CHARLOTTE, N.C. β In a statement released Monday morning, former Charlotte mayor, Jennifer Roberts, has offered to serve as interim mayor after current mayor, Vi Lyles, leaves office. Mayor Lyles announced her resignation on Thursday, saying she’ll leave office on June 30th β 4 months ahead of the November election.
In the statement, Roberts thanks Lyles for her service to the community, “You have been a trailblazer and a leader through challenging and extraordinary times.” Roberts then goes on to address Charlotte City Council members, acknowledging the difficult decision they have to make with Mayor Lyles departure before going on to make her offer. “I want to let you know that I am willing to serve as an interim mayor…” “…so many people in the community have asked me to offer my service as interim mayor that I feel called to do so.”
If you so choose, I would offer my time and my support for the challenges that the city is currently facing, and put every effort into guiding the city on the path where you and the city staff are steering it. I know that an interim should not seek any bold changes in direction, and I have confidence in our professional staff who work tirelessly to meet the many needs of our rapidly growing city and region.Β
Roberts also says she would not need to be paid, “I would not require a salary or benefits for this interim position, so I could save a small bit for the city budget.”
You can read the full statement below.
