Who is Danté Anderson, Democratic Charlotte City Council District 1 candidate?

Danté Anderson

Political party: Democrat

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 49

Campaign website: dante4charlotte.com

Email: danteanderson03@gmail.com

Occupation: VP, Information Technology

Education: BS, Electrical Engineering and Cinema Studies - MIT, MFA Cinema Studies - The Tisch School NYU, MBA - The Harvard Business School

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought): This is my first time running for office.

Please list your highlights of civic involvement

Renaissance West Community Initiative (RWCI) - Board Member, Committee Chair; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority - Member, 28 Years; Executive Leadership Council - Member; Leadership Charlotte - Class 38; Democratic Women of Mecklenburg - Member; Susan G. Komen Charlotte - Board Member; Feelingthropic, Inc - Board Member; Equality NC – Member; Myers Park High School Foundation - Founding Member; Black Political Caucus - Member, Committee Member; Center for Women’s Business Research - Former Advisory Member

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

Council should be proactive on this issue. Building new parking lots Uptown is a poor use of land and resource. Our public transportation system should be a vital life line to commerce and entertainment Uptown. I’d go further to include additional people moving aspects as well such as protected bike lanes and additional temporary transportation options that commuter can utilize.

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

I believe the Council should seriously review and consider assisting in the improvement of sports facilities. Sport and entertainment is a key attraction for the city for employers, residents and tourism. With the addition of our MLS team, millions of dollars are being spent in restaurants and venue in surrounding neighborhoods. The prospect of an expansion MLB with serve as a multiplier effect. However, I believe any financial support from the city should be measured, well vetted and balanced.

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

I’m aligned with the party’s values.

What separates you from your primary opponents?

I’m a Charlotte native, born and raised in D1. As a Black girl reared in public housing, I experienced housing instability & food insecurity that many Charlotte residents face today. CMS educated, I was able to attain three advanced degrees. I have lived the tale of two Charlottes. D1 is unique in its construct. From Plaza Midwood, Hidden Valley to Southend, the district needs someone who can truly understand the unique needs of their community and be a voice and advocate for them on Council.

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

Managing a multi million dollar budget to create economic development, foster job creation and create inclusive communities.

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