Businessman Derrick Wallace, candidate in the race for Orange County Commission, District 6, is concerned that, with the inevitable growth and development of Parramore and surrounding areas, insufficient attention is being paid to balancing the needs of African-American residents so they stay in place to enjoy the new amenities.  Wallace, who recently spoke exclusively with West Orlando News Online said, new development and neighborhood change should be inclusive and not disproportionately impact the current residents.
“…To see Parramore being gobbled up – I think that the term is gentrified – and people being displaced without having any real concern for them and just to glibly say, ‘it’s going to be good for them,’ well it’s not good for those people,” said Wallace, who was responding to a question on the changes taking place in District 6, including the minority business district on West Church Street, downtown Orlando.
“There ought to be more communication upfront with the people whose lives will be affected….but the truth is, nobody is talking about these issues,” he added.
Wallace also said, he believes the same thing – displacement of residents – is about to happen across Orange Blossom Trail. “If there’s going to be new development of that particular property, it is my hope that there will be black involvement in the decision-making process and if they have to sell, black owners will receive a fair market price for their property,” he said.
Wallace also touched on other challenges faced by the residents of District 6, including lack of jobs and skills as well as, safety and security.
See the full interview with Derrick Wallace here.
