The Durham County Board of Commissioners officially welcomed its newest members during an emotional swearing-in ceremony Monday morning. With a packed meeting room of family, friends, and local leaders, three new commissioners—Michelle Burton, Stephen Valentine, and Mike Lee—joined incumbents Nida Allam and Wendy Jacobs in pledging their commitment to serve the community.
Nida Allam, re-elected as chair, continues to make history as the first Muslim woman elected to public office in North Carolina. Mike Lee, who brings a wealth of experience from his time on the Durham Public Schools Board, was unanimously elected vice chair. Together, they aim to guide the board through challenges and opportunities, fostering collaboration among its members.
Wendy Jacobs, now the board’s senior commissioner, reflected on her 12 years of service and the lessons learned during tumultuous times, including the pandemic and leadership transitions. “I will continue to strive to be the best leader that I can be for the people of Durham,” Jacobs said, her voice thick with emotion. Jacobs emphasized the importance of solidarity, particularly given federal uncertainties. “This fight may be harder in the days ahead, but here in Durham, we are up to the challenge,” she said, reinforcing her dedication to the community.
However, Jacobs’ tenure has not been without challenges, including a strained relationship with outgoing commissioner Brenda Howerton. Their differences became apparent during pivotal moments, such as the December 2020 board vote for vice chair, where Jacobs was elected over Nimasheena Burns, a candidate supported by Howerton. This division underscored tensions within the board, further compounded by disagreements over initiatives like a 2021 proposal to hire a Black-owned consulting firm for racial equity training. Jacobs’ objections led to the proposal’s rejection, drawing criticism from local organizations and highlighting the friction between her and Howerton. These disputes have cast a shadow on the board’s cohesion in recent years, leaving behind a complicated legacy for incoming commissioners to navigate.
Stephen Valentine, a U.S. Army veteran and social worker, pledged to focus on combating gun violence and improving health services. “I still believe that government is a vehicle for positive change when we put people first,” Valentine said passionately. Michelle Burton, a career educator and advocate for public schools, vowed to address housing affordability and mental health challenges while continuing to push back against state policies she believes undermine public education. “As Durhamites, we have always come together to solve complex issues,” Burton said with optimism.
Mike Lee, who shared his recent battle with prostate cancer, took the opportunity to advocate for awareness and testing. “I want Durham to be the most PSA-tested county in the nation,” Lee declared, highlighting his determination to combine personal and public advocacy.
In her remarks, Allam paid tribute to the late Deah Barakat, Yusor Abu-Salha, and Razan Abu-Salha, three Muslim students whose tragic murders in 2015 inspired her public service. “Their legacy is a constant reminder of what it means to be a proud Muslim American,” she said, holding her young daughter in her lap. Allam encouraged the incoming commissioners to embrace the “family” culture of Durham County’s government, emphasizing collaboration and support among its members and staff.
As the board looks ahead, issues like education funding, affordable housing, and community health remain at the forefront. With the addition of Burton, Valentine, and Lee, the board brings fresh perspectives to tackle Durham’s most pressing challenges. The new commissioners join a legacy of public service in Durham, carrying forward a tradition of leadership while bringing their own unique visions to the table. As the county prepares for the year ahead, residents can expect a renewed focus on community-driven solutions and collaboration.
The board’s final meeting of the year will take place on December 9, after which it will break until January. The Bull City Citizen will continue to follow the board’s progress in shaping Durham’s future.
