Putting People First:
A Vision for a Thriving, Accountable New Hanover County

Housing Affordability & Housing Supply

New Hanover County is facing a housing crisis that affects working families, seniors, and young people just starting out.

• Affordable rentals are scarce. There’s a major shortage of rental housing for households earning below about 50% of the area’s median income.

• Homeownership is increasingly out of reach. The number of homes that median-income families can afford to buy continues to shrink, even as demand keeps growing.

• Rapid growth is driving up costs. Population growth has pushed development pressures that strain infrastructure and services.

New Hanover County must take a leadership role in expanding housing options—by supporting smart development, strengthening partnerships with nonprofits and the private sector, and ensuring land use policies align with real affordability goals, not just new construction.

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Growth, Development & Land Use

Growth in New Hanover County is inevitable—but it must be managed responsibly.

• Development is putting pressure on our roads, utilities, schools, and other critical infrastructure.

• Land use decisions are often contentious, especially in environmentally sensitive areas like the western bank of the Cape Fear River, where debates continue over working waterfronts versus residential or retail development.

I support thoughtful growth that preserves community character, protects the environment, and balances economic opportunity with quality of life. I believe zoning and planning decisions should serve the public interest—not just the interests of developers.

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Environmental Quality & Water Issues

Our waterways and natural environment are among New Hanover County’s greatest assets—and they are under stress.

• Declining water quality, linked to stormwater runoff and bacterial contamination, threatens both public health and our coastal ecosystem.

• Industrial activity and poorly planned development have long-term consequences for our rivers and wetlands.

I am committed to protecting clean water and healthy ecosystems through stronger stormwater management, smarter land use, and enforcement of environmental standards. Stewardship of our natural resources is essential for our economy and our future.

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Infrastructure & Transportation

A thriving county depends on safe, reliable infrastructure.

• The Cape Fear Memorial Bridge—vital to residents, commuters, and commerce—is nearing the end of its lifespan. A $242 million federal grant to replace it is a major win, but local coordination and accountability remain key.

• Beyond the bridge, our roads, stormwater systems, and utilities are under strain from rapid growth and deferred maintenance.

I will advocate for responsible investment in infrastructure that supports sustainable growth, ensures public safety, and prepares New Hanover County for the next generation.

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Health Care Quality & Oversight

Residents deserve high-quality, affordable, and transparent health care.

• Since the sale of New Hanover Regional Medical Center to Novant, the community has seen declining safety grades, lower federal ratings, and growing concern about cost and access.

• Many feel there’s less public oversight of how our hospital operates and whether it still meets community needs.

I believe the County has a responsibility to push for greater transparency and accountability in local health care. I'll work to strengthen oversight and advocate for patient-centered policies that prioritize safety, affordability, and access.
 

Education Resources

Strong public schools are the foundation of a strong community.

• Local schools are struggling with overcrowding, underfunding, and teacher shortages—problems that directly affect student outcomes and family well-being.

• Childcare and early childhood education are vital components of economic development and a thriving community.

I support fair funding for education, collaboration with the school board, and community partnerships to ensure every child has access to a safe, high-quality learning environment.

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Homelessness & Social Services

Homelessness and poverty are growing challenges that require coordinated, compassionate solutions.

• Rising costs of living, limited affordable housing, and reduced shelter capacity have left many residents without stable housing.

• The County has stepped back from efforts to map service capacity, identify gaps, and coordinate providers—making it harder for nonprofits and agencies to meet demand.

I believe that New Hanover County must lead—not withdraw—in addressing homelessness and social service coordination. I'll advocate for renewed partnerships, data-driven strategies, and investments that help people regain stability and dignity, improve pubic safety, and promote economic development.