Mr Hughes, I can't tell you how many times I have heard a candidate claim that he or she "wants to build bridges," and "abandon the divisive politics of the past." Sometimes the ploy even works.

Mr. Bocckino, You have effectively eluded my request to meet and discuss our differences on this project. I have attempted to reach out and begin the process of working constructively to find a resolution that is best for all of Durham. I cannot and will not engage in confrontational debate on this or any other issue for that matter. Nor will I resort to the usage of sarcastic rhetoric as a means of addressing our differences. If you change your mind and are willing to let go of the divisive politics of the past- politics that sees lines drawn in the sand with both parties not willing to budge- then contact me and we can move forward with the business of working toward a better Durham. Thanks, Donald A. Hughes Candidate Durham City Council- Ward 1 P.O. Box 52598 Durham, NC 27717

You spoke in favor of moving the boundary of Jordan Lake and your defense was that it wouldn't hurt YOUR drinking water. That kind of logic could win you a position at K&L Gates if you play your cards right. The site plan and the particulars of the development have no bearing on where the boundaries of Jordan Lake should be. The recent survey commissioned by the Haw River assembly shows that the true boundary is far upstream from where the developers say that it is. The HRA survey is in close agreement with the recent LIDAR survey.

Mr. Bocckino, My comment wasn't that I don't care about the water quality at Jordan Lake. The point that I was making (which may have been unclear) is that to state that this project would pollute Jordan Lake and harm drinking water without any data to substantiate that claim was unfair. Also, because no site plan had been submitted, there weren't any details (in terms of materials to be used) to base that threat to water quality claim. Again, I would love to have a sit-down conversation with you to exchange ideas. It seems that you are very passionate about this issue and could advise me on this matter and others. I do not profess to know all there is to know on this matter and have based my understanding on my personal education, philosophies and interactions. I hope that you take me up on my offer and begin the process of bridge building to gain understand into Durham’s most challenging issues. Thanks, Donald A. Hughes

So ... it was someone else's drinking water, it would be OK? You are vying for the Lewis Cheek environmental integrity award.

I know that my stance on the controversial Project 751 may alienate a group of salient citizens here in Durham that are opposed to the project. Under no uncertain terms have I been or will ever be a pawn/puppet for developers. In fact, as noted on the Bull City Rising blog (Fayetteville/751 project map change goes back to public hearings after crucial 3-2 BOCC vote) a few months back, I am quoted making this very point- "I would not stand up here and support any project that would cause my drinking water to be harmed," Hughes said, noting later that the real question was what the developers would do to ensure that there was no impact to stormwater." My stance on the issue is based on my economics background and my weighing of all of the costs versus all of the benefits of this particular project. It is my contention that every member of this community (environmentalist, students, developers, small businesses etc.) should be entitled to a fair process irrespective to my personal stance on the issue. At the end of the day, when a decision is made on the Jordan Lake boundary, a site plan must be submitted and approved (or denied). At that time, we will see specific site plans and be able to analyze the specific impact that this development will have on our natural environment. I would love to sit down with you Mr. Bocckino to discuss this particular project along with your general ideas on development here in Durham. Feel free to contact me via email at hughes4durham@gmail.com or (347) 820-5484. Thanks, Donald A. Hughes Candidate Durham City Council-Ward 1 P.O. Box 52598 Durham, NC 27717

Donald Hughes is only 22, yet already is standing up for the oppressed developers. He'll go far!