Nat Robertson’s Carolina Cabinet podcast recently included guests Jim Arp and Bobby Hurst. The two Republicans are members of the “Vote Yes Fayetteville” movement. The group is pushing a referendum to add “at-large” seats to the Fayetteville City Council:
Arp and Hurst stayed on message. They argued at-large seats would give voters greater choice, increase turnout in municipal elections, and create accountability in city government. They also pointed out that council members would be more likely to make decisions that benefit the city as a whole, not just their particular “ward.”
It sounded a lot like a post I wrote in 2019:
Get Off the Market House!
Most importantly, Arp and Hurst did not make the issue about race, crime, or the Market House riots. This was a refreshing change. Former Mayor Tony Chavonne, also a member of “Vote Yes Fayetteville” keeps bringing up crime and the Market House every time he discusses the issue. While I’m sure this inspires him personally, it is stupid politics. It galvanizes opposition and further divides the city.
In the end, this is an issue that should transcend partisan and racial politics. Remember what we’re voting for. If we keep Fayetteville first, we can’t really go wrong.
Cross Creek Divide 
I will preface these comments by saying that I do agree with Arp and Hurst about the need for at large districts. The major issue I have with it, however, is the question of why now? Why didn’t we do this when they were on the city council? I’ve heard the argument that it was tried, but trying is not doing. It just seems like increasing voter turnout is their justification for pushing it, but are they saying voter turnout was great ten years ago? It’s just the appearance of other factors being at play is what’s divisive about this issue.
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