It was just one line in a News and Observer article. But, as far as I can tell, it’s first time it’s been reported Mayor Meeker’s son, David, works for downtown developer. (News and Observer; 4-9-07).

Meeker’s son’s employer, Empire Properties, is “one of the largest landlords in downtown Raleigh.” (News and Observer; 7-18-04). It has partnered with the city to build ‘The Lafayette,’ a mixed use development downtown and it is working with the city to build another project around a new downtown parking deck.

Empire Properties’ projects have been promoted on the cities official website; in its “Livable Streets” newsletter and, presumably, the Mayor’s son’s employer is lobbying city employees for building permits, zoning approvals, plan approvals and so on.

At first glance this certainly appears to be a conflict of interest. Has Empire Properties received special treatment such as expedited reviews from the city? Do any of the downtown businesses the Mayor has subsidized – with tax money – rent from Empire Properties? Does Empire Properties own any of those businesses?

Has the Mayor voted in favor of Empire Properties projects at City Council meetings? Or in committee hearings? Has he encouraged other Council members to vote for those projects? Has he ever recused himself from a vote? Has he ever disclosed his conflict of interest? Has he invested in any of the projects his son has developed?

The Mayor runs the City Council with an iron hand. But one should. And the mayor should answer them candidly and it’s going to be tough for a Council Member to ask him questions.

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