Durham County Board of Commissioners: Mike Lee

Name as it appears on the ballot: Mike Lee

Age: 49

Party affiliation: Democratic Party

Campaign website: votemikelee.com

Occupation & employer: Manager of Customer Success – Avalara

1) In your view, what are the most important issues currently facing Durham County? If elected, what would be your top three priorities?

• Education Investments: As a candidate for the Durham County Board of Commissioners, I consider the investment in education paramount. This includes ensuring adequate funding for pre-K programs, Durham Public Schools, and Durham Tech. I will ensure we invest in the people, infrastructure, and technology needed to provide a top-tier education for every child. I aim to address disparities in educational outcomes by supporting programs that create equitable opportunities across all communities. I will also advocate for compensation for teachers and support staff that reflects educators’ critical societal role. My vision is for Durham to set a standard for educational excellence that can be a model for other counties and states. 

Also, one of my priorities will be to address the pay disparities for Durham Public Schools’ (DPS) classified staff. We must offer equitable compensation to these essential workers, aligning their pay with counterparts within the county government. By standardizing the pay scales, we will establish fairness and strengthen the support system that our educational infrastructure relies upon. This measure aims to enhance staff retention, streamline recruitment, and remove the existing competition for talent between the county, city, and DPS, thereby fostering a more collaborative environment for all public service entities.

• Program Spending Evaluations: I aim to ensure we make the best use of Durham taxpayers’ dollars. We can do this by creating a clear evaluative framework for funding and renewing county programs.  This means assessing the effectiveness of current programs, measuring their outcomes, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently. My approach is to support data-driven decision-making processes that transparently track program spending and performance each year. By scrutinizing program spending, I aim to ensure that we fund programs offering tangible benefits for Durham residents. This will ensure that our budget reflects our values and is an instrument for practical, positive change in the community.

• Expansion of the HEART program countywide: I am dedicated to expanding the H.E.A.R.T. (Holistic, Empathetic, Assistance, Response Teams) program beyond Durham City to serve the county. This initiative promotes community safety by providing an unarmed response when individuals call 911 for nonviolent emergencies, like mental health crises and substance use concerns.

The expansion plan includes leveraging potential funding by consolidating city and county 911 call centers. By merging these services, we anticipate reducing duplicate efforts, increasing efficiency, and freeing up resources that can be reallocated to the H.E.A.R.T. program. This consolidation would also streamline the H.E.A.R.T. response teams, making the service more cohesive and responsive to the needs of all county residents.

Implementing this county-wide strategy aligns with my vision of a community-centered approach to public safety, where resources are optimized and residents receive the support they need. This initiative represents a proactive step towards a healthier, safer, and more unified Durham County.

2) Durham Public Schools has been roiled by issues relating to salary increases for about 1,300 classified staff members. What is the county’s role in ensuring these staff members are paid according to their work experience and to the recommendations of a 2023 pay study commissioned by DPS? How can the county work more closely with the school board to ensure a situation like this doesn’t occur again?

Addressing the pay challenges faced by Durham Public Schools’ classified staff requires a detailed and empathetic approach. Firstly, the misallocated wages must be resolved without financial repercussions to the employees; expecting them to repay what they received is unjust. As a county commissioner, I will advocate for DPS to identify alternative funding methods to rectify these wages without burdening the staff.

Secondly, the decision to increase starting wages to $17 per hour was necessary to keep pace with Durham’s cost of living—a move I proudly supported as the former chair of the school board. However, the associated salary study’s elimination of credit for external work experience is a policy I believe could detrimentally impact DPS’s ability to attract skilled professionals in critical roles, such as IT, maintenance, and instructional support. I will engage with DPS to revisit this policy, advocating for the value of recognizing relevant external experience in recruitment efforts.

In addition, I propose collaborating with the county manager and staff to align DPS classified staff salaries with the scales and increase the schedules of county and city staff in equivalent positions. Such alignment would streamline compensation processes, ensuring fair and automatic pay adjustments in line with our local government standards, thereby avoiding the need for frequent salary studies and requests for pay adjustments from DPS.

3) Voters passed a $423.5 million school construction bond in 2022, but that money is running out quickly due to rising construction costs. Should Durham put another education bond before voters? What is the most sustainable way to address new construction and renovation of existing school facilities as Durham grows?

The challenges posed by the depletion of the $423.5 million school construction bond were due to rising construction costs; it is crucial to evaluate all options to ensure that our educational facilities meet the needs of Durham’s growing population. While another bond could be a solution, it must be carefully considered and presented transparently to voters, outlining the specific needs, projected costs, and potential impacts on the county’s finances.

The most sustainable way to address the renovation and construction of school facilities involves a three-pronged approach. First, we must maximize the efficiency and impact of current funds through stringent cost management and innovative construction practices that can stretch the dollar further without compromising quality. Exploring cost-saving construction technologies and materials could be pivotal in this regard.

Also, before considering another bond, we should exhaust all avenues for additional funding, including state and federal grants specifically earmarked for educational infrastructure. Public-private partnerships can also play a role, where local businesses invest in our schools, recognizing the value of a strong educational system to the local economy.

We must engage in long-term planning that includes regular maintenance and incremental upgrades of existing facilities to avoid costly overhauls in the future. Doing this will help in a systematic reduction of the Deferred Maintenance List. Also, this strategic planning must be data-driven, prioritizing projects based on urgency and impact, ensuring that we are addressing immediate needs and preparing for future growth.

If, after exploring these strategies, the need for additional funds is still clear, then it would be appropriate to consider presenting a carefully structured education bond to voters. This bond must be part of a sustainable fiscal plan that balances the county’s growth with prudent financial management, ensuring that we invest wisely in our children’s future without overly burdening Durham’s taxpayers.

4) Although it owns a significant amount of property in Durham and has a $12 billion endowment, Duke for the most part doesn’t pay taxes to the city or county. Some private universities, such as Yale, contribute millions of dollars to the towns in which they are located. Should county (and city) leaders consider asking Duke to contribute payments to the city/county for housing or other initiatives in lieu of paying taxes?

Addressing the issue of Duke University’s contributions to the city and county of Durham, it is critical to acknowledge the university’s role as a key stakeholder in our community. While Duke’s status as a tax-exempt institution limits traditional property tax contributions, there is a precedent set by other private universities, like Yale, that provide voluntary payments to their host municipalities. These contributions can significantly support local services and initiatives that benefit all residents, including those affiliated with the university.

As a Durham County Commissioner, I would advocate for initiating a dialogue with Duke University to explore similar voluntary contribution agreements. These negotiations would be approached with a spirit of partnership, recognizing Duke’s importance to Durham’s social, cultural, and economic fabric. A mutually beneficial arrangement could support critical areas such as affordable housing, education, and infrastructure, which align with Duke’s mission and values and the county’s needs.

Any potential agreement would be carefully structured to reflect Duke’s contributions to Durham through its educational services, healthcare provisions, and employment opportunities while recognizing the university’s capacity to aid the county’s development and well-being. The goal would be to establish a sustainable and transparent agreement that supports long-term initiatives and reflects a shared commitment to the prosperity and health of Durham’s diverse communities.

Such discussions must be inclusive, involving community leaders, residents, and other stakeholders, ensuring that any agreement reached is comprehensive and addresses the wider community’s needs. The aim is not to levy a tax but to foster a voluntary partnership that underlines the university’s role as a civic leader in contributing to the common good of Durham County.

5) What is your vision for growth and development throughout Durham? How can the county balance growth while also ensuring gentrification doesn’t push long term residents out? 

My vision for growth and development in Durham is inclusive prosperity, where progress benefits all residents while preserving our community’s rich tapestry and history. We need to foster a climate that encourages responsible development, supports local businesses, and attracts new industries that offer diverse employment opportunities. This includes enhancing infrastructure, growing our public transportation system, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring public services are robust and equitably distributed. This vision is grounded in creating educational excellence in Durham Public Schools so that as new companies and opportunities arrive in Durham, Durham residents and students are the first to be hired.

To balance growth with preserving our community’s fabric, we must take a proactive stance against gentrification that could displace long-term residents. Working within the laws that the state of North Carolina currently has involves implementing policies that encourage affordable housing development and protect tenants from unreasonable rent and property tax increases. We should also consider expanding the property tax relief programs for long-standing homeowners, particularly in rapidly changing neighborhoods. As county commissioner, I will search for a solution that reduces property taxes for aging homes with the same occupant. This will help our aging homeowners keep their homes while reducing their tax burden. If a new owner should purchase the property, it will then be assessed at its normal tax rate.

Another key strategy is community engagement. We need to involve residents in decision-making, ensuring their voices are heard when planning developments that affect their neighborhoods. By doing this, we can create a shared vision for growth that reflects the community’s needs and values.

Also, strategic partnerships with developers should include stipulations that benefit the community, such as affordable housing units, green spaces, and amenities. Economic development should not just be about building structures but also about building opportunities for residents to thrive within a changing urban landscape.

My vision is for Durham to grow in a way that respects its history, nurtures its present community, and builds a foundation for a future that all Durham residents can look forward to with optimism.

6) What should the county government be doing to further housing affordability? What additional steps can the county take to assist those living in substandard public housing? What should the county be doing to support people who are not in control of their own housing (including renters, the unhoused, and those whose homes are owned by banks) as costs of living skyrocket?

Housing affordability is one of the cornerstones of my vision for Durham’s inclusive prosperity, ensuring that the benefits of our growth reach all residents. This vision includes creating a climate that encourages responsible development, supports local businesses, attracts diverse employment opportunities, and prioritizes creating affordable housing. By enhancing our infrastructure and public services and ensuring educational excellence, we can prepare our residents for the opportunities that arise from Durham’s growth and ensure they are the first to be hired.

There is an urgent need to address the accessibility of existing mortgage and rental assistance programs, especially for our Latinx and immigrant communities. I will advocate for simplifying access to these resources and promoting their availability through multilingual outreach and culturally sensitive support services. This ensures that all residents can navigate the housing system and take full advantage of the assistance available to them.

To prevent the displacement of long-standing residents due to gentrification, I propose implementing policies that encourage affordable housing development and provide protection against unreasonable rent hikes and property tax increases. An expansion of property tax relief programs, particularly in neighborhoods experiencing rapid change, will be a focus. I will champion policies that offer tax relief to longtime homeowners, ensuring they can maintain ownership of their homes without the pressure of escalating taxes. This approach also includes reevaluating property taxes when homes change hands, ensuring that new owners contribute their fair share.

Community engagement is key to developing housing solutions that reflect Durham’s residents’ diverse needs and values. In partnership with developers, I aim to secure agreements that include affordable housing units, green spaces, and community amenities. This collaborative approach goes beyond constructing buildings; it’s about creating inclusive spaces for a thriving community.

I commit to a Durham that grows thoughtfully and equitably, where every resident can find a home and a community to call their own. By combining smart growth with strategic support and robust community involvement, we can make affordable living a reality for all—respecting our past while building a vibrant and inclusive future.

7) What do you envision as the future of mass transit in Durham? What initiatives would you like to support? What do you believe to be a viable next step?

In envisioning the future of mass transit in Durham, I see a dynamic, accessible, and environmentally conscious system that keeps pace with our community’s growth and diversifying needs. Building on the 2023 public transit plan, I am committed to evolving our strategy to serve Durham through 2045 and beyond.

Connectivity is paramount. I propose expanding our public transit network to serve the rapidly developing southeast, southwest, and northern corridor regions near Duke and Roxboro. These expansions will be crucial for residents who may find themselves living further from the city center due to the housing market pressures. By ensuring that every Durham resident can access city amenities and job opportunities, we reinforce the ethos that living, working, and thriving in Durham should be a seamless experience for all.

Central to this vision is the expansion of Bus Rapid Transit systems. Utilizing our existing infrastructure, we can implement dedicated lanes, traffic signal priority, and streamlined boarding processes to increase efficiency and reduce commute times. This BRT expansion will complement our efforts to encourage public transit as a primary mode of transportation.

I plan to significantly increase our commitment to bike lanes and cyclist support infrastructure to promote sustainable and healthy transportation options. This includes expanding the bike lanes network and investing in bike commuter programs that provide secure bike parking, rider-support stations, and educational initiatives for cyclists and motorists.

Additionally, we must harness clean energy for our transit vehicles. I will advocate for a fleet of electric buses that are both environmentally responsible and cost-effective over the long term. Integrating technology for real-time transit updates and rider experience enhancements is also a priority, ensuring that public transit is a convenient and preferred option.

As county commissioner, my advocacy for a transit system will focus on its scope, efficiency, affordability, and environmental stewardship. By doing so, I am dedicated to fostering a future where public transit is not just available but is a desirable choice for every Durham resident. This approach is the foundation for sustainable urban development and a testament to our commitment to social equity.

8) What can the county do to address violent crime? What are the preventative steps the county can or should take with regard to mental health? What programs are in place elsewhere in the country that you would like to see implemented here?

I firmly believe that tackling violent crime in Durham County necessitates a proactive, multifaceted approach that targets both the symptoms and the root causes of violence. Our strategy must encompass prevention, intervention, and robust enforcement, ensuring every resident feels safe in their community. To prevent crime, we must address foundational issues like economic disparity, educational shortfalls, and mental health through comprehensive community programs. We should enhance and support initiatives that provide constructive alternatives and opportunities, such as job training and after-school activities, to engage our youth and adults in positive community roles.

My vision for a safer Durham County is one where public safety is reimagined through the lens of prevention and care, with programs like HEART leading the way in transforming our response to nonviolent emergencies. Coupled with strategic resource allocation and the adoption of nationally recognized best practices, we can take meaningful strides toward reducing violent crime and enhancing the well-being of all our residents.

For mental health, accessible and responsive services are crucial. I am committed to the countywide expansion of the H.E.A.R.T. (Holistic, Empathetic, Assistance,Response Teams) program. This vital service dispatches unarmed professionals to nonviolent emergencies, delivering care and support for mental health crises and substance use concerns. Expanding this program throughout Durham County will ensure that those experiencing a crisis can receive the right response at the right time, which is often crucial in preventing situations from escalating.

Moreover, I look to successful national models, like Eugene, Oregon’s CAHOOTS program and the Cure Violence initiative, as inspiration for community-based solutions with a proven track record in reducing violent crime. These programs, adapted to our unique local context, can be instrumental in our efforts to foster a safer, healthier, and more equitable community.

9) Economic inequality rose significantly in Durham County over the past decade. How can county commissioners address this problem and ensure that the county’s prosperity is more equitable going forward?

Economic inequality is not just a statistic; it’s a reality that affects the lives of many Durham residents. As a candidate for county commissioner, I am committed to championing policies that foster equitable prosperity.

Education is a powerful equalizer. I will support and advocate for programs that provide residents with the skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow, including vocational training at each high school and partnerships with local businesses for apprenticeships.

Affordable housing must be a priority to ensure all residents benefit from the country’s prosperity. I will work to expand affordable housing initiatives and support zoning laws that encourage the development of mixed-income housing, such as duplicating projects such as Carver Creek, expanding permanent supportive housing, and increasing affordable housing programs like the project on East Main. 

Access to high-quality, affordable healthcare is essential. I will support local healthcare initiatives and partnerships with non-profits to provide services to underserved communities. I will also work with DPS to co-locate mental health professionals in each school to serve the local communities better, similar to the community schools program at Club Boulevard Elementary School. 

Additionally, we must support our local economy. This means providing small businesses with the resources they need to grow and hire locally, such as access to capital and business development services. Investing in infrastructure is also critical. I will advocate for public transportation improvements and other infrastructure projects that create jobs and improve the quality of life for all residents.

To address economic inequality directly, I will also explore the feasibility of targeted tax credits or income supplements, such as the guaranteed income program, for low-income residents and support initiatives that protect workers’ rights and ensure fair wages.

Finally, I believe in the power of data. I will promote the use of data-driven approaches to identify the root causes of inequality in our county and measure the effectiveness of our programs. As a county commissioner, I will work tirelessly to ensure the county’s prosperity is accessible to everyone, not just a select few. Only through deliberate and focused action can we bridge the economic inequality gap in Durham County.

10) Are there any issues not included in this questionnaire that you would like to address?

Latino/a issues here in Durham:

The principal issues facing the Latinx and immigrant communities in Durham are multifaceted and demand a holistic approach from the county. Firstly, schooling remains a critical challenge. Despite Durham Public Schools’ (DPS) efforts to recruit teachers and support staff who can cater to the needs of these communities, there is a clear need for the county to step in with innovative solutions. We must strive to make Durham a desirable destination for Latinx educators by fostering an inclusive environment that offers professional and personal growth opportunities.

Affordable housing remains a barrier, even with existing mortgage and rental assistance and programs. The county must work to simplify and promote access to these resources, ensuring that the Latinx and immigrant communities can benefit from them. This includes a proactive approach to disseminating information in languages and formats accessible to all, coupled with community support services that help navigate the often-complex housing landscape.

An alarming uptick in crimes targeting Latinx and immigrants requires immediate action. The county should prioritize the mitigation of these crimes but also implement community-based programs that build trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

The advancement of the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs is essential. This office should partner with local and national organizations to actively engage with the Latinx and immigrant communities, creating clear and accessible pathways to services that can improve their quality of life and ease the integration process.

Lastly, there is a pressing need for a comprehensive, unified plan that involves all three key bodies—Durham County, Durham City, and DPS. By uniting efforts and resources, a sustainable strategy can be developed to effectively address the challenges Latinx and immigrant communities face. This plan must be developed with input from the communities it aims to serve, ensuring it is responsive to their specific needs and aspirations.

As a county, we have the responsibility and the means to address these issues head-on. Through collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to inclusivity, we can create a Durham that truly welcomes and uplifts every member of our diverse community.

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