5 finalists vie for Charlotte mayoral seat

CHARLOTTE — The battle to lead the city of Charlotte has been narrowed to the final five.

These are the finalists for interim mayor:

• Former City Councilman and Mecklenburg County Commissioner Harold Cogdell: “I’ve had many, many discussions, policy discussions, budgetary meetings, and impromptu discussions about policy on both the 11th and 15th floor of this building.”
• Civic leader Carrie Cook: “The development of your priorities made it clear that trust, transparency, and execution are critical in this moment, and in this moment, you must have the right experience.”
• N.C. Bar Association President Rob Harrington: “Consistent involvement over many years, matters. Listening to people, matters. Engaging across the city and across the state, matter.”
• Incumbent Councilman James Mitchell: “If I am honored to receive your vote on June 22. I will be ready to lead on Day 1.”
• State Sen. Caleb Theodros: “The next mayor should respect the work underway, support the current procedures of council and help the city move through this period with focus and stability.”

City council will interview them on Thursday, and the final vote is expected to be on Monday.

>>Charlotte City Council hears from dozens of interim mayor candidates

The five candidates came from a larger pool of people who wanted to throw their hat in the ring after Mayor Vi Lyles announced her resignation last month.

• 114 candidates applied for the role.
• 69 were considered eligible.

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