Phyllis Portie-Ascott is on a mission. Since her appointment to the Orange County Board of Commissioners in February 2023, she’s dedicated herself to tackling some of the county’s most pressing issues. As she vies for her first full term in the upcoming elections, her commitment to housing, health, and business development shines through.
A Dedicated Leader in Orange County
Portie-Ascott is not just a politician; she’s a community leader with deep roots in the area. As a real estate investor since 1997 and founder of PPA Properties in 2009, she brings valuable experience to the table. Her involvement extends to various organisations, including the Orange County Democratic Party and the Northern Orange Black Voters Alliance.
Living in Hillsborough herself, Portie-Ascott understands the unique challenges residents face. “I haven’t taken anything for granted,” she asserts, demonstrating her determination to serve the community well.
Priorities That Matter
When asked about her top priorities, Portie-Ascott points to three critical areas:
- Addressing the Housing Crisis
- Enhancing Mental and Behavioural Health Services
- Focusing on Workforce Development
Each of these priorities aims to build a stronger, more vibrant community in Orange County.
Tackling the Housing Crisis Head-On
Portie-Ascott knows that affordable housing is a pressing concern for many residents. She advocates for:
- Increased tenant-based assistance for those facing eviction.
- A downpayment assistance program for county employees using state and federal dollars.
She believes these initiatives can make homeownership more attainable for those who work in the county but struggle to live there.
Engaging with the Community
Listening to community voices is key for Portie-Ascott. She emphasises the importance of working with:
- Nonprofit and for-profit developers
- Stakeholders in the housing market
“Let’s have real conversations,” she says, stressing the need for collaboration to streamline processes and reduce costs in homebuilding.
Supporting Mental and Behavioural Health
Portie-Ascott recognises that mental health services are vital for a thriving community. She plans to advocate for:
- Expanded access to mental health resources
- Collaborations with local organisations to enhance service delivery
By addressing these critical health issues, she hopes to foster a healthier community overall.
Workforce Development: Creating Opportunities
A strong workforce is essential for local growth. Portie-Ascott’s vision includes supporting initiatives like:
- Innovate Carolina in southern Orange
- The Piedmont Food Processing Center, which serves as a business incubator
Her goal is to help residents develop sustainable work opportunities, even if they choose not to pursue a four-year university degree.
Education: A Crucial Concern
Education funding in North Carolina faces significant challenges. Portie-Ascott attributes the crisis to the General Assembly’s lack of support for public schools. She firmly believes that voters need to elect candidates committed to strengthening public education.
“We are committed to making sure that we have the best public schools possible,” she states, highlighting the recent $300 million school bond proposal as evidence of this commitment.
Affordable Housing Initiatives: The Greene Tract
The Greene Tract in Chapel Hill, a potential site for housing development, is a focus for Portie-Ascott. She advocates for:
- Ensuring that a portion of the housing developed is affordable.
- Ongoing financial analysis to determine the feasibility of affordable housing projects.
“Let’s have the conversation with Chapel Hill and Carrboro if we find we cannot provide affordable options,” she suggests.
Navigating Tax Concerns
Portie-Ascott understands residents’ concerns about property taxes, especially among older populations. She states that while she doesn’t have a specific maximum tax rate in mind, she believes in evaluating each budget year individually.
“I would consider a tax cut in the future if our budget allows for it while maintaining the essential services our community relies on,” she adds.
A Vision for the Future
As Portie-Ascott campaigns for her first full term, she remains focused on her commitment to the residents of Orange County. Her collaborative approach and dedication to addressing crucial issues such as housing, health, and business development position her as a strong candidate for continued leadership.
“I’m not taking anything for granted,” she concludes. Her proactive stance and clear priorities reflect her desire to make Orange County a better place for all.
