Wes Platt

office hours

Office Hours March 2, 2026: Dr. Kelvin Bullock, Maureen Joy Charter School

In his first month, Dr. Bullock talks mission, momentum, and bridging divides between charters and traditional public schools.

durham

"Grandfathered" Uses: What Can Stay, Expand, Rebuild, or Change

When nonconforming uses, lots, and structures can continue, and when they can’t.

Games

[WordroW] Discuss - March 2, 2026

A daily, hyper-local word/phrase challenge pulled from recent Southpoint Access coverage.

durham

Unified Development Ordinance Glossary

Plain-English definitions for the zoning terms you’ll see in Durham notices, staff reports, and neighborhood meetings.

durham

Height, Setbacks, Density: Rules That Decide Building Size and Shape

Why two nearby lots can have totally different outcomes.

Southpoint Access

Ask Wes Platt Anything (Paid Subscriber Opportunity)

Ask me anything: Durham, the newsletter, and the occasional hill I’ll die on.

durham

Housing Types in Durham: ADUs, Duplexes, Townhouses, and More

More housing doesn’t always mean big apartments - here are the in-between options Durham regulates.

Games

[WordroW] Attention Grabber - Feb. 28, 2026

A daily, hyper-local word/phrase challenge pulled from recent Southpoint Access coverage.

sodu week in review

U.S., Israel Begin Strikes on Tehran

The attacks, which appear to target leadership sites with regime change as a motive, do not have Congressional authorization.

office hours

Office Hours Feb. 27, 2026: When A First Name Becomes A Flashpoint

In a district where history, power, and race shape how moments land, clear, mutual norms around respect matter - especially when the work is about schools.

durham

Buffers and Landscaping: What Separates New Developments from Homes?

What Durham requires between new development and existing homes — from boundary buffers to screening and street trees.

durham public schools

Durham Families Face Higher Afterschool Tuition Ahead

The Durham Public Schools Board of Education on Thursday voted 5-2 to increase tuition for afterschool and intersession camps by 50% - the first hike in 10 years.