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15 <br /> Page 2 of 2 Thomas Grasty <br /> market dynamics, and the real-world impacts of planning decisions on housing supply, <br /> affordability, and community character. <br /> Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board <br /> Since 2017, 1 have served as a two-term member of the Chapel Hill Board of Adjustment. <br /> During that time, I have heard dozens of variance cases regarding the Chapel Hill Land Use <br /> Management Ordinance. As a member of that quasi-judicial body I've not only gained <br /> significant subject matter knowledge on land use management, I've developed quite an interest <br /> in the interpretation and development of policy around the town's land development programs <br /> and strategies. My primary interest in joining the Orange County Planning Board is to obtain a <br /> broader perspective beyond the "stone walls" of Chapel Hill. <br /> How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? <br /> During my five years on the Chapel Hill Board of Adjustment I have been exposed to, and am <br /> acutely aware of, many of the topics I believe will come before the Orange County Planning <br /> Board (appropriate and acceptable land use strategies, environmental protection, affordable <br /> housing, economic development as well as addressing and servicing the "missing middle"). I <br /> view my appointment to the Planning Board as a way to continue developing an informed point <br /> of view that can impact the broader conversation across the county. <br /> Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest <br /> (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? <br /> Boards/Commissions appointments: <br /> Affordable Housing Advisory Board <br /> Application Date: 1/11/2024 <br /> Background, education and experience relevant to this board: <br /> University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill BA in Mass Communications & Journalism, 1986- <br /> 1990 IESE Business School-Paley Center Advanced Management Program AMP in Media, <br /> 2011 University of Southern California MA in Communications Management, 2009 Phillips <br /> Reasons for wanting to serve on this board: <br /> As a current member of the OCHAR (Orange Chatham Association of Realtors) Government <br /> Affairs Committee, I can attest that affordable housing has emerged as one of the most <br /> pressing issues facing homeowners in Orange and Chatham counties. I would very muc <br /> Conflict of Interest: <br /> Other Comments: <br /> This application was current on: 1/22/2026 10:13:58 AM Date Printed: 1/28/2026 <br />