Marshall Williams Jr., candidate for Durham mayor, takes your questions

A pivotal election is underway in Durham, with voters choosing a new mayor and filling three City Council seats this fall.

There are eight people competing for mayor.

Early voting in the primary runs through Oct. 7 and Primary Day is Oct. 10.

The top two mayoral candidates will proceed to the general election in November, and the winner will have a two-year term.

We collected questions from residents across Durham to help readers get to know the candidates.

Marshall Williams Jr.

Name: Marshall Williams Jr.

Age: 35

Occupation: Cisco Sales Leader, City of Durham Workforce Development Board, Preservation Durham Board

Website: marshallwilliamsjr.com

Are we paying people competitively and keeping our promises to our workers?

- East Durham resident Aidil Ortiz

Hi Aidil!

No, we are not paying people competitively or keeping our promises to workers. Congress protects itself against inflation, while citizens need those same protections in this ever-changing economy. We promised competitive pay; it’s unfair and unequal compared to neighboring jurisdictions.

Do you have any experience that helps you understand development in Durham? How do you plan to get more affordable units in the city?

- Planning commissioner Zuri Williams

Hi Zuri!

Yes, I’ve worked on the Forever Home plan and am aware of the 20% population growth since 2010 but only 14,000 added housing units, causing increased prices. As a mayor, I’ll examine developer contracts to ensure deals are meeting the city’s needs, including for equitable development. With the shortage, we need at least 5,000 affordable units in five years with 30-year protections, around 10% to 15% of new units, to help affordability.

As Durham grows more dense, how do we get away from the classic American model of car-oriented development? Are there any policies that you support that can keep us from becoming another Atlanta or Dallas?

- Downtown resident Nirav Patel

Hi Nirav!

I’ve lived in cities with multimodal access — bikes, sidewalks, and rail. Currently our budget focuses 90% on cars; I’ll fight for parity and innovation to modernize access. Atlanta thrives but relies too much on cars. We need bus lanes, bike lanes, sidewalks, inclusive bus stops, and rail investment to reduce our climate impact.

What policies do you support for implementing safer streets and reducing car dependency locally and regionally?

- Stadium Heights resident Nick Roberts

Hi Nick!

Durham has only 1.8 miles of rail per square mile, far below leading cities. 30% of roads lack sidewalks, and 1 in 10 lack car access. I support expanding light rail to RTP and frequent circulator routes linking all neighborhoods. Transportation planning must put people first — not cars. Walkable neighborhoods, bike networks, and efficient transit will guide mobility improvements.

What will you do to support the mental health needs of everyday Durham residents, especially thousands of young people in our public school systems?

- Hillside High School senior Isaiah Palmer

Hi Isaiah!

Durham’s adult frequent mental distress rate is 18.9% vs 14.2% statewide, and youth suicide is 50% higher, indicating greater needs. Partnerships with mentors, mental health professionals, and creative mental-health events/engagements, can make life more comfortable and provide an outlet to stem violence. With my psychology background, I’ll promote innovative programs, ensure counseling access, implement trauma-informed training, and destigmatize mental health care. My experience helping youth visualize success can promote sound mental health.

In your vision for the city, what role does public education play and how does that connect to economic development, public safety and community health?

- Fayetteville Street corridor resident Erika Wilkins

Hi Erika!

Education enables safety, growth, and health. We must explore applied learning to prepare youth as AI advances. COVID requires evolving schools. In Durham, just 78% of students graduate high school in four years, below the state average of 86%. This opportunity gap shows our education system needs urgent improvements to serve all students. As mayor, I’ll prioritize equitable funding, diverse curriculums, and access to technology and trade skills that set up every child for success.

On the subject of alleged Clean Water Act violations in Falls Lake and its tributaries: How did we get here and who should be held responsible? Who is going to pay for the creek restoration and environmental damage?

- Southeast Durham resident Pam Andrews

Hi Pam,

A lack of oversight and leadership led us here. I’ll advocate for responsible development centered on people and environment first. The Clean Water Act violations clearly show standards were not met. As mayor, I’ll demand accountability, require environmental impact studies, and only approve projects that protect Durham’s natural resources. We must safeguard our shared water and air for future generations. I’ll push for policies that balance growth and conservation, guided by science-based evidence.

How have you seen Durham evolve in your time here and what’s one thing you’ll have the power to change if elected?

- The News & Observer

Hi Mary!

As a native Durmite, I’ve seen downtown transform while some culture and locals feel forgotten. Though only one vote, the mayor is a uniter and catalyst. My diverse background in psychology and proven leadership experience can promote unity. I’ll ensure natives feel represented amid growth. And I’ll catalyze equitable policies that uplift all Durhamites — not just corporations. My vision is community-centered — bridging divides to conquer challenges together. This coalition-builder approach will move Durham forward.

To find polling places and full details on voting, visit the Board of Elections at dcovotes.com or 919-560-0700.