Primary Election on September 10, 2013

Student Candidate Guide 2013

Students surveyed all candidates for office in Election 2013. The following candidates will have a primary election on September 10, 2013. The winners of the primary, and the candidates who did not face a primary, will be included in the student guide later in the month.

Candidates included in the Student Candidate Guide (Primary Election) * The candidate did not provide the requested information.

Office Democratic Primary Libertarian Primary Republican Primary

Charlotte Mayor Patrick Cannon No primary election Edwin B. Peacock III Gary Mitchell Dunn David Michael Rice* James (Smuggie) Mitchell Lucille Puckett

Charlotte City Michael D. Barnes No primary election No primary election Council Claire Green Fallon At-Large David Howard

Scott Derek Jenkins 4 candidates will be elected Vi Alexander Lyles Beth Pickering* Nancy Wiggins

District 1 Art Cardenas No primary election No primary election Patsy Kinsey

District 2 Alvin (Al) Austin No primary election No primary election Rocky Bailey*

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Office Democratic Primary Libertarian Primary Republican Primary Brenda Stevenson* Justin J. Stewart* John H. White*

District 3 No primary election No primary election No primary election

District 4 Levester Flowers No primary election No primary election Greg Phipps Leonard Richardson III Wil Russell

District 5 John Autry* No primary election No primary election Mitchell (Aerobo Cop) Smith‐Bey*

District 6 No primary election No primary election Ken Lindholm* Kate Payerle James Peterson Kenny Smith

District 7 No primary election No primary election Ed Driggs Jay Privette Duncan Wilson*

* The candidate did not provide the requested information.

Why are only some candidates in a primary election? In a primary election, voters in each political party decide which candidates will represent the party in the general election. If a candidate does not have party opposition, there is no primary election. Some offices, such as school board and town mayors and boards, are nonpartisan – because those elections are not aligned with political parties, they do not need a primary election to decide their party’s candidates.

Return to the Student Candidate Guide online for other Election 2013 candidates, information about local government, and more. http://generationnation.org/index.php/election/candidateguide2013

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Charlotte Michael D. Barnes City Council At‐Large

Website www.barnesforcharlotte.com Email [email protected] Facebook www.facebook.com/barnesforcharlotte Twitter www.twitter.com/barnes4clt

Occupation Attorney Education Law degree Political viewpoint Moderate progressive Favorite news source Newspapers, CNN, personal experience and knowledge

Community involvement and Charlotte City Council ‐8 years leadership experience

First issue I will tackle Economic development and job creation

How I will impact… Young people I will continue to do what I have done; e.g., maintaining a strong police force to keep communities safer; implementing the Capital Improvement Plan, which contains a number of projects exciting to young people such as the Cross Charlotte Trail and improvements along the Blue Line Ext. Economy I will continue to work to bring companies like Areva, Electrolux, Husquvarna, MetLife and others to Charlotte. Community growth and/or Implementation of the CIP will provide the infrastructure we will transportation need to grow Charlotte for the next decade. Community safety I have put over 200 police oficers into our community and will continue to add officers and police divisions as necessary. Housing and During my time on the City Council, I have led efforts, like the neighborhoods creation of the Neighborhood Liaison program to work with neighborhoods to improve code enforcement. Budget As chair of the Council's budget committee, I have responsibly managed several $1.6‐$1.8 billion budgets. Most important … Role of local government Public safety Collaboration between The city council has no direct authority over CMS. One of our CMS, local and state most important efforts, however, has been to maintain school government resource officers within CMS.

Biggest accomplishment will be I don't know yet.

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Charlotte Claire Green Fallon City Council At‐Large

Website Email [email protected] Facebook [email protected] Twitter

Occupation city councilwoman Education college Political viewpoint Democrat Favorite news source Wall Street Journal

Community involvement and Founded NorthEast Coalition , Planning Commissioner, Housing leadership experience Trust C,ommission, Mayors Mentoring, Committee of‐ 21‐ State, City , County Commission on infastuture. Vice ‐ Chair, City Council Goverment Relations and Enviormental Committies Pres, member Budget and Public Safety committies H.O.A for 9 years.Member NACCP, Hispanic Democrats, Democrat Womens ORG. Trustee Blumenthal .

First issue I will tackle

How I will impact… Young people Economy Community growth and/or transportation Community safety Housing and neighborhoods Budget

Most important … Role of local government Collaboration between CMS, local and state government

Biggest accomplishment will be

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Charlotte David Howard City Council At‐Large

Website www.votedavidhoward.com Email [email protected] Facebook https://www.facebook.com/davidhowardclt Twitter @DavidHowardCLT

Occupation Vice President of Special Projects ‐ Charlotte Mecklenburg Housing Partnership Education West Charlotte High School, UNC Charlotte (Bachelor's in Sociology) Political viewpoint Democrat Favorite news source Charlotte Observer

Community involvement and Serving second term as at‐large Charlotte City Councilman, leadership experience member of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Planning Commission for six years and chair from 2007 – 2009, current co‐chair of the Transit Finance Working Group of the Metropolitan Transit Commission (MTC), chair of the City of Charlotte Transportation & Planning Committee and member of the Economic Development, Environment and Council‐Manager Relations committees. Council representative for the Charlotte‐ Mecklenburg Development Corporation and the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MUMPO). Appointed an Urban Community Advisor for the National Urban Land Institute in Washington and was selected as a 2009 American Memorial Fellow by The German Marshall Fund, which annually selects only 55 emerging leaders from across the U.S. I have been blessed with local, state and national responsibilities and the relationships that have resulted.

First issue I will tackle I will continue my work on figuring out how to finance our mass transit system. Since January, I have co‐chaired a committee of citizens that were charged with finding solutions to this issue.

How I will impact… Young people I’ve led the establishment of a City Youth Involvement Advisory Council to our Charlotte City Council. With assistance from interns researching best practices we crafted a recommended approach to creating such a program. After the help of staff, city

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council successfully funded this effort. Economy By 1) Promoting Charlotte’s global presence. 2) Expanding the research capacity/activities at UNCC, JCSU, Davidson, CPCC, JWU and others by making this a key component of our economic development strategy, and 3) through the expansion and investment in transportation/transit infrastructure to provide transportation options, assist in congestion management and spark economic development. Community growth and/or I support finishing construction of the entire system as outlined in transportation the 2030 Transit Plan as it’s critical to the region’s transportation network. We need transit options to mitigate future congestion issues. This may mean developing different parts of the system with a mixture of funding sources and financing options. Community safety I will continue my long and well‐documented support of the Charlotte‐Mecklenburg Police Department and Police Chief Rodney Monroe. Housing and We have to focus on rebuilding our tax base in areas of town that neighborhoods contribute more through infill development and redevelopment. To spur such development, the city’s role is to invest in basic infrastructure improvements such a transit, roads and sidewalks. Budget I will always work to make sure City of Charlotte operations are run as effectively and efficiently as possible. I also will work to get as many state and federal dollars as we can for local benefits.

Most important … Role of local government To provide a stable, safe and livable environment for its citizens. Collaboration between The City of Charlotte has no direct role in the education system, CMS, local and state but we do play a role in making sure students have a stable and government safe community in which to live, which directly correlates to their performance in school.

Biggest accomplishment will be Having completed a full funding strategy for the 2030 Transit Plan so we can be on our way to build it to completion, thereby improving Charlotte by creating jobs, improving our environment and attracting more people to come here to live, work and play.

Other comments I have been honored to serve this community as an elected official, and look forward to serve as a Charlotte City Council member for my third term.

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Charlotte Scott D. Jenkins City Council At‐Large

Website None Email [email protected] Facebook None Twitter None

Occupation City of Charlotte‐Stores Coordinator/Logistics MGR Education Some College Political viewpoint Moderate Favorite news source All

Community involvement and Current Charlotte City employee, Admin Staff Member for Street leadership experience Maintenance NE Division, charlotte resident Successful Army Veteran‐ Logistics Sergeant‐ Numerous classes and training, leadership development Youth Mentor, Community volunteer, Active with my childrens schools,

First issue I will tackle If elected I will listen and carry out the will of the people. I look forward to working with the Mayor and Council to the address our City’s pressing issues big and small.

How I will impact… Young people I will examine current City Youth Programs if they exist and look at what can be done to improve and or expand or even create. Summer Jobs and programs, internships, ect Economy Lower or slow the rate of tax increases for all of charlotte’s residents adjusted to current economic conditions. This will enable our city to remain affordable to attract new residents and businesses. Community growth and/or I would like to see a steady economic growth and transportation transportation plan in shorter cycles(5 to 6 years). this will enable our city to make budge adjustments based on economic conditions in real time. It will also enable us to focus on high priority needs first.Jobs/growth/improve city services Community safety As we see crime on the decline there is still work to be done to make all of our communities safe. Work with the Mayor/Council/local leaders to ask questions and seek solutions to improve on what is in place now. Be an active part of the solution process to make our communities safer.

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Housing and If elected i will work with the Mayor/Council/City Leaders to neighborhoods adress affordable housing and neighborhood improvements. I was drawn to charlotte for its affordable housing and family friendly neighborhoods. Budget I am in favor of a balanced buget for our city. I would only increase taxes to keep services to our citizens at a high level. I would also seek bond measures for major project needs and make sure we keep the public aware as to all aspects of the bond measures. What,Where,Cost,Completion,over or under budget. Smaller bond request based on current economic conditions.

Most important … Role of local government To serve and protect and enhance the lives of its citizens. Collaboration between Commuication and shared responsiblity. CMS, local and state government

Biggest accomplishment will be To have served the citizens of Charlotte and have a direct impact in solving our city's most pressing issues and problems. I believe in our city. Together we can make Charlotte at better place for us all!

Other comments

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Charlotte Vi Alexander Lyles City Council At‐Large

Website www.votevialexanderlyles.com Email [email protected] Facebook votevialexanderlyles Twitter

Occupation Consultant Education BA Queens College; MPA UNC Chapel Hill Political viewpoint Democrat Favorite news source NPR

Community involvement and Novant Healthcare; Former Assistant City Manager and Budget leadership experience Director; 2003 Charlotte Woman of the Year; American Leadership Forum; Leadership Charlotte; SC Black Hall of Fame; Former Board Member of Communities in Schools; United Way, Foundation For the Carolinas and Charlotte Chamber

First issue I will tackle Jobs: We must find ways to attract more jobs and reduce the city’s unemployment rate. Charlotte Intermodal Facility is expected to create more than 7,000 jobs in the surrounding region by 2030. If elected, I will find ways to build a stronger collaboration between the City, CMS and CPCC. This collaboration will increase access to educational programs that will provide our young people with training for today’s new jobs such as one created by the facility. How I will impact… Young people I will find ways to build a stronger collaboration between the City, CMS (Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools) and CPCC (Central Piedmont Community College). Enabling collaboration between these entities will increase access to educational programs. This will provide young people with training for the jobs of today and the future – such as the ones created by the Intermodal Facility at the Airport. I support the expansion of the Mayor's Youth Employment program with a focus on developing opportunities for exposure to the various interests for career and personal interests. Economy The investment in the City's economic development efforts are key to keeping our local economy strong. We must continue to recruit new businesses with good jobs. We must also focus on

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business retention to grow existing jobs in our community. The City must continue to invest in infrastructure ‐ transit, roads, sidewalks ‐ to attract businesses and their employees to Charlotte. Community growth and/or The blueprint for improving public transportation is already in transportation place with the 2030 transit plan. The challenge is to preserve all modes of transit specified in that plan (bus, commuter rail, light rail, street car, rapid bus, neighborhood circulator, etc.) and to dedicate additional funding to accomplish the plan, as the current ½ cent sales tax is proving to be inadequate. Public transit is transformative for people, for neighborhoods and for cities. We must find a way to implement the 2030 plan more quickly throughout Mecklenburg County. We must also be more collaborative with the State and federal governments, as they plan a key role in the public transportation infrastructure in North Carolina and around the nation. Community safety The community safety plan is a blueprint for engaging the police department and every other city service with the goal to make Charlotte a safe city. This effort includes many programs from neighborhood lighting, targeted enforcement, citizen education to victim advocacy. I support comprehensive planning and action engaging every segment of our community for community safety. Housing and I support the preservation of existing housing stock. Charlotte has neighborhoods a number of neighborhoods such as McCrory and Wesley Heights, built from the 1950s to the 1970s, that have easy access to public transportation and should be maintained as affordable housing. I supported and facilitated the new public‐private local rent subsidy program to get individuals and families into private‐ sector rental housing while building their incomes to move into permanent private‐sector housing. I also support efforts to Increase the supply of affordable housing units. I support the City’s current housing policy to increase the supply of affordable housing through the housing trust fund. This will provide housing for the homeless and align supportive services with affordable housing programs. I support the neighborhood improvement programs, code enforcement and neighborhood planning and implementation. Budget I support the investment in the city’s infrastructure through the City capital investment plan. Infrastructure is an important component of business retention and recruitment. Studies indicate business location choices are based upon a number of factors including workforce, efficiencies, utilities and quality of life. More than 75% of the general capital program is invested in transportation and local service facilities. I support the general

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fund support of the departments providing quality services to our citizens ‐ the majority of property tax funding appropriately supports police, fire and garbage services. I will work with the Mayor and City Council to improve relationships with the Governor, state legislature, neighboring municipalities and adjoining counties to look for areas that will impact the City's budget. I will seek input from business and civic leaders to help chart the financial future of Charlotte. Most important … Role of local government The most important role of local government is that which is charges by the State to cities ‐ to provide municipal services to citizens. These services should support the quality of life requested and supported by the community. Collaboration between I believe the implementation of the 2030 transit plan. Public CMS, local and state transit is transformative for people, for neighborhoods and for government cities. We must find a way to implement the 2030 plan more quickly throughout Mecklenburg County. We must also be more collaborative with the State and federal governments, as they plan a key role in the public transportation infrastructure in North Carolina and around the nation.

Biggest accomplishment will be Job growth that will allow individuals the ability to rent or buy housing and raise their family. We can impact that goal with the recruitment of companies with skilled jobs and working to train and maintain a workforce for these skilled jobs. We can impact that goal with strong education partnerships. We can impact that goal working with the State and the region.

Other comments I am running for an At‐Large City Council seat because we need leaders who can move beyond saying "no" to identifying points that we can agree upon. The reason Charlotte landed and successfully hosted the Democratic National Convention last year was a result of collaboration between elected officials working with business and community leaders. In the last year, however, division rather than compromise has governed us. I am a consensus builder who knows how to get to "yes." I will work with the Mayor and City Council to improve relationships with the Governor, state legislature, neighboring municipalities and adjoining counties. I will seek input from business and civic leaders to help chart Charlotte’s future. As former Assistant City Manager and Budget Director, I have a thorough understanding of Charlotte’s local government and it’s impact on its citizenry and businesses. I am qualified to serve and have a deep love for our City and a commitment to our success.

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Charlotte Nancy B. Wiggins City Council At‐Large

Website rally.org/ElectWiggins4cltcc This site gives inormation and is a fundraising site – you do not have to give to read it. Email [email protected] Facebook Twitter

Occupation International Busienss Consultant and Commercial Real Estate Broker, Business Owner, BIC Education Master of Arts in Political Science, University of Texas‐Arlington Political viewpoint Progressive,Democrat Favorite news source CBS Morning,The NY Times, THe Charlotte Observer, ON .line news services, BBC Community involvement and Former Charlotte‐Mecklenburg Planning Commissioner; former leadership experience Solid Waste Advisory Board Member; former Trustee, the Global Housing Foundation affiliated with the UN; President Democratic Women of Mecklenburg Co 1990; Former Member;Mayor's Committee for the Charlotte City Budget; former member, Building Bridges Committee, Foundation of the Carolinas, former Board member UCP

First issue I will tackle Did not complete How I will impact… Young people Economy Community growth and/or transportation Community safety Housing and neighborhoods Budget Most important … Role of local government Collaboration between CMS, local and state government Biggest accomplishment will be Other comments

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Charlotte Art Cardenas City Council District 1

Website artcitycouncil.blogspot.com Email [email protected] Facebook Twitter

Occupation BI Developer/ DBA Education Bachelor Degree in Computer Science (UPIICSA‐1988), Masters Degree in Business Admin ‐ITESM‐1993‐Partial Political viewpoint Democrat Favorite news source Charlotte Observer, cnn.com, abcnews, foxnews, nbcnews

Community involvement and Volunteer in Charlotte since 1998 for different Churches and a leadership experience running group Project Leader in different projects at work Head of household for my family

First issue I will tackle Responsible City Council, Anybody who comes asking for money from the city, will have to disclose financial statements.

How I will impact… Young people We need to get young people involved with the city, to get them jobs either as interns for companies in the city, entrepreneur or volunteer opportunities. It's very important to get them involved with the City economy. just FYI ... I consider myself young at heart Economy Attract more companies to the city. offer more entrepreneur opportunities. Also we need more high technology jobs, as well as maintain the tourism industry growing Community growth and/or We need a light rail west to east or may be NorthWest to transportation Southwest, Repair the streets in bad shape Community safety There are some trouble spots that need more surveillance cameras and quick response teams in case of a safety event Housing and there are some beautiful neighborhoods in the city that need to neighborhoods be preserved, and others who need to be rescued and rebuilt, a new light rail line west to east will improve poor neighborhoods, better streets. Also Review Affordable housing, how many years the city subsidize them and how to repair and recycle those houses Budget negotiate better when the city assigns financial resources to some projects, we need to keep the Airport control in the City of

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Charlotte, it brings a lot of income.

Most important … Role of local government Keep city services working properly, improving trouble areas, keep Finances healthy, not increasing property taxes. better transportation system, Maintain the safety of the city. Collaboration between CMS (Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools) is too big to be effective, CMS, local and state kids get lost in the shuffle of oversized classroomms, Testing is a government joke and teachers can not be involved with important things because of all the stress of the oversized groups. Better Planning for the school system

Biggest accomplishment will be Keep the City Finances Healthy for future generations, we need to choose carefully how to use the money to benefit the city the most.

Other comments Charlotte is a multicultural and diverse city, that's what makes it vibrant. The best is yet to come.

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Charlotte Patsy Kinsey City Council District 1

Website Email [email protected] Facebook Twitter

Occupation Mayor of Charlotte Education Central High School, Charlotte Political viewpoint Fiscally Conservative, Socially Responsive Favorite news source Charlotte Observer

Community involvement and Previous Board Memberships: Charlotte Symphony, Levine leadership experience Museum of the New South, Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, NC March of Dimes, United Family Services, Presently serve on Discovery Place Board, City Center Partners Board, Chamber of Commerce Board, Centralina Council of Government's Executive Committee. Have Chaired the Public Library Board, YWCA Board, Mental Health Association Board, and the Mecklenburg Historical Association Board.

First issue I will tackle Keeping Charlotte Douglas International Airport under the city's jurisdiction.

How I will impact… Young people I will continue to work to make sure our young people who are homeless or face homelessness have safe, healthy housing. Economy I will continue to support efforts to bring jobs to our city through offering incentives when appropriate and making it easier to do business in Charlotte. I will also support efforts to aid and encourage the small business owners in our city. Community growth and/or I supported the CIP and will work for the passage of the first bond transportation referendum in 2014. That bond has in it items that will add sidewalks and road improvements for our community. I will also continue to support the build‐out of our transportation system including light rail, the streetcar, bike lanes, sidewalks, and greenways. Community safety The upcoming bonds which I support include new police stations throughout the community. I have always and will continue to support our Fire Fighters and Police Officers.

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Housing and I will continue to support the building of sidewalks in our neighborhoods neighborhoods as well as other safety features along our streets. I am an advocate for safe, affordable housing throughout the city. Budget I can only impact the local budget and I study it very carefully each year when it is presented. I tend to support funding for what are considered the city's core businesses, public safety, transportation, housing and neighborhood development, economic development, and the environment.

Most important … Role of local government I believe the single most important role of local government is to provide for the safety of its citizens. Collaboration between The funding of our public schools, including K‐12 and the CMS, local and state University System. government

Biggest accomplishment will be I cannot answer this until the end of my term since I do not know what issues will come before us and those issues that are looming like the airport have not been settled.

Other comments No

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Charlotte Alvin "Al" Austin City Council District 2

Website www.vote4alaustin.com Email [email protected] Facebook Vote Al Austin ‐ City Council District 2 Twitter

Occupation Major Gifts Officer Education UNC ‐ Chapel Hill ‐ B.S. Criminal Justice and Sociology Political viewpoint Dem Favorite news source CNN, Charlotte Obersver, Charlotte Post, The County News,

Community involvement and Community Advocate Roles ‐ Ground Transportation Supervisor leadership experience at Charlotte Douglas Intl Airport, Assistant Director of Public Relations with Charlotte Housing Authority and National Public Relations Director with the American Association of Minority Businesses. Resource Convener Roles ‐ Resource/Financial Development Director for the McCrorey YMCA, “Y” Community Senior Financial Development Director for the Dowd & Stratford Richardson YMCA Branches, Executive Director of the Hillcrest Family YMCA in Cleveland Ohio, Executive Director of McCrorey YMCA and currently the Major Gifts Officer of Johnson C. Smith University. Servant Leader ‐ Recognized by Access Charlotte as one of Charlotte’s Emerging Minority Leaders; honored with Pearl Award from Alpha Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; 2012 Who’s Who in Black Charlotte; YMCA of Greater Charlotte Harry Brace Leadership Scholarship Awardee, former President of the Young Democrats of Mecklenburg County, Governor’s Volunteer Award for work with North Carolina Probation/Parole Department, Outstanding Alumni Award –Focus on Leadership Board of Managers. Member ‐ Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Almetto Alexander Labyrinth Foundation Board of Managers, Penn Center Board of Trustees, Beaufort South Carolina and S.T.A.R.S. Board of Managers.

First issue I will tackle After talking with many District Two community leaders, there are a number of pressing community issues that I want to address. The most pressing issue is the severe environmental concerns along Stewart Creek that is negatively impacting the quality of life of the University Park residents. These residents

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need a resolve by the City and County immediately!

How I will impact… Young people I am strong supporter of programs like the Mayor’s Mentoring Program and similar programs around Charlotte that help youth. I want to determine their needs and find ways to support their efforts. As a former YMCA Executive Director, our future is with our youth and I have created many initiatives in the past. We need to find ways to collaborate. Economy Charlotte’s unemployment is at about 8%, our citizens need jobs. I want to attract new businesses and corporations to underdeveloped and undeveloped areas of our city which will in turn help our tax base and create more jobs. The residents want jobs. Community growth and/or I strongly support the growth of public transportation throughout transportation the City, particularly the development of the Gold Lynx line. I believe this economic development tool will help spur new affordable housing projects and new businesses along the Northwest Corridor of Charlotte, similar to what has occurred along South Boulevard. Community safety I support additional metro police stations in our communities which were approved under the Capital Investment Plan. By having more stations, police officers can better address criminal hot spots, decrease response times to 911 calls and allow more opportunities to building relationships with residents. Housing and We need more affordable housing in all communities in Charlotte. neighborhoods Many residents are paying more than 30% of their income on housing mortgages or rent which leaves very little for living. I want to push for and provide incentives to developers to be more inclusive of affordable housing projects. Our neighborhoods need infrastructure: good streets, sidewalks, street light and support to the community leaders by the city councilman. Budget As a councilman, I will be a good steward of the dollars entrusted with us. I want to constantly at look for city‐wide efficiencies, reduce duplication of services and make sound long‐term decisions that will positively impact the community and the quality of life of all citizens.

Most important … Role of local government The role of the Charlotte City Council is the serve the people in this community by addressing key focus areas of responsibility which include: Housing, Public Safety, Transportation, Economic Development and Environmental. Where possible we need to collaborate and partner with the County, State and Federal

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government to improve the quality of life our citizens. Collaboration between I would push for more communication and dialog for all of these CMS, local and state governing entities to work together to insure that a good quality government education is available to all children in the Mecklenburg County and our teachers are being paid for the tremendous responsibility they hold. Currently City Council members have agreed they don’t collaborate as much with CMS and the board. I want to breakdown walls and identify any barriers to working together and think more long‐term about the educational needs for the jobs of the future and how will our children compete globally.

Biggest accomplishment will be There will be a real transformation along Beatties Ford Road and the Northwest Corridor of not only the physical buildings and structures, but the perceptions our community.

Other comments

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Charlotte Levester Flowers City Council District 4

Website Email [email protected] Facebook www.facebook.com/electlevesterflowres Twitter

Occupation Retired Education Laurinburg Institute‐High School, Livingstone College‐BA‐Social Studies, UNCC‐M.ED‐ Social Studies/School Administration Political viewpoint I am a moderate on social issues, fiscal conservation on economic matters Favorite news source

Community involvement and Founder and President‐Save Our Schools Initiative‐Tueday leadership experience Morning Breakfast Forum, Mecklenburg County Democractic Party

First issue I will tackle I am very interested in job creation for all citizens in my district. I would encourage the city council to assist in the recruitment of new companies to the University City area.

How I will impact… Young people By having several seminars and forums designed to show young people how our democractic process works. Economy Again,with job creation as my top priority, putting people back to work would enhance the spendable income in our city and county, does driving up economic growth. Community growth and/or I would continue to work towards affordable transportation transportation througout our city, supporting the completion of the Blue Lynx Line and appropriate zoning and strategic plannin to address community growth. Community safety My encouraging the hiring of more police officers and school resource officers. Housing and My ensuring the affordable housing is available in all sectors of neighborhoods our communities, encouragin that a grant pool be established for lower income first time home buyers for the purchase of vacant foreclosed properties. Budget My having a constant exchange of ideas with our representitive to the state house and senate.

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Most important … Role of local government To make sure that government addresses the economic, social and safety needs of all it's citizens in a timely manner. Collaboration between To make sure that all stakeholder in their annual budget are CMS, local and state working together to provide the necessary resources for all our government students to excell.

Biggest accomplishment will be A sizable increase in jobs for my district, a safer district and citizens more knowledgeable of the actions of the the city council.

Other comments

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Charlotte Greg Phipps City Council District 4

Website Email [email protected] Facebook www.Facebook.com/pages/Greg‐Phipps‐Charlotte‐City‐Council‐ District‐4/153853014806212 Twitter

Occupation Retired Education Diploma ‐Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at SMU; BS ‐ Hampton University Political viewpoint Moderate Favorite news source Public Radio

Community involvement and President, Back Creek‐II HOA, Inc.; past city councilmember leadership experience district ‐4; Chair ‐ Keep Charlotte Beautiful Committee; Charlotte‐ Mecklenburg Planning Commissioner

First issue I will tackle I will ensure that district transportation initiatives, including the Blue Line Extension, are executed timely and according to plan. Particular attention will be directed to making sure that station area plans are properly vetted and conforms to public expectations.

How I will impact… Young people As a councilmember, I will actively participate in school programs that promote reading among students. I will also stress the importance of civic and community involvement through programs like Kids Voting (now named GenerationNation). Economy Ongoing efforts to bring new jobs to Charlotte, encouraging business retention, and expansion will be a critical focus to strengthen the economy. Creating a business friendly atmosphere that is sensitive to the impact of new regulations, tax policy, and fee structure to grow the economy will be a key focus. Community growth and/or Close collaboration with planning staff, community groups, and transportation the development community will be conducted to ensure that planning strategies are consistent with City goals and objectives. The same holds true for transportation initiatives to achieve a comprehensive transportation plan through 2040 that includes various transportation options to facilitate commerce.

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Community safety By working closely with law enforcement, I will seek to develop crime prevention strategies that will make our neighborhoods safer. I will also do all I can to provide the necessary budget resources to properly fund community safety initiatives to serve a growing population. Housing and Through engagement with local/ national housing experts, I will neighborhoods ensure that Charlotte maintains excellent housing stock throughout the City, including affordable housing. The council’s Housing and Neighborhood Development Committee will continue to be the sounding board for all major housing and neighborhood matters. Continuous interaction with neighborhood activists is paramount. Budget Through careful review of existing programs, services, and capital improvements, I will seek to strike the right balance to achieve budget goals without significant tax increases or reductions in critical services that residents deserve. I will also work closely with our NC State delegation to secure appropriate funding as necessary.

Most important … Role of local government The most important role of local government is to provide safety and delivery of services in an efficient manner at the lowest cost to the tax payer. Collaboration between The most important collaboration is one that provides complete CMS, local and state transparency in the budget and planning process. As a city government councilmember I realize that my involvement would be limited, but would seek opportunities to provide input through more contact between CMS, and the county commission that lays out realistic goals and expectations.

Biggest accomplishment will be I would hope that my biggest accomplishment would be working across party lines to get major things done for Charlotte. This is doable with proper temperament, respect for opposing views, and a willingness to achieve major goals through collaboration to benefit our citizens.

Other comments No.

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Charlotte Leonard Richardson City Council District 4

Website www.vote4richardson.com Email [email protected] Facebook www.facebook.com/ElectLeonardRichardson Twitter @vote4richardson

Occupation 5th grade teacher Education Bachelor of the Arts Degree in Comprehensive Social Studies UNC Charlotte Political viewpoint Democrat Favorite news source CNN, Charlotte Observer

Community involvement and teacher, FAC representative leadership experience

First issue I will tackle Did not complete

How I will impact… Young people Economy Community growth and/or transportation Community safety Housing and neighborhoods Budget

Most important … Role of local government Collaboration between CMS, local and state government

Biggest accomplishment will be

Other comments

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Charlotte Wil Russell City Council District 4

Website http://russellforcharlotte.com/ Email [email protected] Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Russell4Charlotte Twitter @RussellCD4

Occupation Assistant Project Manager Education Bachelors of Science in Building Construction Political viewpoint Democrat Favorite news source Charlotte Observer

Community involvement and Mixed Income Housing Coalition, ACE (Architectural Construction leadership experience Engineering) Mentor, Incentive Based Inclusionary Housing Citizens Advisory Committee Member, Lynx Blue Line Extension Forum Participant

First issue I will tackle The first issue I would tackle would be to make our district neighborhoods more walkable. I would work to increase the amount of sidewalks, bike lanes and walking paths in our neighborhoods.

How I will impact… Young people I would like to impact young people by creating programs for pop‐up parks and imagination playgrounds where children can create and build their own playgrounds daily. For older groups, I would like to have their input on community building programs. Economy I will impact the economy by developing plans that will encourage, support and grow locally owned small businesses. These businesses will create jobs that positively impact their communities communities. Community growth and/or If elected I would increase pedestrian and biking corridors in my transportation district. I would also look for opportunities to expand bus routes, car sharing, light rail and streetcar service as well. Community safety I would like to develop programs that provide opportunities for young people through skills training, mentoring, immersion programs. I would also like for the police department and neighborhood leaders to work more closely to keep our neighborhood secure. Housing and I will work to protect our existing neighborhoods by approving

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neighborhoods construction that matches their surrounding neighborhoods. I would also like to increase the amount of affordable housing within the city. Budget I will impact the budget by determining which city programs work and which programs don't. Then I would work to eliminate or revise the ineffective programs so the city could save money.

Most important … Role of local government The most important role of local government is to interact and provide for its community. Local government is the closest to the people and should work to include its residents when it makes decisions to provide services. Collaboration between All three organizations should work together to provide the CMS, local and state proper support, funding, and infrastructure needed to education government our children. Young people are our future and without a proper education, they will not be ready to lead.

Biggest accomplishment will be At the end of my term, I hope my biggest accomplishment will be a dramatic increase in the creation of new and successful locally owned small businesses around my district. Development of a small business starter kit.

Other comments I would like to thank GenerationNation for giving me an outlet to reach the young people of our community. I hope they will take an interest and participate in local government whenever they are given an opportunity.

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Charlotte Kate Payerle City Council District 6

Website www.kateforcouncil.com Email [email protected] Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kate‐Payerle‐for‐Charlotte‐City‐ Council‐District‐6/207597922716186 Twitter @kpayerle

Occupation Business Attorney Education B.A. at UNC‐Chapel Hill, Master of Pacific International Affairs at University of CA‐ San Diego, Law Degree at University of San Diego Political viewpoint Fiscal conservative Favorite news source On local issues, I read the Charlotte Observer

Community involvement and City Council appointed me to serve on the Citizen Transit Advisory leadership experience Group and the Privatization/Competition Advisory Committee. I am also on the board of the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals. I'm a lector at St. Gabriel parish and work with the Burrito Biker project!

First issue I will tackle The way in which the City chooses which capital improvement projects to fund first. That is, how the city makes decisions about the order in which sidewalks, road projects, traffic projects, etc. get built.

How I will impact… Young people Charlotte's success is a result of our strong business culture ‐ and I'd like to see that success continue as our younger generation grows up. I want Charlotte to be the kind of place (as it was for me) that young people want to return to and grow their families. I want our young people to know they can succeed here, invent here, and contribute to the beautiful city we live in. Economy Members of council set priorities for a $1.9 billion budget each year. My goal is to use that money to invest in projects and services that will support and grow our economic engines: entrepreneurship, large and small business, and infrastructure. Community growth and/or Communities grow when people want to live in them. Growing

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transportation communities means making them safer, more convenient to grocery/retail, and more beautiful. But the city cannot bear that burden alone. To the extent the City budget is constrained, I plan to work with my residents in District 6 to strengthen community watch programs, resident/developer relationships, and access to government if necessary. Community safety Although the police and fire departments are important (the biggest expenditure in the city budget!) community safety begins in communities. I'd like to foster more communications between neighbors, encourage community watch programs, and continue dialogue between our neighbors and our police. Housing and City council members play a role in re‐zoning and planning for neighborhoods development. When a developer wants to build a building or neighborhood, they often must get approval from City Council. Sometimes, there are neighbors that disagree with the development. If that happens, the councilmember's job will be to mediate the disagreement and hopefully, reach a resolution that is good for the neighbors and helpful to our economy. Budget Council members set priorities in the local budget. Occasionally, we take state and federal money for various projects, but to the extent we need to influence those budgets, my best resources are my friends and mentors that work in Raleigh as representatives in the Legislature. Keeping open lines of communication with Raleigh will be essential in future budget and policy discussions.

Most important … Role of local government Local government's role is to invest in public safety and infrastructure. That is, government should create the foundation ‐ the roads, sidewalks, water and sewer lines, etc. ‐ that allow our economic engines to grow our economy, employ people, and strengthen our communities. Collaboration between Currently, there is a lack of trust between the local and state CMS, local and state governments. Because the state legislature (by law) has a great government deal of power over city governments, it will be important to re‐ establish trust between Charlotte City Council and the state legislature. I believe I can help to open that dialogue.

Biggest accomplishment will be My hope is that I will be able to keep Charlotte on a path toward positive economic development driven by private sector entrepreneurship ‐ that is, encourage small businesses like the one my family opened when I was in high school ‐ to continue to employ the top‐notch, smart, enthusiastic people we have here in our city!

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Other comments I want to tell the young people reading this survey that Charlotte is a place where it is easy to get involved in your local government. I have found our elected officials ‐ from both sides of the aisle ‐ to be friendly, engaging, and excited about involving our youth in city issues. We all want Charlotte to grow as you grow ‐ and I hope you'll make an effort to contact me if you would like to get more involved!

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Charlotte James Peterson City Council District 6

Website www.ElectJamesPeterson.com Email [email protected] Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ElectJamesPetersonToCharlotteCityCou ncilDistrict6 Twitter @4JPeterson

Occupation Financial Services Industry Education Executive MBA degree Political viewpoint I believe in local politics and keeping political priorities at a neighborhood level Favorite news source Internet, Local news and Drudge Report

Community involvement and Work Experience James started his professional career as a leadership experience consultant working for the City of Charlotte and many large scale organizations such as IBM. Later James went on to work directly in the financial services industry where he has been for the past 16 years. James has also pursued a personal interest in the Real Estate community. As interest grew and his spirit for knowledge continued James decided to learn the details of Real Estate development, sales, marketing and acquisitions. James now holds a North Carolina General Contractors license and a North Carolina Broker Sales license. Community Involvement James is currently a member of the Forrest Hill Church of south Charlotte. He participates in serving others hot meals via the Homeless Helping Homeless group. Additionally James has volunteered time at the Charlotte Rescue Mission of uptown Charlotte. Family values is a key for Mr. Peterson and James is a strong participant in the YMCAs Indian Guides program where the goal is for adults to spend valuable one on one time with children. James has also helped in coaching little league tee ball and girls softball. On occasion, you may even find James at the Blumenthal Performing Arts studio where he annually shows off on stage dancing with his girls at their daddy – daughter ballet recitals.

First issue I will tackle Did not complete

How I will impact…

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Young people Economy Community growth and/or transportation Community safety Housing and neighborhoods Budget

Most important … Role of local government Collaboration between CMS, local and state government

Biggest accomplishment will be

Other comments

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Charlotte Kenny Smith City Council District 6

Website www.electkennysmith.com Email [email protected] Facebook facebook.com/electkennysmith Twitter @kennysmith73

Occupation Commercial Real Estate Broker Education Selwyn Elementary School, AG Jr. High, Myers Park High School, UNC Chapel‐Hill Political viewpoint Republican Favorite news source The Charlotte Business Journal

Community involvement and Selwyn Avenue Presbyterian Church‐ Elder, Deacon, youth group leadership experience advisor, leader of the men's group. Barclay Downs Home Owners Association‐ past president, rezoning committee F3 (Fitness, Fellowship, Faith) Site Leader Dowd YMCA youth basketball coach

First issue I will tackle My first focus will be working with other council members to produce a revenue neutral budget. Citizens live within their means and I believe government should be held to the same standard as the citizens who foot the bill.

How I will impact… Young people I have an extensive background working with young people. As a youth group leader, lunch buddy at Montclaire Elementary, youth basketball coach and neighborhood volunteer I have worked to build character through positive reinforcement and setting a good example. As a council member I will do the same. Economy 1) I will fight reckless spending 2) I will fight excessive taxation 3) I will promote conservative economic principles. These three items are critical to putting our city on an economically sustainable path. Community growth and/or I will work with other members on council to determine the most transportation economically responsible/revenue neutral plan to meet our growing transportation needs. Our transportation goals need to be met without a tax increase. Community safety Public safety is a core function of government, it deserves budget prioritization. One program I would like the city to review is the

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disbanded Secure Communications Network program. This links CMPD with neighborhood leaders and alerts neighbors of potentially dangerous situations. Housing and As a neighborhood leader I understand the importance of strong neighborhoods district representation. District 6 citizens expect a quick response and swift resolution to their issues. I will deliver on both. Regarding housing, government should reduce burdensome regulations that drive up the cost of construction. Budget I will work with other council members to produce a revenue neutral budget. We need to stop wasteful spending on non‐ essential luxuries.

Most important … Role of local government Local governments primary functions are public safety and providing quality infrastructure. City Council is also tasked with land use and development which my background as a commercial real estate broker will be very useful. Collaboration between I would like the city and county review the CMS resource officer CMS, local and state program. It has been shifted from CMPD to the Sherriff's government department. This program was very successful when run by the CMPD and as a parent student safety is a top priority.

Biggest accomplishment will be To have held government to the same standard as the citizens who foot the bill. This has been an emphasis of my campaign. My family is forced to prioritize our budget and make tough decisions regarding our spending. I believe government should as well.

Other comments

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Charlotte Ed Driggs City Council District 7

Website http://eddriggs.com/ Email [email protected] Facebook eddriggsd7 Twitter @eddriggsd7

Occupation Retired banker and financial analyst Education Princeton University, AB cum laude in Economics, graduate studies at Berlin and Oxford Universities Political viewpoint Conservative Favorite news source Wall Street Journal

Community involvement and Board member, Communities in Schools Board member and leadership experience Chairman, WTVI Charlotte Member, CPCC President's Council Member, Charlotte Rotary Club Captain, US Army Reserve (ret'd)

First issue I will tackle Building greater trust and cooperation among different groups in Charlotte to allow smart decisions to be made through consensus.

How I will impact… Young people The City is not involved in CMS, but, as a board member of Communities in Schools, I am aware of education issues and challenges facing young people. As a City Councilman, I will promote Community Safety and Economic Development, so young people are secure and can look forward to a job when they finish school. Economy As a Conservative, I believe that big government saps the strength of the economy and leads to less job creation. I will ensure that government spending is efficient so taxes can be lower and businesses that hire people can prosper. Community growth and/or A growing city has to invest in transportation and infrastructure. transportation The key is deciding what things to do first and how to get the best results for the least money; As a former businessman and financial analyst, I will work to ensure that Charlotte meets its future needs without creating more debt than it can handle. Community safety CMPD has an excellent Police Chief in Rodney Monroe. I will work with him to see that he has the resources he needs to keep

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Charlotte safe. I will also determine where there are safety issues arising from a lack of sidewalks, lighting or traffic signals and address those to reduce the rate of accidents. Housing and I believe most housing choices are best made by individuals in the neighborhoods marketplace. Reducing red tape faced by builders will allow them to build homes faster and at lower cost, and it will create more jobs. Budget Charlotte is fortunate to be generally well managed as a City. The biggest budget issues facing City Council are often decisions about major items such as the Capital Investment Plan, business incentives, or funding for projects such as sports venues. I will review these items carefully to make sure they are necessary and don't cost more than we can afford.

Most important … Role of local government Given our high unemployment rate, I believe the highest priority today is Economic Development. For young people, this is a particularly important issue, as the jobless is higher for them than the overall average.. Students that work hard and do well at school should be able to rely on finding work later on. Collaboration between The City Council does not have a big role in CMS, which is CMS, local and state overseen by the school board and is funded by the State of North government Carolina, Mecklenburg County and, through certain programs, the Federal Government. The main area of collaboration among these entities is determining the capital and operating needs of the schools and ensuring they have the resources needed to meet educational goals.

Biggest accomplishment will be To have been a good steward of Charlotte's resources and helped to promote cooperation among the many groups that make up our population.

Other comments I would like to thank young people who are reading this for taking an interest in their local government. Decisions made by the people who hold office today will make a big difference to you later on. I would be happy to talk in person to anyone that has questions about my candidacy or local government.

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Charlotte Jay Privette City Council District 7

Website www.electjayprivette.com Email [email protected] Facebook facebook.com/electjayprivette Twitter

Occupation Retired Business to Business Chemical Salesman Education BS Degree with honors in Textile Chemistry from NC State University Political viewpoint Constitutional Conservative Favorite news source Fox News

Community involvement and I am a member of the local teas party. I was a founder of the leadership experience South Mecklenburg Alliance for Responsible Tax payers. I was actively involved in persuading the General Assembly to order a redo of the unjust 2011 property tax assessments. I helped organize a letter writing campaign to prevent the transfer of taxpayer money to the Panthers last Fall when they were asking for a !/4 billion dollars. I have been actively involved in preventing the building of job killing tolls on NC highways. I have participated in building awareness about the perils of agenda 21. I have addressed both the City Council, County Commission and the Mecklenburg‐Union Metropolitan Planning Organization about a number of issues including light rail, corporate incentives, and low income housing. I have helped to organize several peaceful demonstrations in Washington D.C.

First issue I will tackle Reducing the taxes that are chasing jobs out of Charlotte.

How I will impact… Young people My hope for young people is they will graduate with good prospects of finding satisfying well paying jobs. Economy We need to give investors greater incentive to take risks with their money by allowing them to keep more of what they make instead of punishing them if they are successful. . Community growth and/or Community growth occurs when people feel they are not being transportation punished for living where they are at. There is no form of transportation that takes us to where ever we need on our own time schedule better than modern roads. I will put road construction before that of rail transit which is much more costly

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and can only take you where the rails go. Community safety We need to step up police coverage in many of our poorer neighbors that have been abandoned because of other spending priorities. I am also applauded that many of our children still must walk to school on the aide of roads because of misguided spending priorities by the city. Housing and We are not making people richer by moving them into neighborhoods neighborhoods they can't afford by giving them government subsidies. Our money would be better spent by making our poorer neighborhoods safer and more pleasant places in which to live. That can be accomplished with better law enforcement and repairing the infrastructure that has often gone neglected in these neighborhoods. Budget It has to be cut! One of my first jobs would be to demand the city manager find items that can be cut from the budget without affecting essential services to the community. Up to know the city manager has only been asked to find sources of money for the wasteful projects members of the city council want. That's why our taxes are high, money is leaving the city and consumers have less money to spend so stores suffer. Most important … Role of local government Providing essential services for the lowest cost. Collaboration between We need to force decision making down to the lowest levels. That CMS, local and state way commonsense solutions can be made by those that best government understand the problems. I would like to order an evaluation of all regulations and eliminate those that are not needed.

Biggest accomplishment will be Building an awareness of how limiting the role of government in out lives will enhance freedom and prosperity. This was the founding principal of this country and is why we are the most prosperous country the world has ever known.

Other comments I loved math and science when I was a student and if given the chance I would still excel in these subjects. At the same time I wish I had been a better English student so I would have better skills to communicate my thoughts. I also wish I had grown up with a better understanding of history because there are so many lessons to be learned from it. Whether you are religious or not, the Bible is the best study of the history of human behavior you will ever find. Read it and you will understand that we have not changed over the centuries. Always respect the rights of individuals before the rights of the state.