and local entrepreneurship, and engaging residents as these plans develop. Diversifying our economy means both attracting new employers and helping existing businesses succeed. 36 Questions #3: Orange County supports two separate public school systems despite limited tax revenue outside of residential property taxes. Would you support a study which gives consideration to a hybrid service model regarding the sharing of central office functions, transportation, purchasing, technology services, or specialized staff to reduce costs while maintaining or improving educational quality for all students? Please explain why or why not. Answer limit: 200 words Yes. I would support a study exploring opportunities for the two school to share appropriate services, provided that the process is collaborative with them and driven by their individual school district's needs. Shared administrative functions—such as purchasing, technology services, transportation, specialized staff, or selected central office operations—may offer opportunities to reduce costs through economies of scale while preserving each district's governance, identity, and educational mission. Any savings should be reinvested to support students and classrooms. Before implementing any recommendations, I would also want a clear understanding of any legal or statutory barriers so that the study focuses on practical, achievable solutions. Our goal should be greater efficiency—not consolidation for its own sake. If shared services allow us to direct more resources to students while maintaining or improving educational quality,they deserve serious consideration. 37 Questions #4: Orange County faces a growing affordability challenge. Rising housing costs make it difficult for teachers, first responders, county employees, young families, and recent graduates to live in the communities they serve. This also contributes to declining school enrollment and places additional pressure on homeowners to fund county services through property taxes. Governor Josh Stein's Executive Order No. 36 calls for increasing housing opportunities and affordability across North Carolina. What specific actions would you take as a county commissioner to increase the supply of affordable and workforce housing while preserving Orange County's environmental resources and quality of life? Where do you see access to water and sewer capacity fitting into your vision for the county? Answer limit: 200 words As highlighted in the Commissioners' March retreat, addressing affordable housing requires a unified approach to land use,transportation, and infrastructure. To increase supply while protecting the environment, I support dense housing in areas with existing or planned water, sewer, and transit infrastructure. Another opportunity is partnerships with nonprofits to build affordable and workforce housing, with a particular focus on very low-income residents, alongside efforts to conserve existing housing stock. We must also leverage publicly owned land. For instance,the school district-owned Glenwood Elementary site in Chapel Hill sits on 9.5 acres near CH Transit. Using land like this for publicly funded teacher and first responder housing is a win-win. Because Orange County's limited public water and sewer capacity constrains growth, infrastructure is central to my vision. I support utilizing rural neighborhood activity nodes—zoning hubs that combine housing and small businesses with self-contained water and sewer systems to protect the surrounding environment. Ultimately, we must align our economic development strategy, Climate Action Plan, and land use planning to ensure future growth creates both jobs and housing where they make the most sense. Please clearly communicate any comments, questions, or concerns. none This form was created inside of Orange County Democratic Party. Google Forms 38 2026 District 1 County Commissioner Vacancy Self- Nomination Form It is with a heavy heart that we ask for nominations to fill the seat on the Orange County Board of Commissioners vacated by our beloved commissioner, Jamezetta Bedford. If you are interested in serving as the candidate to fill the vacancy for the balance of the term ending December, 2026 and to appear on the ballot for the November 3, 2026 Election, please complete this form. The following information will guide you in this process: 1. Nominees must reside in Orange County in Commissioner District 1 (Chapel Hill/Carrboro) and be a registered Democrat. 2. The deadline for submitting the application form is 5 p.m., Monday, July 13, 2026. 3. Please note that nominations from the floor will also be accepted at the OCDP County Executive Meeting on July 20, 2026. 4. BOCC Duties and Authorities o Adopting the county's annual budget by June 30 of each year o Establishing the annual property tax rate o Appointing the county manager, county clerk, county attorney and tax administrator o Appointing various officials and representatives to advisory boards and commissions o Providing funding for construction of public school facilities for both public school systems in the county o Determining level of local current expense funding for both public school systems in the county o Regulating land-use and zoning outside municipal boundaries o Providing for safety and welfare of all Orange County residents o Long-range planning for county needs (Capital Investment Plan) o Enacting local ordinances o Calling for bond referenda o Entering into contracts o Establishing new programs and departments o Serving as liaisons to local, state and federal boards and commissions For questions or concerns,you may contact Kelly Pollock, attorney@orangedems.com Email * erikvalera@outlook.com 39 Qualifications: Is the Nominee a registered Democratic living in District 1 for the Board of County Commissioners? Q Yes No Nominee's Full Legal Name (as it appears on your voter registration) Erik Rafael Valera Nominee's Email erikvalera@outlook.com Nominee's Phone Number* 818-618-1198 Nominee's Physical Address 3 Winding Creek Lane, Chaoel Hill, NC, 27516 Nominee's Home Precinct 818-618-1198 40 Please check the appropriate boxes: 0 1 want to fill the vacancy of the District 1 Commissioner's seat for the balance of the term (Dec, 2026) 0 1 want to appear on the ballot for Commissioner of District 1 for the November 3, 2026 Election. Please include a short bio here for posting to the OrangeDems.com website listing your qualifications. Identify why you would like to serve in this role. Several questions will follow this bio to identify your stance on pertinent issues. Bio Length: 250 words, maximum I'm Erik Valera, a Chapel Hill resident, nonprofit leader, and lifelong public servant seeking appointment to the Orange County Board of Commissioners in District 1. I want to serve because Orange County is being priced out from the inside. Residents are carrying a disproportionate tax burden — including this year's contested 4.22-cent increase — because we lack the commercial base to help fund public services. At the same time, high property values are pushing young families with school-aged children into neighboring counties, shrinking school enrollment even as the county is pressed to raise local funding to offset declining state per-pupil revenue. These pressures are connected, and I believe they can be met with preparation, equity, and a whole-county perspective. My background prepares me for exactly this work. I've led nonprofits as COO or Executive Director, managing budgets, operations, and boards. As chair of the Language Access Committee on the Governor's Advisory Council on Hispanic/Latino Affairs, I helped win a statewide policy now serving hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians. On the Chapel Hill Planning Commission, I worked on the housing and land-use decisions at the heart of our affordability crisis. If appointed, I'll focus on three connected challenges: our school infrastructure and debt burden, housing barriers for families with school-aged children, and diversifying a tax base that leans too heavily on homeowners. I'm a proud Democrat, fluent in Spanish and English, and ready to do the work. Please upload a headshot for the website here. Erik Valera Head... T Add file 41 Questions #1: Being an Orange County Commissioner is a significant commitment of time. In addition to attending Board Meetings, there are Work Sessions and retreats. Preparation for meetings typically includes reading packets that can be several hundred pages long. Each Commissioner serves on 5-7 Boards and Commissions, most of which meet monthly. Commissioners also attend numerous community events. Do you have the available bandwidth required to meet the demands of the position? What approaches will you use to balance the commitment required to ensure you are effective in the role? Answer limit: 200 words Yes — and I say that having done the arithmetic honestly rather than waving it away. The demands are real: two long business meetings monthly, work sessions,the annual retreat, several-hundred-page packets twice a month, five to seven advisory boards, community events, and constant constituent contact — peaking hard in budget season. But those hours are the substance of governing, not an obstacle to it. A packet read carefully is a decision made on evidence rather than assumption. A board meeting attended is a community that keeps its seat at the table. So I approach the work with discipline. I protect my calendar deliberately, clearing the spring so budget season gets the attention residents deserve. I read every packet early and bring my questions to staff in advance, so deliberation moves on evidence, not surprises. I treat each board and commission assignment as real work, not a line on a resume. And I stay reachable through predictable channels, so constituents always know how to find me. Effectiveness isn't just showing up. It's arriving prepared, every time — and I have both the bandwidth and the discipline to do exactly that. 42 Questions #2: Orange County depends heavily on residential property taxes, while nearby counties such as Durham, Wake, and Alamance have developed larger commercial, industrial, retail, or employment- based tax bases. What specific strategies would you support to diversify Orange County's revenue base without undermining our environmental, educational, and community values so that homeowners are not repeatedly asked to carry the primary burden? Answer limit: 200 words First, grow the commercial, institutional, and visitor-driven share of the base deliberately and on our terms. When residential property is roughly 80% of the tax base, every dollar of need lands on homes. Shifting even a few points toward commercial, office, lab, and light-industrial property spreads that burden — targeted, values-aligned development like life sciences and research spillover from UNC and the Research Triangle, not big-box sprawl. We should also grow visitor-generated revenue through arts, culture, entertainment, and sports, letting dollars from people who don't live here help fund what residents value. Second, capture growth-driven revenue at the source and zone for the housing we need. New development drives the school-capacity and infrastructure costs that later fall on homeowners through bonds; North Carolina authorizes system development fees for water and sewer, and school impact fees where granted — authority Orange County has pursued before. Pair that with zoning for missing-middle and workforce housing, so families with school-aged children can afford to live, work, learn, and play here. Third, fix revaluation equity first —the FY2026-27 Tax Assessment Study Reserve builds the fairness and public trust that any future ask requires. 43 Questions #3: Orange County supports two separate public school systems despite limited tax revenue outside of residential property taxes. Would you support a study which gives consideration to a hybrid service model regarding the sharing of central office functions, transportation, purchasing, technology services, or specialized staff to reduce costs while maintaining or improving educational quality for all students? Please explain why or why not. Answer limit: 200 words Yes — but its value depends almost entirely on design and framing. Sharing back-office functions is not a threat to either district's identity; it's ordinary fiscal stewardship when residential property taxes carry most of the load and both districts face falling enrollment. CHCCS is down about 10% since 2020- 21, and OCS is already moving to raise bus-driver pay to match CHCCS — evidence the two systems are solving overlapping problems separately. Studying whether transportation routing, purchasing,technology, or hard-to-recruit specialized staff like therapists and information technology could be shared is exactly the kind of question a responsible study should answer. The framing determines everything. The charge must be to reduce administrative and operational cost while maintaining or improving educational quality for all students. It should quantify real dollars, protect each district's governance and character, and route any savings back into instruction. Both districts already cooperate through joint meetings and shared programs, so the foundation exists. Done well, such a study frees money for classrooms. Done as a blunt cost-cut, it erodes trust. I'd support 44 Questions #4: Orange County faces a growing affordability challenge. Rising housing costs make it difficult for teachers, first responders, county employees, young families, and recent graduates to live in the communities they serve. This also contributes to declining school enrollment and places additional pressure on homeowners to fund county services through property taxes. Governor Josh Stein's Executive Order No. 36 calls for increasing housing opportunities and affordability across North Carolina. What specific actions would you take as a county commissioner to increase the supply of affordable and workforce housing while preserving Orange County's environmental resources and quality of life? Where do you see access to water and sewer capacity fitting into your vision for the county? Answer limit: 200 words Executive Order 36 is a coordination directive, not automatic funding — it aligns state agencies and,through the Governor's recommended budget, offers density-zoning grants and Housing Trust Fund dollars the county can pursue. My job is to make Orange County ready to use them. The highest-leverage action is regulatory, not fiscal: reform zoning to allow "missing middle" housing — duplexes, triplexes, cottage courts, ADUs, small-lot homes — by right where infrastructure already exists, instead of forcing a rezoning fight over each one. ADUs especially add units on existing lots with existing water/sewer and near-zero environmental footprint — housing teachers, nurses, and bus drivers can afford. Second, preserve the affordable housing we already have; it's cheaper than building and has essentially zero environmental cost. Expand the Longtime Homeowner and emergency-assistance programs, protect manufactured- home communities, and hold municipal partners to the County-Wide Manufactured Homes Action Plan. Third, streamline approvals — expedited review and waived fees for income-restricted units — while keeping watershed and stormwater standards fully intact. On water and sewer: capacity is the master lever. EO 36 names failing wells and water infrastructure as housing barriers. Directing gentle density where service exists lets us grow affordably without sprawl. Please clearly communicate any comments, questions, or concerns. * I'm asking to serve in a way that honors Jamezetta Bedford and the values she gave this community. Where Jamezetta stood up for children, seniors, and people with disabilities, I've spent thirty years standing up for immigrant and marginalized communities. The people we've served differ;the conviction behind the work is the same. I also want to honor how she served. Jamezetta didn't chase headlines for political gain — she built things meant to last, and she did it with thoughtfulness, collaboration, and care for every resident. That is the standard I hold for myself. Our Democratic voters chose her once more this spring, entrusting her with this seat, and I don't take that lightly. I can't replace Jamezetta Bedford — no one can — but I can carry her values forward, and I would be honored to try. This form was created inside of Orange County Democratic Party. Google Forms