The Political Beat Candidate Guide: Charlotte City Council At-Large

What is your occupation? Accountant.

Why are you running? I wasn’t born into a rich or powerful family. My family immigrated to the United States – the Land of Opportunity – when I was 16. Despite my language barrier, I had some amazing teachers and counselors who took me under their wings. I learned English, graduated from Southern High School in Durham, went on to the University of Southern California and later become a Certified Public Accountant.

I literally went from cleaning hotel rooms to pay for college to managing multi-million dollar budgets. When my father died suddenly at the age of 55, I re-evaluated my path in life. I felt compelled to promote my father’s values and use my skills for public service. I left a lucrative career in finance to serve on City Council.

What is the most important issue and how do you plan to address it? Charlotte is one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation—and with that growth comes both tremendous opportunities and serious challenges. We must be intentional in how we manage this growth to ensure it benefits everyone, not just a select few. Affordable Housing: Too many families—especially our youth, seniors, and working-class residents—struggle to find safe, affordable housing. As someone whose own family once lived in a motel room, I understand how urgent this issue is. I’ve helped secure over $100 million for our Housing Trust Fund and supported policies that deliver deeply affordable and supportive housing. I’ll continue pushing for solutions that meet people where they are. Public Safety and Community Trust: Growth means we must double down on community safety. I’ve supported proven programs like Alternatives to Violence, expanded mental health crisis response, and worked to address root causes like poverty and housing instability. Transportation and Mobility: I’m a product of public transportation—my family relied on it daily. I’ve supported more bus shelters, sidewalks, and equitable funding for transit infrastructure. Economic Opportunity: Growth must include pathways to opportunity for all residents.

How are you voting on the sales tax increase referendum for transit and why? Yes, I would vote in favor of the referendum — because I know firsthand how critical public transportation is for working families. As someone who grew up relying on the bus to get to school, work, and the grocery store, I understand the difference a reliable, affordable transit system can make in people’s lives. Investing in roads, rail, and buses isn’t just about moving people — it’s about expanding economic opportunity, reducing traffic congestion, protecting our environment, and connecting all corners of our city equitably. But it’s also vital that this plan be implemented with transparency, accountability, and a focus on the communities who need it most. If we do this right, we can build a system that reflects the needs of today — and the promise of tomorrow.

Do you support Charlotte City Council’s settlement with CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings? Why or why not? No. Transparency and trust must guide all decisions—especially those involving taxpayer dollars. The deal for Chief Jennings lacked proper public disclosure, which undermines public confidence. That’s why I didn’t support it. I’ll continue advocating for accountability, clear communication, and public input to rebuild trust and ensure financial decisions reflect our community’s values.

How should Charlotte City Council address working conditions and pay issues raised by the SEIU at Charlotte Douglas International Airport? The concerns raised by SEIU workers at Charlotte Douglas deserve to be taken seriously. These are essential workers who keep one of the busiest airports in the world running — often under difficult conditions. We must start by studying the issue thoroughly, engaging directly with the impacted workers, and identifying legally viable and practical ways the City can help. At the same time, we must be thoughtful in our approach — keeping in mind the political makeup of the state legislature and working within the legal framework set by state law. The goal is to uplift workers without pushing for changes that could prompt state-level backlash. I believe we can find a path forward that respects both the dignity of our workforce and the realities of our political environment.

What sets you apart from your opponents? What separates me is a proven, people-first record rooted in real life — not politics. As a working mother of two young children, I understand the kitchen table issues families face every day. I bring both professional experience and personal perspective to every decision I make. Voters deserve leaders who understand their struggles and have the courage and track record to take action — and that’s what I’ve consistently delivered.

Edwin Peacock III

What is your occupation? President, The Pomfret Financial Company, Inc.

Why are you running? To make a positive impact & improve lives.

What is the most important issue and how do you plan to address it? Public safety. I plan on addressing it by establishing a robust & updated public safety action plan with this new council & the new police chief we’ll likely hire between now & when the 2025-2027 council is sworn in.

How are you voting on the sales tax increase referendum for transit and why? I’m a supporter & advocate for a multi-modal transit plan including road, light rail, micro-transit. I’m in favor of the transit tax referendum which will be on the Nov ballot.

Do you support Charlotte City Council’s settlement with CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings? Why or why not? I was not on City Council when this action was taken. However, despite my support for Chief Jennings & CMPD, I would not have voted to support the settlement. As we’re now learning, this council should have been communicated to immediately when the City Manager & City Attorney learned of a member’s inappropriate communications with the Chief. Furthermore, upon discovery of these text exchanges with a board member in Nov 2024, Manager/ Attorney should have been convened in closed session to discuss the actions of the board member. Their decision to delay communications to council resulted in the Chief taking legal action he felt was needed to protect his job & his reputation. Given what I know now, I would not have supported this settlement.

How should Charlotte City Council address working conditions and pay issues raised by the SEIU at Charlotte Douglas International Airport? SEIU needs to direct their requests to legislators in Raleigh! Cities in North Carolina cannot pass ordinances requiring private employers—including those contracting with or operating at City-owned facilities—to pay above the state/federal minimum wage or to establish other employment standards. That authority rests solely with the State and Federal governments.

What sets you apart from your opponents? Experience & perspective. I served previously in this position from 2007-2011. I have valuable perspective having seen the impact of how good & bad decisions made by CLTCC today what will result in 15 + years & beyond.

Misun Kim

What is your occupation? I have been in Real estate for over 22 years and I am the president of my real estate company. I am also, Director of the Korean American Consulting Group.

Why are you running? I was sick and tired of America, which I call home, is heading the wrong way. I am tired of courier politicians using taxpayers money like theirs and doing nothing but wrong things. I would like to show them what a clean politician looks like. This country can’t run like it does now. We should stop it at all costs!

What is the most important issue and how do you plan to address it? Property and sales tax increases will cause more homelessness in Charlotte. This country is not just for rich people. I see the gap between rich and poor and they are imitating the middle class, so the rich can control the poor. More homeless issues in the city and the increase of crime will be unmanageable. I would like to be a guardian of taxpayers money which means I will be the citizen’s watchdog. I believe in small government and tightening up budgets.

How are you voting on the sales tax increase referendum for transit and why? I will definitely say “NO” The current city council and mayor had budget to build another transic system, but they made a wrong decision and wasted taxpayers money to build The Rider Transit Red - Red Route bus serves 8 bus stops in the Charlotte area departing from Rider Transit Center and ending at Concord Mills / AMC Theaters. $1 cent’s sales tax increase will cost $240/person /year. the government should learn to save money and stop wasting money period!

Do you support Charlotte City Council’s settlement with CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings? Why or why not? Four officers were killed in the 2024 shooting–three U.S. marshals and one Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer. Three of the four were wearing outer carrier vests, which Bokhari acknowledged. But he said the vests, which some officers say are more comfortable than carrying equipment on belts, would boost police morale. Jennings, like many chiefs around the country, said the vests look too militaristic and go against a “community-oriented policing philosophy.” Do you think the police officers are runway models? How about their lives. We need them to support us. The former chief of police should protect his people under his management but his mind wasn’t there. He deserves to get fired. The money gave to him by the city council is very upsetting. The city council members should have an open forum with citizens and police officers before they make a decision to give away the taxpayers money. Again, they are misusing taxpayers money like their own money. I don’t think any city council member would waste taxpayers money if it was their money.

How should Charlotte City Council address working conditions and pay issues raised by the SEIU at Charlotte Douglas International Airport?Charlotte Douglas is one of our city’s greatest economic engines—but it runs on the labor of essential workers who deserve dignity, safety, and fair compensation. We must find every legal and moral avenue to ensure that no Charlottean working full-time is left unhoused, untreated, or unheard.

Recommended Actions for City Council:

1. Establish a Joint Labor Oversight Committee• Include union reps, airport contractors, city officials, and public safety advocates.• Create a forum for regular dialogue and accountability.• Explore pathways for local ordinances that align with state law.2. Support the CASE Act (Charlotte Airport Safety and Efficiency Act)• Though previously tabled, revisiting this ordinance could:• Set minimum standards for wages, training, and safety.• Require paid sick leave and heat safety protocols.• Improve retention and service quality at the airport.3. Leverage Contract Negotiations• While the city may not directly set wages for subcontractors, it can:• Include labor standards in future contracts.• Prioritize vendors who meet fair wage and safety benchmarks.• Use procurement power to influence working conditions.4. Launch a Public Awareness Campaign• Highlight the role of airport workers in Charlotte’s economy.• Build public support for fair treatment of essential workers.• Encourage civic engagement around labor equity.5. Coordinate with State Lawmakers• Advocate for updates to the NC Wage and Hour Act to allow more local flexibility.• Build coalitions with other cities facing similar constraints.

What sets you apart from your opponents? I’m not just running for office—I’m running toward the people who make Charlotte work. I’m an immigrant from South Korea, a single mom, a small business owner, and a Christian. I came here with nothing but hope and built a life through hard work, faith, and grit. I’ve walked with immigrants, listened to frontline workers, and built outreach that meets people where they are. I believe in accountability, honesty, and respect. I don’t judge by skin color—I judge by action. I’ve learned to save before I spend, and I’ll bring that wisdom to city budgeting. I’m not a talker—I’m a doer. Charlotte deserves a council member who shows up prepared, listens with humility.

James (Smuggie) Mitchell, Jr.

What is your occupation? Director of Business Development, McFarland Construction.

Why are you running? I am running to build a better Charlotte for all residents. We need to continue our efforts in areas such as public safety and affordability while increasing access to quality jobs and access to opportunities for women and minority owned businesses. I’ll continue to advocate for a better transit system and a living wage wherever the City Council has influence.

What is the most important issue and how do you plan to address it? My top issue is small and minority business development and my plan to address it is as follows: 1. I’d implement the Quick Payment Program, currently a pilot program, to reduce payment cycles from 90 to 30 days, improving the cash flow for small businesses. 2. I’d ensure a strategic plan is in place to meet our 27% spending goal with small and minority owned businesses, equating to $175 million on the $650 Bank of America project. 3. I’d continue to advocate for greater access to capital. 4. I’d implement a mentoring program to help small and minority businesses build capacity, gain industry knowledge, and compete for larger contracts.

How are you voting on the sales tax increase referendum for transit and why? I am in favor of the referendum because having a strong, reliable transit system is essential, especially for residents who face transportation challenges every day. Governor Stein signed the bill, and the County Commissioners voted 8 to 1 to put the referendum on the ballot. I’ve supported it and will continue encouraging the voters to do the same. But passing a tax isn’t enough. We need to ensure the plan prioritizes what people really need, like more frequent buses, expanded routes, and better service in underserved communities. This is about access, opportunity, and equity. A viable transportation system is one of the key elements of upward economic mobility for our citizens. And a well-executed transit plan will connect people to jobs, ease congestion, and help build a stronger, more inclusive Charlotte.

Do you support Charlotte City Council’s settlement with CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings? Why or why not? I support the settlement with Chief Jennings. The city handled this matter appropriately based on the legal framework in place. Personnel issues are required to be discussed in closed sessions, as outlined in the General Statutes.

How should Charlotte City Council address working conditions and pay issues raised by the SEIU at Charlotte Douglas International Airport? Our airport is one of Charlotte’s greatest assets and a vital economic engine for our city. A safe, efficient, and well-run airport depends on having well-trained, fairly compensated professionals. While the issue of pay is complex, especially given past state efforts to take control of the airport, we should explore solutions that both protect local oversight and improve working conditions. That means reviewing all viable options to enhance the quality of life for employees while maintaining the airport’s world-class operations.

What sets you apart from your opponents? What sets me apart is experience, relationships, and results. I’ve had the honor of serving the City of Charlotte and lead major investments in affordable housing, economic development, and infrastructure that have strengthened our communities and created opportunities for residents. My track record reflects a deep understanding of how city government works and how to get things done. I also bring long-standing relationships with community leaders, local businesses, and regional partners that help move Charlotte forward.

LaWana Slack-Mayfield

What is your occupation? Elected official/Student.

Why are you running? I am running for re-election to continue the work I started with a continued focus on the betterment of Charlotte residents.

What is the most important issue and how do you plan to address it? We have multiple issues in the city, there is not one standout I see as an opportunity for improvement. We need a more connected transportation system, our un-housed community is growing as massive layoffs, low wages and staggering housing prices are creating great concern. I am proud that this Council supported the increase of our lowest earning workers wages to $24 with the hope of our employees being able to afford to live in our city that is seeing an increase of investor owned single-family properties and multi-family. Yet, i feel we need to slow down on multi-family approvals to assess the actual needs & affordability levels. Also, as the city has rolled out micro-transit I see opportunity yet I do have concerns on the reduction/removal of neighborhood bus routes. I believe Council needs a detailed evaluation of which routes are being changed prior to those changes being implemented, and “Pilot” programs that are nickel-and-diming residents like in the Wilmore Neighborhood must have Council approval before implementation.

How are you voting on the sales tax increase referendum for transit and why? I have not made a final decision personally or as Council-Member related to my vote on transit. I am still speaking with residents to hear their concerns and questions. I supported moving the discussion for the community to be engaged in this process and to have the power through their vote to decide. I do believe we need a better transportation plan yet I have concerns as to why the corporate community and the State of NC (which we all pay taxes towards) are not also contributing to the health and vibrancy of one of the State’s fastest growing cities. I also have great concerned regarding the impact to “prepared foods” when so many of our neighbors are living in hotels, motels and in their vehicles and do not have access to kitchens to cook or refrigerators for their food.

Do you support Charlotte City Council’s settlement with CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings? Why or why not? I unfortunately left the meeting prior to the vote, (I was not feeling well, later learned it was the beginning of a sinus infection), I would NOT have voted for the pay-out although I am more concerned with the lack of media attention on the real impact of a sitting elected official using their office to intimidate and bully a City employee which former member Tariq Bokhari did for multiple months.

How should Charlotte City Council address working conditions and pay issues raised by the SEIU at Charlotte Douglas International Airport? Council does not have the legal ability to set wages for any employees beyond City of Charlotte employees. I would like for the majority (minimum 6 out of the 11 members) to support a proposal to lobby our NC General Assembly to give more authority to local municipalities in regard to exceptions for any business applying for contracts within the city. I believe it is a privilege to do business in Charlotte and their should be clear expectations of pay for the lowest paid workers vs the large salaries of the executive team. When our workers can not afford to live in the city we are going to see a deficit in our workforce.

What sets you apart from your opponents? As I have now been in office over 11 years I am proud that I have created programs, introduced policy and stayed connected to many of the residents. Some examples of my work is the creation of the District 3 Airport Job Fair that ran for 7 of my first 8 years as the District-3 representative. I negotiated clear minority business participation prior to the construction of the Charlotte Premium Outlets, created the city’s “TLCbyCLT” housing rehab program, negotiated in writing “Diverse Price Point Housing” for the development of the “River District”, pushed for the support for a new “Burn Center” for our Fire Department training facility (that was supported by council), moved for $1.5M over the next 3-years to assist city employees facing financial challenges through grant process and I am leading the “Faith In Housing Initiative” which focuses on partnering with religious institutions to assist with our housing affordability crisis just to name a few. I have never forgotten that my focus is the residents of our city and believe businesses have a role in the partnership of growth and equity.

Dr. Victoria Watlington, PE, PMP

What is your occupation? Engineering professional.

Why are you running? I’m running to preserve and develop the best version of Charlotte — where every resident has a voice and a place to call home. I’ve led efforts to expand housing access, invest in community safety, ensure economic opportunity, and advance equity through bold, strategic policy. Let’s keep building a city that works for everyone.

What is the most important issue and how do you plan to address it? Charlotte’s biggest challenges are housing affordability, community safety, economic mobility, and equitable growth. I’ll continue to listen, collaborate, and push for policies that center community voice, ensure public dollars deliver public good, and make Charlotte a city where everyone — small business owners and corporations, civil servants and hospitality workers, immigrants and native Charlotteans — can thrive.

How are you voting on the sales tax increase referendum for transit and why? I support investments in transportation that expand access, reduce congestion, and promote equity—especially for those who rely on transit to get to work and school. However, my support depends on the details: the plan must prioritize underserved communities, include strong accountability measures, and balance investments across roads, rail, and buses. I’ll carefully review the final proposal (legislation and City small business participation strategy) to ensure it advances a sustainable, equitable Charlotte. I encourage every voter to do the same

Do you support Charlotte City Council’s settlement with CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings? Why or why not? I’ve addressed my position on this topic, as well as the larger need for transparency in government via my previous statements (May 8, June 24). I have no further comment at this time. I’m happy to provide the previous statement for reference as needed.

How should Charlotte City Council address working conditions and pay issues raised by the SEIU at Charlotte Douglas International Airport? Charlotte City Council has a responsibility to ensure that the workers who keep our airport running — many of whom are contracted employees — are treated with dignity and fairness. I support enforcing strong labor standards in all city contracts and using our legally permitted leverage to advocate for fair pay, safe working conditions, and a voice on the job. As a city that benefits greatly from Charlotte Douglas, we must ensure the prosperity it generates is shared by the people who make that success possible--both business owners and workers alike.

What sets you apart from your opponents? I have great respect for my opponents, who bring passion and dedication to serving Charlotte. What sets me apart is my pragmatic approach combined with a progressive vision and professional experience. I focus on building coalitions and delivering practical solutions that create lasting impact — especially around housing equity, safety, economic mobility and inclusive growth. My track record shows that progress requires both bold ideas and effective execution.

(WATCH BELOW: Charlotte City Council committee backs $1.5 million for Excelsior Club redevelopment)