Durham mayor outlines plan for fighting crime, providing economic opportunities at onset of term

Leonardo Williams was elected to the seat in November 2023, and he's been on City Council since 2021.

Mayor Williams spoke in front of a group in City Council chambers.

Williams said he will establish industry-specific advisory councils on economic development, housing, the environment and innovation in the coming weeks.

He told the group he believes Durham needs to bridge the gap between the opportunities here and the access residents have to them.

"We are going to be unapologetically aggressive," Williams said. "We know our needs in the city. We know our city workers are in line for higher pay. We have a pay study coming forth very soon."

When asked about his plan for crime in the city, he said he's focused on root causes, such as housing security and access to jobs.

Williams said he wants to make sure the many mentoring groups in the city are working together.

He also says he's focused on making Durham the most progressive city in North Carolina in public safety.