Vi Lyles, Charlotte council make final remarks before next week’s resignation
Charlotte leaders surprised outgoing Mayor Vi Lyles with honors at her final meeting at the helm of the City Council.
Lyles is scheduled to officially step down June 30, but Monday marked the final scheduled City Council meeting of her tenure.
Council members voted Monday to appoint lawyer Robert Harrington as interim mayor following her departure. But first they recognized the five-term Democrat who made history as Charlotte’s first African American female mayor after rising through the ranks of city government.
The city gifted Lyles a custom “Vi Lyles Way” street sign and a painting of Charlotte’s skyline. A representative from Gov. Josh Stein’s office also presented the mayor with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine.
Mayor Pro Tem James “Smuggie” Mitchell told the crowd at Monday’s meeting it was important to recognize Lyles for more than 30 years of “extraordinary service” to the city.
“Few leaders have served this city from as many perspectives or such deep commitment to public service,” Mitchell said after listing off Lyles’ many roles in city government and major milestones of her time as mayor.
District 4 Council member Renee Perkins Johnson noted that, while she and Lyles clashed at times, she admired the mayor’s devotion to Charlotte and the history Lyles made.
“That’s the very nature of healthy democracy in a vibrant city,” Johnson said of their disagreements.
Council member JD Mazuera Arias, one of the newest members of the City Council, said he was inspired by Lyles “trailblazing example” and lauded her for bringing honor to their shared alma mater, Queens University of Charlotte.
“You never simply held an office. You carried a strong responsibility ... You’ve opened doors, expanded possibility and showed our city what it looks like when dignity, steadiness and service guide every decision,” he said.
District 7 representative Ed Driggs, the council’s lone Republican, told Lyles he loved her and said working with her was a highlight of his time in city government.
“I believe your position in the history of Charlotte is secure,” he said.
With tears in her voice following a standing ovation, Lyles joked that she’s a “softie at heart.”
“I want every one of you in this room to understand this city is absolutely one of the most astounding places that we can be,” she said. “... It has been an honor to be in this community. It’s been an honor to work with the people in this organization.”
Lyles acknowledged serving as mayor was “the hardest job I ever had” and one that could get more difficult with time, but she said she still wants to be politically engaged. While she’s excited to spend more time with her grandchildren, she’ll still be in Charlotte and look for ways to stay involved.
“I’m not gonna stop at this,” she said.
