Full name: Jasmine Zavala

Party affiliation: Unaffiliated

Campaign website: https://www.jasmineforwakeforest.com/

1) In 300 words or less, please give our readers your elevator pitch: Why are you running? Why should voters entrust you with this position? What prior experience will make you an effective member of the board of commissioners?

Wake Forest is home. My family moved here when I was five years old, and this community embraced us and our small business, giving us opportunity, belonging, and a place to grow for almost 25 years. I’m running for the Board of Commissioners because I love this town and want to be part of its leadership. I believe our decisions should always balance data, equity, and heart. As one of the fastest-growing towns in North Carolina, Wake Forest faces both challenges and opportunities, and I want to be part of taking care of our community as we grow. I would be an effective commissioner because I know Wake Forest, I listen to my neighbors, and I bring experiences that have prepared me to serve thoughtfully and with compassion.

I want to help connect the different pieces of our town—longtime neighbors, new families, local businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders—so that decisions reflect the full picture of Wake Forest. Growth works best when everyone has a voice in the process, and my focus is making sure no one is left out of that conversation.

I’ve spent my journey teaching at-risk youth, working with nonprofits, helping run my family’s restaurant, Los Tres Magueyes, and serving at the federal level on equity-focused policies. Each of these roles taught me how to listen, adapt, and advocate, while staying rooted in service to others.

I am running as a public servant and a neighbor—unaffiliated, people-first, and motivated by heart and public service. If entrusted with this role, I’ll lead with transparency, compassion, and dedication, helping Wake Forest grow while ensuring every neighbor, old and new, feels welcome, valued, and heard.

2) What would your priorities be as a member of the board of commissioners? Please identify three of the most pressing issues Wake Forest currently faces and how you believe the town should address them. 

As a commissioner, my priorities would focus on making sure Wake Forest grows responsibly, supports our businesses and nonprofits, and has a strong voice with leaders at the county, state, and federal levels. The three most pressing issues I see are supporting small businesses and nonprofits, managing growth, and advocating for transportation and education.

1. Small Businesses & Nonprofits.
Wake Forest’s small businesses and nonprofits are the backbone of our community, and their impact extends far beyond downtown. My priority is to uplift and celebrate them throughout all parts of town—family-owned shops, restaurants, and nonprofits that meet real community needs. I want to highlight their stories, listen to what support would help most, and work with neighbors to fill in the gaps so that every corner of Wake Forest benefits from thriving local organizations.

2. Smart Growth & Housing.
As one of the fastest-growing towns in North Carolina, Wake Forest faces both challenges and opportunities. Growth should be proactive, not reactive. We need to ensure that housing options, infrastructure, and public services keep pace with demand. That means strengthening our Unified Development Ordinance (UDO)—the town’s guidebook for development and land use. The UDO sets the rules for how and where growth happens, and updating it with data, studies, and resident input is key to making sure new development aligns with the needs of every neighborhood.

3. Transportation, Education & Representation.
While the town doesn’t directly run schools or transit systems, we are deeply impacted by both. Commissioners should be strong advocates—working with our representatives at the county, state, and federal levels to make sure Wake Forest’s needs are heard. That means pushing for better transportation connections, ensuring classrooms have the resources to keep up with growth, and serving as a bridge between our community and those decision-makers.

Together, these priorities reflect my belief in leading with data, equity, and heart so Wake Forest grows in a way that benefits everyone.

3) What’s the best or most important thing the board of commissioners has done in the past year? Additionally, name a decision you believe the town should have handled differently. Please explain your answers.

One of the best things the Board of Commissioners has done this past year was hosting the Mental Health Fair. It was a perfect example of leadership stepping in to fill a need and showing that commissioners care about more than just development and budgets—they care about people. Mental health affects every family in some way, and it was powerful to see our town bring together doctors, specialists, volunteers, and staff to create something truly meaningful. That kind of advocacy shows what happens when leaders choose compassion and put the wellbeing of residents first.

One decision I believe could have been handled differently was the town leadership’s response to the LGBTQ+ community. A proclamation of support was introduced but then quickly retracted, with concerns it might cause “division” in town. To me, true leadership means following through with support, especially for neighbors who are often marginalized, and not stepping back when there is pushback. When support is withdrawn, it unintentionally sends a message about whose voices matter and whose do not.

Wake Forest should be a place where every neighbor feels seen and valued, and where inclusion is not up for debate. Our community is strongest when we stand together, and I believe town leaders have a responsibility to set that tone—to lead with courage, compassion, and fairness.

4) President Trump is working to ramp up deportations and curtail visas. At the same time, the state legislature has passed laws requiring agencies to cooperate with ICE. What do you think the board of commissioners can or should do to ensure safe, welcoming communities for immigrants in light of these policies?

As the daughter of immigrants, this issue hits close to home for me. Immigration policy is set at the federal and state level, but that doesn’t mean town leadership is powerless. In fact, I believe the Board of Commissioners has an important role to play in ensuring that Wake Forest remains a safe and welcoming community for all of our neighbors.

National and state policies can create fear, confusion, and division. But at the local level, we can set a tone of compassion and dignity. That means making sure town services are accessible and neighbors feel safe engaging with staff and law enforcement. I’ve spoken directly with our Chief of Police, and he has assured me that his priority is protecting Wake Forest residents first—a commitment I fully support. Other towns, like Durham, have gone further by enacting Fourth Amendment workplace protections, ensuring employees’ rights are respected. Exploring policies like this is one way our town can demonstrate clear support for workers and families.

We also have incredible nonprofits already doing powerful work such as Wake Forest Indivisible, who have brought forward wonderful ideas and resources on how to support immigrant families and local businesses. 

In addition, I founded Latinos of Wake Forest to help bridge communication, foster understanding, and provide a space for connection and education. These kinds of partnerships—with nonprofits, faith groups, and community organizations—are key to making sure families know where to find support and resources.

Most of all, I believe commissioners must use their platform to lead with fairness and compassion. Every neighbor—regardless of where they were born—deserves to feel welcome, safe, and valued. That is the Wake Forest I know and love, and that is the community I will always work to protect.

5) As climate change leads to more intense rainfall, communities are at greater risk of inland flooding, such as the historic floods in parts of the Triangle this summer. How would you like the board of commissioners to address climate resilience, particularly flooding? 

Climate change is bringing more intense storms, and flooding has become a real concern for families across our region. I know the impact firsthand. When I was in college, I lived in the historic part of downtown Wilmington and lost everything due to flooding during Hurricane Florence. Experiencing that kind of loss changed the way I think about safety and resilience. It taught me that we have to be proactive—understanding risks and preparing ahead—rather than waiting until after disaster strikes.

As a commissioner, I wouldn’t pretend to have all the scientific answers. Instead, I believe the board should lean on the wonderful work of specialized groups like the Wake Forest Conservation Alliance, along with environmental nonprofits, engineers, and planners who study these issues every day. Their expertise, paired with community input, gives us the best path forward.

Partnerships are key. By working together—nonprofits, residents, and town leaders—we can put our minds toward the same mission: keeping Wake Forest safe, healthy, and resilient. That means listening to the scientific data and evidence, identifying areas most at risk, and making informed decisions about development, stormwater management, and infrastructure.

Flooding is also a health and safety concern. It impacts families’ homes, neighborhoods, and well-being. When planning, we must consider who is most vulnerable and make sure solutions are fair and effective across all parts of town.

6) Federal funding cuts this year have hit the Triangle particularly hard, from cancelled grants to layoffs, and local government officials are having to make difficult decisions about what to fund and how. What are your ideas for how the city council can prioritize competing funding needs, close funding gaps, and balance the financial burden on residents?

Federal funding cuts are tough because they hit real people—our schools, nonprofits, and even local programs families depend on. While we can’t control those cuts, we can decide how to prioritize locally, and my approach would be rooted in fairness, collaboration, and transparency.

First, I think we need to recognize the value of what Wake Forest businesses already provide. The sales tax they generate doesn’t always stay here—it’s shared at the county level and often flows back to larger towns like Raleigh or Cary. That makes it even more important to invest wisely in the businesses and nonprofits within Wake Forest, because they keep dollars and services closer to home.

Second, I believe in partnering. Nonprofits often have access to grants and resources that can fill gaps when federal funds dry up. By teaming up with them, and by working with county and state leaders, we can stretch every dollar further.

Finally, we should be thoughtful when reallocating expenses. That means listening to neighbors, weighing impacts carefully, and making sure cuts don’t fall hardest on the same families every time.

For me, budgeting is about balance—using data, equity, and heart to protect residents while still planning for growth.

7) Describe what sustainable growth and development mean to you. Additionally, what is another municipality you believe has made smart decisions related to growth and development that could be similarly implemented in Wake Forest? How can Wake Forest manage its rapid population growth while ensuring affordability and quality of life?

To me, sustainable growth means planning for the future while protecting the character that makes Wake Forest special. I’ve seen this town grow since I was five years old—back when we only had a Food Lion and two intersections. I remember when sidewalks were added so students like me could safely walk to high school, and later when roundabouts and new roads were added to made traffic more efficient. Over time, Wake Forest became a place where people could live, work, and play without always driving to Raleigh. That growth also brought new opportunities for my family’s small business and for so many others in town.

Sustainable growth, to me, means continuing that story thoughtfully. It’s about ensuring housing options for all stages of life, keeping infrastructure up to date, and supporting small businesses and nonprofits across Wake Forest—not just downtown. I look to downtown Franklinton, which has embraced growth while uplifting local businesses and creating opportunity for residents while keeping its charm. Wake Forest can do the same—expanding our tax base, creating jobs, and strengthening our community

8) How would you like to see Wake Forest address issues of traffic congestion and transportation access as the town grows and adds density?

Traffic is one of the biggest challenges we face as Wake Forest grows, and it’s something that impacts all of us. As commissioners, we aren’t separate from the community—we’re living here too, driving the same roads, sitting in the same congestion, and seeing the same issues. That keeps us grounded in why this matters so much.

I believe the first step is listening. Residents know where the problem spots are because they experience them every day. When neighbors raise concerns, the town can follow up with traffic studies and bring forward solutions that are backed by data and evidence.

The second step is advocacy. Many of the big fixes for congestion—road expansions, highway improvements, or transit connections—require county, state, or federal support. As a commissioner, I would make sure Wake Forest’s needs are brought to our representatives at every level, so we have a seat at the table when decisions are made.

Finally, it’s about working together. Staff, residents, and elected officials all have a role to play in keeping attention on transportation as we grow. With strong partnerships and continued input, we can move toward solutions that improve daily life for everyone.

9) Downtown Wake Forest was selected as a future site for the S-Line passenger rail system, connecting to Raleigh, Richmond, and Washington, D.C. A mobility hub is planned for downtown Wake Forest; what amenities do you think should be included?

I think the most important step is making sure advisory boards, small business owners, and residents are engaged in shaping the design. A hub like this should reflect the community it serves. The town has a fascinating simulation of what that could look like on their website. I envision it as more than just a train stop—it could be a welcoming gateway. Think about how RDU Airport supports local businesses within its terminals. A mobility hub in Wake Forest could do the same: featuring small shops, local food, or even displays of local art and culture. That way, visitors’ first impression is not only of a transportation system, but of the character and pride of Wake Forest itself.

Practically, it should also be inclusive and functional. That means ADA accessibility, safe sidewalks and bike connections, ride-share and bus integration, and clear signage for residents and visitors. It should be a space that feels easy to navigate whether you’re a daily commuter, a family visiting, or someone connecting on a long trip.

For me, a mobility hub is about more than getting from one place to another—it’s about creating a space that says: Welcome to Wake Forest. We’re glad you’re here. By combining practicality, inclusion, and support for local businesses, we can create a hub that connects us to the region while staying true to who we are.

10) How do you feel about the rollout of Wake Forest’s social district? What is your overall vision for downtown development in Wake Forest?

I see the rollout of Wake Forest’s social district as a positive opportunity. For those who want to take part, it gives them the chance to enjoy downtown in a new way while supporting local businesses. It encourages people to walk around, explore different shops and restaurants, and spend more time downtown, which strengthens the local economy for everyone. At the same time, it’s important that clear safety policies are in place and that we evaluate the program regularly—making adjustments where needed and celebrating what’s already working well.

My overall vision for downtown development is that it should feel like the heart of our community: vibrant, inclusive, and connected. When I was in college in Wilmington, I admired how their downtown blended history, culture, nature, and daily life along the Cape Fear River. It was a place where families, students, seniors, local organizations, and businesses all came together, creating a strong sense of community.

I believe Wake Forest can build its own version of that—a downtown that highlights our unique forestry and charm, while also being a hub for small businesses, arts, culture, and community events. A place where local government, schools, shops, restaurants, and even outdoor spaces are all part of one connected “village.”

For me, downtown development isn’t just about buildings—it’s about creating a space that represents who we are as a community. A thriving downtown should be welcoming to everyone, celebrate local culture and history, and provide opportunities for neighbors to connect.

11) If there are other issues you want to discuss, please do so here.

My husband and I both grew up here as kids, and now, as we’ve settled and bought our first home and filled it with our 6 rescue pets, we’re ready to be an even deeper part of this community. Wake Forest isn’t just where we live—it’s where our families are, where our stories began, and where we want to continue building a future.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from teaching, working with nonprofits, and serving at the federal level, it’s that strong communities are built when we invest in people. Education, equity, and service have been the core of my journey—whether it was advocating for youth in the classroom, supporting immigrant families, or helping guide nonprofits that lift up our neighbors.

One concern I continue to hear from neighbors is how we manage growth while keeping Wake Forest affordable and true to its small-town character. That means making smart, data driven and community oriented choices about housing, transportation, and infrastructure, but also remembering that our people—our families, small businesses, and nonprofits—are at the heart of this town. If elected, I will bring a steady voice, rooted in data and compassion, to help guide those conversations and make sure no neighbor is left behind as we grow.

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