Who is Victoria Watlington, Democratic Charlotte City Council District 3 candidate?

Victoria Watlington

Political party: Democrat

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 35

Campaign website: winwithwatlington.com

Email: info@winwithwatlington.com

Occupation: Regional Service Operations Manager

Education: BS Mechanical Engineering, University of Florida, MS Engineering Management, UNC Charlotte

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought)

Yes, incumbent

Please list your highlights of civic involvement

winwithwatlington.com/issues/

Should the City Council limit the number of new parking garages in and near uptown to encourage the use of public transportation?

The City should limit the number of new parking garages where and how it makes sense, in a manner that meets our public infrastructure growth: through shared parking, near transit lines, integrated into building vs standalone.

Describe your views on using public money to help build or improve private sports facilities or stadiums.

Insomuch as these investments are made with tourism dollars, they are specifically earmarked to invest in facilities and initiatives that drive tourism. That said, community benefit (jobs, MWSBE participation in design, construction, and concessions, public access when not in use) must be included, with clawback stipulations. Project financials should make sense for the near and long term, with a sound ROI on public investment for all residents.

Is there an area where you disagree with your party? Why?

I affirm the Democratic party platform of building stronger, better economy, affordable healthcare, criminal justice reform, and COVID recovery.

What one professional or political accomplishment are you most proud of?

drafting the framework for the SAFE Charlotte Plan for police reform and violence reduction.

What separates you from your opponent?

Results. Over the last 2.5 years, I’ve demonstrated both an understanding of our community’s issues, a community-led approach to district representation, a courage in advocacy and an ability to deliver policy (SAFE Charlotte framework) and programs (Corridors of Opportunity investments). Experience in leadership and governance, professional skill set, demonstrated City-specific involvement as both a resident and a council member.

This story was originally published April 22, 2022 at 3:00 PM.