Local Drivers Q&A: Wake County Commissioner Safiyah Jackson

Local Drivers: The People Shaping Western Wake shares behind-the-scenes insights from local leaders in Cary, Apex, Morrisville, and Holly Springs. 

These short interviews from The Line share more about the people behind the headlines and what’s on the minds of the local folks making things happen. 

Next up is Safiyah Jackson, Wake County Commissioner for District 2.

Our first two Q&As were with Cary Chamber CEO Mark Lawson and Apex Mayor Jacques Gilbert. 

Responses have been lightly edited for space and style.

Q: What does this role actually mean?

Jackson: In Wake County, District Commissioners represent 2.1M N.C. residents. We provide governance and oversight to county government with a $2.28B budget, and over 5,000 staff. 

Our primary role is to approve the county budget to fund critical infrastructure like public schools and emergency services, health and human services, essential community spaces like parks and libraries, as well as ensuring housing and clean water are available to every resident, regardless of ZIP code. 

We also set zoning, land use, and economic development policy. 

Q: What’s one thing you’re excited about for the future of Holly Springs and Western Wake County? 

Jackson: I’m most excited about the “third spaces” that are shaping Holly Springs. While our economic growth is vital, shared spaces are where our community truly blossoms. 

From the town’s Avent Ferry Road Festival Street Plan and the Utley Creek Greenway to county-funded improvements at the North Main Athletic Complex and Eagles Landing Park, these spaces promote the health, friendship, and well-being we all want. 

Whether we’re celebrating our 150th anniversary this summer or extensive upgrades planned for Crowder County Park, I’m always excited about investments in places where life happens. 

Q: What’s one thing you wish more people cared about in Holly Springs/Western Wake County? 

Jackson: I’d say, let’s talk about trash—the one thing we all create but rarely discuss. Since 2008, Southern Wake has shouldered the burden of our county’s waste. While we have implemented new odor-mitigation and technology to address these challenges, we are now at a historical turning point. 

We have launched the “Beyond the South Wake Landfill” study to plan our waste future beyond 2040. This is a chance for residents to design the future. I encourage everyone to track and participate in Wake County’s waste solutions. The public survey is open through Summer 2026.

Q: An underrated spot in Holly Springs/Western Wake County is… 

Jackson: For those of us in unincorporated Wake County, Holly Springs is the gem. For me, it’s the perfect destination for a day of relaxation and joy. 

My favorites: getting limber at StretchLab, and finding deep healing at Body Restoration Massage & Bodywork. 

For dinner and charm, the Pimiento Tea Room is unmatched, especially when local music fills the air. 

And, I’m always pulled toward scratch-made milkshakes from Mama Bird’s and fresh food from the weekly Holly Springs farmers market. For many across the county, the town offers everything for a weekend reset that’s just down the road. 

Q: Next on your agenda or project you’re working on? 

Jackson: Beyond fostering economic growth and opportunities, the arts are essential for public health, mental wellness, good education, and social cohesion. That is why I will continue to champion the Wake County Cultural Arts Plan as a roadmap for our collective well-being. 

We CAN match our biotech hub success with cultural destination successes. In Southern Wake and across our county, I am committed to leveraging policy and systemic coordination for the arts to drive regional growth. 

Do you have a suggestion for a community leader to feature? Email line@theassemblync.com.