A PUBLICATION OF THE NORTH CAROLINA LEAGUE OF MUNICIPALITIES 14 AIMING FOR FINANCIAL HEALTH IN SMALL-TOWN GOVERNMENT 24 TJ WALKER: ROCKY MOUNT’S COMMUNITY LEADER 34 TOWN & STATE, ON THE ROAD 40 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: GENERATING QUESTIONS FOR MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENTS Volume 74 / Number 2 / 2nd Quarter 2024 Rave Reviews of CityVision 2024
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Southern City is a publication for and about North Carolina municipalities, published quarterly by the North Carolina League of Municipalities. Volume 74 Number 2 2nd Quarter 2024 Executive Director & Publisher: Rose Vaughn Williams Editor: Isabella Mormando Writers: Ben Brown, Jack Cassidy, Stephanie Hughes, Scott Mooneyham Photography: Ben Brown, Donald Hughes, Stephanie Hughes, Isabella Mormando, Desmond Worrell www.nclm.org Southern City (USPS 827-280) is published quarterly for $25 per year ($2 per year to member municipalities, $1 for single copies) by the North Carolina League of Municipalities. Phone: 919-715-4000 Postmaster: Send address changes to: Southern City 434 Fayetteville Street, Suite 1900 Raleigh, NC 27601 Advertising & Design: Advertising Sales: John Constantino Design & Layout: Jon Cannon For advertising opportunities and deadlines, contact LLM Publications at 503-445-2230 or john@llmpubs.com. ©2024 NC League of Municipalities All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher. PUBLISHED Summer 2024 24 TJ WALKER: ROCKY MOUNT’S COMMUNITY LEADER SOUTHERN CITY
INSIDE THIS ISSUE 10 14 18 22 24 26 34 40 42 6 8 44 46 40 34 WRITERS THIS ISSUE ISABELLA MORMANDO Communications Associate JACK CASSIDY Learning and Development Project Manager BEN BROWN Communications and Multimedia Strategist STEPHANIE HUGHES Communications & Multimedia Strategist (ARP) SCOTT MOONEYHAM Director of Political Communication & Coordination Middleton, Hall and McLeod to Lead NC League North Carolina League of Municipalities announces new board of directors at CityVision 2024. Aiming for Financial Health in Small-Town Government The North Carolina League of Municipalities is introducing a new accounting mentorship program aimed at supporting small-town staff by providing a place for them to receive hands-on training and a space to ask questions. The program will include customized instruction, practical resources, catch-up bookkeeping, and auditing services. Driven by Connection Durham’s Sen. Mike Woodard adds NCLM’s Annual Community Champion Award to his already busy shelves. Property and Casualty Trust Updates The League’s Property and Casualty Trust is undergoing some changes beginning in July 2024. Find out what are some of the causes and how the League is responding. TJ Walker: Rocky Mount’s Community Leader Leveraging both his youthful perspective and a true belief in connections, Walker has built momentum in his hometown of Rocky Mount. Rave Reviews of CityVision 2024 in Winston-Salem CityVision 2024 was a special time of networking, learning, and fellowship for municipal officials who gathered from the state of North Carolina. Town & State, On the Road For several years now, NCLM’s Town & State Dinner held in Raleigh has been a rousing success, bringing state legislators and municipal officials together to break bread and connect on issues important to local communities. Artificial Intelligence: Generating Questions for Municipal Governments Generative artificial intelligence is everywhere right now. It’s amazing. It’s troubling. It’s not going away. What are the applications for government? And how do we incorporate it responsibly? Comprehensive Fiscal Training for Local Governments: NCLM Training Offered Across North Carolina Underway now, and running into June 2024. Board of Directors Speaking Out NCLM Is Its Members Taking the Field City Officials are Hungry for More Board of Trustees 5
PRESIDENT Mark-Anthony Middleton Mayor Pro Tem, Durham FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT Martha Sue Hall Mayor Pro Tem, Albemarle SECOND VICE-PRESIDENT Jody McLeod Mayor, Clayton IMMEDIATE PAST- PRESIDENT William Harris Commissioner, Fuquay-Varina Board of Directors 2024–2025 WORKING AS ONE. ADVANCING ALL. DISTRICT 1 Mayor Elizabeth Morey Southern Shores DISTRICT 11 Mayor Richard Turner Belmont CHARLOTTE Council Member Marjorie Molina DISTRICT 2 Council Member Brian Jackson Jacksonville DURHAM Mayor Leonardo Williams DISTRICT 12 Mayor Zeb Smathers Canton DISTRICT 7 Laurinburg Council Member Mary Jo Adams MANAGER City Manager Michael Peoples Gastonia DISTRICT 8 Mayor Bill Dusch Concord CLERK City Clerk Brenda Blanco New Bern DISTRICT 9 Mayor Michael Horn Lewisville MANAGER City Manager Tasha Logan Ford High Point DISTRICT 6 Mayor Pro Tem Satish Garimella Morrisville WINSTON-SALEM Council Member Robert Clark ATTORNEY City Attorney Emanuel McGirt Greenville DISTRICT 10 Mayor Constantine Kutteh Statesville PRESIDENTIAL APPOINTMENT Council Member Rashad Roberts Chadbourn PRESIDENTIAL APPOINTMENT Council Member Ann Schneider Oak Ridge MANAGER City Manager Jonathan Russell Washington DISTRICT 3 Mayor Terry Mann Whiteville FAYETTEVILLE Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Jensen AT LARGE Mayor Dwight Lake Mayodan GREENSBORO Mayor Pro Tem Yvonne Johnson AT LARGE Mayor Don Hardy Kinston DISTRICT 5 Mayor Pro Tem TJ Walker Rocky Mount RALEIGH Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan Melton AT LARGE Mayor Dennis Barber Newport SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 6
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Over several weeks in March and April, NCLM took its Town & State Dinner on the road, hosting five regional events across the state rather than our more traditional single event in Raleigh. The events, of which two I had the pleasure to serve as NCLM host, presiding officer and sort of emcee, showed the truly remarkable nature that a simple meal and conversation can have when it comes to human understanding and relationship-building. While I and other League officers, along with one or two legislators and a host city mayor, offered brief comments at each, the real star of the show was the bonding that took place over breaking bread. You could see it in the close conversations at the tables, in the lingering phototaking and more talk as the meal was finished, and in the smiles and good-byes as municipal officials and legislators departed. As my term begins as president of the North Carolina League of Municipalities, these events were a shining example of the importance of the involvement of every one of you—the elected and appointed municipal officials of this state—in this organization. My greatest hope over the next year is that we can expand that involvement, that more cities and towns and their local representatives will become more involved in NCLM, and that we allow more officials in cities and towns to see its importance in establishing benefits that accrue to residents of each. A key strength of North Carolina is the diversity of its cities and towns, and the rich array of small, medium-sized, and larger municipalities. No one city or town is alike, regardless of its size, the economic fabric, the demographics, or the topography. Yes, we all have common aspirations for a solid economy, strong community connections and vibrant quality of life for residents, but our diversity and distinct community visions act as a strength. And nowhere is that more important than in our relationships with state legislators and other state officials. We enhance that strength through the involvement of more cities and towns, MARK-ANTHONY MIDDLETON NCLM President SPEAKING OUT NCLM Is Its Members and their elected and appointed officials. Participation in events like the Town and State Dinner, but also through trainings and services offered by NCLM, are crucial not just to our state advocacy, but in making our towns and cities better places for our residents. Creating strong examples of those benefits serves to only spread the news. Obviously, as we progress into 2024, NCLM has other challenges as well. Continuing to advance the use and redevelopment of the League campus in downtown Raleigh in the best way possible remains a crucial aspect of the organization’s future. The decisions that we make will prove to be critical to our finances going forward, and I look forward to those discussions moving forward to ensure that we remain wellgrounded from a business standpoint. Finally, as a longtime member of the NCLM Board of Directors and through my involvement in the organization over the years, I know that this organization is in the best place that it may have ever been. Our advocacy and services are as robust and as effective as ever. Part of my charge as president, and that of all of our board and members, is to be a strong caretaker of the organization, to ensure that we continue on this path of working effectively together for the better of each of our cities and towns individually and for our state collectively. As I said in my swearing-in address at our CityVision conference, the League is embarking on what I believe will be a defining and monumental chapter in our history. From securing zoning for up to 40 stories on prime downtown Raleigh real estate, to an historic infusion of ARPA funds from our state legislature to help our towns and cities reach their full potential, to solidifying and building upon our relationships on both sides of the aisle, we should all be excited! When the League calls, that phone is answered, and when the League knocks, doors get opened. As your new president, I want to protect our brand, extend our influence, and grow our ranks. SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 8
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urham Mayor Pro Tem Mark-Anthony Middleton will lead the North Carolina League of Municipalities as president over the next year. Middleton was chosen by representatives from cities and towns across North Carolina with his selection announced in April at the League’s annual conference, CityVision 2024, held in WinstonSalem, NC. Joining Middleton as officers for the organization are Albemarle Mayor Pro Tem Martha Sue Hall and Clayton Mayor Jody McLeod as first and second vice presidents, respectively, and FuquayVarina Commissioner William Harris as immediate past president. CityVision 2024 included in-depth sessions, presentations and discussions of key topics including citizen engagement, interpersonal work dynamics, employee recruitment and retention, civility, leadership and other key issues facing municipalities. Middleton’s selection as president follows seven years of public service for the City of Durham. Prior to his elected service, Middleton was already a prominent member of his community as CEO and Pastor at Abundant Hope Christian Church. In addition to his work as a pastor, Middleton served in a leadership position for Durham Congregations, Associations and Neighborhoods, one of the most influential grassroots organizations in the city. Middleton attended North Carolina A&T State University and Duke Divinity School. D LEAGUE UPDATE Middleton, Hall and McLeod to Lead NC League NORTH CAROLINA LEAGUE OF MUNICIPALITIES ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS AT CITYVISION 2024 ISABELLA MORMANDO Communications Associate SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 10
continues on page 12 In his remarks at CityVision, Middleton spoke about his desire to continue to promote the League’s services to all members across North Carolina. “The North Carolina League of Municipalities is the most authoritative voice for our cities, towns and villages precisely because we focus on what local leaders always focus on—results. I will be a president that leverages relationships on both sides of the aisle to benefit the smallest hamlet to our most bustling city. The menu of services and benefits the League offers to our League Update members is outstanding and I will be a brand ambassador for them from Dare to Cherokee.” League Executive Director Rose Vaughn Williams said Middleton, through his commitment to local government, will bring strong leadership to the organization. “We are so fortunate to have Mayor Pro Tem Middleton lead the North Carolina League of Municipalities this year. His enthusiasm and strong belief in the important role local leaders play in the The North Carolina League of Municipalities is the most authoritative voice for our cities, towns and villages precisely because we focus on what local leaders always focus on—results. I will be a president that leverages relationships on both sides of the aisle to benefit the smallest hamlet to our most bustling city. » Mark-Anthony Middleton, Mayor Pro Tem, Durham, NCLM President NCLM.ORG 11
continued from page 11 League Update success of the state are an inspiration to all our members,” said Williams. In addition to NCLM officers, newly-elected members of the Board of Directors, are: • Southern Shores Mayor Elizabeth Morey, District 1 • Whiteville Mayor Terry Mann, District 3 • Rocky Mount Council Member TJ Walker, District 5 • Laurinburg Council Member Mary Jo Adams, District 7 • Lewisville Mayor Mike Horn, District 9 • Belmont Mayor Richard Turner, District 11 • Newport Mayor Dennis Barber, at-large • Mayodan Mayor Dwight Lake, at-large • Charlotte Council Member Marjorie Molina, large city seat • Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams, large city seat • Greensboro Mayor Pro Tem Yvonne Johnson, large city seat • High Point Manager Tasha Logan Ford, Municipal Manager • New Bern Clerk Brenda Blanco, City Clerk • Greenville Attorney Emanuel McGirt, City Attorney SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 12
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ARP CORNER he League is launching its Accounting Instruction & Mentorship (AIM) program. The goal of this program is to improve the financial health of towns that have not historically had the resources and support available that is needed to thrive. The League hopes to accomplish this by providing towns with customized instruction on general accounting procedures, practical guidance and resources to keep finance departments on track, and catch-up bookkeeping and auditing services for towns that may be behind. Beyond the deliverable resources, it will also provide towns with hands-on learning experiences from a dedicated mentor and foster an environment for finance officers to ask questions specific to their situation. “I am most excited about the relationships that are forming between our League staff and small towns,” Carla Obiol, NCLM’s chief American Rescue Plan (ARP) officer, said. “The towns that we have met with are very excited about this mentorship program because, in many cases, if they simply had someone to turn to in order to ask basic questions, that would make their job and their experience so much better.” This program stems from the League’s Municipal Accounting Services (MAS), which launched in September 2022 as a part of the League’s new service offerings funded by the ARP. The state legislature tasked the League with investing its designated ARP funds into supporting cities and towns across the state. The MAS program was designed to promote better financial accountability and reliability for smaller governments and includes a full software conversion to Black Mountain Software and additional accounting guidance and training from NCLM staff. However, the League soon realized that a full conversion was not always in the best interest of these small towns, therefore, the League launched AIM and determined that this program would provide the same accounting assistance as MAS, without software conversion. “We began asking the question: How can we meet towns where they are? I think it is important that we are trying to give them what they need instead of the League prescribing what we think they need,” Obiol shared. “The AIM program provides that easier, how-to, step-by-step approach to having a strong financial process in a town.” The League is partnering with towns across the state on the program’s initial launch and will assign each town a dedicated mentor to work with the finance staff, management and elected officials in the town. The AIM program may look different in each town as the League will tailor the services to fit that town’s individual needs. T Aiming for Financial Health in Small-Town Government STEPHANIE HUGHES Communications & Multimedia Strategist (ARP) We began asking the question: How can we meet towns where they are? I think it is important that we are trying to give them what they need instead of the League prescribing what we think they need. » Carla Obiol, Chief American Rescue Plan (ARP) Officer, NCLM NCLM Chief American Rescue Plan (ARP) Officer, Carla Obiol SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 14
The program will include: • One-on-one mentorship, both in-person and virtually • Comprehensive training manual including checklists, templates, and other practical tools for finance staff • On-demand training videos and written guidance via blog posts and other publications • Small group training when possible • Catch-up bookkeeping services, if needed • Auditor procurement, if needed The League has seen how towns across the state have struggled in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters and competing in an economy where costs have continued to increase. In addition to frequent staff turnover, which can contribute to a town getting behind with its bookkeeping and audits, finding auditors who can complete its annual audits has proved difficult for many small-town governments. These factors can play into towns falling behind on the required audits and then needing to put in additional work to get caught up and remain on target. In preparation for this program’s launch, the League hosted dinners across the state to introduce the AIM program to towns, receive feedback and allow attendees to ask questions. The Town of Bailey was at one of these dinners. Bailey’s town clerk, Joel Killion, shared his initial impression of the program. “AIM, it seems, will be a one-stop shop for all your needs, no matter what they are ... I do not know that there is anything I can ask them that they cannot find me an answer for, which is really nice,” Killion said. “I wish this had been in place two years ago.” The Town of Newport also attended one of the AIM program dinners and Newport Mayor Dennis Barber emphasized his staff’s excitement over being a part of the launch of this program. ARP Corner AIM, it seems, will be a one-stop shop for all your needs, no matter what they are ... I do not know that there is anything I can ask them that they cannot find me an answer for, which is really nice. I wish this had been in place two years ago. » Joel Killion, Town Clerk, Bailey continues on page 17 NCLM Deputy Director for Municipal Accounting Services, Diane Seaford NCLM.ORG 15
I think what [the League] does is amazing. We’re so grateful for any help and [the League] coming in to help I think will make more of a smooth transition for the next folks that run for office. So, we are looking ahead toward the future for them. » Dennis Barber, Mayor, Newport ARP Corner SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 16
“I had the finance director with me and her assistant and the first time they heard it, they jumped all over it. They were really happy to know the program would be there. So, we were ready to go and if we could have had [the League] show up the next day, we would be ready for that,” Barber shared. “They gave a presentation that was easy to understand what they were there for, what the mission would be and what opportunities we would have to work more with the League.” As the program gets underway this summer, hopes are high for how this program will be able to reach towns where they are and provide assistance that walks alongside them and sets them up to be successful moving forward. “We want it to be an opportunity for the town’s employees to learn how to have a healthy financial process in place. … We are going to get their accounting caught up. We are going to help them get their audits caught up. More importantly, what we want to achieve is that we want them to then know how to stay caught up and not to get behind,” Obiol said. “They walk into jobs that have quite a bit of responsibility and tasks and oftentimes with very little instruction or training…so hopefully we will provide that general foundation for small towns that they have never been able to receive.” The inaugural towns that will be a part of AIM are optimistic about how this program will support them in running their town finances more efficiently and provide them with a solid foundation that can be passed on as the town moves toward the future. “I think what [the League] does is amazing,” Barber said. “We’re so grateful for any help and [the League] coming in to help I think will make more of a smooth transition for the next folks that run for office. So, we are looking ahead toward the future for them.” continued from page 15 ARP Corner NCLM.ORG 17
How have you handled that? When it comes to the local governments in your district, what they want and what you’re able to do up here? MW: I’ve always put a high priority on meeting with my local governments before session… So, it’s always meeting to see what policy changes they need, if there are any special appropriations that they’re needing and anything that’s budgetary, likely to be the governor or legislature’s budget. And then working with our delegation to see that we’re in concert with or in agreement with the local priorities. There have been times when we’ve had some local requests that we weren’t always in agreement with. And then just prioritizing, looking to see what has the most impact for the residents of the county or the city or town. What do you think is helpful from local governments in that regard? What are some good practices for local governments that might help with legislative requests? MW: Obviously now just representing Durham—I live in Durham; I’ve never lived in Oxford or Roxboro or Yanceyville, those towns and other towns that I’ve represented. So, I’d always rely on those folks to tell me what it was they needed and make sure I understand what the needs are. There’s (former) Mayor (Terry) Turner from Butner; a few years back, they had need of acquiring some of the property that the state had. So just making sure I understood what Butner wanted to do with it and all that and securing that for them. So, the key I think is for the towns, cities, these elected officials, to stay in touch with their legislative delegation, meeting with them before session, but meeting with them other times too. If your legislator doesn’t live in your town or county, you know, if you’re a county or two away, as sometimes we often are, or in some of these less populated districts, you could be five or six counties away from a town that has a need. So just making sure you stay in touch with them throughout and understanding what the priorities are for that town or city and just keeping the dialogue going is just so important. DURHAM’S SEN. MIKE WOODARD ADDS NCLM’S ANNUAL COMMUNITY CHAMPION AWARD TO HIS ALREADY BUSY SHELVES. The Legislative Office Building that houses the workspaces of so many North Carolina legislators in downtown Raleigh sometimes gives that blank-canvas feeling—the governmental beige or off-white walls that are ready to pop with a bit of personal decoration: framed memories, pieces of art, shelves for influential books, gifts and honors, flags, various mementos. If any group or agency handed out awards for excellence in this way, Sen. Mike Woodard could add it to his vibrant, loaded shelves of literature, art and sculptures near the colorful, framed showbill for rock musician Alejandro Escovedo, amid gallery walls of other artworks and personal interests. These items became operative parts of a recent interview Southern City did with Sen. Woodard in his office. Gesturing to or picking up pieces from his shelves and walls, he would explain their connection to his work—connection the emphasized word as the senator has long expressed his appreciation for the power of meeting with and listening to peers and constituents for informed ideas and good outcomes. A photo of him with a beloved neighborhood leader, or a framed quote from history, or an item he was honored to receive in reflection of his work, were all in the mix of conversation. While shelf space was truly limited, Sen. Woodard did have one more item to add as of late April, when the League invited him to its 2024 CityVision conference, held in Winston-Salem, to present him with this year’s NCLM Community Champion Award. “This award recognizes those that work tirelessly to understand, represent and advocate for the needs of cities and towns,” said NCLM immediate past president William Harris, town commissioner from Fuquay-Varina, from the conference podium. “Senator Woodard more than meets those criteria.” Southern City caught up with him in his busy Raleigh office just after the April conference, right as the 2024 short session of the General Assembly was getting underway. Elected in 2013, Sen. Woodard will depart the office at the end of this term for what he knows will entail community involvement and the making of locallevel connections, a topic we wanted to hear more about from the senator. ˘˘˘ So, as we speak now, the 2024 legislative session is cranking up. Tell us how things are going. MW: Well, it’s the beginning of session so lots of bills are coming, and of course with the short session it’s always a lot of local bills, trying to manage those. In fact [Sen. Woodard picks up a document on his desk] right here are my notes from my meeting with Durham City Council yesterday, so we’re working through bills and obviously look at the revenue picture to see where funding priorities can go, right? And there are lots of folks who are showing up to get into our legislation or appropriations, one way or the other. Driven By Connection BEN BROWN NCLM Communications and Multimedia Strategist SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 18
Given the dedication you have to have for a role like this, in public service, what was the draw to where you would want to run for office and be a part of it? MW: Oh gosh. Well, I grew up in a family that was always active in our community, church work or in our neighborhood civic groups, whatever it was. So, I saw my parents do it and I would often go with them to volunteer or go to church. So, it just was always second nature for me. I guess it was just kind of, you know, in my DNA, I guess. And they were role models for me and work they did in the community. And I always enjoyed volunteering and helping out in the community. I put my roots down in Durham, settled there, and got involved in my neighborhood and some of the civic things that I did there. Just, you know, one step. Mine was a gradual kind of wade into it. So, I’d be reacting to a lot of different community groups and neighborhood groups, things like that. Durham, which is a unique community, we have something called the InterNeighborhood Council. It’s the association of neighborhood associations. And I was my neighborhood’s representative to the InterNeighborhood Council. And at the time there were three or so neighborhood associations around Durham. Legislator Q&A: Senator Mike Woodard And there’s where you get to know what’s going on all over town, neighborhood by neighborhood. So, the issues in the Watts Hospital neighborhood, where I live, are very different than what Walltown’s going through. And that’s totally different than what the Herndon Road community’s going through or what Campus Hills is going through, just to think of different geographic neighborhoods, or Old North Durham or Willowhaven. But you get to see what’s going on. I just found it fascinating to help. So, I became president, I was president of the InterNeighborhood Council, and in my term I was vice president, which is essentially president-elect. So for the couple of years I had an office in the Inter-Neighborhood Council, some great and interesting work and took on some real interesting issues and really became a voice for our neighborhoods.It was time for a city council election, a lot of people said, “You’d be great at that.” And so, I said yeah, I might enjoy it. So that’s sort of how I got there. I had worked with neighborhoods all over town. I showed up on day one with a pretty good knowledge of what I thought some of the needs, concerns and opportunities for the city were. I joke with people. I was sworn in on a Monday night. And I have a picture here. My parents swearing me in… It just was always second nature for me. I guess it was just kind of, you know, in my DNA, I guess. And I always enjoyed volunteering and helping out in the community. I put my roots down in Durham, settled there, and got involved in my neighborhood and some of the civic things that I did there. Just, you know, one step. » Sen. Mike Woodard, 22nd District, Durham County continues on page 20 NCLM.ORG 19
What year was that? MW: 2005. And then the next morning at 8:00, literally 12 hours later, I was at my first (Metropolitan Planning Organization) meeting working on transportation. I mean, I just jumped right in. In a way that must have just kind of felt OK, I guess. Right, and I think we all know abstractly that lives are different for different kinds of people in different places, but knowing more specifically what these contexts are can be a challenge. So, you saw neighborhoods and their people sharing context together, which showed the nuance. MW: Yeah, you’d think, “Our side of town has the same challenges.” No, they don’t. You know, just a couple neighborhoods away is a very different situation. Where I live is Watts Hospital. Walltown is next to me. And Broad Street. A predominantly, overwhelmingly white neighborhood, a historic black neighborhood. And you could look at the differences in how things were invested. My relatively small neighborhood had two city parks in it within about five blocks of each other. Walltown, a much larger neighborhood, and mostly black residents, had no city parks area. They had built a building, the neighbors had built a building and had their own little space, but it wasn’t a city-run park. And until you know some of the history and recognize those things, you know, you might say, “They could just come over and play in our parks.” Well, that’s not quite the same. And so I was real proud—four, five, six blocks away from me, where I lived, is getting a sizable recreation center in their community… You don’t continued from page 19 Legislator Q&A: Senator Mike Woodard I hope people will approach living in community together with an open mind, with open ears, maybe an open heart. And, like I said, just understanding what’s going on in that other community, what their needs are, not coming into that community with preconceived ideas based on race or class or income or any other human thing that divides us. And just being open to hearing how we can live and work together in community. » Sen. Mike Woodard, 22nd District, Durham County SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 20
know those things until you work in those communities, learn their history, learn what made them into the community they are. In fact, I got a picture of the groundbreaking. [Sen. Woodard picks up a framed photo from a crowded shelf next to his desk] That’s the groundbreaking right there … for the Walltown Park Recreation Center. And, wow. Wilma Holmes was one of the leaders of the Walltown community and we were so proud that day of working on that. So, working with the matriarchs and patriarchs—mostly matriarchs—of that community, and I’ve just run out of room obviously for these pictures, but I keep them close by for that reason… With everything we just talked about, what do you think are a few good takeaways in terms of communication, civility, working in a sometimes-tense kind of world but identifying the kinds of issues that you can talk about together to get things done? MW: I hope people will approach living in community together with an open mind, with open ears, maybe an open heart. And, like I said, just understanding what’s going on in that other community, what their needs are, not coming into that community with preconceived ideas based on race or class or income or any other human thing that divides us. And just being open to hearing how we can live and work together in community. Sounds a bit idealistic, I guess. But just being open to that. And I think as leaders it’s our job to go into those communities. [Sen. Woodard picks up another framed image with the words, “Go to the people. Live with them. Learn from them. Love them. Start with what they know. Build with what they have. With the best leaders, when the work is done, the task accomplished, the people will say, ‘We have done this ourselves.’”] It’s kind of a mantra for me. Lao Tzu, founder of Taoism, an artist, a fantastic quote and I always loved it… I always tried to do it in my work representing different communities here at the General Assembly because, you know, I came up through Durham and, you know, over the last few decades, we’ve been very successful in some ways. We have our challenges, obviously, but we’ve been successful in some ways. But I never wanted to go into Roxboro or Yanceyville or Oxford or Butner and say, “Hey, this is what you all need to do.” You know, take the lessons I’ve learned and go listen… We don’t know everything, we shouldn’t know everything. These are part-time jobs for goodness sake. Whether you work here or in your home community, these are part-time jobs. The best thing we can do is to be that connector. So, you know, connecting the Butner officials with the Durham folks and just let them come in and see, pick and choose which things might work for them and helping them find those connections of what works in their community. So anyway, that’s what we do the best, I think, is to be that connector. I just, I mean, I love introducing people to other folks and all that, letting them work it out. And then get out of the way. Support them as we need to, but let them do it. What’s ahead for you? MW: (Durham) Mayor Pro Tem (and 2024 NCLM President) Mark Middleton (at the CityVision conference) said, “I’m a nerd.” I just love digging into the policy of it all. And I look at other elected officials, I saw so many friends (at the conference). At our table, we were talking about all the issues and how much you learn—in both of my elected positions: city council and now state Senate. I learn something every day. And I learn something new all the time… And so, I think I would love to get back and help, at least share what I’ve got and connect people to information. Legislator Q&A: Senator Mike Woodard We don’t know everything, we shouldn’t know everything. These are part-time jobs for goodness sake. Whether you work here or in your home community, these are part-time jobs. The best thing we can do is to be that connector. » Sen. Mike Woodard, 22nd District, Durham County NCLM.ORG 21
n the upcoming 2024–2025 renewal year, the Risk Management Services Board of Trustees decided to raise the Property and Casualty Trust overall rate by 17.5%. This increase is due to various factors such as severe weather events, fires, high liability verdicts and rises in reinsurance costs, all of which have led to more claims. By increasing rates now, the aim is to offset the higher risk of losses, thus improving the financial stability of the Trust. Ideally, this will prevent the need for larger rate hikes down the road. For many lines of commercial insurance, there has been a soft market since the early 2000s. Premiums have remained low despite a significant number of natural disasters globally. How long can commercial carriers continue to sustain losses at this level? In 2023, the market began to harden. Premiums started to rise due to construction costs, and availability to purchase certain types of coverage has decreased. This is exactly how the early 1980s started, and what led to the creation of self-insurance pools for local governments all over the United States. Commercial carriers viewed public entities as high risk and low profits, so issued non-renewal notices to the point many local governments could not find insurance. If they were lucky enough to find a carrier, the premiums were too high for their budgets. State leagues stepped up to manage the selfinsurance pools and, in most cases, have successfully continued to support and protect local governments in this way for more than 40 years. The hardening of the commercial market affects local government self-funded pools because the pools must purchase insurance or “reinsurance” to protect the assets of the pool. Those rates have increased, due in part to global natural disasters as well as school shootings, terrorist attacks and expensive lawsuits. Those increased rates get passed along to the general pool rates in turn. Fortunately, the Property and Casualty pool rate increase is relatively low compared to the expected insurance market increases for 2024. For self-funded pools to continue to be a viable option for local governments into the future, they must be run as a business—something you can continue to count on the League to do. Here’s a summary of the changes to expect: The 17.5% increase will be spread across several coverage types that have seen more frequent or severe losses: • Auto Liability • Police Professional Liability • Property • Auto Physical Damage I RMS UPDATE Property and Casualty Trust Updates ISABELLA MORMANDO Communications Associate To better align with market trends and feedback, and offer more expansive coverage with this rate increase, the Property & Casualty Trust has improved its coverage options this year. This includes clarifications, increased coverage limits and modernized protections, particularly related to law enforcement. Some notable enhancements are: • Clearer coverage terms for computer equipment under inland marine insurance • Added rental reimbursements for property losses • Coverage for employee tools • Clarifications regarding losses from virtual currency or electronic payments • Additional coverage for airbag resets, towing and labor, transportation expenses and glass repair deductibles waiver • Increased coverage limits for various items like fire hydrants, newly constructed buildings, outdoor property and spoilage • Updates to Police Professional coverage to reflect the latest policy language For some members, the rate change for specific coverage might differ due to factors like changes in risk exposure and past loss history. Individual member renewal premiums may be higher or lower than the average 17.5% rate increase depending on the following factors: • Changes in risk exposure over the past year (adding or removing assets, changes in value, workforce size, etc.) • For newly added exposures during the year, you were only charged for the period they were active; however, on renewal, you’ll be charged for the entire year • Past loss experience • Any changes made to coverage limits or deductibles “The upcoming rate changes can be of concern for members who had individual premium increases due to newly added exposures. This highlights the critical importance of incorporating proper risk management practices and controls to mitigate risk. Our NCLM risk control field staff are dedicated to working with members directly to address these concerns and are always accessible to assist with training, policies and a variety of best practices driven initiatives,” said NCLM Director of Risk Control & Public Safety Risk Management Tom Anderson. Please reach out to your regional field staff representative or contact Tom Anderson directly for assistance or more information on risk control tips and training. SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 22
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TJ Walker: Rocky Mount’s Community Leader JACK CASSIDY Learning and Development Project Manager LEVERAGING BOTH HIS YOUTHFUL PERSPECTIVE AND A TRUE BELIEF IN CONNECTIONS, WALKER HAS BUILT MOMENTUM IN HIS HOMETOWN OF ROCKY MOUNT. Just about out of college and looking toward the future, TJ Walker visited his advisor and mentor at NC Central University and asked him a simple question: How best could he give back to his hometown of Rocky Mount? The advisor gave Walker two ideas. Neither of them would be simple. One, he could get involved with a nonprofit organization. Two, he could get involved with local government. “So, I did both,” Walker said. That decision—and the subsequent action—does well to define Walker, who has become an exciting new voice in North Carolina’s local government. When he has the chance to make a difference, he does. “It definitely hasn’t been easy,” Walker said. “It’s been valuable though. I’ve seen an impact.” On the nonprofit side, he started WeFit Inc., which focuses on at-risk male youth in the community. In its fifth year, Walker says he has seen tremendous successes in supporting oft-overlooked members of the community. “These are kids that may not feel like they fit in anywhere,” he said. “This program says you do fit in, and it provides them with those positive experiences.” On the government side, he didn’t just attend some meetings—he ran for office and was elected at the age of 27, becoming the youngest elected official in the history of the City of Rocky Mount. Once in government, he didn’t just sit back—he got involved with statewide organizations, such as joining the NC League of Municipalities’ Board of Directors. On both fronts, Walker proceeded through significant unknowns. He did not have experience on how the process would go, how he would be received, how the roles would actually work or how impactful he could actually be. What he did know, however, was most important. He knew he wanted to serve. “If you have a heart to serve, even without experience or without knowing what to do or what will happen, it’ll take you far,” Walker said. “You just need that heart to serve.” ˘˘˘ Walker’s story is one of community. He has a deep dedication to the well-being of his hometown, Rocky Mount, where he was born and raised. It is where he lives with his wife and three children, and nearby he serves as pastor for First Baptist Church of Weldon. Walker left town only briefly, to earn his undergraduate at NC Central, but when he returned, he noticed that many people his age did not come back. There seemed to be more people leaving Rocky Mount than arriving, especially the younger generations. “For a city like Rocky Mount to grow, we had to try and engage our younger professionals,” Walker said. “If they leave, how can we get them to come back? How can we bring their skills, talents and abilities back home?” It’s a question that similarly vexes towns across North Carolina. Walker didn’t have the specific answer, but as a member of the younger generation himself, he knew that his involvement could only help. Simply by virtue of being a new, young voice in local government, he would provide an intangible asset of fresh perspective. He used that asset through relationships. He leaned on family, friends and community groups during his first campaign, which allowed him to build his profile in town and win the election in 2019. Once in office, he continued that approach of networking. Even beyond policy actual decision-making, it is through that networking that Walker believes he began building momentum in Rocky Mount. If you have a heart to serve, even without experience or without knowing what to do or what will happen, it’ll take you far. You just need that heart to serve. » TJ Walker, Board of Directors, NCLM SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 24
“Things began to present themselves that hadn’t been there before. Funding, other opportunities—we began to take advantage of that,” Walker said. “Just being present, showing yourself as friendly and approachable, connecting and networking. That has made such a difference, both for the town and for the community members, who begin to believe in the opportunities themselves.” Walker has seen that approach take hold among fellow local leaders too, he said. “We’ve seen the impact,” he said. “To me, everything is relational. Relationships make the difference. Once you create those, it helps to progress the city.” Walker has also seen tangible results in his youth movement in Rocky Mount throughout his nearly five years in office. The local National Guard armory, which Walker noted sat vacant for more than a decade, is now a repurposed youth center run by the Boys and Girls Club. Aiming at his goal to retain young talent, Walker launched a young professionals network that engages community members just beginning their careers. There are also various socials, community gatherings and financial literacy workshops, also overseen by Walker. These developments are not separate from other city businesses, Walker points out. Rather, it is complementary, building support and momentum for critical policies and programs, which include neighborhood redevelopment efforts and economic development opportunities. “Everyone’s not going to agree with my philosophy or my style of leadership, but for the most part, I found a greater community that is supportive and engaged,” said Walker. “You’re not always going to see the fruit, but if you keep working and pushing, the fruit will reveal itself the way it is supposed to. You just have to do the work.” To fill any remaining time he has, Walker meets with each city ward and various neighborhood associations at least once a month. It’s yet another example of leadership through action, of community over self and of a local leader walking the walk. “It’s hard,” Walker said. “But it’s worth it. It’s working.” Board Profile: TJ Walker For a city like Rocky Mount to grow, we had to try and engage our younger professionals. If they leave, how can we get them to come back? How can we bring their skills, talents and abilities back home? » TJ Walker, Board of Directors, NCLM NCLM.ORG 25
Rave Reviews of CityVision 2024 in Winston-Salem ISABELLA MORMANDO Communications Associate SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 26
The NC League of Municipalities’ most anticipated event, CityVision, took place in Winston-Salem this past April. To say this conference was a success is an understatement. CityVision 2024 saw sold-out, record-breaking attendance of over 600 municipal leaders gathering from across North Carolina. There was something special about this CityVision, and it was felt by participants and League staff the entire week. continues on page 30 “In every possible way, the League delivered its best,” said Executive Director Rose Vaughn Williams about CityVision 2024. This event has taken form as somewhere that city and town officials can feel at home. All around the Benton Convention Center, there was a friendly sense of unity. Local leaders attended CityVision for a myriad of reasons, learning, networking and fellowship are among a few of them. But all come to CityVision with one common sense of purpose: to become better leaders for their communities. This purpose is embedded across each aspect of what the League provides at CityVision. This year, the educational offerings covered a wide range of relevant topics. From generational differences to case studies in economic development, there was something for each person to learn, from all different sizes of cities and towns. With these educational offerings, the League provided Advancing Municipal Leaders (AML) program credits. The AML program is a governance education program to help municipal officials gain the knowledge and skills needed to be effective leaders. Officials who attended the conference are well on their way to earning AML certifications that will be recognized and honored at CityVision 2025. Among this year’s special guests was the National League of Cities (NLC) CEO Clarence E. Anthony. Anthony highlighted the important work that local leaders are doing in their communities. He called attention to the need for leaders to pause and recognize the importance of what they do. From Anthony’s perspective, working as CEO of the NLC, he knows that some of the hardest work really happens in the cities and towns across the United States. The NLC is celebrating 100 years of strengthening cities this year. Anthony recognized the League’s helpful role in this milestone by presenting (then) NCLM President William Harris and Executive Director Rose Vaughn Williams with a poster to commemorate the moment. As tradition, the League’s new Board of Directors was sworn in at the President’s Dinner. Durham Mayor Pro Tem Mark-Anthony Middleton was sworn in as the League’s new president. In his remarks, Middleton shared, “The North Carolina League of Municipalities is the most authoritative voice for our cities, towns and villages precisely CityVision 2024 NCLM.ORG 27
CityVision 2024 CEO of the National League of Cities, Clarence Anthony SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 28
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because we focus on what local leaders always focus on—results. I will be a president that leverages relationships on both sides of the aisle to benefit the smallest hamlet to our most bustling city. The menu of services and benefits the League offers to our members is outstanding and I will be a brand ambassador for them from Dare to Cherokee.” Additionally, Albemarle Mayor Pro Tem Marth Sue Hall and Clayton Mayor Jody McLeod were sworn in as first and second vice presidents, respectively. FuquayVarina Commissioner Williams Harris will serve as the immediate past president. (See ‘Middleton, Hall, and McLeod to Lead NC League’ article for more information.) Finally, the Advancing Municipal Leaders awards were given out to standout partners of the League. The AML Partnership Award Winner was received by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality—Division of Water Infrastructure and the UNC School of Government. continued from page 27 continues on page 32 CityVision 2024 CityVision 2024 would not have been so remarkable without the work of the wonderful host city, Winston-Salem. Mayor Allen Joines, the city’s council, the Benton Convention Center staff and Winston-Salem volunteers went above and beyond to provide comfort, entertainment and ease at this year’s conference. SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 30
CityVision 2024 AML Award Recipient, NCDEQ AML Award Recipient, Town of Edenton AML Award Recipient, UNC School of Government NCLM.ORG 31
CityVision 2024 would not have been so remarkable without the work of the wonderful host city, Winston-Salem. Mayor Allen Joines, the city’s council, the host city committee led by Winston-Salem Assistant City Manager Ben Rowe, the Benton Convention Center staff and Winston-Salem volunteers went above and beyond to provide comfort, entertainment and ease at this year’s conference. From their exceptional social event “Bright Lights and Bites” to their numerous mobile tours exploring the city, there was no doubt their efforts are what made this year so special. And finally, the League would like to thank all of its members who attended and contributed to CityVision. Your attendance alone is what makes CityVision a place of fellowship. Your participation in sessions as speakers, panelists and audience members is what makes CityVision a place of education. Your willingness to travel and devote time to us at CityVision is what makes you an impactful and effective leader. Let’s keep the good times rolling at CityVision in Greenville, North Carolina, April 29–May 1, 2025! continued from page 30 CityVision 2024 This partnership between the League and the NCDEQ led to the creation of the Utility Management Best Practices On-Demand course where NCLM and the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Division of Water Infrastructure staff worked together to develop and produce course content that helps municipal officials meet state requirements. For many years, the NCLM and the School of Government have partnered in many areas, including the Essentials of Municipal Government course. As a result of that partnership, thousands of newly elected officials gained the foundational knowledge needed to start on the path to good governance and effective municipal leadership. The Town of Edenton received the AML Learning Culture of the Year Award. Edenton has developed a culture of continuing education that permeates across all municipal departments. In 2023, they hosted the League for multiple trainings, and members of the Edenton town staff attended numerous other League courses. Additionally, they are working with the League to schedule further training in 2024. Their commitment to professional development has not just improved their own abilities, but has benefited the AML program as a whole. The North Carolina League of Municipalities is the most authoritative voice for our cities, towns and villages precisely because we focus on what local leaders always focus on— results. I will be a president that leverages relationships on both sides of the aisle to benefit the smallest hamlet to our most bustling city. The menu of services and benefits the League offers to our members is outstanding and I will be a brand ambassador for them from Dare to Cherokee. » Mark-Anthony Middleton, NCLM President SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 2 2024 32
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