Policies
The Issues Carla Will Champion
Improved Public Safety & First Responder Support
Guilford violent crime rate has risen sharply over the last decade, with 2,499 violent crimes reported in 2023—an 88.9% increase from 2014. Homicides alone have tripled since 2014. Carla supports fully staffing the Guilford Police Department while implementing community-focused public safety policies.
Her plans include:
- Expanding mental health and drug crisis intervention partnerships
- Implementing “compassionate enforcement” strategies to help the unhoused and those battling addiction
- Supporting law enforcement with modern tools, training, and mental health resources
Modern Infrastructure & Reliable Services
Although Guilford 2024–25 budget allocated $802 million across city operations, many residents still experience inconsistent public services, aging roadways, and poor access to utilities and high-speed internet—especially in lower-income neighborhoods.
Her plans include:
- Strategic investments in road repair, public transit expansion, and traffic safety
Broadband internet expansion to support remote work, virtual learning, and small business development
Improving city services such as sanitation, stormwater management, and utility maintenance for greater efficiency and responsiveness
Smart Economic Development & Innovation
Once an industrial hub, Guilford has fallen behind Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham in job creation, income growth, and tech sector development. As of 2025, Guilford’s unemployment rate stands at 4.2%, higher than Raleigh (3.0%) and Charlotte (3.8%).
Her plans include:
- Launching a Guilford Tech Hub to attract startups and advanced manufacturers
Developing smart tax incentives to bring back middle-class jobs
Supporting local entrepreneurship in underserved areas, especially East and Southwest Guilford