Raleigh City Council Races Shape Up: Crowder and Van Dyk

Donkey Duel

May, 28, 2009 , by Khaner

District D heats up with contested primary

It’s not often an incumbent faces opposition within their party. That’s why when Ted Van Dyk declared his candidacy for Thomas Crowder’s seat – Raleigh City Council District D – the announcement created some buzz.

At first glance it’s hard to tell the two apart. One is a white, male, Democrat architect…the other a white, male, Democrat, architect. However beyond those characteristics, Crowder and Van Dyk differ greatly with varying viewpoints on handling Raleigh’s growth. New Raleigh caught up with both candidates last week over the phone and at Foundation.

Van Dyk has been quick to differentiate himself from Crowder by criticizing his votes on parking deck and apartment building proposals for Glenwood South and Hillsborough St. and a rezoning request at Cameron Village that would have allowed for taller buildings. Facts he mentioned during his conversation with New Raleigh.

“We should have a system that works towards building a consensus which benefits the entire community,” said Van Dyk. “We need broader thinking, vision and planning rather than just concentrating on potholes.”

Crowder defended his voting record, stating those plans weren’t right for his district. “This isn’t my vision we’re talking about here, it’s District D’s.”

This ‘pro-neighborhood’ slant has earned Crowder a reputation as a dogged supporter of local residents, historic developments and holding the business community to paying its share for growth. Indeed Crowder has typically been one of the few vocal supporters of raising impact fees, a measure he views which will encourage developers to pick downtown when considering new developments.

On mass transit, both candidates support the current ‘Transit Bill’ in the NC Legislature which would raise local sales by a 1/2 cent specifically for light rail.

Van Dyk added that he felt the city also needs to increase its bus service, citing a recent study that showed Raleigh needs to quadruple the number of buses it runs.

On light rail, both see a potential line running near Dix Hospital – an issue where both candidates disagree on the potential uses for. According to campaign literature, Van Dyk supports turning only a portion of Dix Campus into a park, reserving other sections for mental health.

“I am committed to conserving all 306 acres for a park,” commented Crowder. “We have a historic opportunity there.”

Overall both candidates support dense pedestrian projects, with a focus on downtown and surrounding areas. While Van Dyk supports projects brought by a seemingly faster-paced growth, Crowder backs the same ideals, but not at the expense of local communities, opting instead for a more measured approach.

Whether you support one type of growth and planning over the other – be sure to voice your opinion during Raleigh’s 2009 municipal elections. For more information on candidate filing information, register to vote or check your voter registration status, visit http://www.wakegov.com/elections/default.htm.