While the attendance was minimal for the Coffee with a Candidate event at Café La Vita Dolce, mayoral candidate Pam Hemminger’s enthusiasm for Chapel Hill was immense.
Hemminger and a handful of Chapel Hill residents discussed what the future looks like for the city over a cup of joe.
With titles and memberships including Orange County Commissioner, Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools Board and Chapel Hill Transportation Board Liaison to name a few, Hemminger was to eager to converse with community members.
Attendees were just as prepared, wasting no time tackling challenging issues facing Chapel Hill.
Hemminger briefly addressed immediate concerns voiced by the group such as the impending light rail project and rising taxes. She offered ideas to incorporate sustainability management into businesses and resourcefully utilize schools as recreational facilities for student programs.
One of her strategies is to develop office parks through private and public partnerships.
“We desperately need more office space,” Hemminger reiterated — a plan she feels will generate more job opportunities and allow Chapel Hill to take advantage of the innovative perspectives existing within the college town.
Another proposition Hemminger suggested wasto reduce the amount of luxury apartment complexes in exchange for more affordable housing options.
There seemed to be a consensus among the coffee crew that shiny high rises and contemporary condominiums clash with the character of Chapel Hill.
Hemminger explained how pricey suites drive tax prices up, gentrifying the city.
“It’s not just exclusive, it’s pushing people out," she said. The push to redevelop economic housing selections prevents homogenization and promotes diversity, according to Hemminger.
She also emphasized the objective to to revive the charm distinctive to Chapel Hill. A push to integrate art and learning into the community is one of her goals.
With a favorable attitude towards collaboration, Hemminger urged for a dialogue between the University and citizens of Chapel Hill to cultivate inclusive and progressive priorities for the city.
“That’s what will keep us vibrant,” Hemminger insisted.
Hemminger assured the bunch that her philosophy is one of transparency and responsibility.
Vowing to introduce a fresh energy to office, Hemminger thanked the assembly personally by name, applauding the obvious passion everyone felt towards Chapel Hill and its potential.
city@dailytarheel.com
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