Patrick Hannah decides to place family needs above becoming Durham's next mayor

Statement from Patrick Hannah

Dear Family, Friends & Durham Community,

I hope this note finds you well. Thank you for your kind words, encouragement and support over the past 2 weeks. It is with mixed emotions that I write to inform you that I will not be running for Mayor of Durham at this time. While I am deeply committed to serving our community and have a strong desire to contribute to its growth and prosperity, I must prioritize my family responsibilities at this juncture.

Over the years, I have been fortunate to have had numerous opportunities to serve our city, state and nation in various capacities. From my time working at The White House - 

Office of Legal Counsel during the Lewinsky Trial to my role as Chairman of the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority during a global pandemic. I have been tested and gained invaluable experience in navigating complex policy, legal and administrative matters. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for our city.

As Vice President of the Durham NAACP and a Board Member for the Durham's Partnership for Children, I have witnessed firsthand the importance of community engagement and collaboration in advancing social justice and ensuring the well-being of our youngest citizens. These roles have reinforced my commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable Durham for all.

During my tenure as a law clerk in the North Carolina Senate - Office of the President Pre-Tem, and as a corporate attorney for a Fortune 70 company, I have gained a deep understanding of the legislative process and the intricacies of corporate governance. These experiences have provided me with a unique perspective on the intersection of public policy and private sector interests, which I believe is crucial for effective leadership in today's world.

Additionally, as a Community Organizer for Voices for Working Families, I dedicated my efforts to creating job opportunities for our community. I firmly believe that a thriving economy is essential for the well-being of our residents, and I have worked diligently to advocate for policies that promote sustainable growth and uplift those who have been marginalized.

Despite my passion for public service and the desire to contribute to the betterment of Durham, my family priorities require my undivided attention. As a dedicated spouse and parent to two children, one with special needs, I must place my family's needs at the forefront for the time being.

Please know that this decision has not been made lightly. It is driven by a deep sense of responsibility and love for my family. However, I remain committed to serving our community in whatever capacity I can, and I will continue to advocate for the issues that matter most to Durham citizens.

I am grateful for the support and encouragement I have received throughout my journey, and I am certain that Durham will continue to thrive under the leadership of dedicated individuals who share a vision for a stronger, more vibrant community. I have no doubt that our city will continue to progress and prosper, and I look forward to playing a role in that future when the time is right.

Thank you for your understanding, and I remain committed to working alongside you to create positive change in Durham.

 

Durham Councilman Leonardo Williams Declares Candidacy for Mayor

The campaign will kick off at the Black Wall Street historic marker on Parrish St. in Downtown Durham on Friday, July 21st at 12 pm. 

 From Leonardo Wiliams campaign staff

 DURHAM, NC -- is set to enter a transformative new era as Leonardo Williams, a small business owner, City Councilmember, and former Educator of the Year has officially announced his decision to run for Mayor.

 The announcement of Councilman Williams’ candidacy has already gained significant momentum, with an outpouring of support from community leaders and residents.

“I’m proud to announce that I am filing to run to be the next Mayor of Durham. Over the last several weeks, I have received many messages of encouragement. I thank you all for your support already.” Councilman Williams said. “I love Durham. This city has given me and my family so much. This campaign isn’t about me. It’s about what’s best for our city now and creating a legacy for the future. I understand there have been moments of uncertainty in our City Council, but behind the smoke screen, we have been able to achieve tremendous feats. We’ve made great progress in my time on the Council, and I

am proud to be consequential in that work. However, Durham’s next transformation is just beginning. As a city, we do face serious challenges, yet our opportunities are far greater. We need thoughtful solutions and actionable outcomes to tackle our challenges and seize our opportunities. I’m prepared to be your mayor, Durham. I’m running because I believe that together we can create the future that Durham deserves.”

About Councilman Leonardo Williams

Born in Hobgood, NC, Leo first came to Durham as a student at NC Central University where he met his now wife, Zweli. At NCCU, Leo was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, the oldest intercollegiate, historically African American fraternity. Additionally, Leo was actively involved in student government and a member of the renowned NCCU marching band while he pursued a degree in Music Education. 

After graduating, Leo became a public-school teacher in Durham where he led band programs, was honored as one of the youngest Teacher of the Year, and mentored dozens of aspiring young musicians. One of his formative experiences as a teacher was in his first year when he asked a class of 42 students how many had visited another state. Only three had. Leo saw an opportunity and a need. He organized a fundraising drive that raised enough money to take 32 students on a field trip to New York City. This experience solidified Leo’s belief that there is no better investment than giving young people opportunities to grow and expand their horizons. 

In 2008, he joined the board of the NC Foundation for Public School Children, where he was quickly asked to serve as executive director. In his capacity as executive director, he vastly expanded the budget, scope, and impact of the largest foundation supporting public school students in the state. In his capacity as executive director, Leo saw the challenges public school students face and worked with national, state, and local partners to provide the best possible education to all North Carolina public school students. Leo and Zweli embarked on a new challenge in 2018, opening the first Zweli’s restaurant location. Not only did Zweli’s succeed and then survive COVID-19, but they also now own three locations in Durham, one in Zimbabwe, and they employ more than sixty staff. Leo and Zweli are committed to not only paying a living wage but paying their team to a level that will allow them to thrive. Each full-time job they have created pays a minimum of $20 an hour, and they exclusively hire local artists to decorate their restaurants.

Leo knows the challenges that come with creating and running a business. When he decided to pursue a seat on the Durham City Council in 2021, there were no small business owners, a perspective that was sorely missed. Running as a true outsider, Leo ran a clean campaign focused on investing in Durham’s youth, ending gun violence, creating more economic opportunities, and increasing equity throughout the city. 

Since being elected to the Council, among his accomplishments, Leo has focused on a citywide apprenticeship program to enhance workforce development and address the 27,000 job vacancies in Durham, helping to bridge people to better wages and housing. He has led the Taskforce on Black Men and Boys to establish concrete recommendations on addressing gun violence. He has also passed a historic budget without raising taxes and supporting our first responders. His vision for the future of

Durham is shaped by (1) diverse housing options that allow for stable, safe, and affordable homes, (2) robust economic development initiatives, (3) an infrastructure that will support multimodal transit options and expanded connectivity, and (4) an environment that is built and sustained by us all. Leo and Zweli live in Ward 3 with their son, Izaiah, and their pup, Dovi!                                                                                                                                            

For updates about Leonardo Williams’ campaign and to join the mailing list please visit

www.leofordurham.com or follow him on: 

Facebook: LeoForDurham

Twitter: LeoForDurham

Instagram: LeoForDurham

 

Durham City Councilwoman DeDreana Freeman files for mayor with a goal of moving past "the drama"

DURHAM, NC, July 19, 2023 - Durham City Council representative of Ward 1, DeDreana Freeman, steps forward to announce candidacy for Mayor of Durham on July 18, 2023.

“I am proudly running to represent the people of Durham, a city I’ve grown to love and my family calls home,” said Freeman. “As Durham’s mayor, I would engage in more dialogue and guide efforts towards ‘working families’ and populations of youth and seniors who don’t get a fair shake. I hope that the people will continue to have faith this coming November. Their support of me as mayor would be tremendous in fueling efforts that have just begun.”

DeDreana Freeman is a non-profit leader with over 20 years of experience in North Carolina and presently serves as the Director of Partnership Development for CornerSquare Community Capital, a subsidiary of the North Carolina Rural Center. Freeman leads outreach and engagement efforts in 17 states, including Washington, DC in support of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) to increase community investments through small businesses and entrepreneurs. 

Since joining CornerSquare in 2022, DeDreana has successfully built a network of strategic partners, fostering trust and collaboration with key stakeholders. Prior to that, she served as the Special Assistant to the President of Durham Children's Initiative, for which she has spearheaded plans to support families and their children from birth to college and/or career.

"During her six and a half years on the city council, Freeman has been a formidable advocate for the residents of Durham. She consistently works to address social, economic, and environmental justice issues that often plague marginalized communities," states a press release to Rev-elution. "With proven leadership and dedication to creating a more equitable and inclusive Durham, DeDreana Freeman is the ideal candidate to lead the city forward."

Freeman enters the race after enduring public tension with some of her peers on the city council.

“It would be so simple to just fade into the background; however, I am committed to the work ahead and had to move past all the drama to be the person my mother, daughter and sons need me to be,” said Freeman. “My family loves Durham and serving means doing what’s in the best interest of Durham at all times.

For details or additional information regarding her campaign, visit dedreanafreeman.com.

Patrick Hannah, Former Chairman of Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority, Explores Mayoral Run for Durham, Prioritizing Infrastructure, Economic Development, and Community Well-being

DURHAM, NC, July 17, 2023 – Patrick Hannah, known for his extensive experience in infrastructure development and economic growth as the immediate past chairman of Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority, has announced his consideration of a mayoral run for Durham. With a strong track record in job creation and dedication to addressing critical issues such as crime and housing, Hannah brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to driving positive change in the community.

Hannah's experience as chairman of Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority has been characterized by his unwavering focus on infrastructure development, ensuring that the region's connectivity and transportation networks are optimized for economic growth. Spearheading numerous projects, Hannah has consistently aimed to create job opportunities, foster economic prosperity, and enhance the quality of life for residents.

 Recognizing the importance of economic development, Hannah has actively sought partnerships with local businesses and organizations to attract investments, boost job creation, and cultivate a thriving economy. His efforts have resulted in substantial growth and prosperity for the region, making him a respected figure in the business community.

However, Hannah's vision for Durham extends beyond infrastructure and economic development. With his background as a former law clerk in the White House, he possesses a unique understanding of the complexities surrounding crime and housing issues. He recognizes that these challenges require a comprehensive approach, combining effective law enforcement strategies with initiatives aimed at affordable housing and community support.

If elected as mayor of Durham, Hannah intends to utilize his expertise and experience to tackle these issues head-on. He envisions a safer and more inclusive city, where residents can feel secure in their homes and communities. By fostering collaboration between law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and local government, Hannah aims to implement innovative solutions that address the root causes of crime and housing instability.

As Hannah embarks on his mayoral exploration, he pledges to engage with the community to better understand the specific needs and concerns of Durham's diverse population. Listening to the voices of residents, business owners, and community leaders will be at the heart of his campaign, ensuring that his policies and initiatives are informed by the people he aims to serve.

Patrick Hannah's potential mayoral candidacy is fueled by his unwavering commitment to creating a prosperous and harmonious Durham. With his impressive background in infrastructure development, economic growth, and legal expertise, he is poised to be a transformative leader who can bring about meaningful change.

 

 

 

Ken Spaulding decides not to run for Mayor of Durham, NC

In a statement released to Rev-elution earlier today, Ken Spaulding says the joys of retirement aren’t worth giving up becoming mayor of Durham, NC.

“After receiving encouragement to run for Mayor, for which I am very appreciative, I have given a run for Mayor serious consideration, as requested,” said the former Democratic Party candidate for governor. “After thoughtful consideration, I have decided to continue to remain retired and continue to serve our community in other ways.”

Spaulding considered running for mayor after witnessing “infighting and tomfoolishness, at the City Council level,” he said in a previous statement to Rev-elution.

In today’s statement, Spaulding commended Mayor Elaine O’Neal.

“Mayor Elaine O’Neal has served our city with great dedication, hard work and compassion. I’m hopeful that any future Mayor of Durham will share her same attributes,” said Spaulding.

State Senator Mike Woodard is among a list of people considering the seat left vacant after O'Neal announced not running for a second term.

“I’m set to retire from Duke on September 1, and I’m looking to give 100 percent,” said Woodard. “I love what I’m doing, but I love Durham.”

Larry Hall, former secretary of the NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and member of the NC House of Representatives, is considering filing to run later this week.

“If we have good candidates running for Mayor who are ‘not current’ sitting members of the current Council, and if they will give these aforementioned stated policies their earnest and sincere consideration, then I will happily not run for Mayor,” Spaulding said in his previous statement. “I know it’s not politically correct to say, but quite frankly, I am enjoying my retirement and I would prefer to remain happily retired."