A visual reminder that dense, walkable development generates far more long-term value per acre than low-yield sprawl. This is central to any Wake Forest revenue-positive growth strategy. A Wake Forest revenue-positive growth strategy is essential for our future. In this series, we have diagnosed the core challenges of our new small-city status (Part 1). Weâve […]
A symbolic visualization of town governance evolving from misalignment to seamless efficiency. As gears shift into sync, a radiant overlay represents the emergence of clarity, data-driven decision-making, and smart management. The Wake Forest small-city operating model needs an upgrade. This brings us to the final, crucial piece of the puzzle. We can have the best
Photo of Camp Pepper in Gelan District. Formerly known as FOB Warrior, the base was closed, and all that was left was the SF base that I called home for 6 months in 2014. Photo Courtesy Tom Baker IV The news hit me with the numbers first. But now I have the names. Specialist Sarah
This powerful visual illustrates the true cost of neglected infrastructure. Weâve discussed budgets and revenue, but the most visible challenge for residents is often our infrastructure. We all see it: more congestion on critical roads â a symptom of the Wake Forest infrastructure cliff fix-it-first advocates warn about, more wear and tear on our pavement,
When institutions & the community work together, resources flow into a common well, benefiting everyone & strengthening the town. Itâs about mutual benefit & shared responsibility, ensuring a just and equal contribution to our collective future. A Wake Forest PILOT SEBTS fair share partnership could transform local revenue. As we search for a more balanced
They say all politics is local. I would argue that local politics is the only politics that genuinely mattersâand that Wake Forest stewardship of our community should be every citizen’s priority. Washington, D.C., does not decide if a road is paved through your backyard. The President does not determine if your town retains its charm
My family has been on this continent for 12 generations. We were here before Wake Forest was a town, before North Carolina was a state, and before the United States was a country. My ancestors funded militias. They were statesmen, educators, and business owners. And when a tyrannical King across the ocean tried to dictate
The choices we make about growth profoundly shape our communityâs future. This visual illustrates the two distinct paths Wake Forest faces: one of thoughtful, integrated âSmart Growth Planningâ that leads to fiscal balance and a thriving town, and another of uncoordinated development that often leaves us with sprawling, inefficient outcomes. Which path will we choose?
The Kingâs Men Return: From 1775 to 2025 (generated using AI, Gemini Pro 3.0) Itâs almost 11 pm as I start writing this on Wednesday, November 19, and I am sitting in my living room in Wake Forest, the lights dimmed, watching the first episode of the new Ken Burns documentary, The American Revolution. On
With federal immigration agents reportedly deploying to Raleigh, our townâs network of Flock Safety ALPR cameras takes on a chilling new significance. Tonight, the INDY Week reported that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents are set to deploy to the Triangle tomorrow (November 18). This isnât just a âRaleigh story.â It has profound, immediate
Democracy is not a spectator sport. These intersecting lines represent the complex issues facing Wake Forestâgrowth, finances, and our townâs character. The Nov. 18 Board of Commissioners meeting is where your voice can become action. Get informed on the key agenda items and learn how to participate. When the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners convenes
A quiet crisis beneath the surface â subtle cracks in the foundation hint at a deeper financial erosion, as money drains away unnoticed. The Wake Forest structural deficit hidden budget crisis is growing. In our last piece, we explored the intense pressure on housing and the property tax paradox facing Wake Forest homeowners. But that
Honor, courage, and commitment matter more than team colors. Politics fan club civic engagement accountability â these words frame a critical question in our local discourse. A recent online exchange reminded me how easily our political culture slips into the intellectual equivalent of fast food: quick, salty, filling, and absolutely devoid of substance. Someone accused
The clock is ticking on our townsâ demographic future. Urgent action and strategic planning, looking decades ahead, are critical to avert a crisis A stunning new report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) just confirmed what we all feel in our bones: the housing market is fundamentally broken. According to the just-released 2025 Profile
The Wake Forest board vacancy appointment process is underway. When Commissioner Ben Clapsaddle won the mayorâs race in November, Wake Forest didnât just gain a new mayor. It suddenly faced a Wake Forest board vacancy appointment question that goes deeper than any one vote: How do we fill the vacancy he leaves behind in a
Wake Forest Matters — Independent local journalism for Wake Forest, NC
✉ Subscribe on Substack Facebook Send a Tip Advertise Newsletter