Name as it appears on the ballot: Daniel Grant-King

Age: 25

Party affiliation: Democratic Party

Campaign website: https://sites.google.com/view/danielgrantkingforraleigh/home

Occupation & employer: Teacher, Exceptional Childrens

Years lived in Raleigh: 20 + Years

Given the direction of the Raleigh government, would you say things are on the right course? If not, what specific changes will you advocate for if elected?

As a Democratic candidate, I believe that the current trajectory of the Raleigh government is not aligned with the needs and values of its residents. If elected, I would advocate for the following specific changes:

1. Increased focus on affordable housing initiatives to address the rising cost of living and ensure all residents have access to safe and affordable housing options.

2. Implementing robust public transportation systems to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce carbon emissions, and improve overall quality of life for residents.

3. Enhancing investment in public education to provide our children with the resources and support they need to succeed in an ever-changing world.

4. Promoting sustainable practices and environmental conservation efforts to protect our natural resources and combat climate change.

5. Prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of city governance to create a more just and equitable community for all.

By pursuing these specific changes, I am committed to steering Raleigh towards a more progressive and inclusive future that benefits all residents and fosters a thriving and sustainable community for generations to come.

If you are a candidate for a district seat, please identify your priorities for your district. If you are an at-large or mayoral candidate, please identify the three most pressing issues the city faces. As a Democratic candidate for the District C seat, my top priorities for my district would be:

1. Economic Development: I will focus on attracting new businesses, supporting local entrepreneurship, and ensuring that economic growth benefits all residents, especially those in underserved communities.

2. Education: I will work to improve our schools by increasing funding, supporting teachers, and promoting programs that ensure every child has access to a high-quality education, regardless of their background.

3. Affordable Housing: I will address the housing crisis in our district by advocating for policies that increase affordable housing options, protect tenants’ rights, and prevent displacement of long-time residents due to gentrification.

These priorities aim to create a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. By focusing on economic development, education, and affordable housing, we can build a stronger, more equitable district for all its residents.

What in your record as a public official or other experience demonstrates your ability to be effective as a member of the city council and as an advocate for the issues that you believe are important?

As a democratic candidate vying for a seat on the city council, my record as a public advocate official speaks volumes about my ability to be effective in this role. Throughout my tenure, I have consistently worked towards promoting policies that uplift the community and address pressing issues. My experience has equipped me with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of governance, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and drive meaningful change.

I have a proven track record of advocating for the issues that I believe are important, such as affordable housing, educational reform, and environmental sustainability. Through my strategic efforts, I have successfully pushed for legislation that promotes social equity, fosters economic development, and protects the environment. My ability to craft and implement effective policies has been instrumental in improving the quality of life for residents in our city.

Moreover, my experience as a public official has honed my ability to communicate persuasively, build consensus, and mobilize support for important initiatives. I have a demonstrated commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in my decision-making process, ensuring that the voices of all constituents are heard and valued.

In conclusion, my record as a public official underscores my ability to be an effective member of the city council and a staunch advocate for the issues that matter most to me. I am prepared to leverage my experience, skills, and passion to champion policies that will contribute to the betterment of our community and the well-being of its residents.

In 2021, the Raleigh City Council enacted a missing middle policy to allow for the construction of new, diverse types of housing across the city. More than 2,000 newly-allowed units have been added to the city’s housing stock under the policy, yet there has been pushback from residents, including lawsuits. Do you support Raleigh’s missing middle housing policy as is, or do you think it needs amending? If you feel it needs to be changed, please explain.

As an advocate in housing policy, I believe that Raleigh’s missing middle housing policy is a progressive and necessary step towards addressing the city’s housing affordability and diversity challenges. The addition of over 2,000 new units demonstrates the policy’s potential to increase housing options and promote inclusivity. However, the pushback from residents, including lawsuits, indicates the need for some amendments to ensure the policy’s success and acceptance by the community.

One aspect that could be improved is the communication and engagement with residents throughout the planning and implementation process. By involving the community in decision-making and addressing their concerns proactively, the city can build trust and foster support for the policy. Additionally, there may be a need to consider further regulations or incentives to ensure that the new housing units are truly affordable and accessible to a diverse range of residents, including low-income individuals and families.

Overall, while Raleigh’s missing middle housing policy is a commendable effort to promote housing diversity, it is crucial to listen to residents’ feedback and make necessary adjustments to enhance its effectiveness and inclusivity. By striking a balance between innovation and community engagement, Raleigh can establish a successful and equitable housing policy that benefits all of its residents.

Raleigh has many funds, programs, and partnerships in place aimed at addressing affordable housing, but still has a deficit of some 23,000 affordable units. What more can the city do to secure affordable housing, and what more can it do to ensure that low-income residents don’t face displacement?

In order to effectively address the affordable housing crisis in Raleigh and prevent displacement of low-income residents, the city must consider a multifaceted approach involving both short-term and long-term strategies.

1. **Increase Funding**: The city should allocate additional funds specifically designated for affordable housing initiatives. This can include subsidies for developers building affordable units, grants for low-income residents to assist with rent or mortgage payments, and financial incentives to encourage landlords to keep rents affordable.

2. **Streamline Development Processes**: Simplifying regulations and expediting permitting processes for affordable housing projects can help to reduce costs and encourage more developers to focus on building affordable units.

3. **Public-Private Partnerships**: Collaborating with private developers, non-profit organizations, and community groups can leverage resources and expertise to create more affordable housing options. Public-private partnerships can also help in maximizing the impact of available funds and increasing the scale of affordable housing projects.

4. **Inclusionary Zoning Policies**: Implementing inclusionary zoning policies that require developers to include a certain percentage of affordable units in their projects can help increase the overall supply of affordable housing in Raleigh.

5. **Tenant Protections**: Enacting stronger tenant protections, such as rent control measures, eviction prevention programs, and affordable housing preservation policies, can help to ensure that low-income residents are not forced out of their homes due to rising rents or gentrification.

6. **Community Engagement**: Engaging with local communities and low-income residents in the decision-making process regarding affordable housing initiatives can ensure that their needs and concerns are taken into account. This can help in tailoring policies and programs to better address the specific challenges faced by different communities in Raleigh.

By implementing a comprehensive strategy that combines increased funding, streamlined development processes, public-private partnerships, inclusionary zoning policies, tenant protections, and community engagement, Raleigh can take meaningful steps towards securing affordable housing for its residents and preventing displacement of low-income individuals and families. These efforts can help create a more inclusive and equitable city where all residents have access to safe, affordable housing.

The recent resignation of GoTriangle’s CEO raises questions about the future of the county and regional transit strategy. How do you see the future of transit in Raleigh when it comes to Bus Rapid Transit, microtransit, and commuter and regional rail projects?

The recent resignation of GoTriangle’s CEO has certainly brought about uncertainties regarding the future of transit in Raleigh. In terms of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), microtransit, and commuter and regional rail projects, it is crucial that city and regional leaders collaborate to ensure a robust and integrated transit strategy moving forward.

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) has the potential to greatly improve transit mobility in Raleigh by providing faster and more reliable service. The success of any BRT system will depend on effective route planning, dedicated bus lanes, and efficient boarding processes. Implementing BRT can help alleviate traffic congestion, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance overall accessibility for residents.

Microtransit, as a flexible and on-demand service, can play a significant role in filling the gaps in the existing transit network. By leveraging technology to optimize routes and real-time scheduling, microtransit can provide convenient and personalized options for commuters, particularly in areas with lower demand or limited access to traditional transit services.

Commuter and regional rail projects are essential for connecting Raleigh with neighboring cities and enhancing interregional mobility. Investing in commuter and regional rail infrastructure can reduce commuting times, promote economic development, and support sustainable growth in the region. Collaboration with state and federal partners will be key in securing funding and support for such projects.

To ensure the success of these transit initiatives, it is imperative for policymakers to prioritize equity, accessibility, and sustainability in their planning efforts. Engaging with communities to understand their needs and preferences, as well as integrating feedback into decision-making processes, will be essential for creating a transit system that serves all residents effectively.

In conclusion, the future of transit in Raleigh lies in a cohesive and forward-thinking approach that integrates various modes of transportation, emphasizes sustainability and equity, and fosters collaboration among key stakeholders. By investing in BRT, microtransit, and commuter and regional rail projects, Raleigh can position itself as a leader in sustainable and accessible transportation, supporting the continued growth and prosperity of the region.

A common complaint from residents is that the city council doesn’t do enough public engagement, with the plan to relocate Red Hat Amphitheater being one recent example. Do you agree with this assessment? If so, what more should the city government and council do to engage residents with city business?

As an advocate with expertise in politics and public engagement, I would argue that the complaint about the lack of public engagement by the city council is valid. The recent plan to relocate the Red Hat Amphitheater serves as a prime example of this issue. The decision to move such a beloved community space should have involved extensive public input and consultation from residents who would be directly affected by the change.

To improve public engagement, city government and the council should prioritize transparency and accessibility in their decision-making processes. This can be achieved through various means, such as holding town hall meetings, creating online platforms for feedback, conducting surveys, and establishing community advisory boards. These channels can provide residents with opportunities to voice their opinions, concerns, and suggestions on city business, including significant projects like the relocation of public amenities like the Red Hat Amphitheater.

Furthermore, proactive communication and outreach efforts from city officials are essential to ensure that residents are aware of key decisions and have a chance to participate in the decision-making process. Engaging with diverse stakeholders, including community groups, local businesses, and marginalized populations, is crucial to a comprehensive and representative public engagement strategy.

In conclusion, while the city council may have fallen short in engaging the public on important issues like the Red Hat Amphitheater relocation, there are tangible steps that can be taken to improve transparency, accountability, and citizen participation. By implementing robust public engagement practices, city government can foster a more inclusive and responsive decision-making process that truly reflects the needs and desires of the community.

Downtown Raleigh has had a rough five years following the COVID pandemic with the transition to working from home and business owners reporting an increase in crime and other issues. Many see keeping Red Hat Amphitheater downtown as a positive step; what else does the city need to do to help downtown with its recovery and plan for its future?

To ensure a robust recovery and secure a prosperous future for downtown Raleigh following the challenges of the past five years, it is imperative for the city to implement a multi-faceted approach.

1. Stimulating Economic Growth:

– Provide financial incentives and support programs for small businesses to recover and thrive.

– Attract new businesses, startups, and tech companies to downtown to diversify the economy and create job opportunities.

2. Enhancing Safety and Security:

– Increase police presence and implement community policing initiatives to address the rise in crime.

– Enhance public lighting, install security cameras, and improve overall infrastructure to create a safer environment for residents and visitors.

3. Investing in Infrastructure:

– Prioritize infrastructure projects, such as road repairs, public transportation upgrades, and beautification efforts to enhance the overall appeal of downtown.

– Develop green spaces and recreational areas to promote community engagement and improve quality of life for residents.

4. Promoting Cultural and Arts Initiatives:

– Support local artists, cultural organizations, and events to attract visitors and enhance downtown’s cultural vibrancy.

– Preserve historical landmarks and promote cultural diversity to celebrate the city’s rich heritage.

5. Sustainable Development Strategies:

– Implement sustainable practices, such as green building standards and renewable energy initiatives, to reduce the environmental impact of downtown development.

– Encourage mixed-use developments and affordable housing options to create a vibrant and inclusive community.

6. Collaboration and Partnerships:

– Foster collaboration between local government, businesses, community organizations, and residents to develop a cohesive strategy for downtown revitalization.

– Engage with academic institutions and industry experts to leverage their expertise and resources in urban planning and economic development.

By focusing on these key areas and fostering a holistic approach to downtown revitalization, Raleigh can not only recover from the challenges of the past but also build a resilient and thriving urban center for future generations.

Since 2012, the City of Raleigh has paid more than $4 million in settlements to 47 individuals, families, and estates related to RPD officer’s use of excessive force and other unconstitutional interactions. What are your thoughts on the current culture at RPD? For what changes would you advocate to improve the culture of policing in Raleigh, if any?

As an expert in law enforcement and justice reform, I find the situation regarding the City of Raleigh’s payment of over $4 million in settlements related to RPD officer misconduct deeply troubling. These settlements highlight a pattern of excessive force and unconstitutional interactions within the Raleigh Police Department (RPD).

The current culture at RPD appears to be one that tolerates or even perpetuates misconduct among its officers. This culture of impunity not only damages community trust but also undermines the integrity of the entire law enforcement institution. It is evident that systemic changes are imperative to address the root causes of these issues and prevent recurrence in the future.

To improve the culture of policing in Raleigh, several key changes should be advocated for:

1. Enhanced Training: Implement comprehensive and ongoing training programs for RPD officers on de-escalation techniques, implicit bias, cultural competency, and ethical conduct. Investing in officer training is crucial to ensure that law enforcement personnel have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively serve and protect the community.

2. Accountability Mechanisms: Strengthen internal affairs processes to ensure that complaints of officer misconduct are thoroughly investigated and addressed transparently. Holding officers accountable for their actions is essential to maintain public trust and uphold the rule of law.

3. Community Engagement: Foster stronger relationships between the police department and members of the community through community policing initiatives, regular dialogues, and collaborative problem-solving efforts. Building trust and mutual respect is essential for effective policing and crime prevention.

4. Policy Reforms: Review and revise departmental policies and procedures to align with best practices in policing, emphasizing the sanctity of human rights and adherence to the law. Clear, consistent, and enforceable policies are essential to guide officer conduct and decision-making in the field.

5. Cultural Shift: Promote a culture of transparency, integrity, and accountability within the RPD, where ethical behavior is not only expected but actively encouraged and rewarded. Transforming the organizational culture requires strong leadership, commitment to change, and alignment of values with the community’s expectations.

By advocating for these changes and implementing a holistic approach to reform, Raleigh can work towards building a police department that is accountable, trustworthy, and dedicated to serving the community with integrity. It is through these concerted efforts that the City of Raleigh can address the systemic issues within the RPD and foster a culture of policing that upholds the principles of justice and equality for all.

Some municipalities, such as Durham, have seen success with crisis response units that deploy trained workers to respond to non-violent behavioral health and quality of life calls for service. Should Raleigh consider such a crisis response program that’s NOT housed in the police department?

Title: The Case for Implementing a Non-Police Crisis Response Program in Raleigh

Introduction:

As municipalities like Durham have shown success with crisis response units outside of the police department to handle non-violent behavioral health and quality of life calls, the question arises whether Raleigh should consider a similar program. This article delves into the benefits and arguments for establishing a crisis response program separate from law enforcement in Raleigh.

Key Concepts:

1. Decriminalizing Mental Health: By diverting non-violent behavioral health calls away from police, a crisis response program can help in decriminalizing mental health issues and providing appropriate care and support instead of punishment.

2. Specialized Training: Trained crisis responders can provide more effective and compassionate assistance during mental health crises, de-escalating situations and encouraging individuals to seek help proactively.

3. Community Engagement: A crisis response program can strengthen ties between communities and service providers, fostering trust and cooperation that may be lacking when law enforcement is the primary responder to such calls.

4. Resource Allocation: Diverting non-violent calls to specialized crisis response units can free up police resources to focus on law enforcement priorities, thereby enhancing overall public safety efforts.

Original Insights:

Raleigh stands to benefit significantly from implementing a crisis response program separate from the police department. By acknowledging the intersection of mental health and policing, the city can adopt a more holistic and effective approach to addressing community needs. Creating a dedicated crisis response unit can empower individuals in crisis, reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues, and promote long-term well-being for all residents.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Raleigh should seriously consider establishing a crisis response program that is distinct from the police department. By investing in specialized training, community engagement, and resource allocation, the city can enhance its response to non-violent behavioral health and quality of life calls, ultimately creating a safer and more supportive environment for all residents. The success of such initiatives in other municipalities serves as a compelling case for Raleigh to embrace innovative solutions in addressing the complex challenges of mental health and community well-being.

The next city council will transition from two-year to four-year terms with staggered elections. What other changes, if any, should the city council make to how voters elect its members? Should any additional changes be put to voters in a referendum or should the council make those decisions?

In transitioning from two-year to four-year terms with staggered elections, the city council should consider implementing additional changes to enhance the electoral process and ensure representation aligns with the community’s needs. First and foremost, the council should assess the feasibility of implementing a ranked-choice voting system. This system allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference, ensuring that winning candidates have majority support. Ranked-choice voting promotes more inclusive elections by eliminating the need for separate runoff elections and discouraging negative campaigning.

Moreover, the city council should explore options for districting or proportional representation to ensure diverse voices are heard and represented in local government. By dividing the city into districts or implementing proportional representation, the council can better reflect the diverse perspectives and needs of the community. This can lead to more equitable and responsive governance, fostering greater trust between elected officials and constituents.

Additionally, the city council should prioritize increasing voter turnout and engagement. This can be achieved through measures such as implementing automatic voter registration, expanding early and mail-in voting options, and conducting robust outreach and education campaigns. By removing barriers to participation and encouraging civic engagement, the council can ensure that all voices are heard in the electoral process.

In terms of decision-making, while some changes may require voter approval through a referendum, the council should proactively consider and propose reforms that align with best practices in democratic governance. By taking the initiative to implement changes that enhance the electoral process, the council can demonstrate its commitment to fostering a more inclusive, representative, and participatory local democracy.

In conclusion, as the city council transitions to four-year terms with staggered elections, it has a unique opportunity to enact additional changes that can strengthen the electoral system and promote meaningful representation. By exploring options such as ranked-choice voting, districting, and voter engagement initiatives, the council can pave the way for a more inclusive and responsive local government that truly reflects the will of the people.