Thank you, Chapel Hill

Dear friends,

I have made the difficult decision to step down from the Chapel Hill Town Council, effective June 27th. This decision comes after deep reflection and with immense gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community that has shaped me. I feel both sad and proud as my service on the Council comes to a slightly premature end.

Over nearly eight years of service, ​I have come into closer relationships with so many of the caring and engaged residents of Chapel Hill and gotten to know the community in ways I never imagined. I have had the opportunity to play a role in important milestones such as approving $25 million in affordable housing bonds, passing a comprehensive non-discrimination ordinance protecting LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination, and adopting Chapel Hill's first Climate Action and Response Plan.

You may be wondering why I am leaving before my term ends in December. My family has moved forward with plans to live in Carrboro in a home we have owned and rented out for a while. Based on the legal counsel I sought, I thought there was a clear path for me to finish my term during this time of transition. I have since learned that there is gray area in this area of law, and I do not want to create any potential for distractions or be a source of concern for the Town I have called home for most of my life.

I like to finish what I start and I admit it feels bad to leave even a minute before my term expires. As a practical matter though, the Council is heading into summer break and then the election season will be upon us once again and the bulk of my work is definitely behind me.

What I really want to say to you is thank you. Thank you for placing your trust in me to serve Chapel Hill. It has been at once the most challenging and rewarding role I have undertaken. Truly, it has been an honor.