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It’s been 15 years since North Carolina last passed a general obligation bond to upgrade the state’s infrastructure. During that time, the population grew by more than 2 million.
 
On March 15, 2016, the primary ballot will include a $2 billion bond referendum—known as Connect NC. The bonds will benefit 76 counties and include significant funding for the:

•  UNC System (49 percent or $980 million)
• North Carolina Community College System (17 percent or $350 million)
• Other investments for water/sewer and local parks, the National Guard and public safety, agriculture, and parks and the North Carolina Zoo

The bond language allows the state to pay for 50-year assets with 20-year financing, and does not require any tax increases for residents. It received bi-partisan support in both the House and Senate and is supported by Gov. Pat McCrory and his administration.

The Chamber’s Executive Committee recently passed a resolution in support of this bond. 

To learn more, click here to visit the official Connect NC campaign website.

The 32nd class of Leadership Raleigh is officially kicking off the start of the program year at an opening retreat at The Graylyn Estate in Winston-Salem this week.
 
Following the retreat, class members will participate in monthly educational sessions designed to give them an insider’s view of community issues. During the nine-month program, they’ll develop leadership skills necessary to assume leadership roles and be exposed to community involvement opportunities. 
 
Leadership Raleigh has been described as “life-altering” and “eye-opening.” But don’t take our word for it. Hear what some program alumni have to say about their experiences:
 
Lasting Relationships
Leadership Raleigh provided me an exceptional opportunity to interact and build lasting relationships with business and nonprofit leaders. In Leadership Raleigh, I gained an in-depth understanding of issues facing our community though dynamic presentations and tours.  Leadership Raleigh has put me in a great position to contribute to Raleigh's future.
~Ashley Perkinson, LR 29, Perkinson Law Firm, PA
 
Continued Benefits
I entered Leadership Raleigh almost 10 years ago not knowing what to expect. The program provided a full year of truly learning what makes Raleigh such a great place to live and work as you experience areas you may never otherwise visit and hear from leaders that make a difference in our community every day.  Today, I continue to benefit from my year in Leadership Raleigh through the ongoing connections and friendships that came from our time together. 
~Jim Hansen, LR 21, PNC
 
 Unique Access and Insight
Leadership Raleigh offered me a unique opportunity to gain access and insight into critical social, economic, and governmental issues impacting our community and how we do business. The experience afforded me the opportunity to enhance how I think about and solve challenges in my business, to develop new relationships, and to identify ways to collaborate with members of different organizations to positively impact the community in which we live and work. 
~O’Hara Macken, LR 29, Ipreo
 
 A Life-altering Experience
Participating in the Leadership Raleigh program was and continues to be a life altering experience for me.  I was inspired monthly by the themes that were covered and moved to do my part to make a difference as well as inform those around me of what I had learned.  Another gem of this program was the connections made among the other professionals in my Leadership 29 class. There were professional relationships developed that otherwise would not have been possible and most importantly, friendships that I will carry with me for a lifetime. 
~Kim Battle, LR 29, Wake County Medical Society - Community Health Foundation
 
Deeply Connected
When I think back on my Leadership Raleigh experience, it is with true appreciation. Leadership Raleigh was able to open my eyes to so many amazing things happening in our city. I was also able to connect to 53 other community leaders who will forever be deeply connected through this fantastic program. Bottom line, Leadership Raleigh will allow you to deepen your roots and develop a better understanding of our community.
~Matt Strickland, LR 29, Band Together
 
Behind-the-scenes Perspective
Leadership Raleigh was an eye opening experience for me. As a participant, we had the opportunity to get the behind the scenes perspective of Raleigh and Wake County. I now have a better understanding of the issues our community faces and the opportunities it presents. I also gained new professional contacts and friendships that will last a life time.
~Rob Wright, LR 29, Newcomb and Company
 
Undoubtedly Worthwhile
Leadership Raleigh is undoubtedly one of the most worthwhile things I have done since I moved back to the area. I learned a lot about the city and expanded my network while making great friends. It’s well your time and resources!
~Charles Phaneuf, LR 28, Raleigh Little Theatre
 
 
Learn more about Leadership Raleigh here, and be on the lookout for information about the 33rd class, which will kick off next fall. It could be the professional development opportunity you’ve been waiting for!