Town Background
What is the population size of Old Town?
Approximately 250,000.
What is the controversial land being sold to the medical school?
Public-housing project (Graves Manor).
What was City Administrator Ford Thompson’s role in the proposed solution, and why was it controversial?
He quietly negotiated the land sale with input from an all-white advisory committee.
How could leaders have better communicated with the community?
Holding public forums, involving community leaders, having a more representative committee.
Name the three major employers in Old Town.
Federal nuclear facility, hospitals, and the military base.
Why was the medical school thinking of leaving Old Town?
It needed land to expand and was considering relocating near the states Flagship University.
What was the proposed trade-off in the plan to keep the medical school in town?
Sacrificing public housing land for economic and educational gain.
What leadership lesson is shown by the backlash Thompson faced after quietly negotiating the housing sale?
Transparency is essential to building public trust and making equitable decisions.
Why is the medical school considered a major asset to Old Town?
It attracts high-paid professionals, creates many jobs, and supports the local healthcare system.
What did Dave's email say could be a benefit of relocating the housing project?
It might lead to a white majority on the commission.
What would have been a key challenge in relocating housing project residents?
Finding adequate, affordable housing for displaced residents without worsening inequality & getting public approval.
What does Thompson’s decision to prioritize economic growth over housing stability reveal about leadership in public service?
Leaders must balance economic development with social equity.