In August 1987 the City of Durham forced the annexation of Ardmore Drive from Durham County. As an agreement for the annexation the City of Durham would provide Ardmore drive with City Water, Sewer, and street paving. As of April 2023, the City of Durham has yet to fulfill their obligation to these residents. The majority of Ardmore Drive residents are minority property owners who continue to contribute to the City of Durham through property tax, even though their needs as city residents have been ignored. 

In 2020 Ardmore Drive residents gathered together to petition city council to have city water, fire hydrants, and street paving added to their street hoping that the City of Durham would contribute a portion of the cost. The residents also included in their petition that they would pay whatever the cost. The City Council including then mayor Steve Schewel voted to deny this petition and these residents of Durham because of the estimated fee structure. In 2022 Ardmore Drive residents petitioned again, this time agreeing to pay for the whole project. While the 2022 petition was approved, City Staff continues to delay when the project will be completed. Funds were allocated for the FY22-23 budget, but when questioned City Staff has said the project will not be complete until 2027, 40 years after annexation. 

The City of Durham has seen significant growth over the last 20 years. Current Mayor Elaine O'Neal is vocal about the City of Durham providing equity for all residents, but the City of Durham has forgotten loyal residents who saw annexation in 1987 as a benefit to their lives and their families. We are requesting signatures to require the City of Durham to make paving Ardmore Drive a top priority and fulfill its obligations to longtime residents by providing city water, fire hydrants, and street paving.