Orange County NC Website
22 <br /> regional transit investments, Orange County is at risk of becoming increasingly isolated from the rest <br /> of the Triangle. I believe a new plan should emphasize: <br /> • Dedicated, safe, accessible and continuous multimodal corridors, including greenways <br /> • Dedicated, safe, accessible,protected and continuous bike lanes <br /> • Dedicated lanes for public transit like BRT(Bus Rapid Transit) <br /> • Frequent, reliable service in densely populated areas-headways(the amount of time between <br /> transit vehicles at one stop)of 10-12 minutes max <br /> • Enhanced regional transit connectivity through collaborative relationships <br /> • Clean, well lit, and safe stops/stations powered by solar panels <br /> • Buses, heavy rail and future alternatives must have wifi connectivity <br /> • Real-Time arrival information apps ie. Nextbus <br /> • Continue to explore "Green"technology ie. Electric buses <br /> • Marketing strategies to spread awareness and build ridership <br /> 13. How should the BOCC interact with other governments—i.e., town councils, NC General Assembly? <br /> As an elected official at the municipal and county level, 1 have had the pleasure of building <br /> relationships with many people including elected colleagues from the BOCC and the four towns <br /> (Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough, and Mebane), the two school boards, state and regional boards, <br /> Orange County boards and commissions, The Greater Chamber of Chapel Hill/Carrboro members, UNC, <br /> UNC Hospitals, UNC School of Government, and local business alliances. My philosophy for successful <br /> interaction is as follows: <br /> Coordination-Being flexible in organizing different elements of a complex issue to enable a healthy <br /> work atmosphere to balance positions. <br /> Collaboration-Building an alliance and partnering with colleagues to work cooperatively to achieve <br /> positive outcomes. <br /> Communication - The exchange of information to produce greater understanding of an issue or <br /> circumstance. <br /> We are so fortunate to live in a county where elected officials respect differences and can work <br /> through challenges for optimum outcomes.A good example of this was the Covid pandemic response. <br /> As the chair of the BOCC I was confronted with the huge task of leading our county during this <br /> unthinkable time. In 20201 received four awards for my work: <br /> WCHL Hometown Hero-nominated by the three Mayors-Lavelle, Hemminger and Weaver-for my <br /> resolute commitment in leading the response team charged with keeping the residents of Orange <br /> County informed, educated and safe. <br /> The 2020 Orange County Emergency Services Award for my involvement with the COVID-19 Response <br /> Team. This was awarded December 4th 2020 and reads- "On March 5, 2020, you were present,steady, <br /> engaged and provided invaluable leadership. While this has not been easy for any of us, you <br /> demonstrated resilience and the highest level commitment to our community and staff of Orange <br /> County. We may never be able to quantify the thousands of lives that were saved through your <br /> dedication and leadership." <br /> "The Challenge Coin presented to you by our department represents our collective appreciation for the <br /> compassion, care and unwavering dedication that has never faltered even under these stressful <br /> conditions. It is a symbol that you will always remain a part of an organization shrouded in honor, <br /> integrity, dedication, and service above self." <br /> 2020 Chair's Award For Leadership in Public-Private Partnership <br /> The Chamber has presented an annual Chair's Award for Public Private Partnership to an individual or <br /> individuals whose work and community service builds bridges between the community's public and <br />