Full name: R. Keith Shackleford

Party affiliation: Democrat

Campaign website: vote4shack.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?

I decided to run for Town Board four years ago, because I was deeply invested and excited about the future of Wake Forest. Because of our growth, we are a more diverse community; while growing farther away from the small town I knew as a child. But our town remains special and still has all the grit, soul, heart and vision of a small town. I bring the most unique set of experiences to this slate of candidates. Before becoming a commissioner, I served our community on various boards including the housing authority of wake county Board of Commissioners, Wake Tech Board of Trustees, chamber of commerce, and east end community association. And now, I am an experienced commissioner who understands that rhetoric will not get the job done. I’m running for re-election because I want to be a voice for reason and to influence our future. We need good leaders who are concerned about our entire community. Let’s keep building a Wake Forest that honors its past and prepares for its future but one that grows with us and not past us.

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 member of the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners, my priorities are rooted in protecting our town’s character, providing affordable housing, and ensuring that growth benefits everyone — not just a few. The town’s Unified Development Ordinance — a key tool for implementing our Community Plan — has been stalled due to SB 382, which restricts our ability to adopt and enforce zoning standards. I support finalizing and advancing the UDO as soon as state law allows, so we can ensure that new development reflects our values: walkability, environmental stewardship, architectural integrity, and infrastructure that keeps pace with demand. We must grow with intention, not just momentum. Good governance starts with how we conduct ourselves as leaders. I believe in respectful dialogue, clear expectations, and shared accountability. That means providing all of our departments and staff with the resources they need and ensuring that our decisions are transparent and aligned with community goals. Our town staff is the backbone of Wake Forest’s success. I believe in equipping them with the tools, training, and trust they need to serve and perform effectively. That includes clear communication, fair compensation, and a culture of transparency. 

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.

In the past year…We passed a special events policy and then made sure that it was applied fairly and equally to all applicants. 

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?

The Board of Commissioners has a responsibility to ensure that all residents — regardless of immigration status — feel safe, respected, and welcome in Wake Forest. While federal and state laws may limit what municipalities can do, there are meaningful steps we can take to uphold our values and protect community trust. First, we must ensure that our police department complies with state law without exceeding its requirements. While the State legislature might mandate cooperation with ICE in specific circumstances, our police department is not required to act as immigration agents. I support policies that maintain public safety while avoiding unnecessary entanglement in federal immigration enforcement — especially when the policy risks undermining trust between officers and the community. Second, we should invest in outreach and communication that connects immigrant residents with town services, legal resources, and civic opportunities. That includes multilingual materials, inclusive public engagement, and partnerships with nonprofits that serve immigrant families. Finally, we must lead by example — fostering a culture of dignity and respect in every town interaction. Immigrants contribute to Wake Forest’s economy, culture, and neighborhoods. As a Commissioner, I will continue to support policies that reflect our shared humanity and strengthen the bonds that make Wake Forest a true community.

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 resilience is no longer a future concern — it’s a present necessity. The historic flooding across the State in recent years underscores the urgency of preparing Wake Forest for more intense rainfall and storm events. I believe the Board of Commissioners must take a multi-pronged approach to address this challenge. First, we should build on the foundation we’ve already laid. The continued repairs and improvement to our stormwater facilities is a priority. Now we need to ensure that those resources are used strategically — prioritizing high-risk areas, upgrading aging infrastructure, and integrating flood mitigation into every phase of development review. Second, we must strengthen our land use policies to reduce impervious surfaces and protect natural buffers. That includes preserving tree canopy, expanding green infrastructure, and encouraging site designs that slow runoff and absorb water. These strategies not only reduce flooding but also improve water quality and neighborhood livability. Finally, we need to plan for long-term resilience. That means incorporating climate data into our capital planning, coordinating with regional partners on watershed-level solutions, and engaging residents in preparedness efforts. As a Commissioner, I’ll continue to support policies that protect both property and people — especially in vulnerable areas — while ensuring that Wake Forest grows in a way that respects our environment and prepares us for the future.

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 have created real challenges for local governments across the Triangle, including Wake Forest. While some projects have had funding frozen or delayed, others remain in queue for restoration — and that uncertainty makes prioritization more important than ever. We must approach budgeting with clarity, discipline, and a commitment to public value. That starts with identifying which projects are most essential to public safety, infrastructure integrity, and long-term community benefit. We should prioritize funding for initiatives that protect core services, reduce future costs, or unlock additional revenue — whether through grants, partnerships, or economic development. Second, we need to be transparent with residents about trade-offs. When funding gaps emerge, the public deserves to know what’s at stake, what alternatives exist, and how decisions are being made. I support clear budget presentations, public input opportunities, and performance metrics that help us evaluate impact. Finally, we must balance the financial burden on residents. That means exploring cost-sharing models, seeking external funding where possible, and avoiding short-term fixes that lead to long-term strain. I believe in responsible stewardship — making sure every dollar we spend reflects the priorities and values of Wake Forest.

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?

Sustainable growth means development that meets the needs of current residents without compromising the character, affordability, and livability of Wake Forest for future generations. It’s not just about how fast we grow — it’s about how thoughtfully we grow. Sustainable development balances housing, infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and economic opportunity. It means ensuring that new neighborhoods are walkable, connected, and supported by adequate roads, utilities, and public services. It also means preserving green space, protecting water quality, and designing with long-term resilience in mind. We don’t need to reinvent the wheel — we can learn from decisions made by other municipalities across North Carolina. Cary has invested in green stormwater infrastructure, including rain gardens, permeable pavement, and stream restoration, to manage runoff and protect natural resources. Their approach shows how environmental stewardship can be built into everyday infrastructure planning. Chapel Hill has promoted housing diversity through inclusionary zoning and reforms that allow for accessory dwelling units and smaller-scale infill development. These policies help maintain affordability while respecting neighborhood character. Apex has emphasized connectivity and quality of life by integrating parks, trails, and mixed-use centers into its growth strategy. Their Veridea development is a model for combining housing, retail, and green space in a walkable, environmentally conscious way. To manage Wake Forest’s rapid population growth while ensuring affordability and quality of life, I believe we must advance the Unified Development Ordinance to guide growth in line with our Community Plan; promote housing diversity to ensure affordability for families, seniors, and young professionals; invest in infrastructure and public services that keep pace with development, including transportation, stormwater, and parks; and engage residents early and often in planning decisions to build trust and reflect community values.

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

As Wake Forest grows, addressing traffic congestion and transportation access continues to be a top concern and priority. Residents experience daily delays on major corridors like Capital Boulevard, Burlington Mills, South Main, Rogers Road, and Heritage Lake/Forestville Roads — and they deserve solutions that are both immediate and long-term. First, we must recognize that many of our most congested roads are under NCDOT jurisdiction. That means the Board of Commissioners must be advocate for state-level investment, coordination, and timely improvements. I support strengthening our partnerships with NCDOT to accelerate planning, secure funding, and ensure that Wake Forest’s needs are reflected in regional transportation priorities. Second, we need to improve local connectivity. That includes expanding our greenway network, enhancing pedestrian and bike infrastructure, and ensuring that new developments include internal street grids that reduce pressure on major thoroughfares. Better local circulation means fewer short trips clogging main thoroughfares. Third, we should explore transit options that meet the needs of a growing population. Whether through expanded the micro transit program, the bus system, park-and-ride facilities, or coordination with Go Triangle, we must make it easier for residents to move around Wake Forest — and beyond — without relying solely on personal vehicles.

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?

The selection of downtown Wake Forest as a future site for the S-Line passenger rail system is a transformative opportunity. Connecting our town to Raleigh, Richmond, and Washington, D.C. will expand access to jobs, education, and cultural destinations — and the planned mobility hub must be designed to serve both current residents and future riders. The mobility hub should reflect the feedback we’ve received from the community and build on the concept we reviewed at the board meeting. Key amenities should include:

• Safe, multimodal access: Well-designed connections for pedestrians, cyclists, and local transit riders — including bike racks, crosswalks, and ADA-compliant pathways.
• Sheltered waiting areas and real-time transit info: Comfortable, weather-protected spaces with digital displays showing train and bus schedules.
• Parking and drop-off zones: A mix of short-term and long-term parking, along with designated areas for ride-share, taxis, and paratransit services.
• Public restrooms and seating: Basic amenities that support comfort and usability, especially for families and seniors.
• Wayfinding and signage: Clear, attractive signage that helps visitors navigate downtown and discover nearby shops, restaurants, and cultural sites.
• Sustainability features: Native landscaping, solar lighting, and stormwater-friendly design elements that reflect Wake Forest’s environmental values.
• Community space: A plaza or gathering area that can host events, markets, or public art — making the hub not just a transit point, but a civic destination.
The mobility hub should be more than functional — it should reflect Wake Forest’s character and serve as a gateway to our town. I’ll continue advocating for a design that’s inclusive, forward-looking, and responsive to the needs of our growing community.

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?

Wake Forest’s social district has been a meaningful step towards promoting our downtown and supporting local businesses. By allowing responsible outdoor consumption of alcohol within designated boundaries, we’ve created new opportunities for community engagement, foot traffic, and economic vitality — while maintaining public safety and decorum. I appreciate that the Board reviewed the concept thoroughly and incorporated community input into its design. As we continue to evaluate its impact, I support ongoing feedback from residents and businesses to ensure the district remains welcoming, well-managed, and aligned with our town’s character. My broader vision for downtown Wake Forest is rooted in connection, creativity, and continuity. I want to see a downtown that:

• Celebrates our history through preservation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings.
• Supports small businesses with flexible zoning, outdoor space, and infrastructure that encourages entrepreneurship.
• Invites people to linger — with public art, shaded seating, walkable streets, and events that bring neighbors together.
• Connects to the future through projects like the S-Line mobility hub, which will expand regional access and make downtown a true gateway to Wake Forest.
• Extends beyond White Street between East Roosevelt and Elm — with continued investment in Brooks Street, South White Street, and Elm Avenue to ensure these corridors become integral parts of our downtown experience.
• Integrates public spaces like the soon to be renovated HL Miller Park, which is undergoing a major two-year transformation and will serve as a cornerstone for recreation, gathering, and civic pride.

Downtown should be more than a destination — it should be a reflection of who we are as a community. As a Commissioner, I’ll continue working to ensure that our downtown grows in a way that’s vibrant, inclusive, and true to our roots.

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

Comment on this story at [email protected].