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Jerry Drye said one of his best attributes for Charlotte City Council is that he's attended “the school of life.”
Drye, 56, is an independent insurance agent who has lived in Charlotte for 25 years after growing up in Albemarle. An Army veteran, Drye said he's running because there is a “disconnect” between elected officials and their constituents.
“Some of our priorities need to change as a result of the economy,” said Drye, who lives in Landsdowne. “We must rein in spending.”
He doesn't think the city needs zero-based budgeting, but he said the budget should be scrutinized. He said he's passionate about the economy and public safety.
“I really have a heart for children,” said Drye. “I'd go into all the communities – east, west, north and south. We need to encourage younger people to get involved.”
Drye said he would support asking voters which transit line they would like to build next, or whether to build one at all.
“I would put it up for referendum and let the voters decide,” Drye said. “We are supposed to be a democracy, right?”
Drye said his strengths are that he's open-minded and a good communicator. He said he's an underdog in the race.
“I have sent out no postcards, no posters,” Drye said.
Earlier this decade, Drye was a whistleblower at the Charlotte insurance agency where he worked. He told the N.C. Department of Insurance that some agents were given improper help on a licensing exam.
