This video is no longer available.
CHARLOTTE, NC – One more week without a mayor. Monday night, city council made a decision to hold off on filling the seat. The vacancy comes after ex-mayor Patrick Cannon resigned the same day the feds arrested him on corruption charges last Wednesday.
Monday night, city council members decided unanimously to move a vote on a new mayor to April 7. Mayor Pro Tem Michael Barnes made a motion during the special meeting, recommending the council not rush a decision.
“I still want the people to have the chance to speak up. We want a chance to vote for our mayor. We don’t want an unelected mayor filling out 84 percent of the term,” said Stuart Algood, a Ballantyne resident.
“They did have a voice. They elected us to these positions. They elected us to be responsible and carry out our duty and that’s what we’re going to do,” said City Councilman John Autry.
There are a few names on the table. First, the outsiders. They include state senator Dan Clodfelter who could help push Charlotte’s needs with legislators in Raleigh. There’s also former county commission chair Jennifer Roberts who already has grassroots support on social media. And then there’s former city councilman James Mitchell who ran against Cannon in the Democratic primary.
On council, Democrats Michael Barnes, Patsy Kinsey, David Howard, and Vi Lyles say they would consider filling the position. “As of right now, that’s the pool. The pool may grow, but right now I think you’ve gotten the entire pool,” said Barnes.
With the ex-mayor facing federal corruption charges, council members are very clear about what they’re looking for. “The ability to restore confidence and trust,” said Autry. “Integrity cannot be at all open to question,” said Driggs. “We’ve got some fences to mend, some bridges to build, and morale to lift,” said Kinsey.
Barnes says the council may hold a public hearing before the vote at next Monday’s meeting, but that would be the public’s only chance to weigh in.
